CHEMOTHERAPY: A Cash Cow

It’s been a while since I have shared a blog due to my previous schedule. You could say that I was on a sabbatical of sorts from written creativity. This blog will be focusing on chemotherapy and how oncologists present it to their patients. While the content of my blog is geared towards women with the same diagnosis that will be shared, I invite male readers to glean any pertinent information that can be shared with spouses, family members or girlfriends.

My recent medical experience started on May 22, 2018, with an unexpected and abnormal symptom that occurred while I was at work. I took my phone into the bathroom and called my primary care doctor right away to advise her of the symptom. She ended up scheduling a sonogram and later, I was referred to a GYN physician, who completed a biopsy (that was uncomfortable but bearable). Unfortunately, the GYN physician did not provide my doctor with the results of the biopsy done on June 19, 2018. As a result, my doctor was unable to make a referral within our network. Instead, I was referred by the OB-GYN physician to see an oncologist in her network. 

At the appointment scheduled for July 6, 2018, I was informed that the biopsy showed Endometrial Cancer of the uterus --also known as uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC) and uterine serous adenocarcinoma, which is an uncommon form of endometrial cancer that typically arises in postmenopausal women. It is typically diagnosed on endometrial biopsy, prompted by post-menopausal bleeding. My daughter suggested I get a second opinion through my primary care doctor after I saw the first oncologist. Unfortunately, I received that referral information by mail and the date for me to see the new oncologist was the same as the date for the surgery scheduled with the previous oncologist. For the sake of time and health precautions, I decided to keep the surgery date of July 17th and go forward with the existing specialist.

After my surgery, I contacted the Temp Agency with my return to work date, so the client could be advised. Later that morning, I was informed by the agency that their client/employer did not want to wait past 08/07/2018. So, I was officially terminated from that assignment on 08/03/2018. I spent the following weeks trying to get through my post-op recovery being unemployed and waiting for the date I would be released to work so I could apply for unemployment benefits without any issues.

When I went for the follow-up appointment with the oncologist on August 13, 2018, he did an exam and told me that everything looked good inside and out. I was thankful for the dissolvable sutures, which meant I would not need another appointment to have them removed. After I got dressed, the doctor came back to the examination room with a fellow doctor to inform me I would need chemotherapy to prevent any new cells from growing---as recommended by the Tumor Board. Tumor board review is a treatment planning approach in which a number of doctors who are experts in different medical specialties review and discuss the medical condition and treatment options of a patient.  

I was numb, to say the least, and had to wrap my head around this post-op recommendation. I told my daughter and she cried at the shocking news and told me later the recommendation for chemo did not sit well with her at all. 

Asking your doctor questions pertinent to your diagnosis is very important and it’s best to write them down on paper the night before your appointment. Unfortunately, I was ill-prepared at my follow-up appointment; so the only question I asked pertained to the side effects of chemotherapy. I knew the most common symptoms (e.g. hair loss, nausea), but was unaware of the need to monitor one’s blood count. The specialist had previously informed my family that the surgery was successful and everything went well, but weeks later, he was telling me I NEEDED CHEMOTHERAPY. 

My primary concern for not wanting to start this poisonous therapy was that I was still healing from the surgery and having some internal pain. While I was informed by the doctor that I should walk as much as possible, he never mentioned what kind of pain and/or discomfort I should anticipate during my recovery. I was also concerned about my coverage (I don’t have the best health insurance) and discovered that the cost of treatment per month is $10,000 and some therapies can be as much as $30,000 per month. Another concern was my age along with the side effects. It was disappointing to think I would not be able to work a decent job, because of having to deal with being sick for two (2) days every three (3) weeks. As they say here in the south: "That dog won't hunt!"

Because I never received photos or the post-operative and pathology reports, I was actually ignorant about the actual results until I ordered the reports for my personal knowledge and information. After obtaining a copy of the reports and reading through them, I had questions, concerns, but was quite sure, I would not be going forward with the chemotherapy. I sent a message to the doctor through the patient portal to inform him of my concerns, but most importantly I stated that I would not be starting chemotherapy in two weeks as he had anticipated. I checked the patient portal two days later and read the doctor’s reply. He still insisted I needed chemotherapy, but said if I was going to consider alternative treatment, he wanted me to schedule an appointment to follow up with him in two months. In my reply to the doctor, I confirmed that I would follow up with him in a couple of months, but did not tell him I would be discussing the matter with my primary care doctor beforehand. 

I was finally able to provide a copy of the surgical and pathology reports to my primary care doctor’s office so the information could be scanned into my medical records. During that visit, I met with one of the nurses, who listened very carefully to my concerns and candidly told me that it would be a risk if I decided to take the chemo treatment and a risk if I did not. But, most importantly, she said it was my body and my choice. The top priority is maintaining my quality of health through safe alternative methods that include a clean diet, exercise and herbal supplements to kill any cancer cells. While the oncologist did his job as a surgeon, his objective was only to promote chemotherapy above any other method of treatment. My daughter informed me oncologists get kickbacks for recommending chemo to their patients because it multiplies the business. Sadly, as it multiplies the medical business, it causes long-term, collateral damage to the body of patients, who lack the right information and are not proactive. While the FDA should be protecting citizens against harmful drugs, it is protecting a greedy industry that continues to promote poisonous drugs for cancer treatment nationwide. Unfortunately, things don't get better for some patients, because chemotherapy does more harm than good unless they make a decision to seek out alternative treatment as a replacement. 

Since, my decision to seek an alternative method of treatment after the doctor's diagnosis, I have been receiving helpful and preventative information from a family member to include books and herbs to help me on this alternative journey. Ironically, I have not been tested since the surgery to determine if there are actually cancer cells in my body. But the oncologist still insisted on chemotherapy to prevent the growth of "unconfirmed" cancer cells. I refuse to be a guinea pig for any doctor!

I have provided three (3) resources below that I trust you find helpful and informative. Please feel to share them with your family and friends:

1.  Cancer-Free: Your Guide to Gentle, Non-Toxic Healing – Authors: Bill Henderson & Carlos M. Garcia, MD. I purchased a copy for Kindle Fire - $2.99 on Amazon
2. Hoxsey Therapy “When Natural Cures for Cancer Became Illegal” – Harry Hoxsey, MD
3. The True History of Chemotherapy & the Pharmaceutical Monopoly

a.     You can watch this nine (9) episode presentation online by clicking on the link below:

https://go2.thetruthaboutcancer.com/agq-encore/thank-you/?pid=ce952615-8db1-4b70-8e50-24956c4f6b61&source=&contact_fields[email]=soprano770@yahoo.com&contact_fields[first_name]=Victoria&custom_fields[custom_form_type]=lead&custom_fields[pap_product_id]=lead-lp-live-event-2017&a_aid=1606336

In closing, I would like to say: you should never feel like your hands are tied with any physician. You have the choice to seek a second opinion if it will save and/or prolong your life. When it comes to personal health, we can’t afford to be gullible and accept everything a doctor says. We must be assertive, ask pertinent questions to obtain the right information, and discuss any diagnosis with family members so we can make sound decisions we won’t regret before it’s too late.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog, which was to provide information and inspiration. It is my prayer you received information that will be helpful to you and your loved ones.

Peace and blessings to you!

TROUBLE

One song writer wrote that "Trouble don't last always," and this is true, but good times also come to an end.

As much as we would like for some things in our lives to stay the same, unfortunately they do not.

I read a quote that said: "Trouble comes to past and doesn't last forever. It has an expiration date." I don't know about you, but I think it is quite encouraging to know that trouble is temporary and will eventually come to an end. That is something to think about the next time you find yourself in trouble or dealing with a problematic situation.

While, some people like to share their personal opinion, I don't share mine too much, because everyone has one and opinions lack the substance needed to become the standard for one's life. I consider opinions to be like feelings, which are transient, so I prefer to stand on the words of God, my Heavenly Father and Creator of the universe.

The Scriptures tells us the following:

"Many evils confront the [consistently] righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all (Psalm 34:19_AMP). 

Nothing in life stays the same forever. Trials do come to an end and good times {as much as we would like for them to continue} don't last forever. The life we live on this earth has seasons, which will cause us to either thank and praise God for His love, grace and mercy; or to draw nearer to him in prayer for wisdom, comfort and direction during the less favorable times (Proverbs 3:5-6).

God never promised us a Rose Garden without thorns. But, His Word says He will give us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3).

No matter what life brings your way, remember that God will never leave you alone or without support (Hebrews 13:5_AMP). That's a promise on which you can believe and depend for life!

I pray that you will experience the love, peace and comfort of God everyday of your life as you seek to know Him in a personal way, in Jesus' Name. So be it!

WAITING in Prose

Blessed be the God of all creation,

How merciful You are to mankind.

Blessed be the God of all the nations,

There is no other like You we can find.

What is it about man that makes him hurry?

Heavens, earth You created in seven days.

What is it about man that makes him worry?

He can cast his care on You and offer praise!

Why do we struggle, when we should be still?

Your desire is that we know You ways.

Why do we struggle against Your will?

When we should trust You and obey.

Your Word tells us we are blessed as we wait,

But we must keep our focus on You.

For, it is strength in us You desire to create.

And, if we're trusting, You will come through.

It seems like things are just standing still,

and we can't shorten the WAIT.

You're God and Your Word you will fulfill.

Though, You're not early, You're NEVER late.

Selah [pause and calmly think about that]!

SINCERE PRAYER

 

An old standard hymn that is sung in many Baptist churches in our nation is "Just a Little Talk with Jesus,” which was penned by Minister Cleavant Derricks and published in 1937. In this song, the writer is telling his story about being in sin, then being saved or taken in by Jesus and experiencing the light of heaven in his soul. This same light bathed his heart in love. His ‘little’ talk with Jesus made him whole. Scripture tells us that the love of God is shed abroad in the hearts of all believers by the Holy Ghost (Romans 5:5b). This song is about prayer; and just as the writer talked with Jesus, we too can tell Jesus about our troubles and He will hear our faintest cry and answer us. Isaiah 65:24 is a prophetic word to God’s people that assures us of His faithfulness to hear our prayers and answer them: “And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” We don’t have to be overwhelmed by the cares of this life; we can cast them on the Lord, because He cares for us more than we know (1 Peter 5:7).

Although, Minister Derricks called prayer ‘having a little talk with Jesus,’ we know there are other definitions for prayer. Let’s examine the Merriam-Webster definition: Prayer is defined as: (1) an address (as a petition) to God (or a god) in word or thought; (2) the act or practice of praying to God (or a god) < kneeling in prayer>.

Those in Christ know prayer as the means Christians use to communicate with and offer petitions to God, who is the ‘only One Supreme Creator and Sovereign Lord.’  Jesus made a way through Calvary for us to go the Father and that is through Jesus Christ, His only Begotten Son. We can be assured by Scripture that tells us God alone hears and answers our prayers.’ “Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”  (Philippians 4:6-7 Mess.)

Here are some important things to know about prayer:

1. Like Jesus’ Disciples, we need to ask the Lord to teach us the manner in which we should pray   (being persistent, but not repetitious).  Jesus instructed the Disciples to pray – The Model or Lord's Prayer (Mt. 7:7; Luke 11:1b – 4; Matthew 6:9-13); 

2. Because, we don't know how to pray as we ought, the Holy Spirit helps us in our [physical] weaknesses and makes intercession for us with deep, inarticulate sounds, which cannot be uttered, according to the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27);

3. Prayer needs practice therefore, the more we pray, the more able and powerful, we will become in communicating with our Father, hearing His voice and getting results. (Galatians 6:9);

4. Don’t expect God to answer prayers that are not offered from a sincere heart and in [believing] faith. The effectual, fervent prayers of the righteous avail much (produce the best results). (Mark 11: 22-26; James 5:16b; Hebrews 11:6); and

5. Whenever we approach God’s throne of grace, we are to pray with reverence.  (Psalm 95:6; Hebrews 4:16)

 

In Ephesians, Chapter 6, prayer  is mentioned as a weapon of God's Whole Armor, which empowers us to wage war against the devil.  God wants us to be thoroughly equipped and able to stand against the wiles of the devil therefore; we are to PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD DAILY (Ephesians 6:10-11).

·       WHICH way are we to use this weapon of prayer? We are exhorted to provide a spiritual covering by “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for ALL saints.” (Eph. 6:18_KJV)

·       WHO should we pray for?  We should pray for everyone and especially for those who are of the household of faith. We are also to pray for one for another to receive healing, when there is illness. (Galatians 6:10; James 5:16a) Although, it can be painful, we are also to pray for those who express malice or hatred toward us and intend us harm. (Matthew 5:44)

·       WHERE should we go to pray? Instead of being like the biblical hypocrites, who liked to be seen when they prayed, we should enter our closet and pray to God in secret. (Matthew 6:5-6)

·       HOW often are we to pray? We are to pray without ceasing but surely, not on our knees for 24 hours per day. Instead, we are to maintain a prayerful attitude (offering prayers from the altar of our hearts) and focus on God by practicing His presence wherever and whenever we can. For those in the workplace, taking a ‘prayer and praise’ break will provide God’s peace and freedom from excess stress or stressors! Daily protection and power require sincere daily prayer. (i.e. ‘Watch and pray, so you won't enter into temptation’) (1Thessalonians 5:17; Matthews 26:41_KJV)

In closing, let's remember that prayer is personal, an awesome privilege, and should be practiced daily (and even throughout the day). We have the God-given opportunity to come boldly to the throne of grace. (Hebrews 4:16)  We are not to come to Him with only our petitions, but we should also come with praise, worship, and adoration as we let Him know how much we love Him. There is nothing better than spending quality time with the one you love and being able to express that love. We can express our love to God any time through simple and sincere prayer. 

PERSONAL REFLECTION

“Mirror, Mirror upon the wall, who’s the fairest of all?” The Mirror answered "Thou, O Queen, art the fairest of all," 'and the Queen was contented because, she knew the Mirror could speak nothing but the truth.’ 

Most of us remember this fairy tale from our childhood, yet even today some people desire to be the most striking and beautiful above all others.  How you and I see ourselves is important but, how others see us should also be considered.  We're on the outside looking in, but people can sometimes see things about us that we can’t or won’t accept.  Without a mirror, how would we know how we looked in the morning or the image that we portray from day to day?  When you take a good look in a mirror, do you always believe what you see?  Whether you do or not, a mirror doesn’t lie, nor does God’s Word.  While we all have at least one mirror in our possession, let’s consider the Word of God as a heavenly looking glass (God’s Mirror), which allows us to see the reflection of our soul (inner character, nature).  When was the last time you took a good look in the mirror of God’s Word?  If it’s been a while, use this time to take a look! Let’s first review the word mirror as both a noun and a verb. Secondly, we will consider the terms below with: what the Word of God is (a true representation of God) and what the Word instructs us to do in our personal lives (represent God, imitate Christ):

Mirror (n): 1. A polished or smooth surface (as of glass) that forms images by reflection; 2 a: something that gives a true representation b: an exemplary model.

Mirror (v): 1. Reflect: echo, copy, emulate, parallel, imitate; 2. Represent: To represent, epitomize, illustrate, symbolize, typify, or signify.

POINTS TO CONSIDER:

·       We use MIRRORS to SEE (observe, perceive, distinguish, make out) our physical appearance which can be either good or bad (satisfactory or unacceptable) and we make adjustments based on our perception of how we see ourselves and what we think is best for our lives. There is one concern, which could be a problem: Our perception is not always realistic or biblical (the way God sees us or desires for us to be). We do not normally use anything to see or monitor our behavior (actions, deeds, activities). Without a mirror or gauge, we cannot really see ourselves and do not know how we or our actions look, but others can see in us what we cannot.  Also, others see things that we refuse to acknowledge, accept or believe about ourselves.  We do not always want to know or receive the truth about ourselves. And sometimes, we are not always receptive to the opinion or evaluation others have about our actions – especially if we consider them negative. Consider this verse: “Jesus said . . ., ‘You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free.’” (John 8:31-32 NLT) How can we determine or measure our spiritual persona (appearance) without a gauge or mirror?  We cannot!  Also, we should not ignore our spiritual condition if and when it is in need of correction or a remedy.  Jesus is the answer for not only our spiritual condition; but also the spiritual malady of those in the world today! 

·       The Word of God is a spiritual barometer that when used properly and consistently will help us to: avoid unacceptable and destructive behavior, as well as sin. We cannot change what is wrong in ourselves unless it is revealed to us (by God’s Spirit or another person).  How do we handle the facts we receive? If we truly desire to change, we should have an open mind and not take offense.  God expects us to be holy as He is holy and imitators of Jesus Christ.  We should MIRROR what we read and hear from the Word of God so that our images, words, and actions are a true representation that demonstrate Christ to others. 

·       We cannot change or grow spiritually in God without practicing some fundamental things: Let’s look at some ABC’s:

1.     We must ACKNOWLEDGE what is revealed to us and be reconciled with the truth (of God’s Word). ”We cannot conquer what we do not confront and we cannot confront what we do not identify.” For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

2.     We must BELIEVE in Jesus and that He is our only hope for deliverance and salvation. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and Life. (John 14:6; Romans 10:9)

3.     We must CONFESS our sins and imperfections to God as well as to those we have offended so that, we can be forgiven and cleansed of our unrighteousness.  An important element of confession is REPENTANCE which involves true contrition and a change of mind.  With repentance, we decide to turn away completely from all habitual behavior and any ungodly lifestyle that hinders our spiritual growth in God.  (1 John 1:8-9)

Sometimes, we become accustomed to seeing ourselves in a way that makes us feel comfortable; however our complacent ways are not always conformable to God’s way.  Remember, God’s ways are higher than ours and His thoughts than our thoughts. (Isaiah 55:9)  God is holy and expects us to be holy. (1 Peter 1:16)  As we consistently look into the mirror of God’s Word, we will be renewed in the spirit of our minds and when our minds are renewed, we can prove what is that good, perfect and acceptable will of God. (Romans 12:2)   As we mirror God’s Word and hide it in our hearts, our likeness, words and actions will be a true reflection of Jesus Christ and His love.

YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR STATE

If you find yourself in a state of depression at this time, I have good news for you! THAT STATE the things that affect the way you think and feel---: your physical or mental condition IS NOT PERMANENT, unless you choose to stay in it just like the state in which you live in America.

Because, I rely on the Word of God, I would like to prescribe a few Scriptures, because they provide encouragement and healing. First Corinthians 2:16, says that those who believe in Jesus have the mind of Christ and hold the thoughts, feelings and purposes of His heart. It may seem impossible, but it is possible through consistent reading and meditation of God's Word, which is not passive, but powerful. Take a look at the following verse which describes the Word of God:

"For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12_Amp)."

The Word of God is very powerful and would help to eliminate bad thoughts and prevent the wrong state of mind. Depression is not contagious, but I consider it to be a self-induced condition: a state of feeling sad. And, feeling sad is caused by focusing and obsessing on wrong things, misfortunes and mistakes from one's past {that can't be changed}.
Living in depression is hazardous to good physical, spiritual and emotional health, because the medication could fuel medical conditions and/or side effects for an individual.

I am thankful for God's Word, because it is the best remedy for one's spiritual, physical and emotional health. If you speak the Word daily, keep it in your hearing, before your eyes and hide it in your heart, it will bring life and healing to all your flesh (Proverbs 4: 21-22). Unlike pharmaceutical drugs that can become addictive and/or cause medical problems, the Scriptures will cause no side effects or adverse reactions to the recipient. Most importantly, there's no need for a prescription or a prescription plan, because the Scriptures are free for the taking and there is never a chance of an overdose. 

Depression has become so common place that people talk about it more than they try to eliminate it. How can an individual avoid depression if what they consistently say, see and think is NEGATIVE? There is no way to avoid depression under those circumstances with negative words, images and thoughts. We make the choice about what we watch on television, the books and magazines we read and what we focus on and think about the most, but never consider the impact of these things on our lives. "What you focus on the most will grow." Unfortunately, some people who suffer with depression have not put 2+2 together and have no idea why they became depressed. While depression is not a friend, it's never treated like an enemy, so it can be eliminated. Instead, it has become a tolerated part of life for many.
Thoughts are very important for one's well-being and success in life. You are what you think and "where the mind goes, the man (or woman) follows Joyce Meyer]."

Outside of illegal drug use, I believe that we can control and eliminate depression in our lives. To be successful, it will require taking inventory of what we allow to enter our eye and ear gates, our thoughts, and what we harbor in our heart. The late Kenneth E. Hagin always said: "You can't stop a bird from flying over your head, but you don't have to let it make a nest in your hair." I believe this quote hits the nail on the head. We must be honest about the things over which we have control that could fuel depression in our lives and that of loved ones. We each must to decide to stop all passivity and become much more resistant towards depression, because it is NOT normal. 

When it comes to depression, prevention is better than cure!

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog, which I trust has given you some food for better thoughts. May God's goodness and mercy follow you always (Psalm 23:6).

This month's observations are: Black historical accomplishments and Valentine's Day. Unlike American history, which has shaped the life of every Black American {and not always in positive ways}; Black history should be acknowledged by all White Americans because, many Black men and women, gave their blood, sweat and tears to make this nation what it is today. The products and achievements of ingenious Black men and women have been a benefit to every citizen of this nation, but unfortunately, American history books are deplete of  any mention of  Black {or Negro} citizens, outside of slavery and the Emancipation Proclamation, which President Abraham Lincoln issued on January 1, 1863.

As I think about Valentine's Day, I find it ironic that we only celebrate love for one day, when it should be celebrated all year long. One songwriter penned: "Love makes the world go round." I don't believe that love actually causes the world to revolve around the axis of earth, but love does make hearts beat faster and can put pep in the step of those in love. Love feeds the hungry, clothes the naked and makes the lonely feel wanted.  Without love, hatred rules in the hearts of men, women and children. Anger and hatred are the ingredients for murder or genocide., which is what is occurring in our nation today.  We need to not only survive, but to thrive individually and collectively [e.g. our family]. 

  

It’s been many decades, but I do recall the excitement of Valentine’s Day, when I was in elementary school.  My mother would take me and my siblings to the store to purchase packaged Valentine cards.  Do you remember those cute cards?  They came in several varieties and the individual cards in the package had a simple message of affection with pictures of cupids, hearts and cartoon characters.  I took time to meticulously sign my name on each card and then wrote the names of my favorite classmates on the envelopes provided.  On Valentine’s Day, I proudly took my stash of cards to school to give out during the scheduled class party.  It was a fun time exchanging cards and eating treats, to include candy hearts, cookies and punch.  But, the next day, we returned to school and back to our usual class routine, while anticipating the next holiday party and a chance to get a break from classwork {Lol}.

The adult tradition of celebrating Valentine’s Day has most often included giving or exchanging  cards—preferably Hallmark; expensive chocolates, personal gifts to include flowers, perfume, jewelry and others items. The evening would not be complete without a movie and/or dinner at an upscale restaurant.  On this day, expressions of love are freely and generously given to family members, spouses, or that ‘special’ someone.  Like other holidays, it is a day to be enjoyed, but is sometimes dreaded by those, who don’t have anyone special with whom to celebrate.  After all the fanfare and romanticism of Valentine’s Day, it seems that people return unaffected to their usual routines of life.  Shouldn’t this popular day of love have some lasting impact on our lives?  I believe that many of us have celebrated this holiday for years without even knowing its’ history.

“The history of Valentine's Day -- and its patron saint -- is shrouded in mystery. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men -- his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial -- which probably occurred around 270 A.D.” (Excerpts from www.history.com)

This month many will celebrate Valentine’s Day extravagantly,  others more simply and some will choose not to celebrate at all because, they are alone and/or without God in this world.  I started to think that perhaps, I would have no reason to give attention or observation to this holiday because, I am single and without a significant other.  I started to assume that this year would be just like the last several years. Whenever, I considered the commercial observation of Valentine’s Day, I would fall into the ‘loneliness trap,' but not anymore! Thank God for His Holy Spirit, Who reminded me that as a believer in Jesus Christ, I am not alone for the Lord has promised never to leave me or forsake me! (Hebrews 13:5b_KJV)  If you know you will be without that ‘special invite’ this year and have no plans to be your single friends, don’t be discouraged—make a date  to spend your evening with Jesus, the faithful, righteous One, who is full of love.  The Bible declares that God is love (1John 4:16b) and also contains many expressions or Valentines of His love, care and desire for you and me.  His timeless love letters found in the Holy Bible were written for all mankind and He continues to ask: “Will you be mine?”

If you would indulge me, I would like to share paraphrases of familiar Bible verses (or Valentines) that express God’s loving care for us:

·       John 3:16 – God loved the world so much, He gave His Only Son, so those in the world would not perish, but have His everlasting life.  This Valentine is for: Whoever believes in Him

·       Matthew 11:28-30 –An invitation to come unto the Lord; to take His yoke, which is easy with a light burden; to learn of Him and find rest for one’s soul.  Addressed to: All you, who work and are tired and burdened

·       Hebrews 4:16 – We are exhorted to come boldly to God’s throne of grace in prayer in order to obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  This Valentine is for: All of us

In preparation for your personal Valentine’s Day celebration, remember to imitate Christ before others.  As you willingly show love to those, who love you; also show love to one another and any strangers in your midst as the Lord commanded. (John 15:12)  When the holiday is over, let love can continue because, God’s love is everlasting. (Jeremiah 31:3)

Remember to set aside some quality time this Valentine’s Day to extol and bless the Lover of your soul. (Psalm 103:1-5)  The Lord always desires to be in fellowship with us and when we get too busy, He woos us by His Holy Spirit.  Remember, Jesus will not force Himself on you but, because of a desire to commune with you, He is standing at the door (of your life) and knocking.  Don’t you hear Him as He softly asks again: “Will you be mine?”  He wants to be your Valentine above all others; to come in to you (your abode) so; He can sup with you and you with Him. (Revelation 3:20_KJV) “For He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand.  To-day if ye will hear His voice harden not your heart . . .” (Psalm 95:7-8 _KJV) If you don’t get the invite or box of gourmet chocolates you expect for Valentine’s Day, Jesus awaits you with something sweeter and calorie-free: eat God’s Words, which are sweeter than honey; Oh taste and see! (Psalm 119:103; Psalm 34:8_KJV)

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!