Everything Happens for a Reason...Does it?

Do you believe everything happens for a reason? It is certainly what everyone tends to say. Do bad things happen because someone did something to bring it on themselves? I've been having this discussion with some of you and I've come to the conclusion that Everything Happens... period. I don't believe God is dolling out terrible lessons so that we learn something. I don't believe I got Cancer because I did something bad (or maybe it was something Dan did!). I'm also not sure God has a specific plan for me. I think it is up to me to be the best person I can be and show love and compassion to everyone I meet.

My friend Alix gave me a really interesting book called "Everything Happens for a Reason and Other Lies I've Loved" by Kate Bowler. She was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer at age 35. She is an amazing young woman and writes so beautifully. She suggests everyone simmer down on the explanations for other peoples suffering and just step in with love and support. I love that - everything doesn't need an explanation.

As I look back on this year I'm amazed at what all has happened. I made it through a double mastectomy, 6 rounds of chemo, 6 weeks of radiation, and 12 rounds of immunotherapy. Next year I will have reconstruction surgery and complete the last 6 rounds of immunotherapy. I feel so fortunate to have weathered this storm as well as I possibly could. I've had it easy compared to some of the folks in my Cancer Support group at St. Lukes. Some of the guys receive chemo every week. And I have several friends that have had to be hospitalized due to reactions to treatment. I am so very lucky!

As I say good riddance to 2018 I've realized the small stuff is meaningless and time with family and friends is what is most important... that's what it's all about - just like the hokey pokey... you put your head in, you put your head out, you shake it all about... and that's what it's all about! I feel truly blessed to be feeling good and getting ready to enjoy the holiday season.

I'm not sure about a lot of things but I am certain of the reason for the season...it's about that little baby born in Bethlehem who came to deliver us. Luke 2:11.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year.

xo