Dear Student,

You are an amazing kid. Your mom has done a fabulous job. When you walk into a room, you are noticed. You make a difference. You matter. People look up to you, as they should. Not just because you are a star athlete or the class clown, but because you make everyone else feel like they matter too. You have been so incredibly gifted. Don’t take that for granted.

I know you’re going through some tough stuff. Stuff I would never wish on any one… and you’re just a teenager, supposed to get through it on your own. I know sometimes you don’t think you can, but I’m telling you that you can… and you will. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, but you are strong and will be so much stronger because of the adversity you’ve faced.

Never give up. You can do anything-be anyone you want to be. You have the potential to change the world. Your mom knows it, the coaches know it, your classmates know it, I know it. I also know it will be hard, the hardest thing you’ll ever face, but don’t let it break you. Don’t let it change your faith. Don’t question our Maker.

Because God’s will is not the path we walk (not the adversities we face), but rather how we walk the path, how we get through the adversities. 

You’re going to experience pain… that comes from living, from life; it’s inevitable. But His will is for you to draw close to him in your suffering. Just know that He did not cause your pain. God’s plan is never to give someone cancer or make someone suffer. He’s not the one causing your hurt; in fact, He’s hurting with you. So draw near to Him, seek comfort in Him, and learn from Him. It’s going to hurt like hell, but you will survive because you are human; you are resilient. And you will learn from this suffering. How you respond, how you persevere… that is God’s will.

Use this tragedy as a motivation. Make her proud, prouder than you ever thought you could. Do it for her, do it for God, do it for you.

And if you need any help along the way, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, a pillow to punch, or a hand to pray… you know where to find me. We are always rooting for you, cheering for you, praying for you… Keep your head up. You’ll always have a #1 fan here.

-Mrs. R

Father God,

I come to you with a heavy heart full of worry and care. You said to trust you with our burdens, because you are our rock and our shield. My student needs a rock right now, a fortress. He needs you. Forgive us for thinking we have any control in these situations. I know you created him for a purpose and you have a plan so great for his life. Help him to walk by faith and trust in your plan despite the struggles life throws at him. Wrap your ever-loving arms around him and comfort him in his despair and times of need. Let him know he’s not alone and that with you, he will be okay.

I ask all of this in Jesus’ holy name, Amen.