There is a world of difference between compassion and pity. Compassion acknowledges the struggle in being human, without in any way denying the inherent strength we humans have to overcome, if not physically, then spiritually, just about every curveball life throws our way.

Thundershyne is a hoopdancer who is both blind and deaf. She is remarkable, not only for her resilience and fortitude in fighting her brain tumor and her wacky sense of humor, but also because she is a damn fine hoopdancer. She has been for many of us an incredible inspiration and even a wonder. When I struggle with the hoop, complain about my stiff joints or my inability to hoop to some impossible standard that I arbitrarily set for myself (but interestingly enough, for no one else), I have to say I feel a bit of shame in my whining, when I consider the challenges that other people overcome. And folks like Thundershyne do it with a lot more grace and humor than I would. I would have died of self pity long ago, but this woman has persevered despite almost unthinkable odds.

Thundershyne was going to attend one of our HoopPath Retreats and speak to us. Her videos and her story have been such an inspiration to our community. She had to cancel shortly before the Retreat because of severe pain. Her most recent video, posted tonight, reveals how difficult her journey has been since then.

If you are interested in Thundershyne's story, you can check out her youtube channel and get a glimpse of her beauty, her hoopdancing, her story that she tells both with her voice and with sign language. Did I mention her wacky sense of humor? If you feel inclined, a note on her page might mean a lot to her. I think her husband, Keith, will make sure she receives messages. Sometimes the best way we can thank a person who has touched us is by, in some small way, making a gesture back.

http://www.youtube.com/user/ThunderShyne