Monday, August 6, 2007

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."

4 comments:

The Tucson Gang August 6, 2007 at 10:37 AM  

Oh my gosh. My heart is soooo sad about all these children. Cancer really does suck...these are really vibrant, beautiful children..ugh. I like how you reminded us all not to wait to do stuff. That is one of the things I realized when Lillian got sick. You just never know what life is going to deal you, so don't wait until things seem perfect or ideal...love everyday, tell people you love them everyday...LIVE your life everyday. Thank you for the reminder. My thoughts and prayers are with all of these families.

Jennifer August 6, 2007 at 8:41 PM  

I wish there were words that could express what I'm feeling. Please know that I'm lifting you and the rest of your cancer community up in prayer each day.

What a wonderful reminder to EACH of us...stop waiting for the thing that we think will help everything fall into place...live each minute for His glory.

Anonymous August 6, 2007 at 10:59 PM  

Lori,

It was good to be with you today, to give you a hug and feel your positive energy. I can see you are completely surrounded by God's love, it radiates from you!

Thank you for your thoughts on Grady's site, I am just overwhelmed with grief for all our children, I am not as strong as you, but you give me hope that I can be...I have faith!

Hope to see you for that walk soon!!

Cheryl August 9, 2007 at 3:24 PM  

Lori, Amen!
Thank you for such encouragement to live every day of our lives with abundance, and not to waste any breath that is given to us by God's grace. I made the decision a few years ago to really live life...and not just make plans to enjoy it 'some day'. What a great reminder that we are to be good stewards of every hour we have.

My heart is heavy for each of these dear ones and their families. Thank you for making me more aware, and the privilege of holding them up in prayer.

Bless you dear friend.

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