I’m so tired of being sick, but part me is starting to see the hand of God’s mercy in this. I mean, it’s giving me an opportunity to do some deep thinking and personal evaluation. Am I going the direction that God wants me to? Am I listening to the whispers of the Spirit? Am I using the talents He has given me wisely? Am I being diligent in developing them? Am I using my time wisely?

I’m learning that God doesn’t expect me to run so fast, or work so hard that I burn myself out (again). He expects me to do what I can within the restrictions that life places on me. He wants me to enjoy the life He’s given me. He wants me to take the time to notice the beauty of the world around me and the many ways he’s blessing me.

JOY. God wants me to find joy, even when it’s hiding in the cracks of the broken parts of life.

SORROW. Jesus knew we’d all have sorrow. He doesn’t expect us to bury it, or hide it. He asks us to help each other carry it. I think that is one of the ways that joy can find a way to shine through the cracks. It means the world when someone reaches out with compassion. It brings light to dark places and turns pain into gratitude.

Bronchitis has given me an opportunity to delve into scriptures and prayer that I might not have taken otherwise. Honestly, I was getting a little off-track there, and just kind of marking time. This has been a good chance to reset my heart and my priorities.

This week in Come Follow Me study, we’re reading 1 Nephi 1-7. It’s a lot of pages compared to the handful we had last week. The idea of journaling all my thoughts is overwhelming, but I am reminding myself that I don’t have to do it perfectly or even very thoroughly. I just need to do a little each day.

Here’s what I love so much about this book – there is so much evidence of Jesus Christ’s mercy and love in here. ❤️

I’m still deciding how to mark my Book of Mormon. Here’s what it looks like right now.

Thank you for your prayers for the country of Australia 🇦🇺, and for any prayers for my own recovery. I appreciate them. 💖