and now his girlfriend speaks

How does he do this?
Category: Life

How does who do what? you might ask.

How does Dan handle this massive change in his life with such grace, patience and trust?

I mean seriously, sometimes, I cannot wrap my mind around how a 20 year old guy can carry himself through the trials of being diagnosed with cancer with such peace and calm. However, if I were to ask Dan (as I have) or actually think carefully, I have to come to the realization that Dan is not carrying himself through this. Instead, God is holding firmly onto his hand, and Dan is more than happy to simply allow God to lead him on.

In the past week, my life and Dan's life and the lives of all his family members have been turned upside down. Yet, I have discovered that hidden in this process (that is only just beginning) are blessings too numerous to count...

I have watched as the guy I love has proved himself to be one of the strongest men of God I have been privileged to know.

I have been reminded of how little I am in control of my life or anyone else's life.

I have been forced to cling to God with all my might.

Would I have rather been taught or shown these things in a less life-threatening way? Of course. Yet, I know God knows me better than I know myself, and He does all things for the good of those who love Him.
To be honest, I have a sneaky suspicion that God has a few miracles ready for Dan and the Howens. However, I also have a suspicion that He has other purposes to fulfill in this process.

In the mean time, I am going to learn to be patient (why does God keep deciding I need more patience!?). Romans 8:25 reminds me that if we wait for what we do not yet have, we have to wait for patiently. That's alright. God is good...all the time.


As far as updates about Dan go...

We still don't know exactly what the cancer is, though doctors are leaning more toward it being neuroendocrine cancer. After an appointment at Stanford, we're getting closer to a diagnosis and closer to starting treatment. He might even start treatment next week. Right now, it is still a waiting game.

Please pray for wisdom for the doctors for which treatment to use.
Pray for rest for Dan's parents. They sure do need it.
Pray for a deepening trust in God.
Oh yeah, and pray for a miracle!