Not alone

It has been a while since I've blogged. Fatigue frequently gets in the way, but I continue to find joy in the journey--gratitude for both the small and large things in my life.

Over the past few weeks, I've found so many things to be grateful for: people who take time to listen and bear my burdens with me, long-lasting friendships, rainy days that help me greater appreciate the sunny ones, kids with whom I work who do little things that make me smile, the temple, the hope and joy of seeing a change of heart and countenance in myself and in others and the list goes on.

Today, as I sat in church, I was reflecting on a question someone had asked me in the past few weeks. "Is it hard for you to come to church alone?" As i reflected on this question, I was enveloped with an overwhelming sense of peace, love and unity with other members of my ward and with my Savior, Jesus Christ. The feeling lasted for quite some time as I recognized that although I arrive at church by myself, I am never truly attending church alone. Though others have families, I am part of a ward family, and more importantly the family of God. our Savior and my Father in Heaven are with me always.

Is it hard to attend church by myself? No. I'm never alone. . . Sometimes attending church in meetings that are so focused on the family while I'm single can be difficult. The desire to raise a family and have the companionship of another so close can be strong. Sometimes lessons focused on the family or raising children or being married can magnify those desires and highlight the seeming gulf between what is "ideal" and what is my life, but--I know there is a time and season for all things. I know God has a purpose and a plan for my life.

Is it hard? Sometimes. But. . . an understanding of the big picture and the sweet Spirit that testifies to my heart that I'm never truly alone allows me to find joy in the journey. . .daily, weekly and throughout my life.