Cancer is a gift…a gift that came with no receipt

I was reminded the other day how the journey of breast cancer has molded me into the woman I am today. My husband and family tell me there is a new woman that stands in front of them and I would like to believe that is true. I can think of cancer as a gift in some ways…mind you, I did not think a cancer diagnosis was a gift at 24 years old nor did I think it was a gift when I was going through treatments and I have to say I didn't think much of it when I was finally cancer free and done with doctor visits. However, there came a morning when the fog of sickness and despair lifted and I found myself breaking away from the footsteps that I had been walking in before my gift of cancer was given to me. My eyes were opened to a new way of life. A life where the possibilities are endless!  A life where my family and I always come before social standing and financial gain; and where I choose more happiness. I never want to look back at a year of my life and say all I did was work long hours, take for granted the people I love and miss out on opportunities for adventure. I want each year to be better than the last. Visiting new places, meeting new people, helping those who are hurting, reveling in each glorious day and experiencing all that God created us for!

I have those goals but it is sure hard to stay focused and keep my eyes on the prize! Recently, I was involved in a car accident where I was rear ended. I have been in serious pain even with therapy three times a week. If I am not careful I can find myself being grumpy about how terrible my day is and taking my frustration out on those around me. That’s when I have to yell at myself, "Whoa Sister!, You think neck and back pain are bad? Do we not remember what kind of pain we were in for the last few years? Take a look around you and let’s get back to knowing that each day is a present from God that He doesn't have to give us!" I have a choice to be angry that I only had two months of feeling great in between cancer and a car accident or I can choose to ask God to help me with my pain so that I can enjoy what He has for me. I choose God with a side order of healing!

Sometimes it is so easy to remember that cancer straightened out my priorities and that my mind is focused on what it should be. In August my family went on a cruise to “Celebrate Life!" Both my mother and I have struggled with breast cancer and this is the first year in four years that all of us have been healthy. On the cruise we created so many memories that will be remembered forever as well as the hilarious stories that will be told at family gatherings each year. Cancer is horrible don’t get me wrong, but if cancer can make me never forget that family is everything than I can at least be grateful for the lessons God taught me from it. I don’t wish trials on anyone, but when trials come your way never ever brush aside the amazing gifts you can take away from them.

Love Always,
Sarah

Please enjoy this video "Celebrating Life"! 

This is my family's Caribbean cruise vacation!