Life's Little Surprises.

So, there are no pictures for this post, but more of an emotional release for me. I just found out yesterday that one of my dear friends has cancer on one of her kidneys. I don't know all of the details except that the recommendation is to have the kidney removed along with several other spots that are present on her lungs and liver. As I sat and listened to her say this I cried with her on her couch and wondered ( as I always do when life throws these things at us) why there is so much pain and suffering. However...she is so upbeat and positive about everything and there are so many things to be grateful for that pain and suffering can't really be the focus. I haven't known her very long and we are at total opposites of the spectrum of life. I am 28 with 3 small children and she is retired with 2 grown daughters and 5 grandchildren. But of this I am certain - we were friends in the pre-existence. I love her and I pray for her daily. The one thing that killed me, other than that fear of the unknown is that she was concerned about not being able to watch my children grow up. She is not a member of the church, but such a good person! So, today as a tribute for November and being thankful- I am thankful for life's little surprises that make me grateful for things I often take for granted. I am especially grateful for her and her upbeat positive attitude on life - why can we not all be that way?