Peace

I've had a few people tell me its been a while since my last post.  Makes me think I actually have readers :).  There has been so many things going on that I just haven't had the time to sit down and share my thoughts.  Today was the first day I've taken time to breathe and not think.  Its been hard to turn my mind off over the last 5 months as I figure out how to do this new position I've been in.  Things haven't been simple, but then again, life never seems to be.  The stress took its toll on me as I've been sick with one virus or another since early December.  In the midst of all this stress, somehow I started a relationship, which has been amazing.  Her name is Erica.  She has listened to me whine, put up with my antics and teaches me what compassion is.  I could write a whole blog on her, but now isn't the time.  As great as the relationships has been, it has brought its challenges as well.  Being long distance isn't always easy.  Top all of that with multiple family members with health concerns.  Some things are never easy to deal with and trying to cope will all of this at once is tough.  Don't worry, I'm doing ok with it all.  Remember I use my blog to think out loud.  Today was another tough one.  A tough conversation with Erica, work, stress from work, more information from family.  Not exactly the nice day of rest I was hoping for.  However, in the midst of all that is going on, I found peace today.  It's been snowing in Spokane for about 10 hours.  I was able to just sit and be still, watching the snow fall outside for an hour, soaking in the beauty of winter, the beauty and calmness of snow falling.  No cars, no kids, no phone, no technology, just an hour of watching, not thinking, being with God.  It was one of those moments where you are with someone, but don't have to say anything, you just sit and be with each other.  It was unbelievably refreshing.  The snow is simply amazing.  Can't say I'm a huge fan of it here on March 1st, but the freshness it brings to me is very much welcomed.  I have a hard time keeping God in my focus in all aspects of my life, especially with all that is going on right now.  I've tried to read books, spend quiet time, do devotionals and so many other things, but it has been just going through the motions and I haven't gained much from it.  I've been missing my time outside, where I feel closest to God.  

I already feel more refreshed than I have in a while.  It's been a great reminder.  Peace is not something I always think about but truly miss it when I find it again. I hope you finding peace in your life, taking the time to seek it out and finding Jesus in that time. I hope your finding Jesus in all the moments. I leave with my verse of the day from John 14:27 "Peace I leave you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid"