The Storm

Sometimes it seems that all of life converges on you at once, doesn't it? The last few weeks have been like that for me. Even though they have been filled with wonderful celebrations like my 'forth and final' graduating from High School, going to her orientation at the college she will attend in the fall, and waving goodbye as she left for a 5 week vacation in New Zealand these joys leave behind them a wake of losses for me. These joys also bring up broken dreams that I had for our family which divorce has turned into something, that at these times, still feels like a nightmare. Once I would have brushed these things aside and tried to convince myself that they didn't hurt or that I just needed to get over it. I was the only one who fell for that...that is until I would have this incredible sadness and numbness I couldn't shake. Today I try to meet these things head on. However, when they come in like a wild storm that you weren't expecting it can knock you off your feet. The effort it takes to survive the havoc requires all the strength you can find.

As I tried to process what was going on for me this week the following poem emerged and with it an assurance that all was not lost.


The Storm

completely worn
and undone
up against a storm
and overcome
my spirits weak
and quite frail
some peace I seek
within this howling gale
it’s hard to hear
above the roar
inducing fear
over what’s in store
my way uncertain
debris piled high
a thick, heavy curtain
stretches up to the sky
yet His constant presence
I can feel
His love and essence
is very real
hidden in His palm
until it’s passed
peace and calm
shall come at last

6-22-09


Psalm 139:5
You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.