On Difficult Days

When times are confusing, you’re feeling down,

your plans have gone awry.

When your eyes lose their sparkle, you’re wearing a frown

you really want to cry.

Preparations were futile and all is amiss

your hopes are running dry.

What seemed like a straight path has taken a twist

and there are precious  few reasons to try.

Think of all those who’ve walked on before you,

strengthen the feeble knees

Remember the tests that others have gone through

ours are no greater than these.

But search for the whys and the wherefores 

the cause of the present state.

Be it time, chance or consequence, therefore

accept what life serves on your plate.

For trials and tests are those hot fires bright

that purify the gold

So we may shine with pure clear light

flawless diamonds to behold.

For God must cut, grind and fashion us

removing all that’s waste.

Though we mourn, we fret, we make a fuss

it can’t be done in haste.

In sorrow’s house there is much to learn

through our anguish and our tears.

But if for wisdom we deeply yearn 

it will come with the years.

For patience  builds strength as we squarely face

life’s challenges and daily tests

and we will grow ‘till we come to the place

that God will give us rest.

Rebecca Stewart 1998

These were difficult days after Mom's tragic accident that left her a respirator dependent quadriplegic. But God's word was a source of great encouragement and hope during these difficult days.
As Mom said in the midst of this trial, "Faith is for the hard times."