When I was Diagnosed with Cancer:

My first friend came and expressed his shock by saying, “I can’t believe that you have cancer. I always thought you were so active and healthy.”  He left and I felt alienated and somehow very “different.”

My second friend came and brought me information about different treatments being used for cancer. She said “Whatever you do, don’t take chemotherapy. It’s a poison!”She left and I felt scared and confused.

My third friend came and tried to answer my “whys?” with the statement “Perhaps God is disciplining you for some sin in your life?”  He left and I felt guilty.

My fourth friend came and told me, “If your faith is just great enough God will heal you.” She left and I felt my faith must be inadequate. 

My fifth friend came and told me to remember that “All things work together for good.” He left and I felt angry.

My sixth friend never came at all.  I felt sad and alone.

My seventh friend came and held my hand and said, “I care, I’m here, I want to help you through this.” She left and I felt loved!

LINDA MAE RICHARDSON

Contributed courtesy of Victory in the Valley. Reprint by permission only.