Consolation

I have had some real challenges come my way of late. Financial struggles, illness, relationship issues, etc. The list could continue, but these are the things that weigh on my mind. I don't know why these particular struggles seem to be the reoccurring theme of my life, but when something hits, it's usually one of these three things. I suppose it could simply mean that I'm not so very different from every other person in the world, but deep down within me I know part of the reason is that I haven't yet learned to adequately handle these struggles. I'm trying. I trying my hardest & this time around, I actually remembered to rely on the Lord to see me through. Some days that is all that keeps me going & I figure that's the way it's supposed to be in all trials that count for anything.

In the title of my last entry I directly referenced a quote from Thomas Paine. It's familiar, I'm sure. I had to memorize it while I was in high school & earlier in the week I found it echoing through my being.

"These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value."

I can't help but notice how adequately this applies to the trials of life. One could easily replace the word "country" with God & "Tyranny" with trials - or actually, tyranny seems quite fitting right where it is - & it becomes exactly what I need to remember at this time in my life & throughout the remainder of it. It is, at least, what has kept me going through this difficult week.