This week, I have the opportunity to celebrate my birthday. It is time to rejoice and be thankful for another year of life. The most precious gift I received this year is the gift of perspective from a friend. Perspective paints to way we view the world and how we live our lives. A health battle can either induce fear or strengthen ones faith. It all depends on your perspective. 

Recently, I have been reading through the messages of a friend who passed away last fall due to complications associated with Stage 4 Breast Cancer. The cancer spread to her liver, lungs, and ovaries. As we communicated, she was going through multiple treatments. She experienced pneumonia, neuropathy, and trouble walking. However, her perspective was one of joy, hope, resilience and faith. 

The following are quotes she shared with me months prior to her passing.

“Going through this journey has made me realize that I’ve got to keep living life to my best ability.” 

"There’s going to be ups and downs but God will be with me each and every step of the way.” 

“My cancer is Stage 4, so the doctors as trying everything. It’ll be a miracle if I can live with this long term. The percentage of people that live past 5 years with Stage 4 Cancer is pretty bleak. It doesn’t make me afraid or scared. It’s just crazy. I feel God is going to bring me through this.”

“Today’s the first day of chemo! Surprisingly, I’m feeling pretty good even though so much is going on. God is good all the time.”

"My chemo is usually an hour session. I'm pretty blessed that it's not so long and the nurses at the oncology infusion center, as they call it, are so awesome."

"I really need a vacay. It's been waaaaay too long. We'll definitely have to make a visit to Germany happen."

These are the words of a friend I loved dearly. Ariel Davis lived a life loving and serving others. She encouraged me even in the midst of her experiencing challenges. Her perspective has molded my outlook on life. Everyday is a gift and Ariel lived each day with joy.  Her words echo a sweet heavenly sentiment and I am thankful to have had the privilege of knowing her. This and every birthday I will never forget her gift of perspective.