In anticipation and in response to the mastectomy surgery, subsequent chemo therapy and breast reconstruction process, I experienced yet another type of loss and grieving. Yes, I grieved the loss of my breast, and the good health that I had enjoyed and taken for granted. Though not as intense as the grief connected to the loss of my son, nevertheless I grieved, and once again I experienced comfort, hope and strength through the presence and under the shelter of God's faithful love, mercy and grace.
I also experienced (and was the recipient of) the power of prayer, and the strength that covered me because of the prayers of my husband, family and friends - emphasizing again the importance of being yielded and still before the Lord our God, praying constantly and being ever grateful for the blessing of compassionate "comforters" who companion with us throughout our journey here on earth.
One of my very special "comforters" was (and is) my oldest grandson, Joey.
During the 2 years of my "journey through cancer," Joey made trips up from California to be close to me and to make sure that I was OK and he called me every week for many months to express his love and to encourage me. He told me that I was never out of his thoughts, and that he prayed "constantly" that God would heal me. Joey has always been "MiMi's boy," and we share a very special bond of love that began even before the actual day he was born nearly 28 years ago.
Another way that Joey encouraged me, was to email me the "Daily Guidelines" listed below that he found on the internet. These daily guidelines served me very well, as I reached for health and healing, and they continue to encourage me to make these simple choices each day, no matter my circumstances. It is my hope in sharing them that they will help someone else, as they have been helpful to me.
*Wake Up!
Decide to have good day. "Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24
*Dress Up!
The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearances; but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7
*Stand Up!
For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good. "Galations 6:9-10
*Look Up!
"I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me." Phillippians 4:13
*Reach Up!
For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your path." Proverbs 3:5-6
*Lift Up - Your Prayers!
"Do not worry about anything; instead pray about everything." Philippians 4:6
With Faith, Hope and Love,
Angie Green, Co-Founding Director
Mothers Like Me - Encouragement for moms who have suffered the loss of a child
amotherlikeme@gmail.com
www.motherslikeme.info
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