Bethlehem Blessing

I just survived a season that was seemingly all things bad. But Romans 8: 28 reads, “We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose.” GNT

I know the above verse to be true even as recently as today. I was talking to my brother and was able to offer advice on how to regain important benefits. The beneficial things I’m talking about are walking in the woods, like he was already doing; being patient with yourself; letting go of guilt if it plagues you; and, basically, loving yourself.

Had I not experienced one of the worst seasons of my life before the conversation, I would not have been able to offer that sort of help.

Another situation where goodness came from a not-so-good happening is that, because my sister is in the hospital, some family members are visiting and are in town. We will all spread some loving-kindness around and catch up.

In addition, I will be able to draw on the history of the adversity I lived through to bring my writing to life.

Again, I will mention the Canada geese that frequented the campus where I went to school. Those geese were messy, which seemed bad. We had to dodge the remnants of their droppings to get from one class to the next. However, because they were there, I will forever remember my fondness for education. Today, I am a lifelong learner. Whenever I see the geese, I usually grab my iPad or a real hardcover book and dive in.

As I write on this sunny day, there is also some good that came out of an unfortunate situation. I am inside, not out in the fresh air, because some people out there have been gossiping about me. I don’t feel like running into them. Besides, I decided not to tell them I know what they’ve been up to. I am just going to leave it up to Jesus. Whatever he decides to do will be right.

While I’ve been inside today, I have fixed up my MacGyver couch (it’s a couch made out of an air mattress and a futon cushion). I’ve added a dust ruffle to my box spring under my mattress and disguised my art supply trolley with a lace front covering.

I am achieving household success despite the cruel types outside.

Thank you for reading, and have a beautiful day.

I love you,

Lisa Brown