Struggles

For your consideration…

I make cards. It is a crafting hobby I picked up years ago from my friend, Janet. I make a lot of cards. I make them for my daughters to give, I make them for auction for charities, as well as for my own personal use. Often during this time of year, I make a lot of graduation cards. One of the stamps I use out of a graduation stamp set says, “The tassel was worth the hassle.”

Imagine if you high school graduation consisted of someone handing you a diploma when you turned 18. You had none of the shared experiences with friends, not-so-much friends, teachers, coaches etc. Imagine you had none of the growing experiences that started preparing you for the world as an adult.

That is the example we are given today. Struggle helps us to grow. It teaches us. It is the contrast that allows us to see and appreciate our accomplishments. The experiences and lessons learned are ours forever. They can never be taken away.

Today we are asked to celebrate the struggle.

That is the HOPE. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take…

-Affirm…“I am loved.”

-Meditate/pray…ask…”What is my next step for my highest good and the highest good of all?”

-Drink lots of water.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

-Celebrate our struggles and rewards.

What made me smile yesterday…

-It was one of those days that as soon as I thought of a loose end or problem…bam…it was solved. It was a good reminder to let go and let God.

-A beautiful day.

-We are so excited that Moose recovered whatever ailed him and Alex was able to come home.

-I ordered a bunch of candy from Nuts.com for the shower. They came in a box that makes me laugh each time I look at it. I won’t through it out. I was showing it to Alex and laughing. She said, “Mom, that’s the company that Delta is using for their nuts for snacks.” Small world. Well good…because I love the joy they send out.

-Lots of tasks done. We are right on schedule.

-Catching up with Dianne, Shannon, and Mary.

Love, Blessings, and Gratitude,

Rev. Chris

Happy Birthday, Sis!