Book Excerpts
Book Excerpts
As I drove to the Hospice center to be with my younger sister, Teresa, I was numb. It was just so hard to believe that I was losing her to breast cancer. There was nothing left to even say. Tears streaming down my face, I just kept thinking how the world was soon going to be without this beautiful spirit, this wonderfully uplifting soul that has graced us all for the past 47 years.
Just as these thoughts entered my brain, I saw before me the most amazing sunset... spreading light... full of miraculous colors as far as the eye could see. I knew that as an artist, Teresa would appreciate the extra effort God put into that sunset - her last one. That’s the moment these words came into my head... “Child of Light.” I kept repeating the unfolding poem, over and over again, so that I wouldn’t miss one word until I could write it down. As soon as I arrived at my destination, I sat in the parking lot and scribbled down the poem. Then, I walked in to hold my sister’s hand.
I know God gave me those words, just like He gave Teresa the words you are about to hear from her emails and blog. What I didn’t know then was that this would be the title we use for her book, “Child of Light” - and yes, she was, in every sense of the word!
— Atlanta Marie Carrera
Child of Light
A child of light,
slipping into the setting sun.
A brilliance of white,
transforming darkness into life.
A spirit of love,
joining us all in prayer as one.
A freedom above,
Celebrating in unending joy.
In TK’s Words...
This book was written especially for you or someone you know who is struggling. God is good, and He is not surprised by what life has in store for you. He is prepared to walk you through any hardship... all you have to do is accept His gift of perseverance, as He turns curses into blessings.
During my cancer journey, I struggled with day-to-day problems — divorce, financial ruin, catching up, broken things, etc. Through it all, God reminded me that He gave me a gift, and I needed to share it with you. He wanted you to have it. That is why it is in your hands now.
I almost let personal insecurity stop me from sharing my story. I’m not a famous author; I’m just like you... a regular person. It’s a true story about my life getting turned upside down and inside out in the quickest moments. I went into survival mode, and then, something miraculous happened. I took a rollercoaster ride and learned more about myself through cancer than others learn in a lifetime. What I didn’t expect was the outpouring of how sharing my personal journey through a blog has helped everyone I knew with their own problems, and the ripple effect was huge.
Selfishly, I thought that this was my life and my story only. It took me a long time to figure out that God intended for me to share my learning experience with you, so you could grow. I pray that you find something in my words, God’s words, to help you move past the bitterness of the negative things that invade your life. You can move forward; do more; become more. There is no doubt in my mind that you can rise above your circumstances. I know this to be true: God keeps His promises.
One of my favorite verses in the Bible: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13). It may not always be easy, and sometimes it’s downright almost unbearable... but the valleys don’t last forever. God wants us to enjoy many gifts, but we have to be willing to uncover our eyes and open our hearts to see His blessings in disguise.
Your sister in Christ,
Teresa “TK”
I’m sorry you have cancer...and not the “better you than me” kind of sorry, but the “you don’t deserve to be sick” kind of sorry. I know nobody understands what you’re going through and the fear that is your constant companion. I know you are suffering beyond any sickness you’ve ever known. I know there are no easy answers or quick fixes. I’m sorry your life revolves around your treatment schedule and your medications. I’m sorry you are tired of getting pricked by needles and undergoing scans, tests, chemo or surgery. I’m sorry that you cry sometimes and feel a sense of loss over the life you used to have before cancer. I’m sorry that you have so many “bad” days. I’m sorry you have to watch your family cry.
I truly wish there was a cure for you that would last forever – a cure with no side effects or pain; a cure that didn’t cost a fortune, only available to a certain few. I truly wish I could wave a magic wand and replace every hard moment you are going through with a happy memory instead.
All I can do is tell you that you are amazing! You really are. I have the deepest respect for you. I don’t know anybody tougher than a cancer patient. Any person that makes the sacrifices you make to be here for the ones you love should get fireworks every night. I don’t have to know you to pray for you and for a cure. Take care of yourself and know that you are not alone.
Sincerely Yours,
Teresa
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. — 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Last night, I was thinking about the memories I will make this year. How will I pack in everything I want to do? How will I make each day count? How will I get my son to be “present” in the moment and not dwell on the whens and what ifs about my health (me too for that matter)? Within each month, two weeks are automatically taken away from me by medical appointments and recovery periods. Each day that passes, I’m painfully aware that I might not see this month on my calendar ever again.
As I thought about these things, I grabbed my Bible and asked God, “What do you say about this worry that has my attention?” I just opened up my Bible and these were the exact words that my eyes fell to on the page:
“You will give me added years of life, as rich and full as those of many generations, all packed into one. And I shall live before The Lord forever. Oh send your loving kindness and truth to guard and watch over me, and I will praise your name continually, fulfilling my vow of praising you each day.” — Psalm 61:6-8
Wow! He never lets me down. Not ever. When you seek His wisdom, everything falls into place so much easier. Words are encouraging, but belief makes them real. I’m not speaking flowery, hopeful words here – I mean it. It’s nice to walk in confidence. It’s nice to have someone that constantly keeps their promises to me. My life is not what I thought it would be, but at least I know I can depend on an unfailing love that surpasses what I deserve.
I know that I will enjoy an amazing eternal life after this earthly one, and God will hold my hand this year until I can go home. After I leave, I can be confident that He will hold the hands of all my loved ones with each passing day, month, and year. One true God. My one true love. My one year to make each day count like they never have before with my friends and family.
My Prayer
Thank You God for being ever present in my life. Thank You for not leaving me empty. Thank You for comforting me during my times of trouble. Most of all Thank You for preparing a place for me to be with You forever. I know I can depend on You for all my needs. I’m so glad You are on the throne.
Amen.