Today was my birthday. I first went out to eat with my twin sister to celebrate, then spent some time thinking about the last year. It's been one whopper of a year, with work challenges, health challenges, family member health challenges, and just a general change in overall outlook.
As I look over all the challenges that God threw my way this year, I remember first asking the inevitable question of "why me?" As someone wise told me, this isn't a good question to ask - because God answers it in his own time and his own way, which rarely is the same as what you would want or expect. But, I also recognize the many graces that God gave me through this time. I had unexpected visitors who would come and visit with me. People from church brought food, and would actively seek me out after Mass to ask how I was doing. Even now, I'm told that the woman I've just started taking yoga lessons from was present in my hospital room one day. (I didn't know her or recognize her but my friend did.) There are lines that weave and intersect our lives, and we never know exactly how it will all work out. All I can do is trust in God. He alone has the answers, and knows everything I need.
That's not to say I'm passive about it all. I'm exercising more, watching what I eat, taking care of myself better. I'm doing my part, and I know God will do His. He's already doing it, sending me so many blessings and gifts. Chief among them is my twin sister, who took care of me and continues to watch and worry about me sometimes. My dog does her part, urging me along on our walks and not letting me "just stroll". I have amazing doctors who watch what's going on health-wise to keep me on the right track.
So - while this has certainly been a challenging year, it's also been a grace-filled year. Thanks be to God for his great and marvelous gifts, including the precious gift of my life, my faith, and His unswerving presence in my life. No matter what else changes, He is always there, ready to catch me, guide me, or simply walk with me. To God be the glory for the many great things He has done in my life!
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