Cancer and the ringing of the bell

Day two, week three and of today a pleasant sight I did see.

When I arrived I noticed the waiting room totally packed.

My usual seat I could not find and ended up way in the back.

It was then I noticed a large group gathered around.

Smiling children, teenagers and adults both young and old alike.

And one was holding a trio of brightly colored balloons.

Laughter and smiles for once filled this often most somber place.

I thought of miracles, I thought of love and most of all, God’s abiding grace.

Soon an old man through the treatment room doors did appear.

The waiting room erupted in applause and jubilant cheers.

It was the ringing of the bell, a symbol that treatment for one is complete.

It signifies the end of this mans journey into being cancer free.

I’ve seen the bell ring only once before, but sadly he did this alone and headed home.

No family for him in which to gather around, no cheers, just a light applause from the strangers in the room.

Yet today you could feel the love drawn thick in the waiting rooms air.

Gathered in bunches stood a family together who in love showed their care.

Warm tears filled my eyes to see the joy of such a sight.

Genuine love; victory from ashes brought on by cancer’s plight.

When the old man was leaving he walked slowly by my way.

He could see my soft smile, he could see my tears and asked me how many treatments did I face.

He then put his big weather worn hand on my shoulder.

He said to me in a graveled but somehow gentle voice.

“ Son, put your trust in God and He will see you through the way.”

I turned and watched him as he and his family walked in smiles out the door.

I then heard my name called and I thought,

Lord, somehow for me also make the way that I too will someday ring the bell and in it all give You the praise.

J. Allen Wilson © 9/27/2011