Count Your Many Blessings

I have a wise friend who often tells me that when a pattern emerges in our experiences, it may be a sign that we are supposed to learn a certain lesson or "truth."

If that is the case, then I'm certain I came to this earth to learn these things:
1) Patience
2) Patience
3) Patience

I'm doing all right with the "control your temper" sort of patience.  My struggles come with the patience and faith required to trust in Heavenly Father's plan for me and those I love.  I truly do believe that things work out for the best (whether is was my idea of "the best or not".)  It's just the process of getting there that drives me crazy.

I think back to a couple of times in my life when this lesson has been at the forefront.  The first was our attempts to have a baby after Syd was born.  Through five years, a miscarriage, and fertility drugs, we tried to add to our family.  However, it wasn't until  I finally accepted the situation that I actually became pregnant with Lauren. I remember specifically repenting of my anger and learning to be grateful for the two wonderful kids that I had. (Side note:  for anyone struggling with infertility, I am no way implying that acceptance results in pregnancy.  It is just my own little miracle).  Less dramatically, another repeat of this lesson came when we were trying to get a loan to build our house.  Now, in the grand scheme of things, it isn't all that important.  But it seemed like every time we got close, something in the process would break down.  Again, it wasn't until I realized that where we lived didn't matter; it was that we were all together that counted, that things fell into place. 

Obviously, those are two fairly grand examples.  There are twice as many ones that illustrate times when I didn't "get what I wanted".  Yet what I "got" was just what I "needed".  I just wish I'd learn the lesson beforehand instead of in retrospect.

During fast and testimony meeting earlier this month, I was strongly reminded of my needed for faith in Heavenly Father's care.  I was reminded that my perspective is limited and I can't fully grasp His design for my learning and my growth.  I was reminded that Heavenly Father loves my family more perfectly than I can imagine.  And each one of them has their own personally tailored lessons to experience.  So while I get anxious and want to see the end result before I experience the middle, I am learning to be patient. 

Hopefully I can be a fast learner! (Oops!  I mean a patient student.)