I am thinking tonight about all the people that I know who are struggling right now. Friends and family members who are processing such trials as:
The loss of a child
A miscarriage
Marital separation
Chronic pain and illness
Various addictions
Gossip in the cruelest form
And when I ponder on these different experiences and afflictions, the same thought comes into my mind…
“…if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of Hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son ( or daughter), that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.” (D&C 122:7)
I really believe this. In fact, I know it to be true. I have had many a dark moment in my adult life. Some of which I brought on myself, but most were pushed on my by others’ free agency, and given by God. I am better for the low moments. Even if the trials are not desirable, the lessons learned are! They truly are for our good.