The blessing of cancer.

1. Cancer unites people.

The dark uncertainty of the disease summons the best out of humanity. And this beauty in a hard place is a God gift that brings healing on levels perhaps not possible without the pain. The restoration of hearts is a miracle of greater value then physical soundness.

My family has already grown stronger through these past weeks and I know that God will continue to bring good things in His time.

2. Cancer slows everything down. On an ordinary day life's precious moments flit past to fast anyway. Moments taken for granted are less, unnoticed and often missed altogether.

Cancer is helping me to be awake.

Alive. Alert.

And grateful for each moment.

This week I'm grateful for the following:

My family. Each one a treasure in my heart.

For the still moments when I lay stretched in the sunshine across the end of my bed and watch the wrens enjoying the suet block outside my bedroom window. Puffed in downy fluff, their cocky tails flicking as they chirp their approval at the treat.

Energy to sit through my little brothers basketball game. Enjoying the high energy speed of the game and the swish of my brothers' .

Heart to heart talks with dear friends. Our words that connect and bridge and grow our lives.

Sitting curled up on the couch opening stacks of mail from everyone I've ever known and half of those I don't. Seriously, I never knew it was possible for one person to get so much mail. It's like receiving .hugs from around the world

For the bouquet of sunshine flowers on the table.

Friends who cook me gourmet delicacies to tempt my appetite. Chocolate covered cherries anyone?

My incredible housemates who take care of everything!

Jennie, who can buy the perfect size pants for me on the first try without me being there to try them on! It's nice to have clothes to wear that don't fall off or feel like pajamas because their so big.

The resident parrot who comes and holds my finger with his little foot to keep me company.

And for my God. Who carries me each day on His strong shoulders and fills my heart with joy.