This morning I had the honor of attending a Breast Cancer Awareness event in support of a dear friend. The setting was absolutely beautifully adorned and yet there was a dark awareness lurking. When I walked into the room and saw all the pink, my heart immediately gave way to heaviness. As if I had forgotten, I was instantly reminded of the day my own mother lost her battle with cervical cancer.
After I was seated, I looked around at all of the tables. Women and men alike, were dressed in their finest red-carpet -ready fashions. The infectious laughter and chatter seemed to visit every table. We were all gathered to honor those who have been affected by breast cancer, some recently diagnosed, some in the throws of treatment, some survivors, and some who have gone home to be with God.
Testimony after testimony, ladies shared the day they were personally introduced to the c-word. They reflected on the pain and fear. Some spoke of losing children, mothers, sisters, and brothers.
Apostle Paul was a prisoner on a ship headed to be tried before Caesar. When a violent storm arose and broke up the ship, the prisoners were told to hit the water. If they were able to swim to land, they should. Those that could not swim were told to grab the broken pieces of the ship to get to shore. The bible records that everyone escaped safely. (See Acts 27:42-44.)
It hit me like a brick today. Broken pieces still float. Though the ladies in the room had experienced a violent storm, they were standing proud and telling their stories. They smiled defiantly while wiping tears from their eyes. They strutted the runway with fierce sass, dignity, and resilience. I heard them cheer “To God Be The Glory” “Thank you, Father” “I survived” and the list goes on and on. They continually proclaimed their faith and trust in God in spite of the stage of their situation. Some may have lost their hair, but they didn’t lose their glory!
You may not be facing cancer today, but the pain you are in has tried to immobilize you. I want to encourage you today, that broken pieces still float. You don’t have to have it all together. You don’t have to hide your scars or be ashamed of what you are going through. Hold your head up and know that this storm is not to take you out. It is to bring you in! Grab ahold of your broken pieces and ride them safely to shore. You are safe in God’s arms. He will not let go of you!
I’m so glad that I attended this beautiful luncheon on this special day. It’s my mother’s birthday. What better way to honor her than to sit among valiant soldiers like her.
Written in loving memory of Billie Marie Aitch. As it turns out, superheroes don’t wear capes. They wear ribbons.
Strengthen. Heal. Empower.
Aaron Schwab Photo Credit
