Gratitude

I've lived an easy life. I haven't had any huge trials or challenges to overcome. In 24 years I haven't needed anyone but my family.

Amazing how life hands you a curve ball sometimes. Earlier this month, Josh and I were hit with a trial--a difficult, agonizing, truly heart-breaking trial. I remember thinking, "How do we get through this?" We have our families, but because neither family had faced this struggle, it's been difficult to cope.

I prayed for three specific things on three separate days: someone I could relate to, someone to mourn with me, and a reason to be hopeful while dealing with the aftermath. Friends and ward members who knew nothing of our heartache were there to provide help in each case. I can't explain these experiences... other than they were miracles. I don't want to throw that term out lightly, but honestly, how could these three people give me what I needed when I didn't tell anyone but my Heavenly Father?

I don't think I've ever felt gratitude until this experience. I am not at the point where I'm grateful for the trial itself, but I am truly thankful for people who listen to promptings and follow through. I want to be one of them.

I don't love sharing my testimony on something so public (you never know who will take you seriously and who mocks you), but I think everyone should know that you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others... and often you don't even know what you've done for that person. So, on behalf of those whom you've helped, thank you.