"Mom, why do bad things happen to good people?"

This is what Marissa asked me today as I rambled on about the effects of the evil, devastating cancer that continues to consume amazingly wonderful people that we know and love. Steve Hedrick Sr died 2007 of the results of lung cancer. My Dad has fought and at this point overcome cancer, both of these men struggling through their own pain all while keeping all those who love them comforted by their words and faith.

The story continues, Mrs.Taylor (my 6th grade teacher) recently informed us via caringbridge that her husband was recently diagnosed and is currently being treated by means of a radical surgery to save his life. All this after after Mrs. Taylor has too been treated for cancer years ago.

Terri, another friend of ours has undergone treatment for CA and currently they continue to say they find clues of cancer in her blood but can not locate it on any scans. How fair is that? It is like dangling the hope of wellness and health right in front of you but just not quite being able to reach it. This is who Marissa was talking about when she asked such a loaded question.

I am not sure as to why I had to get up at 2:30AM and write this(so I may ramble), Marissa's words keep ringing in my ears "Mom, why do bad things happen to good people?" and you know what? I couldn't answer her! I could not give my daughter a reason because I too was literally sitting there asking the same thing! Why God? Why? Why do some people who murder, lie, abuse, steal, drug-addicts and so on continue with life without intense pain of watching their loved ones clammer
for their health and well-being while others who share your word and love with the world suffer with no complaints?

I know, I know there is the logical reason of "This is a mountain they will climb and with faith will show us all, they will either go into remission, be cured or possibly succumb to their illness but all while teaching us". You know what? I don't want to be taught by other peoples misfortunes, other peoples pain. Why can't their lights to continue to shine for the Lord and be as bright as the spirit he has made them, to be a beacon in the night for those of us who search for solice in God's love and plan. No more pain, no more tears, no more being scared, God heal these people and all those we love who are not mentioned here ravished, recovering, in remission and cured of this process of evil. Let us learn by the good they do, they happiness they bring, make them a pillar of hope and strength for the lives they touch.

So to answer my daughter? I am not sure, I don't know if I ever will be. The whole "God has a plan" can stumble out of my mouth because I know he does but what does that give to a 12 year old?

My thoughts are with you all and your families this season...

Happy Memorial Day!!

What a great day to spend with family and friends! Nikki and Kevin had a going-away party for us this weekend and we had so many people show up to say good-bye, it was wonderful. It was a great opportunity to say our goodbyes and leave with great memories. We love you all and thank you for coming to see us off.

Good times, good times...