Today

Some days my challenges seem unbearably hard, depressing, impossible. I get bogged down and feel fuzzy and can't figure out what I'm doing or where I'm supposed to be going. Nothing makes sense and I lose sight of the goal. I feel very alone. But then, just when I think I can't possibly handle another step on my life journey, a more experienced guide takes my hand or a piece of the road map falls into my path or a kind traveler offers to carry one of my bags.

Today, after a season of wandering, I feel like I've found my road again. Today I feel less confused. Today the goals seem more clear, the destination less obscure. Today my boots fit, my walking stick is ready, my burden is lighter, and I actually want to keep moving.

Today I'm grateful for the messages of hope and direction that have so recently floated into my ears, through my mind, and across my email inbox. I'm grateful for the many, many hands that are blessing my family in practical, tangible ways. I'm also grateful for the intangible -- yet so very palpable -- prayers and hopes on our behalf from those less close to our abode. I'm grateful for the compassionate people in my world that have helped me walk away from responsibility in so many areas of my life without guilt. I'm grateful for the profound feeling of peace that has settled over me, helped me find my center, and encouraged me to be a better version of myself than I've been for a while.

Today I'm actually looking forward...to tomorrow. It feels good.

photo courtesy rubymountains.net