Battling Cancer

There are 4 very special women in my life fighting cancer these days. They join other men and women who've done battle with this insidious disease that I've been privileged to know and love and counsel along the way.

I'm touched and inspired by their courage and tenacity. The conversations we've had are soul-searching and deep. They weep and grapple and wrestle. They make their peace with God. They make me reconsider what's really important.

Loved ones and medical professionals begin to rally round. They're usually joined by others that you never expected to show up. Times of crisis remind us how absolutely essential it is to have a support team surrounding you - not only during medical crises, but in healthy seasons, too.

We just weren't designed to go it alone.

As in any challenge, there are some very real and valid emotions that swirl and churn inside that must be acknowledged and handled well in order to do more than survive.

To thrive. To grow.

And that's true for those who've been diagnosed ... and for those who walk beside them.

5 Tips for Staying Sane with Cancer arrived in my inbox this morning. And I'll add one more thing. If you've ever connected with your Creator, if you've ever needed Him ... it's now.

Pour out your heart to Him, the only One who truly understands your terror and pain. The anger and anxiety. The powerlessness and sadness. He's not afraid of your emotions. He's got big shoulders and tender arms and a heart of compassion that weeps with you. And He promises never to leave you. Never to forsake you.

Life happens. The unexpected and uninvited arrive. Things change. But God stays the same. And He's not going anywhere. He loves you too much.

Linda

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid"
- John 14:27.