When you think you Can't

 It's been a while....and life continues to fast forward. And as the end of 2024 draws near, I reflect on all the experiences, good or bad, that have shaped this year. 

Health-we are seeing positive changes, and I am super excited to say NO SCANS, and no visits until January! PTL! I have lost 8 pounds, my hair is growing back, and the journey continues-GO ME! Without the grace of God, a couple of good friends, and my amazing doctor, I wouldn't have made it this far. After four years of tests, scans, surgery, bloodwork, specialists, and fear-I feel there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Work continues to be challenging, but I am learning to face the challenges differently, and with less fear and anxiety, and more determination. Some days I am drowning in discouragement, and other days I am on top of the mountain shouting in victory. I think we all have those days....the times I thought I couldn't, it turned out that I could.

The boys....what can I say? They are growing up, and moving into adult lives and responsibilities. Little did I dream that I would see so little of them now, but I couldn't be prouder of the men they are becoming. I pray for them, worry about them, and hold them close to my heart. I cannot imagine life without them in it. And five beautiful grandchildren too.....I had a week with my girl Meghan in July, and learned a lot about girls, and the difference between raising boys and girls. LOL She is so smart, and beautiful-I can't wait to see where life leads her.

You see, all of the things above were things I thought I couldn't do-be a mom, have a successful career, survive a tumor, become a good person....I was afraid all of my failures and mistakes were more than I could rise above. Turns out, I was so incredibly WRONG!  

Now, let me explain. We are not perfect, not one of us. But we can be led to a better place than we are, a place where "I can't" becomes "I can" and "I will". God gives us free will, to choose the life we wish. And we don't always choose the right path, but it doesn't mean that we can't start from where we are, and do better. We just have to do the work to get there, and trust HIM.

So I challenge you this week-be an inspiration, be a light, be an example of just how quickly life can turn around. 

Be BRAVE.