(Image Source: http://www.glsciencesinc.com/images/Environmental/)

I have so much to say, and yet I am speechless.  11/13/15 was not a very good day, and that is a gross understatement.  I won’t mention one particular event because, unfortunately, there were numerous tragic occurrences.  I am far away from the tragedy, and yet my heart is breaking.  I barely slept last night thinking of the suffering going on around the world.  All I could do was close my eyes and ask God for help over and over and over again.  To those who are suffering:  You have my full support and my prayers. <3

(Image Source: God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds …)

Now I want to address those of us who weren’t physically affected.  I was sad, but I was also afraid, perhaps more so.  My stomach was in knots, and I felt nauseous.  I used to dream of traveling the world, and now I barely want to walk out my front door.  Natural disasters and violent attacks aren’t stopped by borders; they may not physically affect you, but they do affect you.  I am sure I’m not the only one who is paralyzed by fear due to the increase in chaos and violence.  I could say “Stay strong!” or “Have courage!” or “Suck it up!  There are people suffering worse!”, but I won’t.  I do not believe that we should let fear control our lives, but it is not a bad thing to feel scared.  Take a step back and release your emotions.  Do something that makes you feel safe.  Don’t beat yourself up.  I feel a little better and a little stronger today so there is hope.  You are not alone!

(Image Source: https://laurafightslikeagirl.wordpress.com/tag/joshua-19/)

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace”

“The Heavenly Vision” by Helen Howarth Lemmel

“To everyone who’s lost someone they love, Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough, When you said goodbye
And to all of the people with burdens and pains, Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there’s nothing and there is no one, Who can make it right
There is hope for the helpless, Rest for the weary, Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness. Mercy and healing, He’ll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus…”

“Cry Out to Jesus” by Third Day: Third Day – Cry Out To Jesus

<3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3

This may sound cliche, but I mean it with all sincerity.  Life is short so do not waste time.  Thank God that you are alive and breathing; He gave you another day of life for a reason!!

– Lauren Michele