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The Tide Turns
As I sit down to write this, it is exactly one month since I was told I have cancer. That day stands ingrained in my brain, with the days following feeling like I was riding turbulent ocean currents. Over and over again I felt bombarded with waves of strong emotions and increasing fears. Today, the tides of water move in a different direction. I had a most interesting conversation with my oncologist. The pathology from my recent surgery found absolutely no cancer in what was removed. Her explanation is, that whatever abnormal cells existed were removed in the two biopsies I had. I am still in shock. For months…
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Peace
Waiting is a challenging thing. It is one thing to await a special event; it is quite the opposite process when time lingers before a challenging task or circumstance. The morning of my cancer surgery I struggle with what to do with my time. I am not thrilled with my afternoon surgery appointment because I know that my mind will be racing in circles all morning, anticipating the events to come. Trying to ignore my hunger pangs, as I hadn’t been allowed to eat for hours, I begin mindlessly surfing the internet to bide the time. Moments before I need to start the long drive to the hospital, an email…
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Where Fear Treads
Cancer. It’s a word that strikes fear in even the strongest and heartiest of souls. There are few people these days that haven’t had someone in their lives deal with this invasive disease. No one wants or expects this diagnosis to be directed at them and it is extremely traumatic when the words are said – “You have cancer.” Just a few weeks ago I did something that has to rate as one of the most challenging things I have ever done in my life – walk through the doors of my local cancer clinic. As I struggled not to cry, I looked around at the multitude of people milling…
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Are You Ready?
I vividly remember the days of trying to go on any car trip when my children were young. It was no matter of jumping in the car and going. It definitely required lead time to prepare things like diapers, food, clothing changes, stroller, etc. For each journey, I had to consider what needs might take place and try to prepare for them. I certainly didn’t want to fail to remember any of the essentials. Forgetting something like a child’s favourite toy could have very unpleasant consequences. I can still be that way when God is asking me to do something. I want to prepare and have everything I need…
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Don’t Stop Seeking
These days there is certainly no lack of things to worry about. The media continues to portray a world where disease and violence run rampant. Families are torn apart and many do not know where their next meal is coming from. Job security is nonexistent for many. I could go on and on with things that raise concerns in our lives today. I am not immune to the worry bug. Thankfully, when the cares and concerns of this life want to take hold, I know where to turn. My favourite Scripture in times like these is Matthew Chapter 6 where there is an entire section entitled “Do Not Worry”. …
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Trust in the Lord
A child gets into a car, gleefully enjoying the adventure of a trip somewhere. There is no concern about whether the car has enough fuel or if the traffic is congested. The child is oblivious to road conditions or mechanical issues with the vehicle. For each journey, the child trusts that the parent driving the car will bring them all safely to where they need to be. This confidence allows the child the freedom just to be and enjoy the ride. In contrast, when I get in my car, there are a myriad of possible thoughts going through my head. What is the weather like today? Do I…
