Where Does Your Strength Come From?

I have lived by myself since my daughter left for college many years ago. So there has not been anyone in my home that I could immediately turn to when things just weren't right. Whether it was physical, financial, or mental, I always had to find a way to work things out. However, I realize that I am blessed. There were folks in my life who were there at the right time, saying what I needed to hear or providing what I needed at the moment. Sometimes it was physically, but other times it was a phone call, a text, a simple gesture of kindness.

My daughter was there for my first chemo session even though she was struggling in her own world. She was also there over FaceTime when I rang the bell after my last infusion.. Her friends embraced me during my treatment with a slew of cards that I have to this day to remind me that when the village is called they respond. Care packages arrived from my son, goddaughter and friends far and wide. When I woke from my double mastectomy, my grandson’s godmother was there with balloons in hand and a gentle smile. Phone calls, messages and prayers descended from folks I knew and some I didn’t. I remember the impact all of these gestures had on my will to survive during the most trying time in my life.

Most of all I realize that God has always taken care of me. It has not been a coincidence that I have traveled to places where I knew no one, to do mission work, or just for a fresh start, and everything turned out OK. I have had breast cancer twice and at least five other major surgeries, of which I have pulled through. Whatever the need might be, in time, it no longer became an issue.

I often share with my closest friends that I may knock on their door one day for a place to lay my head for a while, and they have all assured me that the door will remain open. That is the beauty of my life and the blessings that I have received. Although alone physically, my spirit is positive because of the people who are family and extended family. We are in each of our lives for a reason. Somehow we found each other to support each other in this vast universe, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

So despite challenges that we are all facing today, I trust that everything will be OK. God has been there in the past, and He is here now and will be there in the future. It brings me peace when I reflect on what I've been through and comfort, knowing where I get my strength.

Where does your strength come from?