COURAGE

God gives us courage as we face the storms of life. Yes, He is right there with us and this is what I believe He tells us...

C-control, remember that God is control. As humans we want to control what happens in our lives but sometimes things happen that we have no control over. As one of the "control" people it was very hard for me to have no control over what was going on in my body when I was first diagnosed. God wants us to remember us that He is in control and we should trust Him even when it seems like things are bouncing around in madness.

O-opportunity. Whether we are in a valley or on top of a mountain we should remember that that moment is an opportunity to show God's love for us, especially to someone that doesn't know Him. We can face the storm because of the hope that He gives us.

U-unknown. Satan tries to use the fear of the unknown to make us doubt God's control. Whether we are waiting for a test result or just wondering what will tomorrow will hold, God already knows the answer and we must have faith in Him.

R-relationships. Don't wait until you are in the middle of a storm to begin a relationship. Everyone needs a life group to get through life. True friends are there for you in the highs and the lows. I've seen many relationships grow during storms.

A-attitude. Stay positive. People that I've talked to during my "storm" always comment on my positive attitude. I never know what to say to them except that I know that God is with me and I don't think He wants me to just lay down and die. After my cancer diagnosis I prayed that God would use this opportunity for me to show His love to others while I was going through treatment, recovering from surgery or in just living my day-to-day life.

G-grow. When the storm you are facing is over, you will be amazed at how you have grown, spiritually, mentally and physically. (thanks Jaimie for helping me with this one!)

E-educate others. I believe that one of the reasons that God placed my cancer on my journey of life is to educate other young woman on the importance of breast health. No matter what storm you are facing, God will use you to help someone else when they face that storm.