Embracing the Sacred Journey

Since the last issue of Sisterhood Magazine, my world has shifted dramatically. On March 5th, my dad passed away following a brief but brutal battle with oral cancer. Though the timing was short, it was a mercy in many ways. The cancer was aggressive, and watching him in pain—feeling powerless to ease his suffering—was one of the hardest things I’ve ever endured.

My love language is acts of service, so in his final months, I poured everything I had into caring for him. I tried to anticipate his needs before he voiced them, hoping that in small ways, I could bring comfort when there were no words.

Through that painful season, I discovered unexpected blessings. Not because they were obvious, but because I looked for them. I needed hope. I clung to prayer, to positivity, and to the promises of God. My dad, ever steady, told me more than once that he wasn’t afraid. He had lived a good life. He was loved, and he knew exactly where he was going. That quiet confidence gave me peace.

We had the gift of open conversations in those last months—saying everything that needed to be said. That brought a sense of closure, though the ache of losing his physical presence is deeper than I imagined. I still grieve. Some days, I cry “for no apparent reason.” But I’ve learned to offer myself grace. I talk to my dad and to Jesus daily, trusting they are guiding my steps. And in that trust, there is peace.

What a blessing it is now to sit with my mother, helping her grieve the loss of her husband of 45 years. We share stories, laugh about his pranks, and remember how he loved to spark a good debate. Those memories carry us.

I’m deeply thankful my parents pre-planned their memorial services. In grief, it’s overwhelming to make decisions when your heart just wants one more conversation—to ask what song they’d want played or which photos to include in the slideshow.

That thought prompted me to begin making my own list for my celebration of life. Choosing the music now feels like a way to share my heart with those I’ll someday leave behind. Through it, I hope to speak life, love, and legacy.

My dad is whole now—healthy, joyful, dancing with Jesus. I imagine him watching over us, smiling at how much we miss him. Some days, I feel closer to him now than ever. I drive the old truck he gave me, and I picture him beside me, laughing at my chatter and cheering me on.

Cherish your moments. Love your people well. Make memories that echo through generations.

And know this—when you live with purpose, the legacy you leave will speak volumes.

"Dawn Candy is an entrepreneur, a community leader and an avid volunteer for causes near and dear to her heart. After experiencing several life changing events, and each time rising above her circumstances, Dawn began to share her experiences with her community to create awareness for subjects rarely discussed. Fueled by the passion to help others avoid the pain and suffering she has experienced; she understands how powerful sharing her story can be for herself and others. Using her voice, Dawn welcomes the opportunity to speak to groups large and small to equip and empower them to rise above the challenges life throws their way to live a life beyond overcoming, a life of thriving." dawn@ipromoteyou.biz

In Beyond Overcoming: The Journey to What's Next, you will embark on an inspiring voyage of self-discovery and empowerment. This transformative book guides its readers through the labyrinth of life's challenges, offering profound insights and practical tools to not only overcome adversity but to thrive in its aftermath. 

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