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This time of year our thoughts turn to those who we care about the most, our family and close friends. There are parties and dinners to attend amongst all the hustle and bustle the holiday season brings. Cards to send, gifts to buy, lists to be made so nothing is forgotten. This activity is pretty common for the majority of society. However, this year is different. How so you ask?
On August 20th, I was diagnosed with cancer, a week later I was told it was pancreatic cancer and I would begin chemo the following week. The simple phrase, “you have cancer” changes your world, it flips everything upside down. You have more questions than answers, and you are now not the healthy fit person you thought you were. You are going to voluntarily infuse your body with chemo to attack and kill the cancer cells while it negatively affects the rest of your body at the same time. Since starting chemo, I have ended up in the hospital two different times for dehydration. I now have a different perspective that I would like to share.
From day one, the people that mean the most were there for me. They encouraged me and said, “…don’t worry about a thing, you stay focused and fight the battle.” They have surrounded me with unconditional love. They have picked up the load and are doing the things I used to do. They have taken me to doctor’s appointments and run special errands. They have picked up food that I was craving or a prescription I needed filled. They have sent me cards, have prayed many prayers, and posted responses on my Carringbridge.org site to let me know they are still with me. They have added me to their churches’ pray chains. The one thing I have learned from this is that there are so many people who care. Some people I have known for my whole life and others I have only known a short time.
The gift that is greater than any other is love. Knowing that you are loved and that people genuinely care is the most valuable gift one can receive. This season as you are searching for the right gift, you might stop and realize that taking the time to express in a card or a letter the importance that someone has in your life and how much you love and care about them could be the greatest gift you could ever give.
My wife and I are expecting our first grandchild at the end of this month. We are very excited to meet the newest addition to our family. The miracle of life is so amazing. Holding them that first time is so awesome, I can hardly wait! Life is full of ups and downs, but the most important thing is your faith- knowing that God is in control and that you know that he will get you through the difficult times and be there to celebrate those wondrous moments. I am grateful to God for all the blessings he has given to me and all the people who have been a blessing as well.
May your holiday season be filled with Peace, Joy, and Love!
