Life is a funny thing.
But lately I’m not laughing.
I’ve been completely taken by surprise by this whole breast cancer episode – and certainly it’s not the way I suspected things would go.
I’ve decided that I am prideful. And arrogant. Ironically, two things I was proudly never accused of… (ha!)
You see, I remember one of my first responses to my breast cancer diagnosis so vividly and looking back am embarrassed at how far I was from reality.
I was talking with a close friend and telling her that I was going to be okay – that a little chemo and then a surgery would make things as good as new.
And then, I remember how strongly I felt it as I said it, I told her that I knew the Lord would use this whole situation for good. That He always has a good plan and that I knew in my heart that it was going to be for good.
I told her that I believed He had given me a mission for these few months – to prove Him to others. To prove that there is joy in the journey (as I’ve written over and over) and that God can create good out of bad and use all things for His purpose. And I still believe that….
You see, I thought I was going to Encourage YOU through this journey.
But so very quickly, God changed my perspective – as He most often does.
I thought I would smile my way through and remind you daily that God never leaves. That He never fails. That there can be purpose in YOUR pain and to look to Him to find fullness and joy on whatever road you’re walking.
I have walked that and talked that for most of my life – I just knew it was now my opportunity to share it.
But God . . .
Those two words came right back at me unexpectedly- But God has done a different thing. Something I never expected.
God has taken my circumstance and BLESSED ME. Encouraged ME. Taught ME.
Some days I sit almost dumbfounded at how I soak in the love and prayers poured out on my behalf. People I’ve known for years and some I don’t know at all – all covering me with all they have to give.
It’s Nothing Short Of Amazing.
I’ve only been on this trek a couple months and my whole life has been thrown upside down. Some of the best and worst moments of my life have taken place since November – it’s been a lot to swallow.
But if I’ve learned anything thus far, I would have to say that it’s the fact the God will not be put in a box with a swift quote or even our best intention. His plans are so much deeper and always better.
I thought I would shine for Him as I bravely and joyfully walked My Pink Path.
My Pink Path
The truth is He’s carried me down a road too steep and sent an Army to hold me up.
My heart is full as my legs give way.
Yes, there is joy in the journey. I still fully believe. But the walk is sweeter and the burden lightened as I open myself to His plan and His purpose without that preconceived notion that I know where we’re going. I haven’t a clue.
But I do know I’ve never felt His presence closer as pride gives way to rest. When I am weak ~ He is strong.
So Thank You Friends- I am forever grateful as His Grace and your love and prayers light the way down My Pink Path💕
~Barbi xo
Photography: @brunettebythesea
You are in my prayers as you fight this battle. I am so glad you have your faith to support and sustain you.
Oh Gabrielle~ you are so kind to pray! It means so much to me💕💕💕
Your light shines so brightly Barb. Be encouraged, as you encourage others. For he will never leave you or forsake you. Thanks for sharing your journey. I am praying for you daily.
Sending love and virtual hugs ‘
Julie ~ you will never know how much your sweet words and prayer mean to me!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!❤️ Barbi
Sending love and prayers everyday.❤🙏
Dawn thank you so very much. That means the world to me♥️
Love this post! Never lose your faith. I know I was tested when my so died but I never lost faith. I feel I’ve been blessed even in my darkest hours.
Thinking of you all the time. 💗
Thank you Cindy and yes it is so true! We can always find a light!! ♥️♥️💕💕♥️♥️
What a touching post. Yes God is always there and he has great plans that we cannot even remotely imagine. And when we think He’s not with us is the moment He’s actually carrying us. God bless you!!!
And that photo just sums up beautifully everythinge you’ve expressed ❤️
Oh thank you so much Lucy!! Your kindness and prayers mean so very much to me!!
Wow!! Great blog! You are definitely loved and you are definitely not alone friend! Thank you for the blog post. 🌸
Brigitte- thank you so much for your love and support!! You have no idea how much it means to me my friend♥️
I enjoy you on Instagram! Thank you for sharing these words. God is always working for our good . . . thing is, there is usually some pain in there somewhere. Your commitment to Him thru this difficult journey is an encouragement to us all.
Lee Ann- thank you so much and that is so very true! So grateful for such a good God💕💕💕
Continued prayers for this journey! My SIL was diagnosed last year, and had a double mastectomy followed by chemo! May God continue to show you the way and comfort you always, Judi
Judi, thank you for your well wishes and all the prayer! I hope your SIL is doing well and is blessed – I surely have been as women like you continually pour into my life💕💕💕
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for using your platform to share with others what God is doing in your life. God bless you!🙏🏻💕
Tam – thanks so much for the love and prayers! You will never know what it means to me! 💕💕💕
From one pink sister to another, love and prayers. I never felt so close to God as I did during my journey. I’ve coachee 4 other women through treatment since my journey. God is good. All the time. ❤️
Teresa – so good to hear from another pink sister! I think it’s amazing that you mentor others – and yes, God is so very good all the time♥️ thank you for taking time to read, comment and all the prayer – it means so much to me! 💕💕💕
I have recently fund you and have started following you on Instagram. I watched last evening as You celebrated your pixie cut with your girls. I’m praying from you. God does send an army even when we do not have a clue. You are part of my army encouraging me through your joy, faith, perseverance & hope! Roman 5:1-5. This was our scripture in church yesterday and it was in my bible study this morning…coincidence….not even close. Thank you for sharing your faith, hope and journey 💋
Oh Tonia~ you are so sweet! I am so happy you we with me during my cut and are joining me as we walk through our lives together!! Welcome sweet sister♥️
Sister…you are living Romans 5:1-5. You are being carried and are encouraging others in their different suffering seasons through your journey. I’m so glad that I found you on Instagram. What a blessing! May we all have hope, persevere while finding joy in our journey ! Watched you last night getting your pixie cut…laughed and cried with you. 💕💋💪
Girl – it’s so true – we are all on a journey and lift one another as we walk – laughing and crying(although I tried so hard not to cry!!!)! So happy we found each other💕