It’s hard to believe that it has already been two months since my stem cell transplant. In many ways God has blessed me to be way ahead of the curve. For example, the engraftment of my donor cells took place in one month versus the expected three. I have had comparatively quite a bit of energy and few significant issues. A low grade fever last night was quickly resolved, indicating to me that the donor cells are doing their job and also reminding me how important it is for me to continue precautions, especially during this first 100 days. I am able to get out into the community with a mask, while avoiding large crowds. I miss being at church and hope to return as my immunity allows me to be around larger groups of people. I am able to visit with healthy people. In fact, even though visits sometimes tire me, they also pump me up, so the overall effect is a positive gain. This Leukemia experience has revealed to me how lonely chronic illness can be and causes me to reflect on how sensitive I have or have not been to others’ needs when they were ill. I need to do better.

Going off the steroid has led me from mania to extreme fatigue. (I can’t believe I needed two naps today) and the skin burns are getting old. Mental acuity is a bit improved, allowing me focus on budget and project planning for an hour or so at a time. Even though you cannot ignore challenges like this, you can rise above them. my brother’s wisdom has helped me quite a bit:

We can’t focus on what’s been taken away. We have to focus on what we have been given.

This has been very applicable in our situation where health, freedom, job/income, abilities were all taken away at once. But what we have been given is a closer relationship with each other and with God, a greater sensitivity to our real identity in Christ and to others, and time to heal and to minister to those around us.

Focusing on what’s been taken away brings despair and regret. Focusing on what God has given us brings hope, thanksgiving and joy…and a renewed passion for living fully for Jesus.

What things have been taken away from you that have captivated too much of your attention? Focus instead on the things you have been given and find the joy and peace that come with cultivating a thankful heart throughout each day.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33