Relationships

I've been thinking quite a bit recently about relationships. When you hear the word "relationship," what is the first thing you think of? I found this link about relationships in researching the topic online. Very interesting information that I think I will be taking a longer look at. 

"However successful you are, there is no substitute for a close relationship. We all need them." ~ Francesca Annis

I have found that many people, when they hear "relationship," allow their brains to immediately go to the intimate partnership relationship. As a celibate, divorced woman who's primary intimate relationships are not of a sexual nature, but are rather with my friends and family, I go a different direction. I do think of relationships as being between husband/wife and boyfriend/girlfriend partnerships, as well as best friends, acquaintances, parents/children, siblings, and many more combinations. I would go so far as believing that any time someone interacts with another person, a relationship is formed and communication occurs. We have the opportunity to touch the heart of someone whenever we make eye contact, speak words to them, lay our hand on their shoulder OR avoid making eye contact, avoid verbal or physical contact. Something is always communicated with that person. 

"Whenever you're in conflict with someone, there is one factor that can make the difference between damaging your relationship and deepening it. That factor is attitude." ~ William James

When we touch the heart of another, are we communicating that we care, that we are willing to share in their life, that we are invested? When we choose to not interact with someone, a message is also conveyed. What is that message? The message could be one of self focus, of avoidance for fear of being hurt, of being empty and having nothing left to give. What message is being conveyed? That the person is not worthy? That you are judging them? That you dislike them? That you don't have the time for them? What are they perceiving from this interaction?

"A person isn't who they are during the last conversation you had with them - they're who they've been throughout your whole relationship."~ Rainer Maria Rilke

I have heard it said from people who have suffered from serious illnesses or the unexpected loss of a loved one that support can come from many places, often support that was not anticipated. Those who are suffering are often overwhelmed by the love and support provided. Then, before they know it, life has gone back to normal. I have heard it said that the message they have received is one of "the time is up and you have to get moving again" or "we've supported you and are now going back to our lives. We can't hold your hand forever." Evidently there is a time limit on suffering, mourning, grieving, questioning. Conditional love and support is so incredibly hurtful.

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up ....." ~1Thessalonians 5:11

What happens when you have people you feel are close friends who are there for crises, though not on a regular basis? Life takes over and they are only able to fit you in when their schedule allows for it. You realize that you are the only one to instigate activities, phone calls, text messages, Facebook communication, emails. These friends have time for one another, but not for you. If you need that person for something specific, they are there without a doubt, but not for daily life. What does that say about this relationship? You want to be there with and for them, but all of a sudden you feel it goes one sided. You know you've all had a wonderful time when you are together, but all of a sudden you wonder if you are the only one invested in this relationship. So you decide to test it out. See if they will miss you. You stop trying to communicate and see what happens. Isolate to a degree. What happens? Do they even notice?

"And let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching." ~ Hebrews 10:24-25

What defines a relationship? Are we called to give and give and not expect it given in return? Am I a bad person for feeling left out? You notice that they communicate with others, however not you. Do they just always assume you will be there? Of course you will always be there, but you want to be there for more than crisis alone. If you allow the relationship to be one of crisis only, will you call out to them if such a time transpires? I would lose count if I attempted to count the number of clients I have had who, when asked who is their support system respond, "no one. They have their own lives. I don't want to add to their stuff." "Sure they'll be there if I ask them, but I don't want to burden them." Again I ask, what message are we giving out?

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." ~ John 15:12-13

I really don't have an answer for this as I'm still pondering. Relationships are tough to pin down. There is no right or wrong, but they are certainly worth more than silver or gold. What kind of friend am I? When people think of me, what message did I convey to them? Do they want me there for good times as well as hard or am I one for crisis only? What about the people in my life? Do they love and accept me on a daily basis or are they "call me when you need me" kinds of friends?

"The sweet smell of incense can make you feel good, but true friendship is better still." ~ Proverbs 27:9 

 

 

For my dear friends.....Thank you!!

I've been so amazingly blessed by people in my life who have touched my heart. You are amazing and I love you!! Thank you for standing by me, praying, supporting, and making me the person I am today. I cherish each and every one of you. God has blessed me with you in my life. Many of us have had strife and struggles. We may have even struggled in our friendship, but we stand there nonetheless. This song makes me think of you and reminds me of how blessed I am. So much of my life is better because of you.

"...ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God's people,I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. " ~ Ephesians 1:15-19

Legacy

The past 12 months have shown themselves to be full of questions and personal pain. I really have no idea what God's plans are, however I know I have to trust Him. I know that the cancer diagnosis was not only a huge surprise to me, but to my family and my friends. I have spent the year not asking why is this happening to me, but what am I supposed to do with what God is giving me. I know for a fact that God's plans are always good and, in Deuteronomy, He assures me that He will never leave me or forsake me. I continue to trust that and accept God's will for my life.

People often ask where my faith and acceptance comes from. I'd have to say that a large portion of my faith has been passed down through generations. This has become painfully clear during the past few months. On April 10th, the day before my big surgery, God took my maternal grandmother home to live with him. My grandmother was 85yrs old and had been suffering from various physical health issues for a while. She was a super sweet lady who took a great deal of pride in her six children, sixteen grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. I will never see a crossword puzzle or word search puzzle without thinking about my grandmother. She had puzzle books all over the place and did them as long as I can remember. It's funny the things that we look back so fondly on. Puzzle books, game shows, and pride in her large family are a few that I will always associate with my grandma.

I spoke to my mom yesterday. One of my aunts has been care provider for my grandparents for about the past four years. My mom went there recently to give my aunt a break for a couple of weeks. I inquired as to how my grandfather was doing and my mom told me he wasn't doing well. He was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago, has had super thick blood for a long time, and other health problems. The long and the short of it is that his children have decided, unanimously, to discontinue CT scans, cancer treatments, and other invasive procedures. He's not getting better and the thought is to just keep him as comfortable as possible. He's 87yrs old and not in good health. Mom said he's sleeping a lot more and not eating much at all. Of course, since I'm a therapist, I'm fully aware that he just lost his wife of 66yrs. His fatigue and loss of appetite is likely due to depression as well as poor health. To think that my grandfather is feeling depressed is such a hard feeling to grasp. To think that he will not likely be around much longer is incredibly difficult.

You see, my grandpa has always been a man I have admired and adored. I never witnessed him display any cruelty towards anyone. He loved and accepted everyone. He has always been a wonderful example of showing God's love to his neighbors. My grandparents raised their six children as Bible believing and Christ following members of society. I was raised in Georgia and my grandparents made their home in Indiana so we were able to visit when they came to us or we came to them. I will never forget visiting them during summers. A common activity was to attend their church. My grandparents introduced each of us to their church family. As time marched on, church members would automatically walk up to us and just know that we belonged to my grandparents. 

My grandfather would never think twice about giving to others. This man has probably the largest heart of anyone I've ever met in my life. A simple man with a heart as big as Texas. His children and grandchildren have always adored him. I have so many memories of him, but it's still not enough. I wish I had more. I wish I could soak up more of his stories, of his love, and of the sparkle in his eye. It was with my grandfather that I learned to read the Bible. I remember sitting on his lap reading my brand new Bible when I was in early elementary school. He loved listening to us read. My grandpa has always been a self taught man and loved learning all kinds of things.

You see, my grandparents have left a legacy that we are blessed to receive. I can only hope to create a legacy even close to this one. The recent diagnosis of cancer has made me ponder quite a bit about what legacy I would like to leave when God decides it's time to take me home. Will I leave behind a love for my Father, for my family, and for my community the way my grandfather has done? Will I always be available for a hug? Will my home always have an open door and acceptance policy? When my grandchildren remember me, will they remember that their grandmother loved God with all of her heart, mind, soul, and strength? My grandparents showed that to me. I miss knowing that my grandma will be there next time I go to Indiana to visit. It's simply heartbreaking to know that my grandpa will likely be called home before I go back as well. I am so grateful to have been left such a wonderful legacy and for the privilege to say it is from their line I have come.

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates." ~ Deuteronomy 6:5-9

An interesting tidbit of information....My grandfather's name is Prince and my grandmother's name was Saralee. She was such a sweetie and he is a prince among men in my eyes. Talk about living up to your name..... 

He'll Do it Again

A few years ago, I was at a Christian Women's Retreat. My ex-husband and I had separated nearly a year before and I was really struggling with the idea of divorce. When we married, I married until death do us part. The thought that it was over was incredibly difficult to grasp, as was the thought that I would soon be a divorced woman. I had been a stay-at-home mother for 12yrs, putting my life on hold, supporting my husband, raising our children, and focusing on what I felt I was supposed to focus on. I had no idea what my future would hold. I had no idea what this break-up would mean for my walk with Christ, with my Christian friends, with my family, for my children. What would my life look like as a divorced woman starting over? How would I support my children? Having been raised in a controlling home and being in an abusive marriage for 17yrs, would I have any idea how to live life alone?

At the retreat, the guest speaker was an amazing woman who had also survived an abusive marriage. She had been raised in the church and struggled with what God would think of her  ending the marriage. She knew the struggle that I was facing as I was dealing with conflict in my congregation due to the break-up of my marriage. She took the time to talk to me and give me the hard words as well as the encouragement to accept my future as a gift from God. During the weekend, she dedicated this song to me. I'll never forget her words. I purchased her CD and this song touches me every time I hear it.

Fast forward 5yrs from that retreat. God had called me back to school. I had graduated with a BA degree, followed by a Master's degree. To celebrate and to provide a gift to my family, we took a trip to Hawaii. The pictures in this video are from that trip. A frequent reminder of God taking care of things and moving my life forward. A reminder that, to accept the call to travel the journey he takes us on, often leads to a life unlike what we ever would have imagined. I can not imagine where my life would be at this point had I not followed His call. As I continue learning to accept His direction, I need to be reminded that all will work out according to God's plan.....and that's the only way to go. I hope this song touches you as it touched me.

Thank you Tammie Kay Arnim for your words and for using your talent.

Mid-Way Through Learning to Accept

  
So, those of us who are participating in the One Word challenge have been asked to do a mid-year update on how we're doing. My word this year has been ACCEPT and it has certainly been quite the challenge. Between dealing with the whole appendix cancer diagnosis and two abdominal surgeries within six months, learning to accept help and support from others, and figuring out some changes that need to happen in my thinking this year has been interesting to say the least.

Something that I had not considered when I agreed to the challenge was how often I reminded myself of the need to accept the changes in my life. Accepting the idea that cancer had chosen to lay claim to my abdomen was actually the simplest of the things I have had to accept. During my medical leave, when others offered to help and/or stay at the hospital, reminding myself that they were there because they wanted to be with me was a bit easier when I remembered that I was learning to accept help from others. I had to remember that allowing them to stand with me was no different than me standing with others. I do it because I care. Why shouldn't they be able to show me that they care about me the same way? How dare I prevent them from expressing their love and concern for me?


Learning to accept how much I am respected at work is proving to be slightly more difficult. I have not been in the social work field for very long so how is it possible that  I am as equally skilled as those whom I have the privilege of working beside? A very dear friend made a book for me to take the hospital. It was a guest book for those who visited to sign with messages so I would be able to remember who had been there. Not only did she make this beautiful book, she arranged for many of my colleagues and friends to send me messages in the book. The love and support this team has shown to me this past year has been more incredible than I could ever have imagined. Remembering the word I was working towards this year has helped remind me to accept this love and support as well as accept their opinions of my social work skills. Maybe I actually am a skilled social worker. Maybe God has provided me with what I need to do this job. 


Probably even more challenging for me has been learning to accept abilities that could possibly be talents given to me by God. For so long I have struggled with the concept of talents and consistently compared myself to others, of course always weighing in as not good enough. I'm continuing down this journey of attempting to find and accept these pieces of myself. Not sure yet how this journey will play out, however my job right now is to learn the acceptance of what may or may not be talents for me. A goal of learning to accept my abilities without comparing them to others is a good place to start. I'll have to let you know how that one goes as time goes on.

The most difficult part of this journey is learning to accept love from God. As someone who has been raised in church and has the full knowledge that God loves me, accepting that love is frequently more challenging. I was raised to fear God. Be obedient to His commands. The feelings involved in my faith was not something addressed quite so much. For someone who struggles with not feeling good enough, accepting God's love for me as an individual somehow tends to feel prideful. Lest I come across doubtful of God's love, please understand that I believe God sent His Son to save all of us. The problem comes with individualizing that love. That's definitely a blog for another day as I travel down this road learning to accept God's perfect love.

"Accept" has most assuredly been a word I believe God has laid out for me this year. As many changes have occurred during the first half of the year, I become torn between anxiety and excitement for the rest of the year. How will God continue to work in my heart? How will He teach me to accept things about Him, about others, and about myself? Interesting journey I must say.

3 months post surgery - Where am I now?

It's been a while since I posted on here. Life has been absolutely crazy since the last time. I was able to return to work on June 6th, working half days to re-build my energy and then, after 6 days of that, I went back full time. As much as I hated to admit it, working half time was probably a better option, as I became tired pretty quickly. Now, after about a month of full time work, I think I can honestly say that I'm functioning pretty close to normal. I'm so incredibly grateful that God blessed me with such wonderful physicians, such an amazing support system, and granted researchers with the ability to discover the treatments and surgeries I have gone through. 

Balancing work, home, and health has required a great deal more energy than I imagined it would. During my recovery, my best friend and I were able to take a short amount of time and make an appearance at a Relay for Life. Walking part of the relay with the other cancer survivors felt slightly awkward, I must admit. While I understand that I was diagnosed with cancer and underwent intraperitoneal chemo, rather than IV chemo or radiation, I just struggle with the idea that cancer is cancer is cancer. I can't help but feel that I have been very fortunate. The side effects I have experienced have been much shorter and less severe than others have had to endure. My heart goes out to those folks and I wonder how I dare compare what I have been through with their very difficult journeys. My best friend and I have had several conversations regarding this topic, however I'm still struggling with it. Maybe a light bulb will turn on at some point. I think for now, I will just continue to focus on God's graciousness in providing a quick recovery and the possibility of complete healing. I guess that's really the bottom line anyway, isn't it?


In addition to pondering the whole cancer thing, I've also spent some time continuing to ponder the empty space I have discovered. Recently I have been able to gradually add activities to my work schedule, in the hopes of living a full life soon. I was able to join our church choir for a weekend full of performances the weekend before Independence Day. Performing at my church consists of participating in a worship rehearsal and singing for 5 services throughout the weekend. That was tiring, but a lot of fun. I do so enjoy singing. Worshiping God through music is probably one of my favorite things to do. Then add to my personal enjoyment, the thought that we have the opportunity to lead others into the same privilege of approaching God's throne to sing to Him.....WOW.....Words are unable to describe the feeling and honor.


I have to say that singing in the choir has helped that hole not feel quite so spacious. I was recently asked what I would like to do with my music. I was at a loss for words, honestly. My ultimate response was that I would love to be able to lead others in their worship, draw them closer to God by the music, the lyrics, or whatever else the Holy Spirit chooses to use. To be used by God in that manner would be absolutely amazing. Is God calling me into this area to be used that way? I really don't know. I would love to think yes, but honestly I'm afraid to think yes. I think I continue to feel I'm not good enough. Maybe I don't have what it takes. During my surgery, the surgeons scraped my diaphragm, resulting in a lack of sustaining power and an ability to hit notes I can normally hit. Someone has recently offered to help me get that back into shape. He has offered to work with me on a near weekly basis to see what my voice can do. I accepted his offer, but I am pretty nervous. What will happen if it is discovered that I was right? That I'm not as good as I would like to be? It seems that recently God has repeatedly brought to my attention what my family/friends lovingly refer to as "my verse." 

"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

Yes, Lord, I understand. My job is to continue going where You call me to go. It is not to question. It is to trust. I trusted You 100% with the cancer and my surgeries. Why is it so difficult to trust with this? What an interesting thought. Maybe it's because I knew that the cancer and surgeries were out of my control, but I'm afraid I will mess this one up. Maybe I'm afraid of embracing music as a talent, in case I'm wrong. "For I know the plans I have for you...." Yes Father. You know the plans. That's all that really matters, isn't it? For if You know, I don't need to know. I simply need to accept YOUR plan and trust You. Thank You. Thank You for healing me. Thank You for reminding me. Thank You for using me for Your plans. I love You my God.

Learning to ACCEPT who I am

When I entered into the field of social work, ultimately becoming a mental health professional and therapist, I was informed by many that this was a great fit for me. I have heard multiple times that "you're finally trained now to do something that you've always done. You've always been drawn to the people who are hurting. If there's someone in a room who is upset, you always seem to find yourself sitting with them as they pour their heart out." 


I guess I have to admit that these people are right. I have never been shy. During my entire life, I have heard my parents tell others that I have "never met a stranger." Put together my natural, outgoing nature with my heart for people who are hurting and....there you go. 


It seems I've been on a life-long mission to discover more about myself and how to better communicate with those in my life. I've studied the 5 Love Languages and learned that my primary love language is Words of Affirmation. I've studied various Learning Styles as taught by Cynthia Ulrich Tobias and discovered that I am Concrete Sequential. My friends and I recently began exploring personality tests. We found particular interest in the Myer's & Briggs Personality Types. I had taken this test during my senior year of my undergraduate program, then took it again with my friends. In college, I tested as an ESTJ. Recently, I tested as an ESFJ. The difference between the T (Thinking) and the F (Feeling) appears to be quite minimal, actually. I believe that I tested higher in the Thinking area while in school because I had been using more of the intellectual portion of myself. Regardless, I began researching the various personality types to see how accurate the results are.


According to the Myer's and Briggs Foundation, they describe the ESFJ (Extraversion, Sensing, Feeling, Judging - Please follow the link to the website for descriptions of the various types.) as:  

"Warmhearted, conscientious, and cooperative. Want harmony in their environment, work with determination to establish it. Like to work with others to complete tasks accurately and on time. Loyal, follow through even in small matters. Notice what others need in their day-by-day lives and try to provide it. Want to be appreciated for who they are and for what they contribute."

Fascinated, I continued to search for more information and discovered the Keirsey Temperament Sorter. They further break down the various personality types of the Myer's & Briggs by grouping the types into 4 groups and breaking them down from there. Their description of the ESFJ is as a Guardian Provider. 

"Providers take it upon themselves to insure the health and welfare of those in their care, but they are also the most sociable of all the Guardians, and thus are the great nurturers of social institutions such as schools, churches, social clubs, and civic groups. Providers are very likely more than ten percent of the population, and this is fortunate for the rest of us, because friendly social service is a key to their nature. Wherever they go, Providers happily give their time and energy to make sure that the needs of others are met, and that social functions are a success.

Highly cooperative themselves, Providers are skilled in maintaining teamwork among their helpers, and are also tireless in their attention to the details of furnishing goods and services. They make excellent chairpersons in charge of dances, banquets, class reunions, charity fund-raisers, and the like. They are without peer as masters of ceremonies, able to speak publicly with ease and confidence. And they are outstanding hosts or hostesses, knowing everyone by name, and seemingly aware of what everyone's been doing. Providers love to entertain, and are always concerned about the needs of their guests, wanting to make sure that all are involved and provided for.

         Friendly, outgoing, neighborly - in a word, Providers are gregarious, so much so that 

         they can become restless when isolated from people. They love to talk with others, and 

         will often strike up a conversation with strangers and chat pleasantly about any topic 

         that comes to mind. Friendships matter a great deal to Providers, and their 

         conversations with friends often touch on good times from years past. Family traditions

         are also sacred to them, and they carefully observe birthdays and anniversaries. In 

         addition, Providers show a delightful fascination with news of their friends and 

         neighbors. If we wish to know what's been going on in the local community, school, or 

         church, they're happy to fill us in on all the details.

Providers are extremely sensitive to the feelings of others, which makes them perhaps the most sympathetic of all the types, but which also leaves them somewhat self-conscious, that is, highly sensitive to what others think of them. Loving and affectionate themselves, they need to be loved in return. In fact, Providers can be crushed by personal criticism, and are happiest when given ample appreciation both for themselves personally and for the tireless service they give to others." 

Wow. That was pretty interesting. I researched this personality type on various other websites and increasingly discovered that this type describes me pretty well. To further confirm it, my friends and my daughter nodded each of their heads while listening to the descriptions. I have heard it said that I am quite verbal and outgoing, a team player, compassionate/empathetic, and overly sensitive to criticism. I have been called a busybody. "Why do you need to know everyone's business?" The ironic thing is that the same people who say this to me are the ones who look to me when they need to know what's going on around them. 


"Why do you care so much what they think?" "What that person says doesn't matter." Do I like being sensitive to the words of others? Do I wish that I didn't care so much? Of course I don't always like being "too sensitive." Who would like to have their heart hurt every time someone says something mean? Pondering these questions, I am reminded of what Scripture tells us about words. 

"The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit." ~ Proverbs 15:4

"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." ~ Proverbs 12:18 

"For the ear test words as the tongue tastes food." ~ Job 34:3

"Before a word is on my tongue, you Lord, know it completely." ~ Psalm 139:4 

That means that God created me to be sensitive to the words of others. He created me with the ability to appreciate words of others. He created me to listen to the words of others. It's pretty easy to accept the "good" parts of our personalities. The parts that we like and that are liked by others, we deem as acceptable. The parts that are difficult, we feel are less acceptable. Being a team player, compassionate, empathetic, having a good memory for special occasions are all good things. Admirable qualities some may say. Being an extrovert in a world full of introverts is not easy. Using my five senses and being concrete in the way I take in information can make it difficult to relate to those who are more abstract and intuitive. 


During the past 8 weeks since my surgery, I've had a lot of time to heal and think. Probably too much time to think, but....it's what I do when I have so much free time on my own and away from other people for extended periods of time. My word for this year is ACCEPT. Well, one of the things I should probably learn to accept is myself and to accept myself, maybe learning who I am is a good place to start. Maybe then I'll be able to figure out what God is placing inside that hole that He is creating inside of me. Will I learn what talents I have buried inside? Will I be able to figure out talents that I don't realize are talents? Will I find an outlet that I had not grasped previously? What I do know right now is that God created me and has plans for me. I am grateful to have professionals that study personality traits, learning styles, love languages, and temperaments to help people like me learn about ourselves. Studying these has provided validation for me. I am who God created me to be. Next step? What do I do with that knowledge and validation? 

Moving Forward

I've been spending a great deal of time recently pondering my life. My surgeon said it best at my post-op appointment this week. "This thing has taken enough of your life. Start living life and moving on." I certainly couldn't agree with him more. Let me say that, he also does not feel he needs to see me again until next year. He said that a) he has no reason to believe that all of the cancer is not gone, however he can't guarantee it and b) IF it is not completely gone, it is slow growing and he would not do anything different prior to next April anyway, so there's no reason to allow this to take more of my life at this point. SO....now that my health is finally put on the back burner (unless something comes up that needs my attention), I can look forward to my future once again. 


I had one of those moments when one uses that 20/20 vision that is hindsight....some clarity over where God has taken me during the past 6 months to a year. I realized that God has spent a great deal of time building confidence in me. This is something that I'm really not used to. If you've read many of my other posts, you've read some of my struggles so I won't go over them again. I've come to realize that, while I love my job and love being a clinical social worker, I also feel like it is my "calling." I wish I could explain how well it seems to fit me. My personality. My heart. Doing crisis work and working with people who are struggling with various aspects of their lives, including mental illness brings fulfillment to me unlike anything else has ever done. I have no idea how or why this fits so well. It just does. I can confidently say that this is what I do for a living and not be as afraid of failure as I once was. When I consult with others about mental health issues, developmental issues, resources, etc, I have come to accept that I DO know how to respond. I DO know that I am able to speak with some degree of authority on the subject. Please don't confuse this with arrogance. This is much different. This is confidence. Again. Something I'm certainly not used to. It feels kind of weird, yet.....I don't know. I guess I'm still processing. I do know that I am much less afraid of failure as I once was. It is an interesting place to be. Hmmm....


I have also been considering some other things. Everyone needs an outlet.  When one works in an arena that can be quite intense, sometimes I feel an outlet is crucial. When someone like me receives such large amounts of fulfillment in their career, an outlet can be missed and it might be easy to immerse myself in my job, my faith, and "doing" life. Recently, I've felt an opening being created inside of me. I don't really know how to explain it other than to say that I feel like God is preparing me for things He is going to add. What this looks like, I don't know. I have a few ideas, but I'm just not sure. The confidence that God has built in me professionally, has not followed through to this other portion quite yet. What will go into this opening that He is creating? Will I accept it or will I do the same thing that I've done historically and fight it? While I am on medical leave, I am anticipating that some of this will be made clear. Maybe not all of it, but I already feel some sort of direction is beginning to occur.....and it's a little scary.

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." ~ Isaiah 40:28-31

2 weeks (and 1 day) post surgery....

Alrighty.....Yesterday was 2 weeks since the big HIPEC surgery. The fact that I'm here to post should be one indication that the worst did not occur. Actually, to the contrary. Everything went much better than the surgeon expected and he was apparently rather pleased. Pleased that I had stood firm on wanting the surgery sooner rather than later and pleased that there were no major surprises. 


Let's go back to the days prior to the surgery. On the Monday just after Easter, I completed my final day of work before my medical leave began. Everything went well. I completed all of the necessary paperwork and consulted with my supervisor who would be taking over the crisis portion of my job while I'm out. During my meeting with him, co-workers and HR staff presented me with a couple of beautiful bouquets of flowers and the announcement that I was chosen to be April employee of the month. I continue to be amazed at how my fellow teammates show appreciation to me for doing my job. I am learning, as I get older, exactly how much of a team player I am. I'm really not one to put myself in a holier than thou place. We're all staff and there for the clients and each other. Let's show that. Anyway....that's another topic for another time, I'm sure. That day was full of a mix of emotions. I love my job. I love my co-workers who have become wonderful friends. I sure do miss being there on a daily basis, though the 2mos will go by quickly, so I should focus on healing, I'm certain. By the end of the day, good-byes were said, everything prepared, and I left at the end of the day knowing that I was going to be missed, prayers were being offered up, and I would be back as soon as possible. 


On Tuesday, I did the bowel clean out that had been prescribed. If you haven't had a MoviPrep, you might read Dave Barry's take on it and see what it's all about.   It wasn't quite as bad as Mr. Barry described, but....it sure wasn't a fun experience. I also had to spend the afternoon on heavy doses of antibiotics in preparation for the surgery. I was notified that I needed to be at the hospital at 7:15am the next morning. As far as my mental health, I wasn't sure what I was feeling. Just going on autopilot and putting everything in God's hands. God is the only One who knew how things were going to turn out. I just had to trust His timing and His plan and move forward as I was doing.


The hospital where the surgery was performed is north of Seattle and I live quite a bit south of there, with my church and support team living even further south. My support team converged at my home early the next morning to carpool to the hospital, where we met another friend and pastors from my church. 3 of our pastors came to pray and offer love and support. Unfortunately I wasn't able to pray with 2 of them as timing didn't play in our favor, however I hope they know how much I appreciate their love, support, and prayers. I was honored that they came such a long distance, so early in the morning to be with us. I was grateful we had a chance to visit before I was called back to prepare.


The rest of the day is pretty blurry for me, due to lots of medication and the surgery. They put in IVs and an epidural. I hear that the 6-8hr long surgery actually only lasted less than 6hrs. When I awoke in recovery, I was having some trouble breathing so they gave me a breathing treatment. I did realize immediately that I had no NG tube in my nose or colostomy bag attached to me. This was WONDERFUL news for me. They allowed my best friend and my sister to come in to visit one at a time so they could see me for myself and know that I was okay. I had a nurse that was dedicated to just me and my care. I felt pretty fortunate. 


I was told that the surgeon was surprised at how the cancer had advanced since my previous abdominal surgery in October, though the pathology reports continued to say that it was the low grade, slow growing neoplasm that they had initially diagnosed. Just prior to the surgery, I had informed him that I believed the mucinous material had increased. He stated that he would be quite surprised if it had. Then, he discovered "a substantial amount of mucin" upon opening me up. He did a colon resection (removing the part of the colon that was attached to the appendix), scraped the cancer off of the liver and diaphragm, and removed the remaining portion of my omentum. They then did the heated chemo bath portion of the surgery. I haven't seen my surgical report yet, but this is what I know so far.


I was in the hospital for a full week. It was interesting being in a teaching hospital and having teams for my care. Dealing with numerous IV sites, lots of tubes, the epidural, pain medication, etc is likely more information than any of you want to read in a blog post. Suffice it to say that it was a week of medical care, a week of listening to my bowels to assure they started moving again after the surgery, and lots of lost time due to sleep and pain medication. Good thing my support team was always there for one another so no one became supremely bored. 


Since my discharge last week, I've been spending a great deal of time becoming accustomed to my post-surgery bowel struggles, lack of appetite, loss of energy, and difficulty sleeping. All of this is normal for the procedure that I had done. As friends of mine who are in the medical field have repeatedly informed me....this is my 2nd significant abdominal surgery in 6 months. That I should give my body a break from expectations. Okay. So I spend the next bit of time gradually increasing and moving forward. The 27 staples were removed 2 days ago and I have a post-op appointment with the surgeon next week. 


So, that's what's been going on with me health-wise. Lest I lose sight of the rest of the story, we attended church Saturday night. Unbeknownst to me, a wonderful deaf man was speaking last weekend. Luke Everett is the son of the founder of Rancho Sordo Mudo. He said some things that really touched my heart. Reminders that God has granted my request to continue living and working for Him here on Earth, as much as I would like to be in His presence in heaven. 


"Vision is a reflection of what God wants to do through us to impact the world.... Living and doing what we do, we can become very comfortable and just plug on until Christ comes back..... You can lose sight of the needs that are around you..... You can see the brokenness in humanity......Every life has meaning. Jesus died for every life. If you change one family, one life, then you've made a difference because every life has meaning. Jesus loves every life. We always think of God has a group hug kind of God, but He loves each of us individually. " ~ Luke Everett


I'm not sure what the future holds. God does. I don't know yet what the vision is, but it's becoming increasingly clear as time marches on. 


"Don't give up on yourself because God hasn't given up on you.... God has a plan. God has a vision for you guys." ~ Luke Everett 

Easter Weekend

Well, it is now Easter evening. For me, the celebration of Christ's resurrection this year was spent singing in the choir at my church for 5 services over the past two days. I am a member of a rather large congregation that I have grown to love. Having been raised in small Southern churches, I never believed I'd be able to become intimately involved in a large church. Always one to be proven wrong, God has done just that. 

After spending the previous 10-12yrs attempting to walk away from the music that has always been a significant part of my life, God has gradually pulled me back into the music world. 9yrs ago, within the first year of beginning to attend my congregation, after having left a pretty dysfunctional small church and pretty hurtful personal experiences, I was asked to begin interpreting the music during services. That led to becoming quite involved in the Deaf Ministry and developing relationships with both deaf and hearing church family. It also reminded me of how much music is an outlet for me. One that I had missed, whether I wanted to admit to it or not. Several years later, the Deaf Ministry came to a close and music was once again set aside. A year ago, God managed to convince me to join the church choir. I began to develop closer relationships w/ those whom I had come to know through the years at my church and make new friends with others. They have spent the last year loving me, encouraging me, and offering tons of support.

Last October, when I had the surgery that resulted in my cancer diagnosis, I was provided with indescribable amounts of love from various groups of people in my life including this church family, my work family, and other folks in my daily life. Prayers were offered up all over the US and other countries, I'm told. That was pretty overwhelming. In a wonderful way.

As the time as drawn closer for my upcoming surgery, I have become quite focused on preparation. Preparing for taking time off from work. Preparing with my insurance for the surgery to be paid for. Preparing my family and friends who are so incredibly concerned and worried. Preparing for my children and my roommate financially and for decisions that may need to be made. And preparing myself for the possibilities that this may not go well. You've heard the term, "plan for the worst and hope for the best." I would hate to have had this amount of time to prepare and fritter it away. During this time of preparation, it has become easier and easier to plan FOR the inevitable. Not having control, options, or choices in a situation can do that to a person. I completely trust that God is in control. I accept that His will is the best plan. To me, that has meant accepting whatever His plan is.

This weekend, being Easter weekend and having spent a good portion of it with my church family, God was able to adjust my focus a bit. I was able to spend SO much time in full worship, even though I was with my choir friends and on stage. God used my outlet to regain my attention. After one of the services, the choir members pulled me aside and prayed over me. Understand that our choir is approximately 40 or so members and many of them were in the room. My sister and her best friend were both there, as well as my best friend/roommate who is also in the choir. The words spoken were amazingly touching to me, tears fell from many. More than one member of the pastoral staff said that they are coming to the hospital the day of the surgery to pray with and over me. Another choir member requested that I ask God if he would be allowed to pray healing prayers over me as he has felt called into a healing ministry. During our performances, various choir members would lay their hands on me, subtly, in a silent prayer.  Another member held my hand during an entire portion of the performance. And the one who asked if he could pray healing prayers? The very last performance, the standing order miraculously became changed and I found myself standing in front of him. He spent the majority of an entire song laying hands on me.

During a large amount of the weekend, I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit again and again. I was told more than once that I was inspiring in my ability to rejoice and worship our Father in light of my health and fear of the upcoming surgery. I had no idea how to respond to that. I'd like to now, if you'll bear with me. You see, the weekend began with a great deal of thought that this may be my last weekend able to worship with this group of people. That I needed to write some messages to those I love to assure that they know how much I love and care for them. I wanted to be able to spend the last of my time here, showing others how much I love my Lord and for Him to know my heart (like He doesn't already). Unbeknownst to me, I had begun to embrace the fear and worry of others by believing their fears were indication of the future. By the end of the weekend with my church family and in the presence of the Holy Spirit, God had gradually adjusted my thoughts. There's no need for any more preparation. I've done what I need to do. The recovery from this surgery may be difficult, however I'm not done here. I still have a lot of work to do. I don't know how long I'm to live on this world, but I do know that God continues to have a plan for me. My days continue to be numbered and I don't know how many numbers there are. God does. That's His job. My job is to continue worshiping Him and living my life as a witness to His love, faithfulness, grace, and mercy.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts while on this journey. I don't know where it will lead, but I'm grateful that you're willing to travel with me. Don't ever forget that God loves you. As our pastor said this morning, "He delights in you." Quite a thought to ponder. I know He has certainly shown me a lot this weekend. What is He trying to tell you? For those of you who have been praying for my healing and my recovery.....Thank you. God is hearing you and He is answering.

The Ultimate Gift

SO…….today is Good Friday….also the first evening of Passover. ….For Christians, Good Friday represents the day that our Savior was crucified on the cross. God sent His willing Son to our world to become the only sacrifice able to pay for all of our sins. No other sacrifice could pay for our sins and make us worthy to be in God's presence….God wants His children to be in relationship with Him so Christ gave His life to pay that debt and allow us direct access to our Father. This Ultimate Sacrifice occurred during Passover. Christ died on Friday, then was resurrected on Sunday. He did what NO ONE would ever be able to do. We celebrate Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection each year on Easter.




"As you know, the Passover is two days away—and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified."    ~ Matthew 26:2 


"Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again." "Then they remembered his words."    ~ Luke 24:5b-8 


Passover is a celebration of God rescuing the Israelites from their captivity in Egypt. This year, it is celebrated today, April 6th until next Saturday, April 14th. Passover is a reminder that God will save us if only we do as He asks and accept His gift of freedom. 

“Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning. When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down….. And when your children ask you, 'What does this ceremony mean to you?' then tell them, 'It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.”      ~ Exodus 12:22-23, 26-27 

Though one would think that, since Passover and Easter are so connected, that they would be celebrated together. However, due to whatever reason, they are not celebrated during the same time period every year. The timing only comes together periodically. This year, Passover begins on Good Friday. 


Today was also my last Friday of work before my surgery. I have one more day to work and then will be fully preparing my body and mind. Interestingly enough, a job that has been maddenly busy for the past few weeks, has all of a sudden slowed down to a crawl for the past 2 days. I spent yesterday preparing my office and work load for the fact that I’ll be out for at least 2mos. Today I was able to complete an Advanced Directive and my Will. It was very odd to see a document stating that it is my Last Will and Testament. Lest you believe I’m becoming negative and morbid, I’m not at all. I’m a single mother of a 16yr old daughter and 21yr old son. My legal next of kin would be considered my 21yr old son. I feel that I would be doing my children a grave dis-service if I did not prepare for difficult medical decisions in advance. Do I think that something is going to go wrong? No. I feel that preparation is the best way to protect my loved ones from being stuck in a position of having to make decisions in regards to my life. 


What does all of this have to do with Good Friday and Passover? I simply find the timing interesting. In Egypt, God told the Israelites to place the blood of a sacrificial lamb on their door frames. Those who did not do so lost their first born when the Angel of Death passed through. The homes of those who had been obedient were passed over. 


When Christ was willing to do what His Father asked of Him, He became the sacrifice for all of God’s children who are willing to do accept the gift. My life is currently at a place where things like God’s grace, gift of salvation, and acceptance of God’s will tend to be more highlighted than at other times in my life. I really have no idea what my future holds. I know what plans I had for my life. I know that I have always planned to live until I’m in my 90s as the majority of the women in my family have done. I know that I love being a mother to my children and would love to be with them through their adult lives. I know that I love being a social worker. It’s not just what I do. It often defines a lot about who I am. What I don’t know is what the doctor will find during this surgery to kill the cancer that has decided to live in my abdominal cavity. I don’t know how my body will respond to the day-long surgery that will occur in just a few days. I don’t know what this future will look like at the end of Passover. Will the Angel of Death pass-over because God has decided to leave me here to live a while longer? 

"A person's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed." ~ Job 14:5


"Show me, Lord, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure. "Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom; in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth without knowing whose it will finally be. "But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.” ~ Psalm 39: 4-7 


Just on a side note, my daughter was born on Good Friday. This year, her birthday fell on the Thursday before Good Friday and Passover. She turned 16yrs old yesterday.