How Traumatic Events Can Change Your Life: Here’s What Changed In Mine!

After receiving the devastating news that I have a brain tumor, my doctor immediately prescribed me medication to help reduce the pain and to stop the possible tumor growth until my surgery date, which was scheduled less than 2 months away. Taking daily medicines was new for me, and the side effect was annoying because it made me physically feel different. I started noticing changes about a week after being on them which include, always hungry, tired, and a slight weight gain. But, a significant area that changed was my sleeping habit.

I ‘m not sure if it's medication induce or God giving me purpose, but I tend to wake up earlier than usual now. No matter of the time I go to bed, I wake up between 4:30 am and 5:00 am every morning. I have no idea why or what is provoking me to get up that early every single morning, without an alarm clock may I add. But, I know it’s a reason behind it!

What changed about me since receiving the message about the tumor?

Well...Let me tell you.

(1) Found My Purpose: Since I've been getting up earlier, I've been more purpose driven. I don't know why. At first, I wasn't sure if it was God whispering in my ear, telling me it's more to life or I'm just scared to death and want to make a name for myself. But now I know, it's God-driven. He has been speaking to me to get things done and start walking with meaning. The Bible says. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." I trust Him fully, and it's to the point I'm in the driver seat but allowed him to take the steering wheel, and I'm enjoying the ride. It's a fantastic feeling.

I can tell you that when you’re going through traumatic life experience, you tend to reflect on everything you’re doing and start soul searching. You may ask yourself questions like, What’s my purpose? Why am I here? I’ve been trying to put more thought into my life and how I want the rest of it to go. And I've noticed I need to make changes. I need to start living with a purpose and stop spending time on meanless things. Also, I need to start spending more time with loved ones and make more memories. You never know how long you have on this earth so it’s important to live life as it’s your last. I have about 20 days left until surgery, what impacts can I make?

(2) Focused on Goals: I could quickly turn on Netflix and start binge-watching a new TV series before work, but what's the point. When I wake up, the first thing I start doing is having Thanksgiving with Him. I thank Him for everything thing He's been blessing me with. It's because of Him I am here and still kicking. Next, I start writing down the tasks I need to accomplish for the day in my planner. Usually, I start working on these tasks once I get to the office. But, the biggest thing I do during this time is I read or write for about 1.5 hrs. During the last month of my body being on this schedule, I’ve read 3 books and been studying the bible more. Les Bryant stated, "If you take responsibility for yourself, you will develop a hunger to accomplish your dreams." I have a hungry to educate myself and get closer to Him. I feel He allotted this time on the side for that reason only because He's waking me up at the crack on dawn.

(3) At Peace: I think I’m more humble and relaxed since receiving the news. I don’t want to stress about anything. Why? Because life is short. I remember listening to a sermon the pastor talked about how he has 3 kids. All the kids are different, have different attitude, interest, and goals. With all the different personalities floating around he prays for peace all the time. But, with his prayers, he knows nothing is perfect, and he should accept what's coming from God. Therefore, if one kid clean his room, remain respectful for the day and listen, he’s super happy and finds peace in that. Because he knows nothing is perfect and he will never have everyone under the same roof on the same page. It’s pretty much impossible. I think I’m on this level. I try to be at peace and joyful all the time. I try not to let things bother me that are not in my control. I try not to pay attention to "issues" now if it doesn’t impact my priorities is my family, health, and well-being.

Why am I sharing this message? What's the purpose?

Sometimes in life, we go through a traumatic experience, or we just wake up and want to change ourselves for the better. If you ever hear God speaking to you, listen. Revelation 3:20 says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and eat with him, and he with me." Open the door folks. Please open the door.