Tuesday, April 28, 2009

HOPE



There is something simply beautiful about the word HOPE. It only has four letters, and they are even commonly used letters at that. It is a one syllable word, and is very easy to say. In spite of the simplicity and ease of the word, it holds a lot of power.

I'm a cancer survivor and also a volunteer for the American Cancer Society and ACS CAN. The word HOPE is a word used often and strongly when used in reference to cancer. Many would probably say it is HOPE that stimulates cures to be discovered, and that it reminds us all that it ain't over til it's over.

HOPE reminds us that the life deep within us cannot be harmed by anything outside of us. Diseases, difficult relationships, poverty or any other unwanted experiences are not as powerful as the HOPE that resides in our hearts.

HOPE is a direct connector to life. Hope reminds us to live fully, to trust and to allow whatever is needed to come to us. HOPE reminds us we need not resist or struggle, but to know all is well, even if the eventual outcome is not what we had in mind.

Many of us say we HOPE for the best, sometimes without knowing what exactly is best.

For me, believing that whatever "is" is just what is needed. I may not understand it, but I want to allow the strength of HOPE to carry me through whatever may be on my path.

For more information about the power HOPE holds for the ACS and if you would like to become a member of ACS CAN (only $10), contact your local ACS office. Your voice of hope for the availability of screenings for all, funding for research, and especially curative treatments, needs to be heard by your elected officials.

One person who has HOPE is very powerful. Many people with HOPE and a shared vision for a better, healthier world, can actually create it.

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