Are We Less Significant?

Are our problems any less significant than those with chronic illnesses like cancer? This is an idea I struggled with for many many years. Tonight, my dad made a comment that he was glad my problems were way down here (as he gestured to a foot off the floor) because a friend of my mothers problems where way up here (gesturing to a foot from the ceiling). Yes my mother’s friend is a struggling single parent who’s son is dying of cancer, but it doesn’t make what I am going through any less significant to my life. I felt that way until about 5 years ago when I was talking to a therapist, she validated my feelings and gave me permission to believe my illness and problems were worth concern and some selfishness. So remember we are NOT less significant that those with cancer!