Shelley's smile is like a cat's purr: they also purr when they're afraid

I'm worried about Shelley.

I've known Shelley since the very earliest days at the temple.

She's an artist. One time Jetsunma (the teacher at the temple) told her: "Design something that represents Universal Spirit!" (or the mind of Enlightenment or words to that effect).

Shelley gets this bright smile that grows brighter when she's troubled or confused, and this was definitely a what-the-heck moment. But Shelley, being Shelley, always laughs nervously and says "Okay...." She came up with a very abstract, mobile sculpture that Jetsunma loved. To which Shelley said, "Okay...."

No doubt when Shelley got the word today that she has fourth stage melanoma in her toe, that ever present smile still wasn't far away.

Her smile, I think, is like a cat's purr. They also purr when they're afraid.

Jetsunma's told her not to keep this one to herself. Which is also a Shelley trait, to not tell people her troubles and keep her chin up.

I'm dedicating prayers, and I'm going to ask you guys to dedicate oh, a candle or anything you feel appropriate. At this point we don't know if her cancer has spread through her body, or if it's just in the toe. We're waiting for the tests to come back.

Shelley's thank you!

I'm posting this today at Shelley's request.

She is absolutely overcome with the great outpouring of concern and loving responses from everyone. She would like to respond to each and every person to thank them but simply can not. But know how grateful she is. Right now she is wishing for prayers that she be able to get an appointment TODAY with her oncologist and that the tests may have the best possible outcome.