Cancer does not play fair.
Recently, I had the privilege of attending the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Ball. This event is a big fundraiser for cancer research in Nebraska. Many accounts were told of families who have lost loved ones, or have friends or family members who are currently battling some type cancer.
My wife, Marcia, was one of the people who shared her story. She was diagnosed with stage IV mantle cell lymphoma four years ago and after many rounds of chemo and a stem cell transplant (her total treatment took about one year) she is now a survivor. One of the points she noted in her remarks was from a card she received which had this saying that became very important to her:
“Cancer is a villain and it does not play fair, but it can’t take your spirit and it can’t silence prayer.”
Immediately after the Cattlemen’s Ball, she received many words of appreciation and encouragement for her willingness to be vulnerable with her cancer journey.
What makes this empowering event possible are the hundreds of volunteers. Because of their hard work, vital money for cancer research isn’t the only thing being raised—those who are affected by cancer can have a carefree night to lift their spirits and faith that one day they or their loved ones will be cancer free.
Volunteering comes in many forms. From picking up trash on the side of the road to serving dinners at a local homeless shelter, volunteering is any act that provides a service for another. More importantly, this service is done for the benefit of someone else and even the smallest things can make another smile. Seeing a clean road might make a commuter smile on their way to work, while a full stomach might empower someone who may be down on their luck.
With that in mind, my challenge to you is to volunteer for something that is important to you!
American author, Edward Everett Hale once said, “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do”.
The power of one can make a difference. Make a difference for someone today!
The Independent Learner 
Very motivational!