One of my favorite Bible characters is Samson. Samson was granted supernatural strength by God in order to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats such as wrestling a lion, slaying an entire army with only the jawbone of an ass, and destroying a pagan temple. Samson had two vulnerabilities, however: his attraction to untrustworthy women and his hair, without which he was powerless. These vulnerabilities ultimately proved fatal for him. I am embarrassed to say this is a Wikipedia summary. Who would have known I would study the Bible with Wikipedia.
My hairstyle is pretty much set for me now, as I am opposed to bed heads and refuse to fix it. It leaves me only one option. Hair often identifies people. But it is overrated in Tara’s and my opinion. It is just stuff on our body that takes away resources from other things we would rather be doing. I guess it is kind of like cancer in that regard. No offense to those of you who love your hair.
Tonight Tara got rid of much of her hair in anticipation of losing it. We went to the south Fantastic Sam’s, where we always go. When we walked in, we realized the Spirit of God had prepared the way. The hairdresser knew Tara’s situation and the reason for the haircut. She courageously asked if she could pray for Tara before the haircut. So with all our kids there the hairdresser prayed for Tara and our family.
But unlike Samson who lost his supernatural strength when cutting his hair, Tara seems to be gaining supernatural strength. We are gearing up for round two of chemo tomorrow. Her body is thin and week, but her spirit is strong. She has had good days leading up to now. Sleep hasn’t been great but okay; her body not painless, but manageable; her mind not discouraged, but hopeful. She is ready for the next round.
She is sleeping now and that does my heart good. I am typing in an awkward position because she is laying against my arm. There is no chance that I’ll move her. I love this. God thank you for keeping us hopeful during this time. Though our crying may last for the night, the joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5). Lord, You are good and your mercies are everlasting….and your love endures forever (Psalm 100:5).
Perspectives From The Tree Tops 
Thanks for the update so we can be praying tonight in preparation for tomorrow and then be in prayer for treatment #2 tomorrow.
Absolutely beautiful. Prayers for Tara.
Well, I am one of those who has a thing about my hair. I will now work on this . Yep, I am convicted.
I think the picture of Tara is really quite attractive. The hair cut is really nice. Short is sweet! Love how God had just the right hair cutter in line for you.
Will pray specifically for the treatment scheduled for tomorrow. Now here is a verse for you. 2Corinthians12:9 “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”
As I read this post in my (parked) car, the song “as for me and my house” accompanies in the background…..and I have this overwhelming peace from the assurance that your house is “serving the Lord”…..”bowing down to one God” and one God only. It is such a blessing to be a part of your journey. Phat prayers for fewer side effects with treatment two tomorrow; love you, Maiers!!!
I have shared your blog with SO MANY people! It is a gift!!! Your words are inspired by God and they are a source of encouragement and strength to me and so many others. I know it is not always easy to be creative and write blog updates but your efforts and obedience are such a blessing. Thank you from many!!! We are praying for you all constantly and will be praying for round #2 for Tara crowbar-a Maier!!! Much love from Georgia…
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Proverbs 4:18
The lives of those people who are touched by the love of Christ are like guiding lights to others who have yet to find Christ in their lives. They can provide guidance and help, and they shine forth as bright examples of how good life can be. God’s light can shine through us if we will only let it. We have the opportunity to show others the difference that Christ can make. When we live life empowered by the light of God, we live as He wishes we would.
Father, please make me a light for my world. Let me shine forth with your goodness, care and love. Let all who look to me see your grace. Help me to magnify the saving light of Christ which you have lovingly given me. AMEN.
Tara & Jay, God’s guiding light shines so brightly through you both! It is so amazing reflecting on what God has done, is doing, and will do in this “Race”. Toad, you don’t have to run hard and fast all the time, pace yourself and reserve some of that great inner strength that you have, God is there to carry you when you need to rest and build your strength. Then you can pour it on hard and fast at the end to win! Our God is an awesome God!
Father in heaven, we pray that you would give Tara comfort from the pain and nausea so she can sleep longer so her body can build the needed strength for this second chemo treatment. We also ask that she will experience less sickness with the second treatment. I also pray that you also give Jay the much needed strength, endurance and patience to keep going at the warp speed he has been going the past few weeks. God your amazing Grace has been poured all over this family in this time of need, and I am so thankful for it. All the Glory is yours! AMEN
I love the new do. It’s very flattering and is a good cut to get ready for the no hair look. I think you should consider the style again when your hair grows back in , which it will. God says that man looks on the outward appearance but He looks on the inward spirit. When I look at you Tara, all I see is the inward spirit of Christ in you. It won’t matter whether or not you have hair. We love the person you are inside. It may grow back curly or with a different texture even. When Valerie was little and George lost his hair, she prayed with her friends at school that it would grow back. She missed playing with his curls. It did grow back, but it came in black and silky, like baby hair. She was continually amazed at the difference between Daddy’s old hair and new hair. I think sometimes we are amazed at God’s goodness and find it hard to believe that we are the recipients. God definitely knew what you needed, even in a haircut. I miss seeing and huggling you at church. Until I do see you, there or at your house, know that I continue to pray for you daily. I love you all. God’s blessings on you and may the chemo go well tomorrow.
I like your haircut–even though it is temporary :). You had it like that at our wedding, if I remember correctly? Wow! That seems like so long ago! Well, we are all cheering you on here in Belton…praying for strength, courage and that the Lord will help you and Jay to keep your eyes on Him in the midst of the turbulent storm. We love you and are so burdened for you…We are also in awe as we watch our Lord carry you through each step, meet each need and give you comfort and hope that only He can give.
Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken
(Psalm 62:5-6)
Love, Jen, Dean, Josh and Joelle
VERY cute hair!! Too bad it probably isn’t going to last long. =( (I wonder if they could get my hair to do that?)
Go, Tara! Go, Tara! Go! You’re making good steady progress. You’re running the race well.
What another great day with awesome memories…fingerprints of God!! Thank you for sharing that story. What a comfort to all of you and to us 🙂 Hair is just another example of how man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart. It certainly doesn’t define our heart condition. With your story and mine Tara, the condition of our hair is an outward symbol of change, but most important of all are the changes inside the spirit in preparation for each moment. You are so loved and prayed for every day. Hope filled every day for you. Julie Bashore and I both agreed on our hope filled spirits for you today! We’re all with you in prayer as you anticipate this next “round”. You are amazing and we’re encouraged by your courage.
Very cute haircut Tara. I’m praying for you as you go in to round 2.
Hey that’s a great style- the pic didn’t open before! I love it! Beautiful lady- inside and out!!
Dearest Tara and Jay,
We are so proud of both of you , of your strength and faithfulness. We pray that the 2nd round of chemo will go much better– may God bless you with comfort and continued courage. I haven’t seen you with short hair for a very long time, Tara, it looks very chic!! All our love, Aunt Gail & Uncle Max
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us” (2 Corinthians 4:7). Thank God for the “familiar” in our-your lives. I have been reading your updates and praying for you and your family. This particular post spoke to my heart because I am in awe (although I shouldn’t be surprised how God uses all His children) that God chose this amazing hairdresser to truly serve you all in His name. What an experience for your children to see her pray for you all before cutting Tara’s hair. I will especially be praying for tomorrow’s treatment.
Tara, our family has been praying for you every day, many times a day. And even though you may not feel it during these days of recovery and chemo, you are a beautiful child of God! Many of us ARC family have said over and over to each other what a wonderful example you are to us — your hospitality, encouraging words and sweet spirit have all touched us in so many ways in the years we have known you. I pray we can encourage you now as the Lord has ordained this path you are traveling on. We love you and are praying for you now and tomorrow during this second treatment.
Tara, you look very good in short hair, Your hairdresser did an excellent job! Each time I read your words Jay, my tears fill up in my eyes. Your family has such strength in the Lord that I know he will guide you on the path he has chosen for you and for all of us. Always in my prayers!
Beautiful! We had the oddest conversation in your back yard years ago…I think Jenna was maybe 2 or 3. Tara, myself, and some other ladies were discussing hair and haircuts. We all agreed that Tara would be beautiful no matter how short her hair was because her head was shaped perfectly! We were so right, Tara! You are beautiful! Thanks for posting and still praying!!
Tara, you are so beautiful!! We continue to faithfully pray for you– for all of you. Much love and hugs.
Tara, I remember when mom was worried about losing her hair during her chemo treatments. She was already wearing her wig in anticipation. Her hair got thinner but never lost it all. She was very thankful. I use to sing her Randy Travis’ song Forvever and Ever Amen “I don’t care I ain’t in love with your hair
And if it all fell out well I’d love you anyway”. So true, may you be filled with peace and comfort and fluids to sustain you through this second round of chemo.
Tara, beautiful…always. God is so amazing through you and Jay and your family. May His mercies continue to sustain you in this next round of treatment. May His loving-kindness be lavished upon you, and your family.
Thank you Lord for answered prayers and continued strength &courage.
Loving you.
I don’t much care for hair myself as many of you know. I’ve taken to either shaving it all off or keeping it as short as possible. Parenthetically, my wife resents the fact I shave my head because I can grow a full head of hair if I want to. To me hair is not a luxury or a “crown of glory.” It’s a bother. My background in the sciences tells me that it is dead stuff my body doesn’t need anymore and expels it out the top of my head. Yet, Scripture tells me something altogether different. Everything about me is important to God. EVEN the number of hairs on my head! So much so that, at any given time, He knows exactly how many there are.
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
~ Luke 12:6&7
Tara, God’s love for you is immense. He can’t stop thinking about you, as a matter of fact. He says so Himself.
“You have searched me, Lord,
and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue
you, Lord, know it completely.
You hem me in behind and before,
and you lay your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,”
even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand—
when I awake, I am still with you.”
~ Psalm 139:1-17
People rightly say that they are thinking about you and praying for you. That’s a blessing. We love you and think about you often. We pray for you and lift you up to the Great Physician. But we are human. We eventually go about our business as we get pulled into multiple directions until such a time as you come to mind again as you often do.
The overwhelming thought, however, is the knowledge that God Himself is thinking about you. Without distraction. Constantly. Fervently. Lovingly.
Tara and Jay; Just want you to know that Ron and I pray for you both daily. I prayed with our pastor yesterday specifically for you as you continue your journey. God is with you each and every step and guiding the medical team that is treating you! Love Uncle Ron and Aunt Connee