Beauty in Ashes

Two weeks ago we had to let our sweet little pup go.  While we have figured out a way to continue on with our lives a cloud of grief is constantly upon us.  It's a sad time in our lives - one that we will not likely pass through quickly.  The pain is still very raw and very real - too close to the surface to attempt to share without risking a breakdown.

But...

Amidst this devastating sadness and grief the evidence of God's love and hand in our lives has been abundant.  At a time when we are struggling to "hold it together" and maintain our composure we are also prospering.  At a time when logic would have us lying on the ground mired in a puddle of grief we are being raised up.  At a time when anger and doubt and discontent could easily prevail over us we have been covered in peace.  We are being given beauty while covered in ashes.

And...

I am certain that this outpouring of God's love is the result of the prayers and thoughts of our family and friends.  Not because God needs their help but because He desires to let others be a part of what he is doing in our lives - so they too can be blessed.  If you have prayed for us know that your prayers have been answered in very real and tangible ways.  If you have prayed or left messages or sent cards or spoken kind words or given us space to breathe - know that you have played an active role in God's plan to bless us.  Know that God's love has been poured out from you.

I have found words insufficient to express so much of what I have experienced and felt in the last two weeks and this is one of those times.  To be loved on so graciously by our God, our family and our friends is an indescribable feeling.