When my brother, Bruce discovered that he had Stage Four cancer, he began preparing himself for accepting the outcome. He knew that nothing was impossible for the omnipotent God he served. He had a peace that passed human understanding for either choice God was to make about healing him. Bruce placed his hand in God's hand and together they started walking towards November 3, 2010. He was not concerned about where they were headed, why it was necessary, nor was he concerned about when they would arrive. Bruce was so happy to be in the Creator's presence. He walked where God led him. Bruce followed Him all the way.
When I learned that Bruce had Stage Four cancer, I googled it on the Internet. I was heartbroken to find out that the life expectancy for the type of cancer he had was 5 years, at best. I prayed and asked God to allow Bruce to be at least counted among those with maximum survival. Even though it left me a little bitter, I accepted the meager five year sentence and mentally began plans for making them the best five years of our lives. After all, Bruce and I were experts in knowing how to make memories.
Bruce and I never had a chance to implement any of the activities on the 5 year plan. Eighteen days later, he died. If I am ever faced with another life expectancy countdown of 5 years, I will know how to properly thank God for the additional 1808 days. As for Bruce's eighteen-day countdown, I thank God for the memories we were able to make before he began his walk with God to the place where it became obvious that he was "going all the way." Turns out, five years would have only delayed the end of the most wonderful walk in the world. Joy!
