Where do I find my
peace?
In our Resilience group last week, one of our fellow warriors risked a deeper level of authenticity by admitting she hadn’t yet experienced much peace amid her struggle with cancer. She then wondered aloud if she even truly knew what peace was, or what she should reasonably expect. Her candor prompted me to do a deeper dive on what it really looks like to experience the peace of Christ. I’ve compiled a few reflections below and I hope that these musings will prove helpful as you navigate your own journey toward living in this divine rest.
Let me begin with this: the peace of Christ really does offer a unique form of internal rest that stands in stark contrast to the temporary, surface-level tranquility achievable through human effort alone. We often strive to manufacture calmness through meticulous planning, avoidance of stress, or sheer force of will, and yet these attempts inevitably fall flat when life’s larger crises—illness, loss, or uncertainty—overwhelm our defenses. The peace promised by Christ, however, is a kind of divine stillness offered not as the result of having overcome all our problems, but as an enduring gift available precisely within them. It is a fundamental stability of the soul, a quiet confidence rooted in something external to our changing circumstances, providing a rest that the world simply cannot manufacture or revoke.
This calmness, often described as the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7), is supernatural in its origin. Unlike the exhaustion that follows great human striving, this divine peace brings an energized rest, an anchor for the soul that maintains its hold even when the waters of life are turbulent. It is a radical repose that reorients our inner world, allowing us to cease the fruitless mental labor of trying to control the uncontrollable. This experience liberates us from the treadmill of constant self-effort and anxiety management, inviting the heart to settle into a deep, foundational stillness that is sustained by grace, rather than more intensive personal grit.
But, let me be clear, the experience of Christ’s peace is not always easily accessed, nor is it a guarantee that all fear and doubt will vanish instantaneously simply because we want it to. Our human experience remains multi-layered and quite complex, meaning that true spiritual peace and real-world anxiety can, and often do, coexist within the same heart at the very same time.
And I believe it is also important to note that ongoing unsettledness is not a failure of faith, but a reflection of being human in a broken world; we are simultaneously resting in God’s sovereignty while wrestling with present difficulties. Therefore, the goal is not the total eradication of anxiety—an actual psychological impossibility—but rather the introduction of a profound, weight-bearing counterbalance that anchors the soul, preventing the anxiety from becoming overwhelmingly dominant.
To experience this transformative calm, I recently heard it presented this way: we are called to cultivate an inner posture of receiving, rather than achieving. If we can deliberately find and maintain places and practices (whether through contemplative prayer, focused breathing, or simple moments of gratitude) that allow the soul to “breathe,” then the peace of Christ can (and does) become the indominable fixture in our hearts.
The reward?
This deliberate act of creating space for God’s reassuring presence really does begin to change everything about our perspective, gradually transforming our default setting of apprehension and struggle to one of fundamental and unshakeable trust.
Lord help us to discover and live in that space.
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
“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’ve been thinking about faith lately and believing in the Lord’s promises. I can tell you with certainty that I don’t have it all figured out yet. But I’ve been pondering the idea of faith in the midst of hardship and waiting. We can all agree that God isn’t a magic genie who produces our wishes the instant we wish them…or the way we wish them…or sometimes at all.
So how does faith rise with that in mind?
It’s a really good question. One I might not fully understand on this side of glory. But here’s what I’ve learned so far. Timing is everything. Prayers I wish were answered now often aren’t because God sees the whole timeline. He understands the power in holding off until just the right time, when answering the prayer will do the most good with the most benefit to the most people. With my human eyes, I would never know the perfect time. God does.
His will also almost always involves bringing solutions to problems greater than just the one for which I’m specifically asking. There’s a verse in the Bible that references “the salvation of many”. That’s God’s supreme goal. That all should come to know Him. As hard and painful as it might be, I have to consider it all good when God invites me to participate in His plan. Even the plan I don’t fully see or might not ever see in its entirety.
That’s faith though, right?
Trusting in God with all and not leaning on my understanding, which is admittedly less than His. My prayer for you this week is that God would allow you insight into the hardship or the waiting you are experiencing right now. May He give you a glimpse of the glory He has planned for your situation. And may that glimpse only grow your faith more to trust Him with all your heart.
Caregivers Corner With
with Kathi Peters
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
When Caring Becomes Connection
One of the beautiful things about being a caregiver is realizing that your own experience can become a gift to others.
It’s easy to downplay what we do – wanting to avoid sounding proud on one hand or overwhelmed on the other. But the truth is: our stories matter.
I often get phone calls from people who want to hear about our journey and the choices we’ve made, since our approach hasn’t been the traditional one. We usually say yes, hoping that something we share might encourage or guide them along the way.
It can get very real and raw at times. Yesterday, we spent time with a man in his early seventies who has the same diagnosis as David. At times I found myself cringing as he described very personal details of his care – right down to repeated catheter insertions. I wanted to shout, “TMI!” But honestly, I think what he needed most was someone willing to listen. This journey can feel so lonely, can’t it?
This line from my morning devotional captured it beautifully: “When you need comfort, I love to enfold you in my arms. I enable you not only to feel comforted but also to be a channel through whom I comfort others. Thus you are doubly blessed, because a living channel absorbs some of whatever flows through it.”
Sometimes that means weeping with those who weep, and other times rejoicing with those who rejoice. Either way, it’s a privilege to share the road with others – because we never know how our openness and honesty might bring hope to someone else’s journey.
Worship Moment
with Joel Salabarria
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: Always On Time (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Elevation Worship (Bella Cordero)
From: “When Wind Meets Fire” (2024)
We’ve all experienced moments when the timing feels off, when answers are delayed, support feels absent, or hope seems faint. This song reminds us that even when we can’t see it, God is working and is present. This chorus wrecked me all last week:
Jesus,
I was tossed in the water,
but I never went under…
You were always on time.
Jesus,
When I went through the fire
You were right there beside me
You were always on time
You were always, always, always on time
And this bridge just lit me all the way up!
There’s never been a day, never been a minute,
Never been a moment that You weren’t in it.
When your path feels uncertain or your faith has been stretched, remember this: His timing isn’t our timing—and that’s a good thing. What looks like a delay might actually be a covering. What feels like empty space might be preparation. And what seems like a silent night might be the calm before His move.
So, take a deep breath and let this truth settle in your heart: You are not alone. You are not forgotten. He stepped into the storms you thought would swallow you, and He continues to do so every single time.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
I’m sure you have noticed it too.
Everything is speeding up, and that is why people talk about “redeeming the time.” But, when we do, it’s easy to picture an obsessive drive—filling every minute with productivity, sacrificing sleep, and chasing relentless goals.
That is not the point.
Redeeming the time isn’t about doing more things; it’s about doing the right things. It means recognizing that every moment is valuable currency that must be spent on what is most worthy.
For me, that boils down to doing things that matter with people I love for as long as possible.
I am discovering (and rediscovering) that this doesn’t happen by accident. It is intentional, I must constantly reassess what I am doing and why I’m doing it – and that reflection invariably leads me to shift my focus from busyness to meaningfulness:
- Prioritizing connection over convenience.
- Choosing presence over performance.
- Investing in people over projects.
So, while everything else is speeding up, I am working hard at slowing down and learning to pay better attention.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Healthy Pumpkin cream cheese dip
This is the easiest healthy, sweet snack and great to take to a party – and given the time of the year it definitely fits the season!
1 can pumpkin puree
8 oz cream cheese (sub plain Kit Hill for dairy free)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (sub dairy free if desired)
1 T pumpkin pie spice
2 T maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut sugar (you can skip this for less sweet)
1.5 tsp vanilla extract
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve with apples or graham crackers and ENJOY!
(Store leftovers in the refrigerator. You can make this up to 24 hours in advance.)
“My heart and flesh cry out for the living God…”
Psalm 84:2
Word of Encouragement
Attitude Check!
To Encourage (verb): to give support and hope to someone so they will do or continue to do something
We’ve all heard the statement: “Attitude is Everything!”
But I know there are days, especially when confronted with the weight of everything going on in the world (on top of our own health challenges), where remaining positive feels incredibly difficult, even unrealistic.
It is a most legitimate question: What gives us a reason to be optimistic and hopeful?
The answer, I believe, lies in this fundamental realization: our situation does not have to determine our orientation toward it.
Hope isn’t a feeling granted by easy circumstances; it’s a choice we make DESPITE them. We retain the power to decide how we will greet our day, how we will treat the people around us, and the direction of our next steps.
Once we settle this internal fact that our external circumstances do not dictate the disposition of our spirit we can indeed face the day with renewed energy, a genuine smile, and a definite skip in our step… and as a result, coloring the world around us a bit more brightly!
A Story You Don't Want To Miss!
I know almost everyone has a reason to celebrate their mothers, and I am certainly no exception. But for me, her story goes beyond her role as the beloved matriarch of our family; she is a hero in her own right, a living testament to resilience as a WWII POW survivor. Listening to her share her harrowing journey again recently, I couldn’t help but draw profound connections to the long, difficult healing process so many of us face as cancer warriors. Her story—the strength she found in recovery and the determination to keep living—has become a powerful and personal blueprint for me as I navigate my own battle for survival and healing, and maybe you will fin it equally inspiring.
If you have a 30-minute drive somewhere, I recommend you give it a listen, I promise, you will not be disappointed.
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
Experiencing a cancer diagnosis is obviously a profound personal setback, and the added weight of self-blame can make it feel even heavier. While it’s natural to reflect on past choices and wonder if you have contributed to our own illness, getting stuck in a cycle of self-condemnation is a separate matter altogether. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings of guilt and remorse without letting them define you or impede your journey toward healing. This involves taking a thoughtful and compassionate approach to your past.
The first step in processing this guilt is to separate accountability from condemnation. It’s helpful to own the reality that some past behaviors may have been unhealthy, but this is an entirely different concept from believing you deserve this illness. You can acknowledge, for example, that a long-term smoking habit increased your risk of lung cancer without believing you are a bad person or that this is a form of punishment. True ownership means recognizing the consequences of past actions and committing to better choices moving forward. This is a path of learning and growth, not a cycle of shame.
The goal – and this is really important – is to shift your focus from “Why was I so foolish?” to “What can I do now?”
Next, it is vital to learn and practice self-compassion and forgiveness. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t speak to a friend with a similar diagnosis in a harsh and condemning way; instead you would offer them kindness and empathy. You must extend that same grace to yourself. Forgiveness isn’t about excusing past mistakes; it’s about releasing yourself from the burden of carrying them. You are a person who made certain choices – and yes, maybe some were unwise and irresponsible – but your diagnosis is not meant to define your worth. I am speaking to you as one who has had to work through these very same feelings.
I have resumed my journaling practice to process and release feelings of guilt. I also rely on spiritual friends and counselors for support, as they serve as vital extensions of grace and peace. When I feel stuck, they provide valuable insight and strength, helping me navigate my journey with greater clarity and compassion.
In summary, processing the guilt associated with a cancer diagnosis is a journey of intentional release and radical self-compassion. The key is to avoid the trap of self-blame by embracing accountability and then choosing to extend grace to yourself. By separating past actions from your current worth, you can free yourself from the weight of condemnation and focus your energy on healing, both emotionally and physically. Ultimately, this allows you to reclaim your own narrative and move forward with purpose and peace.
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus…
Romans 8:1
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
“And Boaz said to the elders and all the people, “You are witnesses this day that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s, and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s, from the hand of Naomi. Moreover, Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of Mahlon, I have acquired as my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead through his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brethren and from his position at the gate. You are witnesses this day.”
Ruth 4:9-10
I’ve been studying the book of Ruth for a few weeks now. If you haven’t visited it lately, it really is such a beautiful, engaging story. I encourage you to go back and read it. The thing that keeps stirring in my mind is the idea Boaz was a “kinsman-redeemer”. Now, I admit I don’t understand all the ins and outs of this custom but what I do know is he had the responsibility within his family lineage to step in and care for a deceased relative’s family. He would keep watch care and provide for that family. It’s quite a role, honestly. Quite a responsibility.
The interesting part of the story is who he redeemed. Yes, he redeemed Naomi. And consider all he redeemed her from – a life alone, poor, bitter, without a husband or children. In every way that matters, he redeemed her future. But he also redeemed Ruth, who wasn’t even from his tribe or culture – or faith, for that matter. But he was gracious and saw a picture so much bigger than even Ruth herself imagined. He redeemed her past and her present and secured her a beautiful future full of children and grandchildren. It really is something.
As beautiful as Boaz’s redemption was, it points to an even greater redemption. It’s also a foreshadowing of all Jesus would do for us. He is OUR kinsman-redeemer. The only one who could possibly save us from our past, stand with us in our present and give us a future worth living – Jesus did it all. In light of the story of Ruth, I’m so in awe (again) of Jesus. I pray this week you would have that sense of awe too, knowing that your kinsman-redeemer holds every part of your life in his hands and is planning extraordinary, beautiful things for you.
Caregivers Corner With
Four Things to Remember
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
When you’re helping someone else, it’s easy to get so caught up in their needs that you neglect your own. But as the old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. To be truly effective in helping others, you have to prioritize your own well-being.
Here are four things to remember to take care of yourself:
1. Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, It’s Necessary
Change your mindset. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a vital part of caring for someone else. Think of it like a marathon – you can’t finish the race if you don’t refuel. Simple, consistent actions like getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking short breaks can prevent burnout and help you stay strong for the long haul.
2. Set and Enforce Clear Boundaries
Be realistic about how much you can give and communicate those limits. It’s okay to say no to certain requests or to take a break when you need it. By setting healthy boundaries, you protect your own emotional and physical health and prevent resentment. You’re teaching others how to treat you and ensuring your support is sustainable.
3. Ask for Help and Accept It
You are not meant to do this alone. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Many people want to help but don’t know how. Be specific. Instead of saying, “I need help,” try saying, “Can you bring a meal on Tuesday?” or “Could you sit with them for an hour so I can go for a walk?” When help is offered, accept it gracefully.
4. Find Moments of Joy and Connection
It’s easy to get lost in the challenges, but it’s crucial to intentionally seek out joy and stay connected to things that matter to you. Whether it’s a hobby you love, a favorite song, or a few minutes of quiet reflection, these small moments recharge your emotional batteries. Remember who you are outside of this role and make time to connect with friends or family who can support you.
Worship Moment
with Joel Salabarria
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: Back To You (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Michael Mudoh
From: “Back To You” (2025)
Sometimes the path feels unclear, but grace was guiding you the whole time. Every detour, every delay and even the silence, was God gently leading you back to His heart. Not because you earned it, or had pity for you, but because He never stopped loving you.
Let’s get back to HIM!
What if the prayers I prayed
Weren’t really meant for me
Cause My heart can lead me astray
You know what I really need
And the times that You told me to wait
Cause there’s more for me to see
So now I see
Lord it was You
Leading me to You
And I know it’s true
There’s nothing I can do
With you
You always lead back to You
Please help us out…
Take the Survey
To Encourage (noun): to give support and hope to someone so that they will do or continue to do something.
As we begin our third year of sharing stories through the Black Sheep Messenger and The Healing Chronicle, we’d love to hear from you. Yes… even you! Thank you for being willing…
Your feedback will help us understand what content is most helpful and meaningful to you, and what you’d like to see more of in the future.
If you haven’t already done so, please take a few moments to answer our quick, six-question survey. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated and will help shape the future of our newsletters.
Link HERE.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Time for another of my favorite recipes, and with football season here, this is a snack favorite. Enjoy (guilt free) with MASA seed oil free Tortilla Chips!
Avocado Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 avocado
–
1 clove of garlic
– 1 small bunch of cilantro
– 1/4 onion
– 1 Tbsp salt
– Juice of 1 lemon
– a pinch of cayenne pepper
– 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
Add all ingredients into a blender. Squeeze in the lemon juice, add salt and blend with water until you reach a creamy consistency.
The Serenity Prayer
To Pray (verb): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
While many are familiar with the Serenity Prayer, not many are familiar with its history. Over the years the prayer has been attributed to several great Christian thinkers including Thomas Aquinas, Augustine and Francis of Assis, but it was actually written less than a century ago in a cottage in western Massachusetts.
Reinhold Niebuhr was born the son of a German American pastor in Wright City, Missouri. He later became a pastor himself, serving a congregation in Detroit before moving to New York to teach at Union Theological Seminary, where he gained recognition as a theologian, activist and social critic. His brother, H. Robert Niebuhr, a well-known ethicist and theologian is best known as a founder of Christian Realism an approach to ethics grounded in the insight that human beings are called to strive toward their highest moral ideals, while recognizing our inability to fully achieve them. Richard writings deeply influenced his brother Reinhold who also had a poetic flair. And his infamous prayer beautifully captured the heart of Christian realism.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
I believe that starting the day with intention is crucial for setting ourselves up for success.
And I will concede that a good cup of coffee certainly helps, however, I’m becoming increasingly convinced that it takes more than that to prepare for the day’s challenges.
In fact, I have become very particular about thoughts and practices that begin my day.
My current routine is built around a very meaningful set of rituals. And yes, it starts with a good cup of coffee, but also includes reading, praying, stretching, plunging, and walking.
Beyond these physical practices, I find it helpful (even strategic) to make a definitive personal commitment (early in the day) to stay alert to the leadings and promptings of the Spirit throughout the day.
Because my daily purpose must be about something more than just making check marks on a to-do list; it must be about being present, open, and responsive to what truly matters.
Helping people…
Cultivating character…
Engaging in redemptive action…
Gaining the applause of heaven…
Quick Reminder
We have room for two more people in the Building Resilience Course. We had our orientation class this past Sunday, but you can still be a part! You can find out more HERE.
If you are ready to sign up please send a note to my executive assistant Jennifer <[email protected]> and she will get you everything you need.
Also, don’t forget, newsletter recipients got $150 discount off their registration fee, and scholarships are available!
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
Experiencing a cancer diagnosis is obviously a profound personal setback, and the added weight of self-blame can make it feel even heavier. While it’s natural to reflect on past choices and wonder if you have contributed to our own illness, getting stuck in a cycle of self-condemnation is a separate matter altogether. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings of guilt and remorse without letting them define you or impede your journey toward healing. This involves taking a thoughtful and compassionate approach to your past.
The first step in processing this guilt is to separate accountability from condemnation. It’s helpful to own the reality that some past behaviors may have been unhealthy, but this is an entirely different concept from believing you deserve this illness. You can acknowledge, for example, that a long-term smoking habit increased your risk of lung cancer without believing you are a bad person or that this is a form of punishment. True ownership means recognizing the consequences of past actions and committing to better choices moving forward. This is a path of learning and growth, not a cycle of shame.
The goal – and this is really important – is to shift your focus from “Why was I so foolish?” to “What can I do now?”
Next, it is vital to learn and practice self-compassion and forgiveness. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t speak to a friend with a similar diagnosis in a harsh and condemning way; instead you would offer them kindness and empathy. You must extend that same grace to yourself. Forgiveness isn’t about excusing past mistakes; it’s about releasing yourself from the burden of carrying them. You are a person who made certain choices – and yes, maybe some were unwise and irresponsible – but your diagnosis is not meant to define your worth. I am speaking to you as one who has had to work through these very same feelings.
I have resumed my journaling practice to process and release feelings of guilt. I also rely on spiritual friends and counselors for support, as they serve as vital extensions of grace and peace. When I feel stuck, they provide valuable insight and strength, helping me navigate my journey with greater clarity and compassion.
In summary, processing the guilt associated with a cancer diagnosis is a journey of intentional release and radical self-compassion. The key is to avoid the trap of self-blame by embracing accountability and then choosing to extend grace to yourself. By separating past actions from your current worth, you can free yourself from the weight of condemnation and focus your energy on healing, both emotionally and physically. Ultimately, this allows you to reclaim your own narrative and move forward with purpose and peace.
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus…
Romans 8:1
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
“And Boaz said to the elders and all the people, “You are witnesses this day that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s, and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s, from the hand of Naomi. Moreover, Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of Mahlon, I have acquired as my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead through his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brethren and from his position at the gate. You are witnesses this day.”
Ruth 4:9-10
I’ve been studying the book of Ruth for a few weeks now. If you haven’t visited it lately, it really is such a beautiful, engaging story. I encourage you to go back and read it. The thing that keeps stirring in my mind is the idea Boaz was a “kinsman-redeemer”. Now, I admit I don’t understand all the ins and outs of this custom but what I do know is he had the responsibility within his family lineage to step in and care for a deceased relative’s family. He would keep watch care and provide for that family. It’s quite a role, honestly. Quite a responsibility.
The interesting part of the story is who he redeemed. Yes, he redeemed Naomi. And consider all he redeemed her from – a life alone, poor, bitter, without a husband or children. In every way that matters, he redeemed her future. But he also redeemed Ruth, who wasn’t even from his tribe or culture – or faith, for that matter. But he was gracious and saw a picture so much bigger than even Ruth herself imagined. He redeemed her past and her present and secured her a beautiful future full of children and grandchildren. It really is something.
As beautiful as Boaz’s redemption was, it points to an even greater redemption. It’s also a foreshadowing of all Jesus would do for us. He is OUR kinsman-redeemer. The only one who could possibly save us from our past, stand with us in our present and give us a future worth living – Jesus did it all. In light of the story of Ruth, I’m so in awe (again) of Jesus. I pray this week you would have that sense of awe too, knowing that your kinsman-redeemer holds every part of your life in his hands and is planning extraordinary, beautiful things for you.
Caregivers Corner With
Four Things to Remember
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
When you’re helping someone else, it’s easy to get so caught up in their needs that you neglect your own. But as the old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. To be truly effective in helping others, you have to prioritize your own well-being.
Here are four things to remember to take care of yourself:
1. Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, It’s Necessary
Change your mindset. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a vital part of caring for someone else. Think of it like a marathon – you can’t finish the race if you don’t refuel. Simple, consistent actions like getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking short breaks can prevent burnout and help you stay strong for the long haul.
2. Set and Enforce Clear Boundaries
Be realistic about how much you can give and communicate those limits. It’s okay to say no to certain requests or to take a break when you need it. By setting healthy boundaries, you protect your own emotional and physical health and prevent resentment. You’re teaching others how to treat you and ensuring your support is sustainable.
3. Ask for Help and Accept It
You are not meant to do this alone. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Many people want to help but don’t know how. Be specific. Instead of saying, “I need help,” try saying, “Can you bring a meal on Tuesday?” or “Could you sit with them for an hour so I can go for a walk?” When help is offered, accept it gracefully.
4. Find Moments of Joy and Connection
It’s easy to get lost in the challenges, but it’s crucial to intentionally seek out joy and stay connected to things that matter to you. Whether it’s a hobby you love, a favorite song, or a few minutes of quiet reflection, these small moments recharge your emotional batteries. Remember who you are outside of this role and make time to connect with friends or family who can support you.
Worship Moment
with Joel Salabarria
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: Back To You (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Michael Mudoh
From: “Back To You” (2025)
Sometimes the path feels unclear, but grace was guiding you the whole time. Every detour, every delay and even the silence, was God gently leading you back to His heart. Not because you earned it, or had pity for you, but because He never stopped loving you.
Let’s get back to HIM!
What if the prayers I prayed
Weren’t really meant for me
Cause My heart can lead me astray
You know what I really need
And the times that You told me to wait
Cause there’s more for me to see
So now I see
Lord it was You
Leading me to You
And I know it’s true
There’s nothing I can do
With you
You always lead back to You
Please help us out…
Take the Survey
To Encourage (noun): to give support and hope to someone so that they will do or continue to do something.
As we begin our third year of sharing stories through the Black Sheep Messenger and The Healing Chronicle, we’d love to hear from you. Yes… even you! Thank you for being willing…
Your feedback will help us understand what content is most helpful and meaningful to you, and what you’d like to see more of in the future.
If you haven’t already done so, please take a few moments to answer our quick, six-question survey. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated and will help shape the future of our newsletters.
Link HERE.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Time for another of my favorite recipes, and with football season here, this is a snack favorite. Enjoy (guilt free) with MASA seed oil free Tortilla Chips!
Avocado Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 avocado
– 1 clove of garlic
– 1 small bunch of cilantro
– 1/4 onion
– 1 Tbsp salt
– Juice of 1 lemon
– a pinch of cayenne pepper
– 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
Add all ingredients into a blender. Squeeze in the lemon juice, add salt and blend with water until you reach a creamy consistency.
The Serenity Prayer
To Pray (verb): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
While many are familiar with the Serenity Prayer, not many are familiar with its history. Over the years the prayer has been attributed to several great Christian thinkers including Thomas Aquinas, Augustine and Francis of Assis, but it was actually written less than a century ago in a cottage in western Massachusetts.
Reinhold Niebuhr was born the son of a German American pastor in Wright City, Missouri. He later became a pastor himself, serving a congregation in Detroit before moving to New York to teach at Union Theological Seminary, where he gained recognition as a theologian, activist and social critic. His brother, H. Robert Niebuhr, a well-known ethicist and theologian is best known as a founder of Christian Realism an approach to ethics grounded in the insight that human beings are called to strive toward their highest moral ideals, while recognizing our inability to fully achieve them. Richard writings deeply influenced his brother Reinhold who also had a poetic flair. And his infamous prayer beautifully captured the heart of Christian realism.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
I believe that starting the day with intention is crucial for setting ourselves up for success.
And I will concede that a good cup of coffee certainly helps, however, I’m becoming increasingly convinced that it takes more than that to prepare for the day’s challenges.
In fact, I have become very particular about thoughts and practices that begin my day.
My current routine is built around a very meaningful set of rituals. And yes, it starts with a good cup of coffee, but also includes reading, praying, stretching, plunging, and walking.
Beyond these physical practices, I find it helpful (even strategic) to make a definitive personal commitment (early in the day) to stay alert to the leadings and promptings of the Spirit throughout the day.
Because my daily purpose must be about something more than just making check marks on a to-do list; it must be about being present, open, and responsive to what truly matters.
Helping people…
Cultivating character…
Engaging in redemptive action…
Gaining the applause of heaven…
Quick Reminder
We have room for two more people in the Building Resilience Course. We had our orientation class this past Sunday, but you can still be a part! You can find out more HERE.
If you are ready to sign up please send a note to my executive assistant Jennifer <[email protected]> and she will get you everything you need.
Also, don’t forget, newsletter recipients got $150 discount off their registration fee, and scholarships are available!
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
