The Brain It On! Podcast

Even Darkness Must Pass: Navigating Setbacks with Hope

Lindsey Kealey Season 2 Episode 3

In this episode, Thomas and Lindsey take a deep dive into the lessons learned from J.R.R. Tolkien's epic saga, "The Two Towers," and how it resonates with their current journey. While Thomas is in remission from cancer, they've been navigating a new and challenging front: Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD). Join them as they discuss the powerful "two towers" analogy, describing the experience of facing two major battles at once—the lingering threat of cancer and the active fight against GVHD.

Through personal stories of making time for therapy, creating an absurd ritual for Thomas's steroid cream application, and finding joy in the small things, Lindsey and Thomas offer powerful takeaways for anyone facing setbacks. This episode is a testament to the power of hope, the importance of finding humor in the absurd, and the resilience that comes from focusing on what you can control.

Key Learnings:

  • Seek the Good in the World: Learn to find and cherish moments of joy, connection, and kindness, even in the midst of challenging times.
  • Seek Absurdity: Embrace the illogical and ridiculous as an escape from a goal-driven life, and discover how laughter can bring true fun.
  • Focus on What You Can Control: Find peace and a sense of progress by identifying and acting on the small areas where you have agency, even in overwhelming circumstances.

Resources & Mentions:

Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder of courage, faith, and enduring love today.

Send us a text

People on this episode

Podcasts we love

Check out these other fine podcasts recommended by us, not an algorithm.

The PAWsitive Choices Podcast Artwork

The PAWsitive Choices Podcast

Lindsey Kealey: Social & Emotional Learning Specialist