Lessons Learned

The last few weeks have been rough, to say the least. This time of the semester is always difficult. It feels like every class adds an extra assignment (or two) at the last minute, and all my tests are scheduled for the same day. I have been rather unhappy with my job, I am easily irritated, I've been grumpy and short with people that I care about most, and who do the most for me. Needless to say, I have not been a very pleasant person the last few weeks.

Two weeks ago, I got a phone call from my dad telling me his brother, Kent, was in the hospital in Las Vegas. It seemed pretty serious and no one sounded very hopeful. Thankfully, a few of us girls heading to Vegas for the long weekend. We drove down late Thursday night and headed to the hospital Friday morning, where we met my dad in the ICU waiting room. They were just finishing up a procedure on Kent while we waited. The nurse then came in and told us he was gone. It felt so unreal-I think we all sat there for a minute in disbelief. I will never forget the way I felt that morning. I am so grateful that I was able to be there to comfort and support my dad. Having my friends there meant so much to me, and I know my dad appreciated their support, as well.

Life isn't perfect, and I know I'm not going to be happy 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. And that's ok. We are supposed to struggle and have trials-the way we respond is up to us. We're in charge of our own happiness. I, although it's been tough, am grateful for these obstacles in my life. I know that the Lord will never give me more than I can handle. It's easy to forget that promise when you feel you're at your lowest low. It's so easy to get discouraged and I feel like I am easily tempted during these times. I can't blame my bad attitude on unfortunate circumstances, or other people. There will always be something unexpected that doesn't go according to plan. Just when life feels close to perfect, I am sweetly reminded that I'm here to learn a thing or two.