When everything else is icing on the cake

It’s difficult to know how to feel right now. Is it OK to smile, laugh and feel happy? I think I’ve had just one or two days without tears streaming down my face. When I look at our family photos in iCloud, I miss a lot from our memories that we can’t do right now. This time last year looked far different.

I miss sitting down at the coffee shop and having a chai latte and sweet conversation with my husband and close friends. I feel unsettled not knowing when we can travel again to see my family who doesn’t live close by.

I’m sure there are many things you miss too.

I know I’m not alone or unique. We’re in this together. In fact, most of the world is. We’re experiencing losses right now, and we don’t know for how long or how temporary. Our life’s been turned upside down within a matter of days.

But what if in these losses we begin to think about what we’ve actually gained?

— I’ve gained gratitude over the many freedoms I used to take for granted.

— I’ve gained joy in simple living and a simple schedule (even on days I complain).

— I’ve gained a closer relationship to Jesus knowing he’s still here when everything feels like it’s falling apart under my feet.

The full article is available in our e-Edition. Click here to subscribe.