Reflections

This blog is usually for those things which I have had strong views on in the social arena, yet tonight, I feel prompted to put down some thoughts that differ from those kinds of views but focus on a more personal perspective and perhaps cross into other areas.

I want to say first and foremost that I am blessed beyond measure.  I am healthy and well (despite a small head cold at present, but this too shall pass).  Metres away from me is a daughter I adore and a wife I worship.  Many times I feel that I am less than who I should be with them, but I respect and love their tolerance of me.

Sunny and I have been married a wonderful trying, testing and beautiful seven years.  Four of those we have had this munchkin in our home, yet I cannot imagine it without her.  Even with all the ups and downs, those times when I flip the proverbial lid at her and lost patience, I do not for one moment regret bringing her into our home.  Sure the politics surrounding her situation are always going to be there...but how I treat her and how I act and am with Ellie is unchanged.  She is my daughter.  She is our blessing.

Her mother (Sunny) I believe is a woman without comparison.  Her heart is such that any man would be blessed to have a woman of her character.  She emulates the pioneer heritage of her ancestors while casting her own great shadow on the world.  It takes a special woman to take into her heart willingly and without guile, the child of another and treat her with the same compassion, love and tenderness of one who would have been born to her.  

I know she was disappointed in me in losing my job nearly a year ago and the severe disruption it caused to our family.  However, I know her support for me and our goals this year has been unwavering.  I hope I can repay that confidence in continuing on my heath journey and finishing my degree.  Then hopefully I can land a good job, she can relax, and I'll do all the hard work.  I love her so much.

I think as I reflect though on the last year, (as another ticks away for me) that I cannot deny the Lord's hand guiding our lives this year.  Events have occurred, blessings have come and we are over all doing well.  Thing's are far from perfect, but they are good.  Our Heavenly Father has been good to us.  He has given us trials but also provided ways for them to be met.  We have been given counsel by our leaders, and as we have followed it, we have been blessed.  We have fasted and prayed for guidance and have received it.  It reinforces the experience of the boy Prophet Joseph Smith on reading James 1:5-6 in the New Testament, if we lack wisdom, ask of God who will give it to you if you ask in faith without doubts (obvious paraphrase).

Here's to another year of tests, trials and tribulations, each of them a strength building opportunity.  Each challenge, a chance for growth, each chance for growth, and opportunity to be grateful, and each chance to be grateful a moment to share with someone special doing something meaningful.