Such a simple quote, but it is one of my favorite quotes of all time!
Why? Because I have faced many trials and troubles in my life, as many of you have.
When I read this quote, it gives me hope.
It gives me strength.
It gives me perspective.
It gives me courage.
It gives me faith to endure the trials of life.
It gives me a glimpse of a brighter tomorrow.
It reminds me to remain happy and positive in-spite of troubles.
It is a beacon of light.
When I first heard this talk, given by one of our General Authorities at Conference (2008), life was pretty good. My father and mother-in-law had passed away, but life managed to go on. Although I missed my father terribly, I was full of optimism with plans for the future. My health was in good shape. We were in the beginning stages of building our dream home. I was enjoying all the joys that come with grand-parenting. I had no complaints.
But, I still thought of this quote a lot. It stuck in my head. It burrowed deep into my heart and soul and stayed there until I would need it... really need it. In the not so distant future of hearing that talk, this simple quote would remind me that I was not immune from the troubles of life. But... I also learned that it would be the way I reacted to adversity that would make all the difference.
My father had passed away unexpectedly in 2005
.
In 2007, my husband's mother passed away.
In 2008, my husband's father passed away.
In 2009, my husband's brother passed away.
In 2010, a grandson passed away.
In 2011, my mother passed away.
In 2013, my daughter was killed by her husband.
By the time we moved into our new home in 2010, I started to experience health problems. Seemed like it was one thing after another.These are not important to list, but it's been a battle to keep on top since then.
But, I am not discouraged. We all have trials and troubles to face sometime in our lives. Even in our darkest hours and greatest tribulation, we can find peace. We can grow from adversity and learn the lessons that will change us, help us grow, help us to be more compassionate, help us be better.
The hardest, by far, was losing my 32 year old daughter. It was in the very moment that I learned of her passing, I sank to my knees and pleaded with God to take away my grief and pain. Because, I could not bear it. He did and continues to do so. He has been so merciful and kind. Some trials and tribulations require much more strength and ability to endure, that is well above what we can do for ourselves. This is a simple truth. A lesson learned.
Come What May and Love It!
This simple, yet profound quote, is my personal beacon of light. It is in my head, everyday, all day. I remind myself daily that whatever comes my way, I can handle it. I can rise above any sorrows and troubles of today and hope for a brighter tomorrow. I can still love life, and I do!
If you want to read the very inspiring talk by Joseph B. Wirthlin, click here. I would love to hear your comments.
What quote inspires you?
Writing prompt #2: Share a quote you love.
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That's a really powerful quotation. I'm glad to read that you are embracing life despite of all the tribulations and grief that you had to endure over the years. I too wrote on this prompt this week.
ReplyDeleteOh my God, have you been put through the wringer! I don't know how you're able to keep you faith - but I certainly admire it. Beautiful quote, btw.
ReplyDeleteCarol, this leaves me almost speechless. What a testimony. You are something, you are. And so is our God. I hope you are healing well from GB surgery. Going to make that little quote on the lovely autumn leaves my computer desktop pic.
ReplyDeleteLove and prayers, Maureen and Josephine, naturally!
Wow, you've been through devastating tragedies. What a beautiful post and an inspiring quote. Your strength and positive attitude. is an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteYou have had this quote in your heart your whole life. It has always seemed to be the way you handled things even when you were young. You have a way of staying on the positive side of life. Love you.
ReplyDelete