How often do you use the words “I am”? It is a way to identify yourself. I often begin a talk with those words to identify what my credentials are. I think of myself as a child of God, a widow, a mother, a grandmother, a retired educator, and a columnist. All of those roles I have fulfilled for many years.

How important are those credentials? They are the very essence of my being. All of them are important to me.

As a child of God my faith has seen me through numerous experiences. I weathered the storm of a failed romance as a college student. I have been forced to bury two husbands. Thankfully, my children and grandchildren are well. I depend on them to sustain me.

While I was preparing for a talk, I came across something in the Bible that peaked my curiosity. In the book of John there are numerous references to “I am.” The Lord declared to His followers the following: “I am the bread. I am the door. I am the good shepherd. I am the light. I am the resurrection. I am the son of God. I am the true vine. I am the way.”

He fulfilled all of these roles. I have trouble with imagery, but I understand the roles He takes. Many of these roles come with stories or parables. A parable is a story in common terms so that all understand the meaning. The Lord used many parables in his work. They are all very familiar to most Christians.

When I think of Valentine’s Day, I think of the love that he shows to his children. He is always there. I can call upon him whenever I need help.

I recently pointed out that teachers and students do not leave their religion at the door. Even though nothing can be said in school, nothing can stop students from prayer. Nothing can stop teachers from praying either. I often resolved problems through prayer. When something happened, I prayed for a solution. He never failed me. I always was able to come up with a solution.

I am not sure that I realized the implication at the time.

It is said that the eyes are the windows of the soul. Everyone has their own way to see things. When I was to take my exam to earn my master’s degree. I told my adviser that I wanted to take it orally. He refused. I told him the book said that I could make that decision. He told me then to go find my own committee because he would no longer be my advisor.

I was no shrinking violet at that point in my life. I had taught for nearly 10 years. I left that office and found my own committee who guaranteed me an oral exam. My reason for asking for an oral exam was because I thought my written skills were not good. I thought if I saw a look that questioned what I said, I would have the opportunity to explain my reasoning.

The rest is history. I took the exam and passed on my first try.

Life is not easy. No one is guaranteed a life without problems. It is through problems that we learn. In our weakest condition we are the strongest. Thank God for the trials that you have overcome. They made you stronger.

Cancer was a part of my struggle. Eleven years ago (almost twelve) I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My treatment was simple compared to others I knew who got the same diagnosis. I had surgery – two of them – followed by radiation for 35 days. I have been cancer free since, but each and every time I go for a mammogram I worry. Will it return?

Don and I were not even going together at that point in my life. He was my husband’s aunt’s husband. I remember going down to tell them of my diagnosis. They were surprised but supportive. When their grandson received a similar diagnosis Don told Diedra they needed to tell me. I had been his kindergarten teacher. I went through the whole process with them. That whole process hurt Don tremendously. He was with Griz when he died, then had to drive home on his own.

I believe I am stronger because of my diagnosis. I learned to trust in God. I learned to call on him in need. Although not all illness results in success of the treatment, God does heal – although not always as we wish.

This year I celebrate Valentine’s Day on my own. Last year we held a funeral for my best friend. It was a wonderful celebration of his love for family and friends.

If your best friend of loved one is still with you, rejoice. Celebrate that love – not with lavish gifts – but with the love that God gives. I will make heart cookies for loved ones and friends. I have always celebrated Valentine’s Day with something home cooked and made especially for those I love.

I am sure my children and grandchildren remember the heart cookies as well as fudge in a heart shape and red Jell-o in heart molds. Happy Valentine’s Day.

Ann Swanson writes from her home in Russell, Pa. Contact at hickoryheights1@verizon.net.