Happiness NOW

Times are tough in my cancer community. I should say that times are tough for those of us here on earth. As you know, two weeks ago Chelsea Rae went to be with Jesus. And on Friday, Frederick also earned his wings. Last night, an MRI showed that Lexie's tumor has returned.

I know God has a plan. It's just hard to see it right now. But I am so small, it's no wonder that if I can't understand all of God's ways. I praise God that these kids who have endured so much on earth, are free from pain in heaven. And I ask God for strength for the many people left behind who miss them dearly.

Chelsea Rae's mom posted on her site: "I pray that you never forget those things which God has revealed to you through Chelsea’s journey." This is what God revealed to me through Chelsea Rae and her family. God is good. He blesses us with life so we may prepare for an eternity in heaven. And we should not squander that blessing. Instead, we should live life to the fullest.

After they stopped treatment, Chelsea Rae's family made the most of her final months. Whereas my nature would be to draw inward during difficult times, they set out to make memories. Shopping sprees from Make-A-Wish. Family camping trips. Concerts to meet her favorite Christian artists. While I read as Chelsea's mom described extending a trip to California because Chelsea was not ready to leave, God opened my eyes. We were planning to wait a little longer to begin the adoption process. Just until the remodel was complete. But God placed a sense of urgency on my heart. I knew at that moment that just like Chelsea's family, we should not postpone happiness one minute longer.

As I wade through my own grief at the loss of these children and the setback with Lexie, that sense of urgency grows. If you have been postponing happiness, may I encourage you to (in the words of my great company) "just do it."