SuperGod

It's been almost 1 year since I learned that the eldest adorable Boyd brother was fighting lymphoma.

I joined Team Boyd, much like I did Team Caroline just a few months earlier - - without a second thought.

Both Caroline and David were "different" and always have been, even since the early days at RCHS.  Anyone who has had the privilege of knowing them knows this, they are beyond special, way beyond.  I guess cancer picks the most elite of potential prospects.

With the forming of Team Boyd came an outpouring of love and support from friends, family and total strangers.  If you heard about this family, you instantly wanted to help and so help we did in any way possible.  We were on our knees for them, gave contributions, sent treats to the hospital, donated platelets and attended Team Boyd events.

For the first eight months of the fight I heard a lot about Superman.  First, from David and then from all of us on Team Boyd.  The giant S became synonymous with David and the journey to remission.  He was strong and brave, never wavering in his ability to "kick cancer's a$$" - - even running on the treadmill at the hospital as doctors questioned whether he was actually the patient.  We affectionately referred to his bride, Lisa as Lois Lane...and so David "Superman" Boyd became our modern day hero.

In our great efforts to encourage and spur him on, something amazing happened, he spurred us on even more.  We began to see our problems and concerns as minuscule and developed an amazing gift called perspective.  His positivity was simply infectious.  We could not get enough.  Every few days, we'd check the blog or David's wall to see how his optimism would encourage us yet again and we encouraged him in return.  As we were rallying behind our amazing man of steel, Superman himself sought the God of the universe for help.

Rebekah, Andrew and I sat with him in early November as he told us how he had really come to know Christ, personally.  He explained to us,

"I mean, I've been an elder and very involved in my church but never really realized how I needed Him...that Superman stuff, it's not about me, it's about God. It's really amazing, I've never known Him like this before."

I'll forever cherish those words, what a testimony he has.  We delighted in his account of a real salvation experience.  Superman has a personal relationship with God. That day, David was no longer simply our precious longtime friend, but now, also our sweet brother in Christ.

Thank you, Lord.

In the weeks that followed, others came to know Jesus personally and shared their experience with David who was humbled by their stories, old friends were reunited in David's name, new friends were made, we gave more platelets, we watched an awesome family hurt but hunker down all the while and we continued to pray and believe for the miracle of healing - - not really realizing the miracle we already had in our midsts.

Nevertheless, the thing that stands out most for me is that our precious David is in the arms of Jesus today.  He's not hurting or suffering but totally renewed and whole.  I can't imagine the pep rally that is going on in heaven.  Really.  David was especially excited to see his grandfather again (and I hope my beloved Baba (grandmother) is also welcoming him into the fold and giving him the grand tour even now).

Thanks to David, I have learned that giving platelets is the least I can do.  Thanks to David, I have a whole new outlook on life, it's just not about me and my own abilities.  I must seek Him in all things.  Thanks to David, I have renewed a sweet friendship with the most amazing Mom on the planet, Sheila Boyd.  Thanks to David I have learned to cherish each day like it's my last.

It has been an honor my friend.  Your 37 years made an indelible mark on our hearts and if it's ok, we all want to be just like you in every way possible.  Thank you for letting us love you.  No goodbyes my friend, see you in heaven.  <3

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."   
Matthew 5:14-16