It’s Cancer

Back in March, the doctor noticed that the left side of my thyroid was enlarged. Last Wednesday, I had a second biopsy because the first came back “non-diagnostic,” a technical term for “didn't get the bad stuff with all that pokin’ around.”

This biopsy came back diagnostic, and the diagnosis was cancer. If you were told that you were gonna get cancer, but you got to pick which kind...this would be a good choice. It doesn't metastasize (spread and kill all of you), but it is cancer, and it will be cut out.

The exorcism is July 19th. So I have three weeks. And I have committed these three weeks to a reflection on life vs. sin & death and my role in this conflict. Sidelines are non-existent in this conflict so I really have no idea where I have been sitting.

I know that death is waging a constant war against all that is living. God has placed mankind at the helm of the universe. If I choose to neglect my lawn, it will soon look even worse than it does now. On the other hand (and the hands of my wife and children), our whole yard is much more pleasing that it was two years ago. (Now that I have brought up the lawn is it significant that another word for “helm” is “tiller?”)

In my community (my church, my neighborhood, my work) I am also at the helm. I am not the only one, but I contribute to the course my community takes spiritually. It is time to reengage. I know enough of my self and my family. Now with prayer I hope to chart a course for my family with wisdom.

I realize that while my prognosis is very good (I may even get to keep half my thyroid—in my neck that is – not in a jar), I have no guarantee of another ten months let alone another 35 years. So I want to take stock of how God has prepared me, and move in that direction.

Login to add comments