Deep roots

I have finally completed all my cancer treatments and according to my Breast Cancer Support Group leader, Debbie, I’ve entered into what she termed survivorship level. Now I learn how to live life after cancer. Having dealt with chemo, surgery, radiation and starting hormone therapy, I’ve conquered each stage successfully. The big question is “What do I do now?” I’m cancer free. I’m a survivor. My life changed dramatically when cancer entered, and now that it’s gone, how will my life be different? I’ll always be a cancer survivor. I’ll have more frequent mammograms, tests and doctor checkups, at least for the next 5 years. My question now is, “What does a cancer survivor do when cancer leaves?” At least that’s the question I posed to God in my quiet time. His straightforward answer?

“Grow your roots deep in me and use what I’ve taught you over the past year to help others as they begin their journey.”

Recently I dug up a rose bush which had died. I had to dig deep to get the roots out so it wouldn’t grow back. I didn’t get deep enough so some were left behind, which will eventually grow up and out, producing new shoots. God’s words echoed back to me. If my roots grow deeper and deeper in Him, nothing will stop me; not even cancer, from living the life He designed for me. I will put out new shoots and bloom, helping others find joy and beauty in their life in spite of the change cancer causes. Colossians 2:7 says,

“Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.”

I am overflowing with thankfulness and joy. Cancer changed me and it changed how I will live my life after cancer.