The cancer journey can be a roller coaster ride of emotions!  Side effects from treatments, check-ups, people's reactions, and test results can all affect our mood, our fears and hopes. Those of us, who have traveled the cancer journey ahead of you, remember how much it helped to have our spirits lifted through the prayers, words, and actions of those who walked beside us. It is our hope that the thoughts we share with you will be a real source of encouragement, and will help strengthen your faith and "lift your spirit" as you take each step on your journey through cancer. Keep reading for our newest Spirit Lifter.

WILL I EVER LAUGH AGAIN?

When I was first diagnosed with cancer it seemed that every ounce of joy was overshadowed by the fear which filled my family’s lives during those first few weeks.  The journey which loomed ahead of us seemed overwhelming as it was filled with many “unknowns” and stretched before us with no ending in sight.  Nothing seemed funny anymore and smiles and laughter were nowhere to be found in either our home or hearts.  The small blessings I had enjoyed just a few days before I heard those words, “you have cancer,” were obscured by the seriousness of the situation and the many decisions which we needed to make regarding possible cancer treatments.  I truly felt that I would never feel happy again and laughter was a stranger in our house as we tried to cope with the roller coaster of emotions which overwhelmed each of us.  But as time went on, and with the help of family and friends, we experienced the healing power of humor and discovered that we could smile and laugh once again.            

A  DAY  WITHOUT  LAUGHTER

The journey through cancer first seems without joy

Where all traces of humor fear quickly destroys.

But though I’ve embarked on an uncertain path…

I’m still eager to hear an encouraging laugh.

So I’ll seek to walk on with a smile on my face

Leaving footprints creating a happier place.

For a life without laughter leaves little behind…

But a path without sunshine for others to find.

I will travel this journey through difficult days

Taking time to share hope as I walk on my way.

And, I will reach out -- to share humor with you

For laughter’s more joyful when it’s shared by two.

So let’s seek to avoid every foreboding path…

Where the darkness of fear overwhelms every laugh.

For a day without laughter seems lifeless and sad

Let’s walk on with a smile and our hearts will be glad!

HUMOR…     Helps  Us  Maintain Our  Resilience

©2008 Linda Mae Richardson

www.victoryinthevalley.org