“I realized my cancer was bigger than me and that I couldn’t control the outcome. So I put it in the Lord’s hands. And at that moment, I felt a peace like I’d never felt before. And I’ve felt that peace ever since.”
You can sense that peace when you’re around Jim Wiley, a Vietnam veteran and cancer survivor. He personifies calm.
Jim discovered that peace when he was about to undergo surgery for Stage IV cancer. It was in the 1980’s – normally a diagnosis like Jim’s was a “go home and get your affairs in order” moment. But not for Jim – life had bigger plans for him.
He has shared that peace to so many other Vietnam veterans. And with the help of Jill Connor Brown and the Sweet Potato Queens, he helped get the welcome-home parade they so richly deserved.
Jim’s quiet faith helped him help others.
A little known fact: I am a doubting Thomas. Seriously. I’ve had doubts about my career, doubts about my health and more doubts about a whole list of things. I am a Jedi-Master of worry. And most of it is stuff I have absolutely no control over.
Doubt is nothing more than fear’s straitjacket.
Yesterday, I took a brief pause and looked at my last two weeks. I have been able to do some amazing things. I’ve emceed a Tedx Talk. I’ve spent hours on the floor at Mistletoe meeting new people and sharing the gift of Banjo’s spirit. I’ve shared a great football game with good friends. I’ve met with students from all across Mississippi. I’ve have had amazing people say amazing things about me. I have watched my sons excel at sports and school. I’ve seen my wife succeed at her job. I have been wrapped in blessings. I’ve truly lived a wonderful life.
And yet I worry.
No more. I am turning my worry over like Jim Wiley did. I am letting go of my fears and anxieties. I’m going to enjoy every moment.
This morning, we listened to Christmas music as we were getting ready for work and school. And for the first time in a long time, I felt joy. I felt peace. I felt worry dissolve away.
Jim Wiley shared his peace with me. And for that, I am thankful.
This is beautiful. Thanks.