The Power of F3. . .

Stand by Me - Arrangement by Elvis Presley
(Please click for background music as you read this message of H.I.M.)

It is heartbreaking to hear of the recent news regarding tornado alley in the States and how many lives have been impacted forever by these devastating and ferocious storms. It reminded me of the category F3 tornado that practically destroyed the beautiful downtown area of Goderich a couple of years ago in a matter of minutes.  Where 100 year old, majestic trees once stood or century year old buildings and a church, and after the tornado all that was left was rubble. The aftermath of the tornado left only a path of destruction that looked like a war zone.   

Sometimes, life, itself, can feel like a raging storm too. In fact, I have yet to meet anyone throughout my life who has not experienced some varying degree of storm(s) in their life.  Sooner or later, most of us will face difficult circumstances beyond our wildest dreams.  In my case, it is facing surgery tomorrow that will alter my life forever.  However, I know I am not going through this alone but I have the unconditional love and tremendous support of: 1) my Family, 2) my Friends, and 3) my Faith. In other words, "The Power of F3"!     

Although I may struggle to completely understand why I was stricken with breast cancer, I truly believe there is a purpose for everything that happens in my life and whatever that reason may be, God will give me the strength to endure and become a stronger person for it because I choose to believe that “I can do all things through Christ, who strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13).  It is by choosing to have an "attitude of gratitude" that I can cling to God's promise that He is "our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1) knowing that He will never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5). These are the promises from God that I cling to and claim each and every day!

As the beautiful lyrics of the Southern gospel song entitled, "Stand by Me" claim:

When the storms of life are raging, stand by me,

When the storms of life are raging, stand by me.
When the world is tossing me, like a ship out on the sea;
Thou who "rulest" wind and water, stand by me.

When I'm growing old and feeble, stand by me.
When I'm growing old and feeble, stand by me.
When I do the best I can, and my friends misunderstand;
Thou who never lost a battle, stand by me.
Thou who never lost a battle, stand by me.
 ~ Words and music by Charles A. Tindley ~

"May God give you...For every storm a rainbow, for every tear a smile, for every care a promise and a blessing in each trial. For every problem life sends, a faithful friend to share, for every sigh a sweet song and an answer for each prayer." ~ An Irish Blessing