A bend in the road is not the end of the road…Unless you fail to make the turn.
― Helen Keller
An Unexpected Turn in the Road
I have been thinking a lot lately about life and the unexpected turns that are thrown in our paths. Everyone has encountered these seemingly crazy twists that are thrown our way. And of course, when I have one that turns my life topsy turvy, I think that my fork in the road is monumental. No one in the world could be going through what I must endure. I throw myself a huge pity party and pitch a tent so I can wallow a bit. Reality hits when I begin to see that there are others out there with their own unexpected twists and turns in life and I am humbled by the strength and fortitude in which they meet their own challenges. My unexpected turn in the road begins to fade with insignificance…perspective regained.
My beautiful sister Roberta and her incredibly supportive husband Ralph.
My beautiful older sister was recently diagnosed with cancer. The courage and grace she has met this challenge with is a beautiful thing to behold. I see her strength and determination to tackle whatever comes her way and it infuses me with courage to face my petty battles.
We all have challenges; some big and some small. When that unexpected turn in the road comes your way…it is okay to take a moment to wallow, then grab ahold of a little perspective, put your big girl panties on and move forward with grace and determination. You may be the inspiration someone else needs to keep going with their own unexpected turn in the road.
PS…I love you sis. You are my inspiration.
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Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop; Let’s Get Real Friday Party; Thoughtful Thursdays; Flashback Fridays; Happiness is Homemade; Sundays Down Under; Simple Saturdays Blog Hop; Hearth and Soul
Thanks for linking up with us on Happiness is Homemade! Such a inspiration your sister is and the love you have for her is as well. Thanks for sharing this.
Lisa recently posted…Meatless Mondays – Wild Rice Stuffed Peppers
What a lovely post! Your sister is indeed beautiful. Praying for a swift, complete recovery for her.
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Thank you April. Your prayers are appreciated.
Shani I have a very good friend facing the same thing and he has taught me to enjoy life as much as I can because time can be short and you never know what is around the corner. It has got me through this last horrid year after my husband left us. I am a better person because of their inspiration. All my love to you and your sister at this time xxx
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Amber I am so sorry to hear of the difficult year you have been through. It is good that you have had someone to encourage and inspire you through those trying times. It is great how God places those special people in our lives when we need them most. Thank you for taking a moment to share.
Blessings,
Shari
I understand. I have a lot of changes in my life too — yet others have so much more of a difficult life or harder changes than I have. It’s big to me, because it’s my life. I remember the feeling of finding about cancer — my mom had her battle a few years ago; my sister-in-law in her mid-30’s is undergoing her battle right now. I will pray for your sister.
Tammy @ creativekkids recently posted…Thoughtful Thursdays: Take Courage! Have Faith!
So great to hear from you Tammy. Though I am sorry to hear about your sister-in-law. The big C word for me has never been so real as it is now knowing my sister is battling it. I will be lifting her up in prayer and the family as well.
Blessings,
Shari
Shari Eckstrom recently posted…Unexpected Turn in the Road
Shari, what a beautiful post and sentiment. Sending lots of prayers for you and your sister your way!
Sue@itsokaytoeatthecupcake recently posted…Weekend in a French Kitchen ~ Trao-Mad with Peach Compote
Thank you! Your prayers are also much appreciated.
Blessings,
Shari
I think you know that I help (run) Stephie’s facebook page for her blog. The main reason I help is because she has severe UC (in remission thanks to Remicade) and after working 10+ hours a day, she just doesn’t have the energy to work on her page. She barely has energy to fix dinner. But God uses these trials for His good, and we are slowly seeing that (she was diagnosed about 5 years ago at the age of 21). I was diagnosed a year ago with colon cancer. Thankfully, it was caught early and I “only” had to have surgery. But, I’m considered “cancer free”. It’s taught me to take life seriously and that it’s a short life that we are granted and must live each day to the fullest. Hang in there…God has this one under control. Hugs to you and your sister.
I have to admit Julie this has made me stop and think. Life is so fleeting and we must make the most of the moments we have here. I appreciate you sharing and the inspiration you are to Stephanie and others. Thanks for the encouragement.
Blessings,
Shari
I was diagnosed with ductal cancer of the right breast. People say I’m strong and positive. Even with people dying around me with cancer, I have managed to stay smiling through chemo and radiation that I’m presently going through. Although I got sick right off the bat with a nasty cold and infections, I kept going even when I wanted to quit to heal my immune system. Three surgeries on the right breast and removing nodes, it has been a difficult journey. I use essential oils to relieve the fears and stress and I pray to the highest good in the Universe to keep me going!
I know your sister will make it through because of her positive happy outlook. Some people, like me, need that extra boost that essential oils helps with. Stay strong and only look forward and accept things as they come. Hugs, Anne
Thanks Anne. What essential oils to you use in particular? We both believe in using natural remedies and I would love to pass the information on to my sister. I appreciate you sharing and will be praying for you too.
Blessings,
Shari
I’ve been down That road, and Continue to make THAT turn…-After my last follow up appointment last week, the numbers from my blood/lab work, once again look good, & I remain in remission :’) -With my Faith in God, Praying and attending weekly mass, -and now, after reading your blog -I too, will continue to Think Of & Pray For You, Your Sister & Family…
Congratulations on your remission…that’s wonderful! I know it must have been a long hard journey. Knowing that God sees and knows our trials and is there to give strength and comfort is priceless. Thank you for your prayers and for sharing your victories. They are appreciated.
Blessings,
Shari
My life has had many twists and turns. I don’t always know where to be or do. The Only constant I have is GOD has my back! Last twist was finding my 86 year old Mother down on the porch concrete after having a stroke. Mercy flight from next to her house and stay at Buffalo General Hospital Stroke Center. The tests and issues she had and now that I have her home. Her spaciness and new way of thinking. So Glad GOD is with us!
That must have been very frightening. I am grateful for the faith I have. God never sleeps and I can trust Him no matter what the circumstances. Thank you for sharing. I pray that God will give you strength and wisdom for the days ahead.
Blessings,
Shari