July 11, 2011
Christ United Methodist Ministry Center
“Christ in the Heart of San Diego”
3295 Meade Avenue
San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 284-9205
Pastorgraphs: “I will…”
Todd is a fellow HealingWell.com prostate cancer survivor. He has the highest PSA score at diagnosis I have ever seen (3216.14). That was five years ago, and he’s “still standing”. Mine by comparison was 4.4. (Anything above 4.0 gets the doctor’s attention.) Imagine Todd’s doctor’s reaction when he saw that PSA score! (“Todd, I suggest you don’t buy any green bananas, because…”)
Todd’s latest prognosis, however, is not good. His doctor said if the current treatment fails, his remaining life will be measured in months, not years. So he took time to share his philosophy of life. He called it, “I will…”
“I will eat peanut M and M's and I will eat steak…
I will have dessert first.
I will fish when I want.
I will love with my whole heart.
If I want a greasy truck stop burger, I will also eat that.
When asked by the party on the phone if I can hold, I will say “no”.
When a phone solicitor calls me at dinner time, I will consent to talk to them if they give me their home number and allow me to call them back when they are eating dinner.
I will not fear. (repeat)
I will not fear.
I will enjoy every day as if it was my last.
I will be a friend to all who desire it.
I will not wallow in despair.
I will not feel sorry for myself.
I will embrace this challenge for what it is.
It is a chance to grow and learn.
To do anything other than what my heart asks me to do would be a waste of my spirit and the gift of life that I have been given.”
~ Todd
Thanks Todd. This is not the first time you have inspired and blessed me.
So, take note of Todd’s attitude. No complaining, grousing or self-pity permitted; at least not today, or tomorrow, or the next day.
And, when we are tempted to have a “pity party” we should re-read Todd’s “I Will…”.
Now get out there and enjoy today! It’s God’s gift to you and those you love, and who love you.
Devotedly, Parson Bill
“I was ill and you cared for my illness…”
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