Learning perspective

I've had my share of health issues over the past 14 years. I just ain't been right since a car accident. But, I've talked about that before, in other posts.

Last year this time, my doctor sent me for a mammogram because she felt something. I went and immediately after was told to stick around so they could check things out further with an ultrasound. Praise God, that was benign, but I had to keep getting checked periodically over the past year to make sure things remained "stable." Now, I know they would have not messed around, especially at my age, and if they thought it was anything but benign, they would have done a biopsy. However, that doesn't stop your mind from going to places of angst. You see, I still have a lot of stuff to do, and I truly believe God has a lot planned for me.

Last week, I had a mammogram. The prescription said I should get an ultrasound if needed. Twenty minutes after they smooshed and pulled, I was sent on my way. I was confused. I was confused, because the entire year I've been obsessed a bit about my health and well, the girl said they wouldn't "read" the films until Monday and no one wanted to poke and prod further. Well, that just sucked. I was confident, but not. Can't explain it.

A few days went by and I hadn't heard from my doctor...good stuff, and then yesterday, I got a letter from the radiologist: "No evidence of cancer." I waited a year for that sentence (even though in the back of mind I knew that sentence was unspoken, but present).

I tell you all of that to tell you this (especially as a prelude to my Sunday Song and Bible passage--which a friend sent me with absolutely no clue of all of this): The past year, I've learned perspective.

I've learned that the needs of my mom and dad, my financial issues, my petty appearance struggles should be welcomed and embraced. I learned that all the stuff I get anxious about and all of the stuff that seems so enormous...ain't nothing. Given my choice, I'd choose loneliness, being broke, needy parents, and a stressful job over cancer any day.

One of my co-workers was diagnosed with breast cancer during this past year. As I was observing her yesterday, bravely walking around without hair and knowing what she's been through, I realized how truly blessed I am. I bet she'd rather have my very minute, little issues.

Plainly, I've been a spoiled brat.

I publicly want to thank God for His mercy, long-suffering, favor, and grace. Without it, I'd be in the crapper. Well, I would.

God is good.