My car was packed. I was inside enjoying the company of family when my phone rang. My sister was calling. I was unprepared for what followed. My mother had been feeling poorly, so my sister had taken her to the emergency room. Suddenly, she was saying a stream of horrifying words.

CANCER. 

Pancreas. Stomach. Colon. Uterus. Liver. Metastasized. Malignant.

I know these words. This is fifth time I have walked with family into this journey of cancer.

I cannot stop crying! I am gasping! Nooooooooo!

Being a mom is hard work every day. To be entrusted with the life, health and development of a tiny human growing into a mature, reflective and capable adult takes commitment and prayer. A mother’s investment insists on time and energy covered with prayer and hope. If you are a mom look beyond the daily busyness. Look to the future results of each of your everyday activities. Stop to plan. Dream goals. Affirm the immeasurable influence a mom possesses over her child. Any mom willing to dedicate the time and work required to motherhood deserves a standing ovation