Posted by Todd (65.187.231.105) on October 07, 2001 at 21:23:46:
I'm an agnostic and have said so here often. I'm also not one to favor the religious posts, although I strongly believe in the individual's right to think as they wish and defend free speech.
My parents called this evening. My dad has been diagnosed with cancer. Not much is known yet, other than a spot on his lung found in a recent chest xray. More tests are being done tomorrow, with results due the end of the week.
Here's the thing...I'm 47 and have led a "charmed life" with regard to the loss of loved ones. My grandparents all passed away when I was too young to remember them. One cousin fell to AIDS, but I wasn't close to his family. I lost a few acquaintences in high school - - the typical drunk driving deal that seems to hit about every other graduating class. But no-one I love and depend on has died yet. I really don't mean to sound pessimistic, because Dad's been through tons of tests and his heart and overall constitution are fantastic for a 76 y/o, and I'm sure he'll beat this.
This just hit me (emotionally) like the first signs of a new cycle. Life's great, just got into my new house, job is going well, etc, etc and wham!
A recently reported study showed incredible results from prayer. A group of Korean women undergoing in vitro fertilization (all at the same clinic) were divided into two sections. The photos and names of the first section were sent to US and Canadian prayer groups. Nothing was done for the second group. Neither knew anyone was praying for anyone, and the attending physicians didn't know who was in which group. 50% of the prayer group became pregnant, while only 25% of the other group did.
These results were so startling that the US doctors involved hesitated before publishing.
If you believe, please say a prayer for my Dad. If you belong to a prayer group, please ask them to include him.
Thank you,
T