The sunshine lit up the room as its rays glistened through the sheer, white curtains. The soft spring breeze came through the slightly opened window creating a whimsical waltz with the curtains. The faint smell of freshly mowed grass filled the air, and birds were heard chirping. A bouquet of blossomed bright orange tulips adorned the table, and sliced; sweet strawberries were waiting for me. Once again, spring was graciously embracing me with its presence. And, it had me thinking. Had I changed much since last spring? I am definitely older. Regrettably, I have spotted additional gray hair, appearing like wires peeking through my dark brown hair. But, what I am wondering, or more like hoping to discover is; am I wiser? I am always striving for better, and not the same. For some reason being the same scares me. Adjectives like stagnant, apathy, and complacency come to the forefront of my mind. I know, that is not me. I tend to gravitate towards words like growth, change, and transformation. Those words exemplify spring. In …

It is inevitable that we will face trials and tribulations in life. The bible even tells us to “count it all joy,” when we experience these seasons.  (James 1:2) Certainly, joy can be the last thing we are feeling when tragedy hits close to home, when the storms of life are raging all around us, or when the black clouds gather over us. It is a struggle to see the light of hope. I am no stranger to these difficult times. Unbearable grief, undeserved brokenness, unexpected disappointment, and downright unfair circumstances, have shown their face in my mirror. My heart has experienced such unbearable heaviness. I know what it is like to quietly weep, as I tried to fall asleep. And unfortunately, I have had my share of the uncontrollable, “I can’t breathe”, ugly cry. When right words have very little impact, and all that could comfort my heart and soul was a good cry. I had let it all out! And, then I would ask the question –  “Why God?” Recently, while listening to …