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Power of Presence

I read a story this week from a man who was going through cancer treatment. He described how over the course of his treatment his circle of friends had diminished from many to just two. Over time people became fearful of what they should say to him in the midst of his situation, and in time they simply chose not to be in his presence.

I am thankful that my experience this week since revealing my cancer has been very different to this, but I can understand it, I can see how it might happen. I can acknowlegde now that there have been times when, lacking the right words to say to someone has meant that I say nothing at all. But the truth is there are no right words to say, and sometimes saying anything can be the right thing to do.

I have been mightily blessed this week with cards and notes and kind words from people. They are such a huge encouragement, they do not try to say the right words, instead they declare sympathy, encouragement and love, just knowing that people are thinking of me has kept me smiling.

I have recieved visits this week from many dear friends and family and in the midst of these I have been struck by the power of presence. In the space between the words there is not just silence, there is presence, and presence has been my greatest comfort. Presence says I'm with you without saying anything, presence lends strength and presence understands without experience.

One week on from being diagnosed I have expereinced the presence of God in my everyday. I have not needed to hear from him, nor sought to understand him more, but I have known his presence and in that there has been power, comfort and the understanding that he is with me. His presence has meant peace and strength and I have come to understand the impact of this in my present circumstances because in the space in between the words he is there.

I have been mightily encouraged this week and I am so thankful to you all, thank you for your words and your presence. You keep me smiling and keep me moving on. I'm so happy to say that I'm healing well following my surgery just 6 days ago, I'm amazed at how quickly I have recovered and now I'm just itching to get on with my next stage of treatment!


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