On Days like Today

There are times in our lives when we go through struggles. Some are small struggles and others are larger. Today is one of those days filled with small struggles. The weather is gloomy and cold, my house is a disaster from an overly busy schedule throughout this last month. My little ones are choosing to exert their free will and I'm just plain tired.

On days like today when I would love to just curl up on the couch with a pillow, blanket, coffee, and a good book (without interruption), these small struggles reminded me of some things:

• The struggles remind me of how easy childhood really is and they make me wonder why I ever wanted to grow up so badly. But then I remember all the joys that being an adult, a wife and mother, bring - the hugs, the kisses, the little expressions of "I love you" that I get on a daily basis. It encourages me to provide a loving childhood for my children just as my parents provided one for me.
• The small struggles remind me of how my God must feel when I decide to exert MY free will and sin against him. The sadness that I feel over my childrens' disobedience pales in comparison to the pain it must bring the Father knowing that He willingly gave His ONLY Son to die for those very sins.
• The small struggles remind me that even though I'm struggling I still have things to be thankful for. A couple of weeks ago a cousin lost her dear son to a senseless car accident whereas I can still cuddle mine. Less than a week ago a young man that we knew felt so alone and hopeless that he took his own life, leaving behind a loving family and dear friends to mourn. I still have hope that just as there are daily struggles there will be daily victories. Somewhere there is a wife who longs to be a mother and will never experience the joy that bringing a little life into this world gives to you. I have four beautiful children for which I am thankful.
• The small struggles remind me that I know a single mom who works so hard to pay bills and yet have the energy to take time with her children. I know of a widow who would love to hear her husbands voice and feel his arms around her. I am so thankful for the wonderful husband I have to help me with our children, a man who provides for our financial needs. I still have a strong and loving man to provide strength and encouragement to this weary wife. 
• The small struggles of today remind me that I know a young missionary wife and mother who is thousands of miles from close friend and family and yet I have friends and family living close by whom I can share my burdens with. 
• Most of all, the small struggles of today remind me that no matter how small the struggle, my Heavenly Father is right here with me. I can access His grace to make it through this day and every day.