I have silently been following your journey since you e-mailed us about Ian’s cancer some 6-8 months ago.

I have followed silently because I feel guilty. As you know, my step-son, Braxton, was diagnosed with cancer last March. Unlike Ian’s cancer, Braxton’s was very very treatable. And, in fact, he is now cancer free.

I remember the pain, fear, and anxiety that Beth and I experienced when we first heard the diagnosis. I remember the incredible relief when we heard about the prognosis.

I also remember wondering to myself how I would have responded if Braxton’s cancer were not treatable. I cannot honestly say what my response would be. That is simply not something I can really imagine, even though we came close to traveling that path.

Reading about Ian’s cancer has left me feeling guilty. Why were Beth and I spared the suffering the you and Deb have not been spared? I have certainly not earned such a reprieve through my lifestyle or walk with God. I am a broken Christian who needs God for every small step forward.

I finally wanted to write you and let you know that I have been here in the background. At the same time, I realize that by remaining in the background, I have not been here for you – or for Deb or Ian.

Tom,

I really appreciate the openness that you and Deb have embraced during this journey. God has been glorified in your response to tragedy and – wow!!! – in Ian’s response to God.

I don’t know what I should be doing as a Christian. But I do want you to know that you have blessed me. Thank you.

I pray for God’s will – whatever that might be. And I pray that we might gain the peace that comes from responding appropriately to god’s will – even if we are not granted understanding as part of that response.

Thank you, Tom, for your honesty. May God’s peace be with you today and always.

+ David Houston