Joy in Pain

I have had the priveledge of being able to work through my pregnancy. I have a wonderful boss and supportive coworkers that make it possible for me to work from home when necessary. Althoug, I'd rather be in the office, out with people or at the church, there have been days where my body was not having it. As I approach my babies birth, my body is giving up and giving into more and more pain. BUT, today (much like many days of being in my house all day) I made myself aware of all of the joy around me while in my physical pain.

Today was a darker, rainy day which made it more quiet than most. I was so happy to look over at my window where my kitties sit and look outside and see them watching the rain drops come down as tranquil as can be. They probably have the most boring life ever (sleeping and being held captive inside) and yet they are as happy as can be. I've had more physical pain, boredom and anxiety in my life these last few months than I was prepared for, but I've had the best experiences with friends, family and the Lord than I ever could have imagined.

Being a person who loves accomplishment, I've learned how fast I let life fly by when I'm opporating at full capacity. Never do I stop and watch the rain, or enjoy the love and kind words of a loved one to the ultimate. Recieving help from friends and encouragement from people I haven't seen in years has penetrated my heart in such a way that I believe I am changed forever. I view the world differently, and I actually hear people when they are talking to me. I listen and soak it in more than ever before. Life is facinating now that I'm forced to watch it rather than run through it.

I have endured quite a bit of emotional pain in the past and the physical pain that I'm experiencing now is nothing to deny. We all have times of pain, and the level or extent of it does not take away from it's validity. I'm quite aware that my current circumstance pales in comparison to the pain others have experienced, but I have to believe that when we're looking we will find joy in pain. I actually believe this because I believe in Jesus and He promises there can be joy amidst suffering. He's in the life changing business, and mine is forever changed because of my short amount of time in pain. I'm fortunate because it's an end to a means. I'm praying for you who are experiencing and have experienced intense pain of any kind.