Dear Carol, You wish your parents talked to you more. You wish your mom and dad would just love you for you, and not for what you do. You wih they could have let you greive. However, throughout all of this, the Lord was writing a different story. One of immense grace and kindness, where He never left you alone. He was alway with you and taught you that He is with you as you walk through deep waters. He showed you love, deep, real love in so many way. In the word, people, even Christian, have a joy that is not very deep. It is a joy that can be taken away. I think you've taught me over the years that real joy is surrendering to your love. It is knowing you. Lord, I trust you. I praise you. Praise the Lord! May my praise join with the other saints to declare your worthiness.

Lilly has been a dear friend to me. Her spirit and her presence feel so safe and like I'm in a hug. I think it's because her walk with the Lord has been sincere and genuine. Just as Joy and Jackie's, and Eden's. I feel so lucky to have always been with brothers and sisters whose love for the Lord is not a facade. They are not hiding anything. What a privilege.

The moments that are hardest with the Lord are those of surrender. When He is asking me to do something or give up something I don't think I can. I want to hold on so tightly it feels like I'm going to get robe burn, but still that feeling is somehow more comfortable than letting go. It's the moments when He asks me to receive Him as my whole satisfaction, and my heart just sighs and clenches tighter. Lord, don't let me go. Come again in your mercy and grace and I would unclench my heart to you.

Hello! What a happy happenstance you stumbled upon this place! I hope it would be what you need today-maybe the words would bring you the joy of the dappled sun in the trees, or the melancholy yet refreshing sprinkle of rain on a warm spring day. However you are, I hope these words can transport you to the most wonderful place I know- the safe haven which is the Savior's breast. May you abide there now and forever more.