What does a hurricane like Katrina have in common with cancer?

Among other things, both raise the "Why?" question.

Why do natural disasters come along and rob people of their homes, their jobs and even their lives? Why do our own cells sometimes multiply out of control like an invading army?

It's only human to ask "Why?" during life's storms.

We've been doing it for millennia. "Why are you far away, Lord?" the Biblical Psalmist cries. "Why do you hide yourself when I am in trouble?" (Contemporary English Version)

Beneath the "Why?" question can lie other questions: How can I protect myself? Whom or what can I trust -- and what can I trust him/her/it for? How can I find meaning in what I'm going through?

The questions can feel like a dark, gnawing emptiness.

Some of us find answers through religion or philosophy. Others learn to live with the mystery.

The key is to find something of ultimate importance that allows us to live in trust.

We may or may not understand "Why?" and yet each of us can seek something beautiful and good to see us through.

We might develop faith in a love that holds us through this life and beyond. Or we might believe in the overarching goodness of a universe that is still unfolding.

Or we might appreciate deeply the gift of being alive.

Our enduring vision will then see us through the storm and help us compassionately light the way for others.

(c) Norma Schmidt

Norma Schmidt, M.A., M.Div., is a former Lutheran minister with experience as a cancer center chaplain. Her writing has appeared in "Coping with Cancer" magazine, and she is the former co-host of the "Inspired Survivor" Internet radio show for people with cancer and their families. Her free six-week e-course, "Tapping the Power Within: Spiritual Tools for Living with Cancer," is available at http://www.MyCancerSupportCoach.com