Jan "Illuminate"

Photography by Randy Bacon

“Cancer is like black and white photography. It strips away all that is not essential and illuminates your soul. Cancer takes you right to the heart of what really matters--your family, friends, and your fellow man. When I look at other people. I just don’t see their clothes, jewelry, or hairstyle anymore. With all humility, I think I see their souls. I finally understand what Jesus was trying to do on this earth. he taught us to look at each other’s souls and to love as we look. This is the gift of cancer. When I finish my yoga class, we always say, ‘Namaste.’ That translates to ‘I recognize the divine within you.’ I will never look at another human being without remembering this gift. Namaste, my friend.”

In Memory of Jan Kirsch. Namaste, Jan.