8-4-11

Dear Family of faith,
Nobody wants troubles and turmoil in their lives; yet there are some good things that can come out of our trying times. I have been in an emotional turmoil of late, and it has turned my head to remember the simple blessings of life-- blessings like a day that is peaceful and productive, an invitation to dinner, an email of encouragement, a surprise left in my office, a doctor who treats you kindly, friends who promise faithfulness, and the beauty of those around us. Too often we take such little things for granted, not appreciating what gifts they are to us and how they make our lives worth living. When trials come, then it is that we see most clearly how precious those we love really are and how many good things God puts in our everydays. If you find yourself in a "funk" right now because life isn't the proverbial 'rose garden,' take a moment of feel the breeze, breathe in a flower's fragrance, marvel at a little hand in yours or the pet in your lap, or find new beauty and promise in the things that happen around you. And, remember that when we feel our backs are up against a wall, "God will make a way where there seems to be no way."