Life’s journey sent Margaret "Marge" Barnhart on a search for identity and control. As a child, a daughter, and a sister, she explored and challenged. Her years of education included advanced degrees in Elementary Education (Capital University), Guidance and Counseling (Miami University), and Art Therapy (Wright State University). The 28 years of her first marriage included mothering two sons who are now grown and have children, many household moves to accommodate her husband’s job desires, full-time work in a number of Ohio school systems, and extensive travel.
Chaos resulted when her contract as a counselor was non-renewed. She lost self-esteem and became depressed. Then she was devoured by breast cancer and its treatment. Suddenly, the accumulation of wisdom and experience was inadequate in regard to her religious beliefs and value system. 1988 was the year she was approved for disability retirement at the age of 48.
Coming back from the brink of despair, she now looks to the future with the light of God on her shoulder. Looking in the mirror conveys her submission to a spiritual identity and fully accepting herself as a child of God. This is the peace that passes all understanding.
Marge has been married to Charlie Barnhart for 20 years. They have lived in Tucson, Arizona, since 1998, where the blue skies and warmer climate are kind to their well-being.
Be sure to follow Marge at EzineArticles.com as she is writing a series of articles titled "Waiting for a Diagnosis – Is It Cancer?" Pass the link on to anyone you know who might be awaiting a diagnosis.