Timeout for what matters

Ok I know – this blog is about white trash and their endless antics (well, mostly anyway). But even I have to take a break here and write about something that is near and dear to my heart while terrifying me at the same time. I had coffee with a friend this morning. I haven't seen her is a couple of months but thanks to Facebook, we planned a coffee date. My friend has cancer and has been battling it for a while now. She is doing so with dignity, grace and a strength that I could only wish to have.

I am irrational when it comes to cancer and the prospect of someday having it. In fact, most of the time I refer to cancer as "the C word." You see, I saw leukemia devour my mother when I was a kid, and I've never gotten over that. It's a hideous, nasty animal that is never sated. It terrifies me, and I have come to equate any and every cancer with that same animal and appetite. When I see someone living with it and facing it down every day, I am in awe.

It was good to see my friend today. She tells me her family and marriage are stronger for the experience, and I believe her. Even in the most terrifying things, God weaves a beautiful tapestry.