2009

 

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

2009

On this day before Christmas 2009, I am overwhelmed with life and how quickly it has changed for us this year. Kaitlyn met Brian, got engaged, and married, Blake decided a mission for the church is what he wanted to do, then left us in September for 2 years, and we became 1st-time grandparents. What a JOY it is to have all these Tender Mercies in my life.

I have felt unbelievable pain, anxiety, and fear, along with all these tender mercies. When I heard Dr. Northfelt tell me, "You have stage 3 breast cancer," I knew my life would never be the same again.

The range of emotions I have dealt with this year is extreme happiness, uncontrollable tears of pain, heart-wrenching sadness, complete doubt in myself. I have at times felt ugly and unaccepted in my own skin and self-conscious having no hair. Losing my hair has been one of the most challenging emotions I have ever had. I have never been so raw with emotions. To share them with all to read has been liberating and healing for me. The comments you have left for me are undeniably what gets me through to the next round. I could never go on without the support and love of family and friends.

The power of prayer in my life? .....it's indescribable. I have always been a spiritual person who believes in the power of prayer, but never in my life have I felt the hand of the Lord directly in MONYA'S world. He is with me constantly. I want to be a better person, I understand what is essential, and for me right now, it is family. I need them in my life. I want them to surround me, laughing with me, crying with me, and helping me to look for the good in life around me. The power of FAMILY LOVE is unconditional, just the way the Lord intended family life to be.