One of my strengths is that I am able to believe and have faith that good things will happen and that I will persevere through anything to walk my intended path. 

There could be numerous negative things that surround me but I will see the light.  I have learned over the years to walk the path without reservation.  I am not looking for everything that went wrong but moving toward opportunities that appear among the clouds. 

I might see things that I am not happy about, but I don’t dwell on those moments I concentrate on what I can do to move things forward.  I pray and ask for direction.

I have faith that what I see is only part of the story.  I am aware, but not paralyzed by what I see.  I focus on what becomes present in my world and have faith that I will be led through the darkness to the light.

I remember a time in Boston shortly after the girls’ father died when both girls were violently ill.  There was a 24-hour period where they were vomiting every 15 minutes. 

They were too young to understand what was going on and naturally gave me no warning about the eruptions.  Finally, I resorted to layering towels on the bed continually washing them to be ready for the next clean-up.

My introduction to single parenthood was fairly messy.  My focus was on getting them well again.  What is it that I can do to get them well quickly? 

I prayed for a speedy recovery, no dehydration, and yes, that I would stay healthy to care for them both.  I did not get absorbed into thinking the worst but concentrated on getting them well.  I prayed and had faith that things would get better.

During these times I am reminded to be grateful for my family.  Whenever my kids or I are sick I have an even greater appreciation for all those who need care daily for themselves or their family. 

That same year I remember having a severe sinus infection.  I had suffered from sinusitis most of my life, but this time was different.  I had worked through the usual two weeks of pain using over-the-counter medicine, finally realizing I might have to go to the doctor for relief. 

I had a sinking feeling in my gut that this time was not going to be easy.  It was Friday evening and I felt my symptoms escalate to the point of questioning if I was fit to watch two babies.  I don’t like admitting that I am sick let alone thinking that I might need help with my children. 

It was rare for me not to be able to fight through feeling poorly.  I found myself thinking about people who are not well, taking care of small children.  Having great empathy for their mental state while caring for those who can’t take care of themselves. 

I started to understand the depth of helplessness when one is unable to take care of loved ones.  When your faith is strong you don’t escape issues.  I knew this illness would pass and quickly realized that I was going to have to learn to accept help if I was going to successfully raise my children.

Although I am leaving out a weekend of details, I did survive and so did my children.  It was my faith and prayer that enabled me to persevere that weekend.  Praying for the strength to take care of and entertain two young babies all while wishing I was able to magically find medication to pull me through.

Monday morning could not come soon enough.  The strength of my faith brought me through that weekend.  I was also able to gain perspective and empathy for people who are alone or do not have the resources to manage their illnesses. 

Sometimes it takes living through and experiencing something to fully appreciate our blessings.  For me, I am purposeful about not allowing negative circumstances to rule my life.  I am guided by faith and fully understand that if I persevere through the storms I will find the rainbows. 

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