To overcome needs nothing more than hope,
though world seems hard and batters every dream.
It is the means by which I daily cope
and soothe relentless cancer's endless stream.

In pain there's grace when given up for those
who have no other solace or sweet peace.
I strive to be a model of repose,
as life's not owned but something we must lease.

Yet many will succumb to anger's call --
so doing will have writ their own demise.
I'd rather climb in anguish than thus fall,
be thankful for this blessing, not despise.

Where faith and hope reside a light will shine
and call all souls to God's eternal vine.

To overcome a body must have trust
with which to battle torments this life brings.
I carry every burden as I must
in sweet surrender my heart freely sings.

There is no harm which darkness sends my way
which severs me from God's unyielding arms.
Not for myself but others I will pray
and thus unleash all heaven's wondrous charms.

But is there consolation in such deeds?
Does sacrifice atone for others' sins?
To heal myself I plant these loving seeds
for in their growth new life for me begins.

Where faith and hope reside a light will shine
and call all souls to God's eternal vine.

Malignancy is never to be feared
as many will be touched by its dread hand.
Use time to make amends and be endeared;
each day is borrowed at the Lord's command.

For some time now I've struggled with this plight,
releasing doubt through service to my friends.
Each day I carry on this endless fight
my trust an anchor true which never bends.

One day I know this vessel, weak, will crack
as it was never meant to stay the course.
My Father will with joy welcome me back.
In giving all there'll be no sad remorse.

Where faith and hope reside a light will shine
and call all souls to God's eternal vine.