Trials and Mercies
I have personally experienced tragedy, and through my faith, the associated triumph. I can say that I understand opposition in all things. I have the wisdom that if I don't go through the vale of sorrow, I would not know what it feels like to be joyful.
Although I have acquired this knowledge, it is easy to forget the sweetness of opposition in the midst of trials.
Lately I have had a dark cloud of despair hanging over my head. This is a result of pressures from work and some new personal challenges. The biggest hurdle we face as a couple is our transition post my husband's college graduation.
We are not the typical couple that is looking to the future after commencement. I'm not a young 22 year old and neither is my husband. We are both turning 30 this year, so post college looks different for us.
I have been a career woman for 6 years, and I am the primary provider. My husband is just starting out in his profession. There are all sorts of interesting dynamics that come with that territory. I provide and he nurtures.
Back in April, we were approached by my husband's grandmother with a large responsibility. She asked if we would help take care of her in her home. We didn't take the decision lightly, and I have spent sleepless nights weighing the consequences of moving forward.
After a lot of research, prayer, and discussion, we decided to agree to living with Grandma. Which means we have to take on the daunting task of moving.
Today I felt overwhelmed with a cascade of "what ifs". I had time to compile a host of thoughts while my husband and I went on a hike. As I stared at a gorgeous mountain top, I pondered deeply about my life and my future.
Later in the evening, my husband who is a musician, had to attend a concert. I was feeling vulnerable, but I didn't want to impede his mindset going into a performance.
I reached out to my sister after he left with hope that she would respond. I felt depressed when she didn't send a message back.
So I tried focusing on my Primary lesson-- to no avail. I couldn't feel any inspiration as to how I should teach my students. I just kept going back to my problems and what I could do to solve them.
I remembered a beautiful song that a friend once shared with me about trials, Blessings in Disguise. I began listening to it and praying for some help.
My mom's name immediately appeared on my phone with an incoming call. I regarded it as a sign and picked up. She was calling just to check in, but she was a listening ear that I needed. I know she was inspired to call me. She reminded me that although there is a swirl of confusion and stress in my life, I need to refocus on what matters most.
My brain fog cleared and I knew what I needed to ask Heavenly Father for--help me to love my husband and love his grandma.
Growth is painful, but it is a necessary part of our existence. I firmly believe that as Laura Story's poignant song states,
"What if trials in this life are your (God's) mercies in disguise?"
Once we can evaluate our trials in terms of God's intent, things often become clear. I'm not saying that trials are wonderful for me. But they are a gift that I treasure because I am pushed to grow in ways that I wouldn't have otherwise.
Please listen to the song, and may it uplift your heart as it has mine.
Although I have acquired this knowledge, it is easy to forget the sweetness of opposition in the midst of trials.
Lately I have had a dark cloud of despair hanging over my head. This is a result of pressures from work and some new personal challenges. The biggest hurdle we face as a couple is our transition post my husband's college graduation.
We are not the typical couple that is looking to the future after commencement. I'm not a young 22 year old and neither is my husband. We are both turning 30 this year, so post college looks different for us.
I have been a career woman for 6 years, and I am the primary provider. My husband is just starting out in his profession. There are all sorts of interesting dynamics that come with that territory. I provide and he nurtures.
Back in April, we were approached by my husband's grandmother with a large responsibility. She asked if we would help take care of her in her home. We didn't take the decision lightly, and I have spent sleepless nights weighing the consequences of moving forward.
After a lot of research, prayer, and discussion, we decided to agree to living with Grandma. Which means we have to take on the daunting task of moving.
Today I felt overwhelmed with a cascade of "what ifs". I had time to compile a host of thoughts while my husband and I went on a hike. As I stared at a gorgeous mountain top, I pondered deeply about my life and my future.
Later in the evening, my husband who is a musician, had to attend a concert. I was feeling vulnerable, but I didn't want to impede his mindset going into a performance.
I reached out to my sister after he left with hope that she would respond. I felt depressed when she didn't send a message back.
So I tried focusing on my Primary lesson-- to no avail. I couldn't feel any inspiration as to how I should teach my students. I just kept going back to my problems and what I could do to solve them.
I remembered a beautiful song that a friend once shared with me about trials, Blessings in Disguise. I began listening to it and praying for some help.
My mom's name immediately appeared on my phone with an incoming call. I regarded it as a sign and picked up. She was calling just to check in, but she was a listening ear that I needed. I know she was inspired to call me. She reminded me that although there is a swirl of confusion and stress in my life, I need to refocus on what matters most.
My brain fog cleared and I knew what I needed to ask Heavenly Father for--help me to love my husband and love his grandma.
Growth is painful, but it is a necessary part of our existence. I firmly believe that as Laura Story's poignant song states,
"What if trials in this life are your (God's) mercies in disguise?"
Once we can evaluate our trials in terms of God's intent, things often become clear. I'm not saying that trials are wonderful for me. But they are a gift that I treasure because I am pushed to grow in ways that I wouldn't have otherwise.
Please listen to the song, and may it uplift your heart as it has mine.
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