Bloom where you are planted

I have had a few thoughts on my mind lately and I want to record them so I can read back on them later.
I have been thinking a lot about life, about the stage of life I am in and truly reflecting on all the different stages of life we will experience. As I mention in darn near every one of my posts or in nearly all my conversations, life is crazy! I feel as if the purpose of my life is merely serving a constant revolving door of needs. I find myself, in the low moments, wishing and waiting for tomorrow. A tomorrow where things will be easier, where the kids can tend to themselves, where Robbie will sleep through the night, where John will be done teething, where Nola will just listen when I talk to her, where I have the energy to exercise, where Doug didn't have to work so much, where money and time is abundant. I am waiting for a reprieve.

I have the blessing of spending time with lots of different people, all in different ages and stages of life. And what have I come to learn? Everyone is waiting for a reprieve. Kids are in school? Now you are trying to find a job or something to fill your time. You now have lots of money? You may be alone since your partner has to work tons to make that money. You are retired? Your health is declining and don't have the energy to do all those things you dreamed of in retirement. No one has it made, no one has it easy. Life is a challenge, for everyone.

At first, this may seem like a 'downer' thought. You mean, I am never going to reach that destination? Where everything in wonderful and easy? In this life, no. You don't reach a destination, it's all about finding joy in the journey.

I entitled this post 'Bloom where you are planted' as that is what I am focusing on. I can struggle and wish my time away for hopes of something better, or I can tend and nourish the soil around me and bloom. I can find the joy in this stage of life and flourish. How? Through the love and atonement of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He blesses me with perspective and perseverance, with confidence and conviction to take control of my life, my heart and my mind, to boldly face my challenges and embrace them. It is though the Saviour that I am able to feel true joy, even when things look grim.

My testimony burns deep within me. Jesus is the Christ. He is my Redeemer...He has redeemed my soul. I love Him and will praise him all of my days. If you are waiting for a reprieve, turn to the Lord, for he has taught us that His 'yoke is easy and burden is light.' We can find rest and ease in the Lord, of this I truly testify, in the name of my Almighty Saviour. Amen.