Well, it has been nearly 4 months since my cancer diagnosis and I am finally taking the step to share more of my journey. I have felt God tugging at my heart for some time now to share my experience in greater depth, but this wasn’t an easy call for me to answer. I have always been a fairly private person and don’t enjoy being the center of attention, so the idea of taking these thoughts from the pages of my journal to a public audience really pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I have posted updates on Facebook about my treatment periodically to let friends and family know how I am doing and express my gratitude for the outpouring of concern and prayers, but I still felt there was more that I had to share. I had almost settled on a private blog, but then a conversation with Adam made me realize the importance of reaching others I may not even know. God’s plan is always so much bigger than we can even imagine, and I’m thankful for a husband who reminds me of that and encourages me to live boldly.
The name that I chose for this blog, My Song and Strength, was inspired by the following verses that have been shared with me by friends. I have received many words of encouragement over the past few months, but these particular verses have reappeared many times in emails, texts, devotions, and cards.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. (Psalm 28:7 NIV)
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” (Isaiah 12:2 NIV)
I am thankful for the perspective shared with me by a dear friend:
This cancer journey is a part of my song, the song that will bring praise and glory to Him and allow Him to display His power through me.
In sharing my experiences, I hope not to draw attention to myself, but to draw attention to who God is and what He is capable of. My hope is that this battle I am fighting may strengthen others’ faith and possibly encourage someone else facing cancer or another difficult trial.
Love you LaaLaa!