WHEN THE BELL RANG

The sound resonnated in the halls. It was the sound most women hoped for, prayed for, cried for. And for my sissy, this was a most joyous time for her, her family, and all those who walked alongside her for this moment…the ringing of the bell. For those who have gone down this journey of breast cancer, the bell symbolizes cancer free. The month of October isn’t just about pumpkins, Halloween, or fall festivities. It is also about breast care awareness. Because of all the research for the cure of breast cancer, my sister was able to have a new kind of procedure that wasn’t as invasive as it has been in the past. She continues to be cancer free and so I wanted to recognize this accomplishment! But, I also have other friends who were diagnosed with breast cancer and it wasn’t quite that easy. Fortunately, they are still in remission. In both cases it was detected early and therefore the outcome was positive. What I have learned though from those who have gone down this path, is that it not only effects them physically but also emotionally. They can sometimes lose their hair, weight, breasts, energy, and sometimes their hope to keep fighting. It is for this reason I wanted to acknowledge these women, all women, who have fought the fight, who have won the battle, and continue to show courage in the face of all kinds of obstacles. They are truly our heroes of today. As God shares in Joshua 1:9 “ Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord YOUR God is with you wherever you go”. Thank you to my sister and my friends for showing me that any trial I may face in the future, or ANY of us face, we can overcome with the same kind of courage, perseverance, strength and hope both in God and the tenacity HE has given us. Amen.