Lynn Manwar

Archive for the ‘Love’ Category

Lynn’s Comments:   After reading someone else’s blog post, I got inspired and thought I’d write a letter to my dream man and future husband.   I thank you, my DREAM MAN for:

• your unconditional love
• your time and care taken to plan our dates
• your kisses
• your gorgeous smile
• your touch
• your endless hugs

and for absolutely everything!!

Love you!! ox ox ox

Lynn’s Comments:   It was my birthday on Feb 6th and I turned 40 this year.   I decided to keep it quiet and have a small gathering of friends and family at a South Indian restaurant on Gerrard St.   It was a nice lunch and while I was at the restaurant, I felt my father’s presence and him saying to me, that this was your last hug.  Little did I know at the time, but it indeed would be the last hug, as he passed away the same day.  I only found out about his passing 2 days later.

Hearing about my father’s passing was indeed tough news, but not surprising.  He had several strokes in the past several years and dementia overtook him.   I was so grateful, I had the chance to see him one last time on Dec 11th, 2011.  I had a challenging year recovering from cancer in 2012 and I never got around to going to visit him again.  With him now gone, I savour every memory and moment spent with him.  Our lunches spent in restaurants around Toronto.  My favorite place to dine out with my father was at the Westin Prince Hotel near Don Mills and York Mills.

My father was my mentor and guide.  He was there to give me the best advice ever, when I first dealt with cancer at age 24.  He reminded me at that time, not give up on my dreams.  I always enjoyed listening to his stories.  What a great story teller my father was and maybe one day, I’ll write those stories in a book.  The best gifts I ever got from my father was his time and of course, jewellery from all around the world!!

Hopefully, God blesses me with a man who is my life partner and treats like Gold as dad did!   I declare that I am so LUCKY!!

Watch this video about a gift from my father:

Lynn’s Comments:     I have been reflecting lately on what makes my life so extraordinary and realized it’s the feeling of LOVE I get from all around.  You share love with family, significant others and friends, but have you ever thought about loving your co-workers?   Love in the workplace—do you think that goes hand in hand?   Years ago, I remember, reading one of Marianne Williamson’s books and she wrote about when you have anyone walk into your business—to basically give and send love their way.  I never really thought of expressing love in a business—but it was such a profound moment.

It was my birthday this past week and I arrived to work on Wednesday, February 6th, I found flowers and a card on my desk waiting for me.  It was such a lovely gesture of kindness from my work colleagues.    I definitely felt the love from my workplace and it was wonderful feeling to get such a beautiful gift!!   If you remember someone’s birthday, they definitely will feel like a million bucks!

Can you think of some ways in which you can acknowledge/appreciate or love your coworkers?   I  suggest you:

• give them a compliment
• buy them coffee or tea
• give them a card during the holiday season
• bring them back a souvenir after you go traveling
• give them a hug—depending on the relationship and level of comfort of both parties

When you personalize your business relationships and show appreciation and love—-the actual business relationship will transform and provide rewards bigger than you can ever imagine!

Lynn’s Comments:  During my recovery in 2012, I did some research and come across the Young Adult Cancer Canada organization and noticed some great programs that they offered.  I attended their Retreat Yourself East in July 2012 in Nova Scotia, just 4 weeks after my breast surgery.  After that retreat, I decided to submit my application for the survivor conference happening in Toronto early November 2012.

I arrived to the Radisoon Admiral hotel by the Harbourfront and got my hotel room swipe card.  I arrived at my hotel and met my room mate for the weekend.  She greeted me with a smile.   I then proceeded to the Admiral Ballroom to register for the conference and head to dinner.   I was felt a range of emotions—excited, scared and wondering what will unfold over the next 4 days.

In many ways—it was so reassuring to be among a community of people who have been down a similar path as mine after all the first time, I had faced cancer I was 24 and then 14 years later, at age 38.   I saw several familiar faces from the Retreat in Summer 2012 and also some strangers as well.  In total there were 90 of us, including both survivors, supporters and those are just living with cancer and they have to been on treatment until they pass on.  It really just moved me to meet those just “living with it” and I was without words to be honest.

We had workshop sessions which were useful that include topics such as sexy singles, dealing with anxiety and depression and managing brain fog.  After cancer, I haven’t had the slightest clue on where to begin where dating is concerned.   I had also been feeling anxiety about moving just 2 months after treatment has ended and wondering how would I manage brain fog at work.   However, we learned some great techinques and suggestions in all the workshops, and I feel better equipped as I transition into this new chapter of my life.

One of the most touching moments, was when a young man (my age) shared his personal story of losing his wife to cancer and his journey as being caregiver to her.  There was not a dry eye in the room and it brought me to tears, as I thought wow!—what a ride it has been to have my mom and my aunts be caregivers for myself in their senior years.  Caregivers are the key to every patients road to recovery or last moments on planet earth.

The food was awesome, accomodations comfortable and the community became family by the end of the weekend.   I am so grateful that this organization exists and all the work that the staff of YACC do.  YACC has lifted me up!  Lynn is back—so get ready  to see me out in the world

Lynn’s Comments:  It was Broker, Justin Dixon of the Property Boutique who kindly helped me execute a reunion meeting with my father on December 11th, 2011.  A mere 9 days later, I received a diagnosis of cancer and my whirlwind of recovery soon began.

I had the good fortune of meeting real estate agent, Vijay Jhamat in early January 2012 at a friend’s home.  A few weeks later, we had our first breakfast outing just a week after my  Chemo started.   And, a week later, I ended up in the hospital.  Broker Justin Dixon at my request, kindly updated my Facebook wall to let everyone know I was in the hospital.   Vijay, along with a few other friends visited me in the hospital the day of my birthday, which was simply the best!  Vijay also came home on Easter Sunday, brought me a lovely plant and our breakfast outings continued on a few other occasions during my time at home.    She also brought me an amazing cake with a lovely message at my End of Chemo party in May 2012. Lastly,  when I needed a ride home from breast surgery in June 2012, Vijay was the one who picked me up from the hospital and drove me home.

Long time friend and real estate agent, Nalini Nankoo was with me, along with her partner and brand new baby, the day I lost all of my hair.  She brought Chinese dinner for the whole family and was there, when my hair was shaved off as it had been falling out in clumps a few days before.   She also brought food again for lunch on Easter Sunday and a lovely red velvet cake that said “LOVE YOU” at my End of Chemo party in May 2012.   She truly cheered me up with her family and was there at key pivotal moments in my journey.

I received rides from the Canadian Cancer Society during my Chemotherapy treatment and was surprised one day, when a young good looking realtor showed up at my home and was indeed my Volunteer Driver.  It was Ryan Hannah who worked in a real estate office in downtown Toronto.  We have become Facebook friends and was really impressed that someone in the real estate industry who take time out of their day for cancer patients.   In addition, I had other agents who are just Facebook friends like Abbas Syed who offered to drive me to appointments if needed.

One of the biggest highlights of my whole 9 month journey and best gifts ever, was from Anna Vora, partner of the Property Boutique.  I wrote on my Facebook status, universe please send me Oprah tickets and miraculously, 8 minutes later, she responded online and took me as a guest to the “Oprah LifeClass Tour”  on April 16th, 2012.  It was one of those things I had always wanted—to see Oprah and I am so grateful for that great “pick me upper” gift!!  It was tough waiting in line for 4 hours in the midst of chemo treatment, but so worth it!  I’ll never forget that day ever!  Thank you Anna!

I applied for the Cottage Dreams program to receive a free cottage stay after my cancer treatment is over.  When I put out a request for references to support my application, Broker Justin Dixon offered to be one of my references.  So, from October 7th to 12th, 2012, I will be going to my cottage stay by the Kawartha Lakes near Lindsay, Ontario.  It will definitely be the relaxation I need after this 9 month long journey!

I’ll never forget the phone calls from new agent, Brian Persaud.  He touched based periodically and always asked how I was doing!

Thanks to all the amazing real estate professionals who offered their support! You’ll never be forgotten!

Lynn’s Comments:  I first heard about MoMondays through a Facebook invite sometime in June of this year.  I saw that they were recruiting speakers and sent in a note expressing my interest in participating.  I received an email notice in July that I was booked to be a speaker on August 20th, 2012.  I realized that would be a big challenge as I was starting radiation treatment in August, but felt it was worth taking on and confirmed my spot.

I shared on my social media networks including Facebook and Twitter that I was speaking at MoMondays.  Surprisingly, the day arrived and I had 4 friends show up in the audience.  I had two girlfriends attend, and 2 guy friends who I haven’t seen in several years, attend who I didn’t know were coming.   They wanted to come out and support me and it felt great.  Sentiments of their love were shared as well, and it was a wonderful feeling to reconnect with both old and new friends.

At MoMonday on August 20th, there were 7 speakers in total and I was the 4th speaker up just before break.  I shared on how I took on the challenge of giving a speech during radiation, how life is full of ups and downs.  I started my speech by recounting my father reunion story and how 9 days later, I received a cancer diagnosis.  The focus of my speech was on Lessons Learned during the Cancer Journey of the past 9 months such as:

• Spirit and surrender
• Think outside the box
• The powerful impact of community contribution
• Random acts of kindness
• Worldwide gifts and support
• Creating a joy List
• Using your life lessons to help others

At the end of my speech, I received a standing ovation and it felt so amazing to be acknowledged and feel the love in the room just swing right into my heart!

MoMondays was definitely a turning point for me and all the speakers were amazing.  We laughed, we were touch, moved and inspired.  One fellow speaker from Buffalo spoke to me afterwards and invited me to speak at MoMondays there when it gets started in Buffalo.

Here’s my speech live:

Lynn’s Comments:  Unconditional love–what is it?  My definition is whereby you give love with a complete open heart and not expecting anything in return.  Our first experience of unconditional love is usually from our mothers.   I’ve experienced that feeling of powerful of unconditional love from certain friends.  Actually in May of this year, I met an old long time friend after 6 years and we reconnected at her family home in Markham.   It just brought me back to the good old days.  She made me waffles, we had tea and wonderful bonding time.   I met her 2 kids for the first time as well which was so heartwarming! Upon my departure from our reunion, she sent me home with a food care package.

The power of unconditional love can move mountains and nourish souls.   I have been blessed to receive such great love from family and friends.  During my time of recovery from cancer, many individuals have provided such nurturing and it was exactly what I needed.

We would spend quality time, doing things at home, cooking, watching movies, and basically hanging out.  Time would pass and it would be so beautiful.  I remember those good old days.

Take time today to love unconditionally, the rewards come back ten fold!

Lynn’s Comments: It was 2 weeks ago on Sunday, February 19th, 2012 that I received a few compliments from a man.  He called me both pretty and my photo beautiful.   On the same day, I was actually supposed to go on a date for dinner, but my date didn’t follow up and I was somewhat relieved. My relief came from having to not go through the process of putting on a wig for a date for the first time.

Earlier that week on Monday, February 13th, 2012, I decided to get my hair shaved off with the help of the neighbour.  Luckily I had friends over who brought Chinese food for dinner, their bouncing new baby boy and graciously agreed to videotape my experience.  It was so nice to have support on that monumental day.  I had been teary eyed on the weekend, as I noticed clumps of hair falling out.  I love my hair so much and it was tough to part with it.

My hair loss was caused by the start of Chemotherapy treatment a few weeks prior.  Five days before Christmas on December 20th, 2011, I was told I had a lump in my right breast and was booked for a meeting with the surgeon on December 23rd, 2012.  Meeting the surgeon and finding out my options was one of the most difficult meetings of my life.  I left that meeting, went to Gilda’s Club, received a Christmas gift and had brunch.  I then went to St. Michael’s Cathedral, lay before the aisle and cried my eyes out.   It took me almost 2 months before I had a crying moment again,  and so on Saturday, February 18th, 2012, I lay in my bed and cried about the loss of my hair and the change of my image.

I do feel God was watching over me on Sunday, February 19th, 2012, because even though my date didn’t happen, I received unexpected compliments from a man I hardly knew.  I wasn’t feeling so pretty that day, but when he called me “pretty” and my photo “beautiful”, his words not only touched my heart, but my soul.  I do believe it was God’s way of  saying Lynn, “you’ll be okay” and to get me to stop crying over my temporary situation. What I really needed that day was a “compliment”, not a “date”.  I do feel so ever grateful to have received those words of affirmation.  There’s a book I read several years ago called “The Five Love Languages“ by Gary Chapman and the first love language is listed as “Words of Affirmation”. I highly recommend you read the book on how to express heartfelt commitment to your mate— it will transform the way you look at relationships. Watch this introduction from Gary Chapman:

I am not sure how my dating life will progress in the next few months, but I do feel confident to go on dates and continue to put myself out there.  After all, in about 3 months, my hair will start to grow back.  I will have May and June 2012 to go on many dates.  I do have surgery booked in the early summer and radiation treatment.  As of September 2012, all these treatments will be behind me.  Hopefully, I will meet a man who will know and recognize that we are essentially spiritual beings in a physical body, and that what I have to go through the next few months, is all but a temporary process. I will start visualizing a new man enjoying time with me in my new pad in Etobicoke and having romantic walks by the waterfront. I can see it and feel it!! Ah, it’s so great to experience the future now in my mind

Many people get scared by the word “cancer”, but all it is, is a great opportunity for spiritual growth.  I’ve learned that when you fear cancer, it controls you, but when you embrace it, it sets you FREE!  I am FREE as a bird, loving my life, and the people in it!  I have much time left on this planet and look forward to sharing my Joy of Life with you all!  I am smiling now and hope you are too ;-D

Lynn’s Comments: What is Love?  Is it a kiss, a feeling, a hug, and a warm embrace?  Is it kind word, act, deed or sharing your meal?  Love can be anything you desire it to be…how big or how small?  Share love in the world in your own little way.  Do something nice for someone you know or even a stranger.  When you give love out,  it comes back at you- you will feel it and it’s absolutely amazing!

Check out The Love Movie by my friend Danish Ahmed:

Lynn’s Comments: I left India on September 4th, 2011 and arrived back to Canada on September 5th, 2011.  It was a brand new time in my life for me.  I have never felt so renewed, fresh, hopeful and happy.  My psoriasis on my skin began to heal up and I haven’t seen beautiful arms in many years.  I had a new sense of self confidence and less than 1 week later, I got to show off my arms wearing a strapless dress at ReelWorld Indie Film Lounge Cocktail Party at Empire Lounge during the Toronto International Film Festival 2011.

I had also decided upon returning back home, it would be time for me to start dating again.  Now, that I was feeling good, I declared I am ready! And lined up a date for myself that weekend.

People often question, why I am single, what’s wrong with you?  You go out so much and meet so many people.  To me, it’s all about timing and I have worked on my inner self to prepare myself to receive that “Great Love” coming my way.  Being in love is such madness and I can’t wait to have that experience again!