Today as a way of celebrating my dear friend's birthday and her fight with breast cancer, I decided to reveal that I too was beginning my battle with breast cancer. I was overcome with emotion as the well wishes, prayers, and offers to help kept rolling in.
For the first time in 8 years the tables would turn for my mentee and me. She's 18 now, preparing to graduate and ready for college. We've always been supportive of each other. Our families have become families. I don't miss anything that is important to her. I spent last weekend searching for her prom shoes. It has always been my job to buy her shoes for her important milestones. I bought her shoes for her sweet sixteen, her first time attending prom as someone's date, and now her prom. The thought of missing her graduation because I might not be able to go saddened me. I had to face the music, my life will be changing. I was once the Energizer bunny, now the bunny must rest. I can't keep going and going and going.
What took me over the edge was a call from one of my princesses. She says in her sweet, angelic voice, "Hi. My mom told me about you. I wanted you to know that I called to pray with you." I was in awe. Here is another one of my sweet babies who has called to pour into me. I sat up and told her I was ready for her to pray. Dear Lord, I couldn't contain myself. It was the best prayer I've ever heard. I tried my best not to let her know I was crying. Thanks to stinking cell phones, she kept saying hello because she thought the call dropped. I had to answer. She consoled me and told me not to cry.
God allowed me to start two ministries where my friends and I got to be a part of teenage girls lives. The love that they are showing me during this time is amazing!!! I am a wreck right now!!!
It is an amazing feeling to know that I am truly loved and that my family and friends genuinely care. The purpose of me sharing my diagnosis was to share a message of hope. Like my cousin said, it's okay to be a tough cookie, but even a tough cookie needs a team. My team showed up today!
Where two or more are gathered, the Lord is in the midst. This tough cookie feels His presence. I love my teams. #teamtoughcookie #prayerworks #girlfriendunite
2 comments:
I can't even explain in words what I feel after reading this... Although my heart is heavy, I can still rejoice with you because we serve an awesome God. I can't imagine the feelings you have, but I can see that you're be a champion once this fight is over! I was given the opportunity to help plan and decorate for your wedding, well if you thought I out done myself for that very special occasion, then you haven't seen nothing yet! Once this fight is over I'm going to give you a VICTORY party. Theme "One Tough Cookie" so make sure you have your speech ready.. Luv U Mark!
Well go ahead and start planning the party. I'm working on my speech. LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!!
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