Day 2 - Sharing Skin

"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view - until you climb into his skin and walk around in it."

spoken by Atticus Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee

Yesterday a writer friend emailed and wrote, "Just wanted to share with you because I knew you would understand..." She initially had a mammogram but now she has been called back to have a follow-up ultrasound. She emailed again today to tell me that the ultrasound has been bumped up from next week to this Wednesday. Concern is starting to tarnish her usual shimmering, shiny outlook.

Funny how quickly a cloud can move in and block out the sunshine. My friend is one of the most upbeat and delightful people around. She pops in on Facebook with words to cheer and banners to encourage. She is generous with her comments and can lift the spirits of the glum in an instant.

But now she is battling the unknown. I think she is okay, but I totally understand that teetering between fear and trust in God; between accepting what might be or going down kicking and screaming or choosing between being patient while you wait your turn or going into hysterics because you have to know NOW!

I pray that all will be well with my friend and that that silly shadow on the mammogram is not cancer. I pray that yet another life will not be disrupted and thrown into the storm. I pray that my friend will find courage and strength to see the good in the chaos and hope in the hurricane.

I'm glad she talked to me. I am honoured that she trusts me and that she was able to share a little bit of what's going on inside her skin...May four good angels guard her bed; two at the foot and two at the head. And keep her safe and in Your sight, Lord, until she sees the morning light. Sleep well, my friend...