As time goes by....

Like many others I find myself reviewing the events of the year that is about to find its way into history and thinking ahead to the brand new, fresh one that is about to appear.  Before tackling the new year head on I want to share some thoughts and verses that have been given to me since the onset of our journey.  They may seem random to the reader but each jewel has taken its place in the beautiful piece of jewelry I wear next to my heart.  You would all stop reading this blog if I included every one at this time so you'll get them in segments as time goes by.
My friend, Mary, who has gone through her share of suffering, wrote in one of her emails, "At least one of the redemptive pieces to suffering/trials is unusual clarity.  A hefty price tag, but still worth noting as a 'good thing' to come out of such soil."  How very true, Mary.
My sister, Janet, whose husband is also on this uninvited cancer journey, wrote in her beautiful Christmas letter, "With Barb's diagnosis I have realized how precious they are who have shared their whole life with us.  Along with Dale (Janet's husband), my siblings provide the glue that holds me together.  Facing the threats to Barb's and Dale's lives I realize how fragile and breakable are the links that join us and how easily those links can be dissolved.  I know as well how powerless we are to hold at bay the loss and death of our loved ones."
I am, along with Jan, treasuring my family, immediate and extended.  Please don't wait for a challenge before appreciating yours.
Proverbs 17:17-"A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity." (NKJV)

Health report:  Thankfully, no unexpected reactions to chemo so far today.  God is good!