M.D. Anderson Life Lessons

This time of year we all have many things to be thankful for, and family usually tops the list.

I went to work at M.D. Anderson straight out of college. I was young, idealistic, and death seemed far away. But God used my time there to teach me some valuable life lessons.

I worked with in-patients; most of them at the end of their lives. As I talked to them, God used those conversations to teach me some important truths about life.


During my six years there, I never heard:

• I wish I'd spent more time at the office.
• I wish I'd met my goal to be CEO of my company.
• I wish I''d earned enough to have a bigger house or a Mercedes.
• I always wanted to travel to Europe.

I did hear:

• I wish I'd spent more time with my kids when they were growing up.
• I wish I'd shown my wife how much I loved her.
• I wish I'd been closer to my parents.
• I wish I'd focused less on my career and more on my family.

Yes, I am thankful for my family.

• For a marriage that's built on the Lord as our solid foundation.
• For the strong love my husband and I share during the ups and downs of life.
• My husband who's been a wonderful provider and companion. 
• My two daughters who've grown to be such wonderful, responsible young ladies.
• My two grandchildren who are my pride and joy. 
• And, as silly as it sounds, the greyhounds who have shown me unconditional love.

And I am thankful for each of you. Without you, I would have thrown in the towel years ago! You are my friends - you encourage me, hold me accountable, and pray for me.

My prayers to you and your families and to all who are precious to you.

Photo credit: Gratitude via Creative Commons