The dogs and I wander the neighborhood this morning. As I turn a corner, I see a lady walking her tiny black poodle. They are a pretty picture. Her hair is coiffed, her outfit form fitting and fashionable and her pup prances. I look down at the three of us. My shorts are baggy and worn. My shirt is an old PE t-shirt. I know my hair is a mess, thrown into a careless pony tail. The dogs are each going their own way and the leashes wrap around my legs.

For a minute, I covet. I think of the appeal of a tasteful walk; orderly and lovely. But I am surprised how quickly the desire is replaced by gratitude. You have been working deeply on my spirit. I think of the chaos, trials, heartbreaks, weaknesses, failures and excruciating pain that wrap around my legs, threatening to trip me up. The moments I have fallen into the dark pit of despair, convinced I am not able to get back up this time. Yet in and through it all You have been growing much in my weary spirit; even enabling me to appreciate and savor the leashes of pain that wrap around my heart because I am learning of You in ways unfamiliar to me.

So I gratefully walk along.