The rain is pattering against the windows right now. I love the smell of rain and how it makes everything fresh and new.
It's been raining in more ways than one in our neck of the woods. Five weeks ago Grant broke our Wii because he thought it was a giant coin slot. Four weeks ago we had another miscarriage. Three weeks ago I found out that my brother has stage three (of three) testicular cancer. Two weeks ago I found out that there was a miscommunication and that I won't be teaching Institute next semester, and probably not for over a year. This last week Grant and I got some kind of nasty gastrointestinal bug. Yeah, it's been pouring at our house--some obviously are worse than others.
But here are the refreshing blessings that have come as a result of all of this: I've spent more time with my family (and praying for them) than I have in a decade--we've always been very close, but now we're even more united. I've felt of their love for me through their kind words and thoughtful actions. I've had many opportunities to get outside of myself to serve others. On every one of my hardest days, I've had the chance to go teach my awesome institute students, to feel the healing power of the Holy Ghost, and to be reminded of the power and love of my Savior, Jesus Christ--it really has been my saving grace on my darkest days lately. I've prayed more, and have received many answers of comfort and peace. I've been more grateful for my loving husband (who, by the way, has been extra patient with all of my extra-insane hormones). I've focused more on living each day and spending time with those I love instead of becoming overly-burdened with extra activities.
I'm a notorious worrier, but I've noticed lately that in all of my agonizing moments of fearing the possibilities of the future (most, if not all, of which will never happen--that's why my mom calls thoughts like this "vain imaginations"), I always dream up the worst scenarios possible. And I never take into account the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ to fix, heal, guide, lift, soothe, calm, and reassure. From life experience I know that He always helps me to deal with things I would never be able to overcome on my own.My faith is based on past proof and future hope.
As Elder Wirthlin said, "Come what may, and love it." The best is yet to be!
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16 years ago
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6 comments:
This was a great post and I really needed to hear Elder Wirthlin's quote! For some reason I've been doing a lot of vain imaginings of my own lately and I too forget to take into account the power of the Atonement. Thanks for the reminder! We need to walk soon-maybe we'll have to take up mall walking again with all this rain!
Hey Chelsea! Thinking of you and your family and wishing you all the best. Just remember, after all the pouring rain, it is usually follwed by a rainbow and/or sunshine!! Take Care!
Very inspiring post, Chels. Thanks for sharing these thoughts and experiences. It is so strengthening to hear how other people get through their trials. Unfortunately it's so easy to forget to turn to the Atonement.
Chelsea - I just saw your comment that you made on my blog. Thanks so much! Sorry I just saw it but, I kinda took a break from my blog, and I just now saw your comment. Your family is so cute. Especially that cute little boy you have. Hope everything is going great for you! Thanks for all of your great lessons and testimony.
Kaylee Sandstrom
Thank you for posting that!! I'm SOOO sorry about all the pouring rain of trials you guys have had. I had no idea I feel so bad! I am also a notorious worrier and when I'm not going through major trials I stay awake at night wondering what the next big trial will be. It drives me crazy! You are so right about the Atonement. I always forget that the Atonement is for more than just repentance! Thanks again!
Sorry for all that you guys are going through, those are all very hard things to deal with and especially all at once. I'm so glad that it has helped you to feel closer to your family and that you can see that the Savior is right there with you. Good luck and know that so many people love and are praying for you and your family.
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