Da Truf

I enjoyed this morning with a cup of coffee in one hand, my Bible in the other, and a sweet puppy resting on my lap. All outside on my deck under shade and squirrels scurrying from tree to tree.

Yeah, it was a good morning.

Our Bible study recently completed studying Ruth, and someone had mentioned how she loved the book of James, so I thought until we get our new study, I’d delve deeper into it for the time being. I’ve read Chapter 1 two days in a row now, and apparently it takes a second reading to get things to sink in.  And there were SEVERAL verses that jumped out at me – feeling as if they were specifically written for me at this time in my life:

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him (1:12).

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows (1:17).

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you (1:19-21).

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless (1:26).

Believe it or not, too, these all went together with how this year has gone. Life has been ridiculously chaotic. I feel like my life is in constant upheaval, and all I really want is “normal.” But, frankly, what was normal for me last year will never be normal again.

My husband will always be a Type 1 diabetic.

My aunt will always have to fear cancer’s return.

And (finally, something good), it’s very doubtful we will return to our old house.

I have not always handled transition or opposition well. I’ve not consistently showed God’s love through trials. I’ve tried to get better at that. I had an epiphany, I suppose, in January and realized that my reactions to bad news (and in January, there was a BUNCH of bad news) cannot stay the same. So I’ve tried to work on it. Not always succeeded, but I do see how far I’ve come in a mere eight months (and am trying not to be prideful about it, lol).

And, again, this week: opposition. And while I did threaten to slice someone’s tires (come on, who doesn’t? LOL), I’ve come through okay. Able to look back and say, “That’s fine. I’m not pleased with the outcome, but it will be all right.”

I’ve been digressing this entire time, I feel, but the background needed to be given. Earlier this week, though, I found out something that really brought up the Green Monster in me. Someone else’s house sold. In quicker time. And while we’re on schedule to close THIS MONDAY (woo hoo!!!!), it still brought a quick tinge of jealousy in me because his house sold quicker than ours. Even though our buyer wanted to close today, but we were unable to do so. Even though we’re on schedule to close Monday. Even though we’ve been blessed by being able to move in early.

So I tried to see some positives.

1. This individual who sold his place will move FAR, FAR away to a place I probably will never go to. WOO HOO. Lol!!! (Can you tell I’m not this person’s biggest fan? Ha!)

2. Again, we’re scheduled to close MONDAY. Can’t I be happy for someone else?

3. Good for him, good for the economy. Hooray for someone who was able to buy his house. It’s a beautiful house.

4. Okay, I’m done with positives. It’s not my house; I’m not getting any $$ from it, so I feel three is enough. ;)

Anyway, so that’s been my morning. Very eye-opening, very humbling, very happy.

***BTW, we are currently on Baby Watch for Misti. Feel free to jump in the baby pool and give your time/date when the baby will be born (no prizes other than the feeling of knowing you rock in guessing). Her due date is next Friday, but I've guessed Monday in the afternoon. Kyle's guessed tomorrow morning.****