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Blimpie Lites Tasting
Those were the days!
3 of my supporters!!!
Get well soon Randy!
64 comments:
Good morning Randy,
It was nice to see you on Thursday and who didn't know that you were ready for a fight when you land in New York. All the best. I will tell you that everyone needs a Joy in their life and you are lucky to have your sister there picking up the slack, even though Bruce said she screwed up the dip. What the hell does he know anyhow?
Mark Squillante
Couldn't agree more with the previous quote about everyone needing a "Joy" in their lives - you are truly blessed as you well know. Hit the ground in the Big Apple running and keep that great Randy spirit going strong.
Nebby
What a night! What a past few days!
I had lunch with friends yesterday. I can't tell everyone how important getting together is. Everyone wants to help. Being there for me is the biggest gift you can bring. Please do not think otherwise.
More friends came over tonight. We talked,cried and laughed. It was so impromptu, that made it unique. Friends I had not seen in over 10 years were here. It was like we never missed a beat.
I am off to NY tomorrow with my sister. Joy has been all my strength and I would have not been able to deal with this to this point, let alone deal with the unknown future. With that being said,
I know I can, with Joy and all of my friends are at my side.
I promise to update this as we move on. I think this is a great way for me and my friends/family keep in touch. Please post often and check for others.
IT IS VERY UNIQUE IN THIS DAY AND AGE FOR 2 PEOPLE TO NOT ONLY BE THE CLOSEST OF FRIENDS BUT ALSO BUSINESS PARTNERS FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS. THIS IS NOT THE CASE WITH RANDY AND I AND WE ARE VERY PROUD OF IT.
KNOWING RANDY PROBABLY BETTER THAN ANYONE EXCEPT JOY, I CAN TELL YOU HE WILL FIGHT THIS THING AND WIN. RANDY DOES NOT QUIT!!!!!
IN THE SUPERBOWL NO ONE GAVE THE GIANTS A CHANCE AGAINST THE UNDEFEATED PAT'S. GUESS THEY WERE WRONG.
IN THE END RANDY WILL BE THE GIANT AND THE CANCER WILL BE THE PAT'S.
LOVE YA BUDDY.. SEE YOU IN N.Y.
j.c.
Hey Randy,
Hope all of you (including Milo) had a comfortable trip to NY. I'm sure he'll get acclimated very quickly to his new temporary digs! I'm glad you have him there with you! I know you are in the best of hands (thanks Joy and family) and I am anxious to see you in NY. You know I'm with you there 100% and just remember what I tell you practically everyday. STAY POSITIVE!
LOVE YOU!
Kitty
GUESS I SHOULD HAVE SAID "THIS IS THE CASE" W/RANDY AND I.......
AS PER MY WIFE KITTY "THE EDITOR"
I THINK YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN....:-)
Hi Randy,
Even though I speak to you everyday, I know you like to check your 'blog' too....Mary tried to post a comment and after about 5 attempts she gave up and said she'd email you instead...she was so happy to hear the encouraging news from the docs at MSK and Columbia Presb.
Margaret (you met her with us in Houston) said she sends her best and is thinking of you.
"Josie" (Mama) said she's been praying and saying the rosary for you, and as Mary and I told you, she's got some powerful prayers!
Have you talked to Michelle or Tony? I called them today and left a message letting them know the latest news. I think they may be in Utah for Tony's tests. I'll let you know if I hear from them. I HOPE YOU WERE ABLE TO DO WHAT YOU'VE BEEN TRYING TO DO (if you know what I mean), but I'm sure I'll find out tomorrow!
Take care and God Bless. Give Joy and the family my love!
WHERE DID THAT NAME COME FROM....
well the post before this one is from me...somehow I'm no longer Kitty, I am now Learning.....oh well,it's not altogether untrue!
Love,
KITTY
Talked to Randy last night and the good news keeps flowing. Both of his physicians have told him that his illness is "treatable" and on top of that, his insurance is in place as well. He knows that this won't be an easy road...but nothing worth having is not worth fighting for. Keep up the great comments and support...it helps Randy tremendously. Love you Randy and keep in touch. Your Friend, Paul
Hi Randy,
I loved being able to spend time with you and Joy before you were off to NY. Seeing Bob S. was great too. I hope Milo did well on the plane and your trip was smooth. I'm hoping you will post how your hospital visits went, but I am sure that you were told that what you have is just a short fight away to recovery. Stay strong and positive and I'll see you back here in Atlanta real soon.
much love and good energy sending your way...
susan p.
Just because you didn't like my sound and "free advice" (a lot of that around)about breakfast, maybe someone else will and they can talk you into it.
I've been drinking the following every morning for years and I’m in good shape for someone who will be 85 in November. Yum. Maybe I'll try some now before I start on the Martinis.
1 cup fat free milk (in your case you can probably use whole milk or rice milk(yuk).
1 cup frozen (they are cheaper) or fresh blueberries (super expensive at this time of year but your rich)
2 Tablespoons Flax Seed Meal (high in fiber, antioxidants, and Omega 3)
1 scoop “Farrow’s” or “Designer Protein Powder” (only get the natural or unflavored, not choc or vanilla). You can get the protein powder in any health food store. Both of these are Whey protein.
Put all in a blender and there you are.
It's amazing to me how many friends one man can have. One is nicer than the other. Randy might only have me left as his blood relative - but as far as I can see, He has a huge extended family(all of you)with the nicest brothers and sisters anyone could ever dream of having.
All those pictures I've taken of Randy and you - are now in a photo album that Randy proudly shares with any new visitor to the house. He loves his photo diary of all of you. These pictures will help keep memories alive and aide in his recovery.
Thank you for making me feel special during the time spent with Randy in Atlanta. I felt like I knew all of you, all of my life. although this is a devastating time for us, I have to say Randy and I never had so much fun together...and it continues. He is the sunshine that begins my day. Not a complaint out of his mouth. We are trying to get a grip, find a routine and stick to it. Cheers! Celebrate life...we are. keep sharing...Love ya, Joy
Randy:
Sorry it has taken me so long to get on this "blog". I had to register, then set up my own page, and do other mandatory cyberpaper-work to just get here. If I do something wrong, then I will try to correct it in my next posting.
Paul, Owen, John, Kathy and I are praying for you. You are constantly on our minds, and we keep thinking of ways to send you our love. We need big envelopes over here !!!
We are making a photo album to send you. We have found pictures of us from long-ago.
We hope our picture album gives you all the love and strength you need to face the future.
I decided a great way for me to help you from afar is to share my fondest memories and stories of our years together. I hope you see how much you contributed to, and shaped my life. I want to turn those treasures into strength and hope for the future.
We love you !
Sounds good Mark, he definitely needs the flax seed! You hear that Randy? So, I didn't talk to you today, but I got the scoop from Joe. I hope you are feeling okay and I know you are continuing to eat, and that's a good thing! Can't wait to see you and spend time with you in NY.
We are going to Baton Rouge tomorrow to see my mom, and I know she sends her best to you. She's always asking about you!
Keep up your great spirit and stay strong. I'll talk to you tomorrow on the way to BR.
Love ya!
KITTY
Hi Randy,
Can't wait to see you on Friday. Have raised more money for "our" day of spinning! I think of you and those thoughts push me to train like I have never done before. I hope you feel my energy sent your way. Love you.
Lindy :)
TEST!
Hi Randy,
Kitty's sister,Mary here.... I know I do not know you very well, but I HEAR that to know you is to love you.. I do know that Kitty and Joe LOVE U, and since that is so, well, that's enough for me... We are thinking 'bout you here in LOOZIANA...(Praying also)... Keep the faith and know that you have many wonderful friends. Not to mention your special sister and her family!
Wishing the best for you...
Mary B.
Randy,
You sounded great today...sorry I missed the last lunch thing...I know that Joy will take great care of you. If you need anything done in ATL let me know...like cat sitting.
All will be well and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers!
FFL
Jack
Randy
Just wanted to check in with you and see how things were going. Paul gave me the website on Tuesday to keep up with you so now you can’t get rid of me!
I miss you not calling me all the time asking me about sites so you better fight that nasty thing and get you’re a** back home!
I MISS YOU,
Linda
HEY....
Looks like the post is working better, lots more comments coming your way.....I hope I'm Kitty this time, but 'ya never know'...
Still in BR, but leaving tomorrow, then off to NY to SEE YOU!!!! I'll talk to you on the ride home from BR to Texas...KEEP EATING....Stay Strong....Stay Focused....
Well, I guess I'll never be KITTY again, but Learning is good...I can live with Learning....
KEEP EATING....
Love ya'
P.S. HI JOY!!!!!
I tried to post yesterday but it disappeared. I'll try it again.
It was great talking with Randy yesterday. You sound great and as upbeat ever. If anyone can beat this bum wrap you can!!
It's great to read posts from old friends.
You are loved. Mariana sends her love.
JK
It was so nice to see Lindy and Peg today. Lindy came from Georgia and Peg commuted in from Manhattan. We had Deli for a late lunch, early dinner. It was a feast. Everyone ate...even Randy had a pastrami sandwich on rye bread, chopped liver and salad. It was a very upbeat loving visit.
Well, tomorrow is the day we go for Randy's first chemotherapy treatment. We are optimistic about this and will let you know how it goes. Please say a prayer for us as we move on to the next chapter of Randy's life.
As always, we feel the love and support all of you have given us in these weeks(soon to be months) of need.
thank you and keep sharing!
Love, Joy
Hi Randy,
I'm SOOOOOOO glad we got to see you and spend great time with you. I miss you already! I hope you are feeling okay today and the chemo isn't too hard on you. I'll call you in a while to see how your throat is. Hopefully it has cleared up a bit and you can eat without feeling that pain. What a perfect day we had yesterday. JOY thanks again for the food and the warm and beautiful hospitality...Your home oozes of love and comfort...I did NOT want to leave! So glad to meet Dennis too, FINALLY. Loved the whole family, including Midnight and Scooter! Hey, don't worry I'm not forgetting Milo...I love how he's matured!
ANYWAY, LOVE YOU MUCH Randy, and I'll talk to you soon!
KITTY
Hey, Randy!
Just want you to know we're thinking of you in SC. I framed the picture of you holding Ian & have it on my countertop in the kitchen. I say a prayer for you everytime I see it. Ian and Vivian talk about you like they know you really well!
Also found some great pictures of us in Miami & one of your Mom and her friends when they joined us at News Cafe. Such good times!
Take care & hope the treatments are doing you right.
I'll keep checking your blog for updates.
Please tell Joy and the family 'hi' for me.
Love you,
Sherri
Hey, Randy!
Just want you to know we're thinking of you in SC. I framed the picture of you holding Ian & have it on my countertop in the kitchen. I say a prayer for you everytime I see it. Ian and Vivian talk about you like they know you really well!
Also found some great pictures of us in Miami & one of your Mom and her friends when they joined us at News Cafe. Such good times!
Take care & hope the treatments are doing you right.
I'll keep checking your blog for updates.
Please tell Joy and the family 'hi' for me.
Love you,
Sherri
Randy,
We've known each other for 11 years and I expect to know you for at least 11 more. Fight the good fight my friend.
I once heard Newt Gingrich say that perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did. Whether one agrees with his politics or not is irrelevent... (in case Kramer checks back in again and reads this)
there's lots of truth to this statement.
Hang tough amigo. Talk to you again soon.
Stan Friedman
Randy,
Stan filled me in yesterday about your challenge. All the years I have known you, you have had the ability to over come adversity. In the nine years we worked together, lots of challenges came your way and you always prevailed. I can not foresee that trend changing. Intestinal fortitude and tenacity are two character strengths you have always had, along with your obnoxious personality that will probably never change as well but that’s why we all love you. Keep your eyes to the sky and heart to the sun….
Keep me posted as you kick this shit out of your system.
Dennis Fuller
Randy,
After our conversation on Wednesday night, I did exactly what you asked. I posted a prayer request for you amigo, on my blog. You've got lots of friends and family in the franchising world Randy and we're all pulling for you.
Stan
Good Morning Randy.....
Glad to hear to had a nice little meal this morning. I hope you are feeling better today and at least some of the pain has diminished, especially in your throat. Today is gonna be a scorcher! New York in the 90's...WHOA! Maybe you can sit out on the deck for a while before it gets too hot! LOVE TO ALL and we will talk to you in a bit!
KITTY (even though my blog is Learning), I really am KITTY!!!!
Hey Randy...good talking to you last night. I hope I did not wake you. I know it was a tough week, but am glad you are eating. Based on the all the blog comments, you are blessed to have so many friends who truly love you. Keep thinking positive and see you soon!
Your Friend, Paul
So far, we have been blessed with many well wishers, some arriving right at our door, to name a few...
Lindy, Peg, Tony, Joe, Kitty, Pat, Elizabeth, Cary, Collette, Bruce and Tim. Some of you send wishes and prayers through the mail, some of you call or e-mail. It's all good, and appreciated more than you will ever know. Not only does the attention given Randy help him remember all of the wonderful people that have crossed his path in life and stayed with him throughout the years, it also helps me and my family realize that we are not alone. We are all in this together. Thank you for being there.
We go back to the doctor tomorrow and will make sure everything that can be done for Randy - will be done to make him as comfortable as he can possibly be under these horrible circumstances. Randy still, through all the discomfort - remains pleasant, grateful and hopeful.. keep your prayers coming.
we love you...Joy
Hi Randy,
I'm glad we are able to text each other, but I also still want to keep posting on your blog so you can read all the comments when you are feeling better. I pray every day that you get stronger and feel better. I know the last three days have been so hard on you from the chemo and the meds, but I know you can hang in there as your body heals. I'm so sorry that you are feeling so lousy, but with everyone's prayers, I know you will get through it. I have so much faith in you and your strength, and I'm with you all the way.
I told you via text that I went to Mass and offered the Mass entirely up to you, and I know God is taking care of you.
We will be calling you later. Stay strong, keep eating and drinking as much as you possibly can, and don't try to do too much...take it easy and let Joy and the family work their magic.
LOVE YOU!
KITTY
Randy,
You are by far the coolest guy I have ever known. I have had so many fond memories of hanging out with you and I am ready to make more memories! Although, we can skip a repeat of the bird and hat incident at News Cafe in Miami. Please know you are in my prayers. Dinner in Asheville will be my treat when you come back South.
Mandi
Hey Randy,
I was just thinking of you today so thought I would say hello. "Grace" here did it again and have busted my you know what!!! Sorry you missed it, I know how much you enjoy whatching me kill myself. No wonder my friends are calling me Ms. Grace!!!
I MISS YOU!!!!
Please get back to Atlanta soon. Just knowing you are closer makes me feel better.
Hey, Randy,
In Atlanta this week for business appointments, and it's just not the same without you here. Just wishing I could call you and pop in for a visit.
Went to Hal's for dinner - thought about you & sent some serious prayers your way.
Hope you are doing well and staying strong.
Miss you a lot!
Sherri
Hey Ran!
Miss ya down here in this 100 degree weather! Bob's keeping me up on your status and it's good to hear things are moving along as the docs would expect. I know you're going to have really exhausting days but keep up that battle and as Kitty said, keep that POSITIVE attitude! You've got a huge following of friends and family to support and pray for your speedy win in this fight!
Can't wait to see you soon! Holler if there's anything we can help with down here! And I'm not sure who the kids are featured in the photo but lean on them...nothing like our babies to add laughter and simple honest kindness to our lives!
Peace, Love and Happiness!
PG
Hey Randy:
Just wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts today. Good to talk to you the other day, hate to see you not feeling well but each day will be better. Keep drinking water, it works miracles. You are in our prayers everyday and we miss you and your positive support. Your Friend, Paul
Yo Randy,
Kramer is coming to NY to see you. I want to see you putting on weight by the time I get there (the week of the 23rd of June).
I actually agree with Stan on Newt(first time ever). Fight the fight!!
We all love you.
JK
SPOKE W/RANDY TODAY....
200% CHANGE, I COULD RECOGNIZE HIS VOICE, HE WANTED TO TALK BUSINESS AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, HE WAS EATING LIKE CRAZY.....
I THINK THIS MAYBE TURN AROUND TIME..
OH LAST BUT NOT LEAST GOD BLESS...THE RELENTLESS SISTER OF HIS.....
GREAT JOB DR. "JOY"
J.C.
Hi Randy,
Been so busy texting you, I almost forgot to blog....
Keep getting stronger, you've got a ton of friends and family behind you...
I am going to send you a website for a juice drink. Please order it and start drinking it. I believe it will give your immune system a huge boost. It's filled with antioxidents and good stuff.
I've been researching all sorts of data and I'll keep you posted on my findings. Most importantly, I will implore God to continue to watch over you and keep you healthy and healing.
LOVE YA....
Randy,
Sounds like you're making some incredible progress. Did I read Kramer's post correctly? Did John Kramer actually agree with something that Newt Gingrich said. WOW! Now THAT'S a miracle.
Heal my friend. It's time for us to do another meal in Buckhead or Midtown with Tony and Bob.
You sounded 100% better this week - a lot stronger. It’s probably the breakfast shake I told you to take. Remember, you thumbed your nose at it and sent me some snide remark. Hey Kitty, we’re still waiting for the juice recipe you said you were going to send. If you’ve been watching any movies I have a good one for you- “Lions For Lambs.” You didn’t mention the Belmont so I guess you bet on Big Brown or we would never have heard the end of it. Really too bad. The winner at 38 to 1 was incredible. We finally got some rain today. In the interest of water conservation, the city has been sending out arrest warrants for people who turn on their irrigation systems so if you don’t hear from me soon you will know what happened. Take care. We’ll be thinking about you next week for your next round.
Hello all, I went up to see Randy again and he is much stronger due to eating. Mark, I hate to burst your bubble, but it is not the shake, it is McDonald's, yes McDonalds, but he craved it, so that is good. To Joe's point, I recognized Randy's voice again this week. We had a really good visit. Perfect sitting on the deck weather. Joy does do everything and runs a tight ship, although she can not control his smoking, but oh well, some things never change. Rand, hope the weight is in good shape for Monday.
Kiss and love you, Lindy
What a great surprise. My cell phone rang and it was my buddy Randy. He sounded great and we both are looking forward to my visit.
Keep up the great work and I'll see you in a couple of weeks.
JK
Hi Randy,
Glad to hear you are doing ok on the 2nd round...AND still eating...You are doing so well, keep it up.
A friend of mine extolled the virtues of a fruit drink called Mangosteen (is it Jewish?)...made by XANGO...check out their website..She told me incredible stories about how it has healed many people (people she knows)! I hope you order some because it certainly can't hurt, and I think it will be a great help to your immune system and your body! I'll keep checking out things and let you know. I'd never heard of this one before, I've heard of NONI Juice which I used to drink for a while, but this one was new to me. SO ANYWAY, check it out and order some, it even taste good!....Take care and I'll talk to you later...
Good Morning Randy:
I am really glad to read that you are
doing well.
Keep it up.
I remember our conversations and you said that you will be back with us soon.
You are in my prayers.
Manoj Barot
Randy,
I'm sooooooooo glad to see all the comments from friends on how you are doing. Sounds like you are turning around and may be back in Atlanta soon after all which would make me happy as hell.
I think your sister is an angel for being there for you, you are very lucky to have her.
Tell her for me she rocks.
I had a great visit with Randy on Tuesday. We had lunch with Joy and Pat Conlan at the Blimpie in Farmingdale.
Randy ate a B. Best (the Blimpie way) with great gusto.
Randy should eat one every day and then when he beats the beast he can claim it was due to eating Blimpie. Jared can't top that.
Keep up the great fight. I will be back soon.
JK
Hi, Randy,
Thinking of you every day and wishing you the best! I also wish I could be there with you just to hold your hand and tell you, in person, how awesome you are.
Keep strong and know that you are loved.
Sherri
Hey Randy,
I've been checking the blog regularly and I'm happy to see that you're back home again. I tried your cell phone this evening and even though it was only voice mail, it was good hearing your voice. I've got to travel tomorrow, but I'll try reaching out to you again, later in the week. Keep fighting the good fight my friend.
Stan Friedman
Hey, Randy,
Left a post, yesterday, but don't know what happened to it!
Just want you to know how I wish I could be there to visit with you and hold your hand. You are such a special person to me & just want you to know how awesome you are!
If I can do anything for you, please let me know.
Love,
Sherri
Hi Randy,
I keep missing you when I try to call so hope you're not out having too much fun. But then again with all those diet tips from Kitty you just might have more energy than all of us. You are probably up in the Hamptons hanging out with the billionaires. I read that there are a ton of houses on the market between 5mil and 15 mil in this depressed real estate market. The only things selling there are in the 25mil – 70mil. Their life sure must be tough. I’m sure it is all short selling in the sub prime market. Between that and the red-hot communities market. Where have I been? When I invest in the market it turns into a grease fire. Hope your treatments are successful and that you are seeing positive results. Think about you often.
Mark
See, I can even spell it. Try commodities. GET WELL.
For those of you who do not know, Joy now has care in the house for Randy and they are facing the future with bravery and love. Randy, you are in my heart and just am so happy that we were able to sit face to face and talk on Friday. You will be my friend for life in my heart. This is a very difficult time for everyone who has ever loved you. Love you!!!
Lindy
Talked to Joy yesterday. As everyone knows, Randy is very weak right now and to continue his chemo, he has to get stronger. He has not eaten in a few days which is a great concern. Please pray for Randy's improvement. Paul
Randy!!
Team STEGENGA is praying BIG TIME!
We hope you are feeling better and getting stronger.
I've been checking-out some of our old hangouts, and boy have time changed. Most buildings have been razed, and replaced by high-rise canyons. Damn Architects - HA. I'll always remember the encouragement you gave, and the faith you had, in me as a young architect.
I'm coming to visit and give you a boost this time.
Hi Randy,
I know I am writing this only for me as you are entering another plane or zone right now, but I know you heard me today when I sent you hugs and kisses and your groan, believe it or not...meant the world to me and I heard you kissing me back! Hospice and your family will make a great team to see that you are safe and comfortable on this journey on which you are about to embark. God's speed and I love you so much! You have been a brother and the world's best friend to me. Sleep well, my Randala!!!
See you in time.
Lindy :)
Posted November 5, 2007
The Blessing of Cancer
by Tony Snow
Blessings arrive in unexpected packages, - in my case, cancer. Those of us with potentially fatal diseases - and there are millions in America today - find ourselves in the odd position of coping with our mortality while trying to fathom God's will. Although it would be the height of presumption to declare with confidence 'What It All Means,' Scripture provides powerful hints and consolations.
The first is that we shouldn't spend too much time trying to answer the 'why' questions: Why me? Why must people suffer? Why can't someone else get sick? We can't answer such things, and the questions themselves often are designed more to express our anguish than to solicit an answer.
I don't know why I have cancer, and I don't much care. It is what it is, a plain and indisputable fact. Yet even while staring into a mirror darkly, great and stunning truths begin to take shape. Our maladies define a central feature of our existence: We are fallen. We are imperfect. Our bodies give out.
But despite this, - or because of it, - God offers the possibility of salvation and grace. We don't know how the narrative of our lives will end, but we get to choose how to use the interval between now and the moment we meet our Creator face-to-face.
Second, we need to get past the anxiety. The mere thought of dying can send adrenaline flooding through your system. A dizzy, unfocused panic seizes you. Your heart thumps; your head swims. You think of nothingness and swoon. You fear partings; you worry about the impact on family and friends. You fidget and get nowhere.
To regain footing, remember that we were born not into death, but into life - and that the journey continues after we have finished our days on this earth. We accept this on faith, but that faith is nourished by a conviction that stirs even within many non believing hearts - an intuition that the gift of life, once given, cannot be taken away. Those who have been stricken enjoy the special privilege of being able to fight with their might, main, and faith to live fully, richly, and exuberantly - no matter how their days may be numbered.
Third, we can open our eyes and hearts. God relishes surprise. We want lives of simple, predictable ease,- smooth, even trails as far as the eye can see, - but God likes to go off-road. He provokes us with twists and turns. He places us in predicaments that seem to defy our endurance; and comprehension - and yet don't. By His love and grace, we persevere. The challenges that make our hearts leap and stomachs churn invariably strengthen our faith and grant measures of wisdom and joy we would not experience otherwise.
'You Have Been Called'. Picture yourself in a hospital bed. The fog of anesthesia has begun to wear away. A doctor stands at your feet; a loved one holds your hand at the side. 'It's cancer,' the healer announces.
The natural reaction is to turn to God and ask him to serve as a cosmic Santa. 'Dear God, make it all go away. Make everything simpler.' But another voice whispers: 'You have been called.' Your quandary has drawn you closer to God, closer to those you love, closer to the issues that matter, - and has dragged into insignificance the banal concerns that occupy our 'normal time.'
There's another kind of response, although usually short-lived an inexplicable shudder of excitement, as if a clarifying moment of calamity has swept away everything trivial and tiny, and placed before us the challenge of important questions.
The moment you enter the Valley of the Shadow of Death, things change. You discover that Christianity is not something doughy, passive, pious, and soft. Faith may be the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. But it also draws you into a world shorn of fearful caution. The life of belief teems with thrills, boldness, danger, shocks, reversals, triumphs, and epiphanies. Think of Paul, traipsing though the known world and contemplating trips to what must have seemed the antipodes (Spain), shaking the dust from his sandals, worrying not about the morrow, but only about the moment.
There's nothing wilder than a life of humble virtue, - for it is through selflessness and service that God wrings from our bodies and spirits the most we ever could give, the most we ever could offer, and the most we ever could do.
Finally, we can let love change everything. When Jesus was faced with the prospect of crucifixion, he grieved not for himself, but for us. He cried for Jerusalem before entering the holy city. From the Cross, he took on the cumulative burden of human sin and weakness, and begged for forgiveness on our behalf.
We get repeated chances to learn that life is not about us, that we acquire purpose and satisfaction by sharing in God's love for others. Sickness gets us part way there. It reminds us of our limitations and dependence. But it also gives us a chance to serve the healthy. A minister friend of mine observes that people suffering grave afflictions often acquire the faith of two people, while loved ones accept the burden of two peoples' worries and fears.
'Learning How to Live'. Most of us have watched friends as they drifted toward God's arms, not with resignation, but with peace and hope. In so doing, they have taught us not how to die, but how to live. They have emulated Christ by transmitting the power and authority of love.
I sat by my best friend's bedside a few years ago as a wasting cancer took him away. He kept at his table a worn Bible and a 1928 edition of the Book of Common Prayer. A shattering grief disabled his family, many of his old friends, and at least one priest. Here was an humble and very good guy, someone who apologized when he winced with pain because he thought it made his guest uncomfortable. He retained his equanimity and good humor literally until his last conscious moment. 'I'm going to try to beat [this cancer],' he told me several months before he died. 'But if I don't, I'll see you on the other side.'
His gift was to remind everyone around him that even though God doesn't promise us tomorrow, he does promise us eternity, - filled with life and love we cannot comprehend, - and that one can in the throes of sickness point the rest of us toward timeless truths that will help us weather future storms.
Through such trials, God bids us to choose: Do we believe, or do we not? Will we be bold enough to love, daring enough to serve, humble enough to submit, and strong enough to acknowledge our limitations? Can we surrender our concern in things that don't matter so that we might devote our remaining days to things that do?
When our faith flags, he throws reminders in our way. Think of the prayer warriors in our midst. They change things, and those of us who have been on the receiving end of their petitions and intercessions know it. It is hard to describe, but there are times when suddenly the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, and you feel a surge of the Spirit. Somehow you just know: Others have chosen, when talking to the Author of all creation, to lift us up, - to speak of us!
This is love of a very special order. But so is the ability to sit back and appreciate the wonder of every created thing. The mere thought of death somehow makes every blessing vivid, every happiness more luminous and intense. We may not know how our contest with sickness will end, but we have felt the ineluctable touch of God.
What is man that Thou art mindful of him? We don't know much, but we know this: No matter where we are, no matter what we do, no matter how bleak or frightening our prospects, each and every one of us who believe, each and every day, lies in the same safe and impregnable place, in the hollow of God's hand.'
October 2007
Tony went to be with the Lord June 12, 2008 . He had been a commentator and broadcaster for many years. In 2005 Tony announced that he had colon cancer. Following surgery and chemotherapy, he joined the Bush Administration in April 2006 as press secretary. Unfortunately, on March 23, 2007, Snow, 51, a husband and father of three, announced the cancer had recurred, with tumors found in his abdomen. That led to additional surgery and chemotherapy in April. Snow went back to work in the White House Briefing Room on May 30, but he later had to resign again, 'for economic reasons,' and to pursue 'other interests.'
Posted November 5, 2007
The Blessing of Cancer
by Tony Snow
Blessings arrive in unexpected packages, - in my case, cancer. Those of us with potentially fatal diseases - and there are millions in America today - find ourselves in the odd position of coping with our mortality while trying to fathom God's will. Although it would be the height of presumption to declare with confidence 'What It All Means,' Scripture provides powerful hints and consolations.
The first is that we shouldn't spend too much time trying to answer the 'why' questions: Why me? Why must people suffer? Why can't someone else get sick? We can't answer such things, and the questions themselves often are designed more to express our anguish than to solicit an answer.
I don't know why I have cancer, and I don't much care. It is what it is, a plain and indisputable fact. Yet even while staring into a mirror darkly, great and stunning truths begin to take shape. Our maladies define a central feature of our existence: We are fallen. We are imperfect. Our bodies give out.
But despite this, - or because of it, - God offers the possibility of salvation and grace. We don't know how the narrative of our lives will end, but we get to choose how to use the interval between now and the moment we meet our Creator face-to-face.
Second, we need to get past the anxiety. The mere thought of dying can send adrenaline flooding through your system. A dizzy, unfocused panic seizes you. Your heart thumps; your head swims. You think of nothingness and swoon. You fear partings; you worry about the impact on family and friends. You fidget and get nowhere.
To regain footing, remember that we were born not into death, but into life - and that the journey continues after we have finished our days on this earth. We accept this on faith, but that faith is nourished by a conviction that stirs even within many non believing hearts - an intuition that the gift of life, once given, cannot be taken away. Those who have been stricken enjoy the special privilege of being able to fight with their might, main, and faith to live fully, richly, and exuberantly - no matter how their days may be numbered.
Third, we can open our eyes and hearts. God relishes surprise. We want lives of simple, predictable ease,- smooth, even trails as far as the eye can see, - but God likes to go off-road. He provokes us with twists and turns. He places us in predicaments that seem to defy our endurance; and comprehension - and yet don't. By His love and grace, we persevere. The challenges that make our hearts leap and stomachs churn invariably strengthen our faith and grant measures of wisdom and joy we would not experience otherwise.
'You Have Been Called'. Picture yourself in a hospital bed. The fog of anesthesia has begun to wear away. A doctor stands at your feet; a loved one holds your hand at the side. 'It's cancer,' the healer announces.
The natural reaction is to turn to God and ask him to serve as a cosmic Santa. 'Dear God, make it all go away. Make everything simpler.' But another voice whispers: 'You have been called.' Your quandary has drawn you closer to God, closer to those you love, closer to the issues that matter, - and has dragged into insignificance the banal concerns that occupy our 'normal time.'
There's another kind of response, although usually short-lived an inexplicable shudder of excitement, as if a clarifying moment of calamity has swept away everything trivial and tiny, and placed before us the challenge of important questions.
The moment you enter the Valley of the Shadow of Death, things change. You discover that Christianity is not something doughy, passive, pious, and soft. Faith may be the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. But it also draws you into a world shorn of fearful caution. The life of belief teems with thrills, boldness, danger, shocks, reversals, triumphs, and epiphanies. Think of Paul, traipsing though the known world and contemplating trips to what must have seemed the antipodes (Spain), shaking the dust from his sandals, worrying not about the morrow, but only about the moment.
There's nothing wilder than a life of humble virtue, - for it is through selflessness and service that God wrings from our bodies and spirits the most we ever could give, the most we ever could offer, and the most we ever could do.
Finally, we can let love change everything. When Jesus was faced with the prospect of crucifixion, he grieved not for himself, but for us. He cried for Jerusalem before entering the holy city. From the Cross, he took on the cumulative burden of human sin and weakness, and begged for forgiveness on our behalf.
We get repeated chances to learn that life is not about us, that we acquire purpose and satisfaction by sharing in God's love for others. Sickness gets us part way there. It reminds us of our limitations and dependence. But it also gives us a chance to serve the healthy. A minister friend of mine observes that people suffering grave afflictions often acquire the faith of two people, while loved ones accept the burden of two peoples' worries and fears.
'Learning How to Live'. Most of us have watched friends as they drifted toward God's arms, not with resignation, but with peace and hope. In so doing, they have taught us not how to die, but how to live. They have emulated Christ by transmitting the power and authority of love.
I sat by my best friend's bedside a few years ago as a wasting cancer took him away. He kept at his table a worn Bible and a 1928 edition of the Book of Common Prayer. A shattering grief disabled his family, many of his old friends, and at least one priest. Here was an humble and very good guy, someone who apologized when he winced with pain because he thought it made his guest uncomfortable. He retained his equanimity and good humor literally until his last conscious moment. 'I'm going to try to beat [this cancer],' he told me several months before he died. 'But if I don't, I'll see you on the other side.'
His gift was to remind everyone around him that even though God doesn't promise us tomorrow, he does promise us eternity, - filled with life and love we cannot comprehend, - and that one can in the throes of sickness point the rest of us toward timeless truths that will help us weather future storms.
Through such trials, God bids us to choose: Do we believe, or do we not? Will we be bold enough to love, daring enough to serve, humble enough to submit, and strong enough to acknowledge our limitations? Can we surrender our concern in things that don't matter so that we might devote our remaining days to things that do?
When our faith flags, he throws reminders in our way. Think of the prayer warriors in our midst. They change things, and those of us who have been on the receiving end of their petitions and intercessions know it. It is hard to describe, but there are times when suddenly the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, and you feel a surge of the Spirit. Somehow you just know: Others have chosen, when talking to the Author of all creation, to lift us up, - to speak of us!
This is love of a very special order. But so is the ability to sit back and appreciate the wonder of every created thing. The mere thought of death somehow makes every blessing vivid, every happiness more luminous and intense. We may not know how our contest with sickness will end, but we have felt the ineluctable touch of God.
What is man that Thou art mindful of him? We don't know much, but we know this: No matter where we are, no matter what we do, no matter how bleak or frightening our prospects, each and every one of us who believe, each and every day, lies in the same safe and impregnable place, in the hollow of God's hand.'
October 2007
Tony went to be with the Lord June 12, 2008 . He had been a commentator and broadcaster for many years. In 2005 Tony announced that he had colon cancer. Following surgery and chemotherapy, he joined the Bush Administration in April 2006 as press secretary. Unfortunately, on March 23, 2007, Snow, 51, a husband and father of three, announced the cancer had recurred, with tumors found in his abdomen. That led to additional surgery and chemotherapy in April. Snow went back to work in the White House Briefing Room on May 30, but he later had to resign again, 'for economic reasons,' and to pursue 'other interests.'
SORRY I PUT THE TONY SNOW THING DOWN TWICE BUT HEY, IT'S WORTH READING 2 TIMES....
J.CONZA
Randy,
There will never be another you. It is so true that to have known you is to have loved you. I know that you are in a safe place, now, full of love and joy. Unfortunately for all of us left behind, we will continue to miss you until we meet again.
Thank you for all the memories & know that you'll always remain in my heart - love you always.
Sherri Bobar
I would like to extend my heartfelt and sincere condolences to the family of Randy. It is with great sadness that I'm writing this, upon hearing of his passing today.I will miss the sound of his voice as he would say my name and all of the great advice that he has given to me over the short period of time that we have conversed.I recall how happy he was when preparing to purchase his new condo, he would send me beautiful photos of the progression each week.Then, when he finally was able to move in, the excitement was clearly evident in his voice.I think that God brings people into your life for different reasons and for me, Randy exemplified everything that is beautiful in life...his personality, his spirit, his soothing words and his zest for life will surely be missed. Perhaps I was in denial, but I never thought this day would come and it leaves me heartbroken, but I know that he is not suffering and that gives me comfort. Randy, you will always be one in a million in my opinion. If only there were more people like you in the world, it would be a better place. Love Always!
It's hard to type through my tears but I have lost a good friend. This blog has introduced me to some friends of Randy that I didn't know as well as put me back in touch with friends from the past.
Randy touched a lot of people and made a difference in their lives. We are all diminished by his death but so much richer for having had the pleasure of his friendship.
Sleep well good buddy.
John
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