I want to give a special thank you to my Mother for all of her support and encouragement all of my life, but especially in the past five years. It was a horrible moment when I had to tell my mother that I have cancer. She was devastated, and a bit mad at God. Just like me, she has a foundation of faith that helped her through those first dark days, and then the Mama Bear came out in her. She started to fight for my life by digging into God's Word and enlisting her friends to pray.
On Mother's Day 2007, my mom gave me a little green book by Dodie Osteen called Healed of Cancer. In that little book was an amazing story of how Dodie was healed of liver cancer in 1981. In this book was the key to the strength that I would draw on for the next five years (and more). Dodie listed the top promises from God that she claimed and read every day. My mom started typing out these promises, and add our own. We have quite a list of verses that have served us well over the years, and have given great comfort and hope.
My Mom also gave me a wonderful devotional book by Dodie called Choosing Life. I read a devotion every morning from that book, and repeated it all the next year. My mom did the same. Whenever I had a down moment, my mother would not let me feel sorry for myself very long. She would tell me that she is confident in God's promises and that He will keep me well so that I can keep spreading His message of hope to others.
My Mom would trade places with me if she could. Like all good mothers, we want to shield our children from pain, and she would rather me not be going though so much pain. But, she has rejoiced with me over the triumphs, and cried with me over the losses. The trial is mine, but the strength I get from my mom, and many others is the most beautiful gift I could receive.
I am deeply thankful that God gave me a strong mother to be by my side. I am also forever grateful that God gave me two beautiful daughters who also give light and laughter to my world.
Mother's Day 2012 will be one of rejoicing. We have all come a long way, and God has been incredibly gracious and merciful. I have scans this week, so keep me in your prayers that all is well and stable.
To all the Mothers out there, have a very special day!
Love,
Sandy
