Lots of awareness going on around here!

Morrison Bridge lit up in Teal for Ovarian Cancer Awareness

October is officially Breast Cancer Awareness month. This year, I feel like my eyes are a little more open to all the "pink" thats floating around the media. I have always loved that the NFL wears pink throughout the month of October. I also love seeing people display ribbons or bracelets denoting themselves as survivors.

A close friend recently asked me how I am doing with things lately. I told her its been interesting...

To be part of a group of "survivors" is unique. On the one hand, it is incredible to be alive. The women (and men) I have met that belong to this group are amazing. Each story is moving. The depth of soul-searching these people have done along their journey is evident in their persona. I am thankful to know these people and hope to continue to get to know more of them.

On the other hand, its incredibly frustrating to be a part of a group that I did not choose. Most sub-groups of people that one belongs to is because they have chosen to be a part of them... college friends, coworkers, etc. I never intended to have this be a part of my story. But it is and now it is on me to decide what to do with it.

I have been blessed beyond imaginable. I guess that is part of serving a God that longs to bless his people. When I see a women in public who is bold enough to display her beautiful bald head, I find I just want to go over to her and hug her. I want to her to know she is brave. No matter where one is in their cancer journey, it is important to know they are loved and supported.

Here is my hope for these "awareness months".  Not only do I hope money is raised to find a cure for some of these horrible diseases, but also that more and more survivors' stories would be told. If you know someone who has survived cancer, encourage them to tell their story. There is power in knowing the difficulties of one's life.

Happy Sunday!