…I’m in the middle of. (Yes I know I left that hanging…. I’m not in the mood to fix it.)
Yesterday Wednesday was technically the middle of the terrible, no good, very bad week in which I find myself, and I’ll be honest: I didn’t want to go to choir rehearsal. I didn’t feel like singing, I felt like crying. Monday night, the two newest (and best gas-mileage) cars we have (of our 3 old cars) got smashed in a hit and run. That means we’ll have to buy something for Paul to replace his commuter car. Later Tuesday, the CPA informed us that Turbo Tax did not make a mistake, but was accurate in it’s prediction that we owe the IRS about $10K. And furthermore the week has been filled with a lot of the kind of stress you feel when people you love are hurting, but far away, and you are helpless, and all you can do is pray, and pray some more.
I was glad, though, after all, that I went to that rehearsal.  Somehow (you know how they say, “He who sings prays twice”) – it was an extension of my ongoing prayers, and it uplifted my soul in a way that I very much needed.
Still and all, after a long Thursday of intense prayers, while simultaneously trying to get some schooling accomplished, I have to admit I’m a bit done in. And then I think of the saints and martyrs, whose trials were so profound, and whose prayers and intercessions were tireless, and I conclude, I really need more stamina. Thank You, Lord, that You know my frame. Thank You for Your patience with my weakness. Give me an increase in love I pray, and in my infirmities, may I cling more closely to You.
Angie B.
28 Jan 2011I’m glad you went to choir, too—but I understand about not feeling like singing sometimes. I’ll be praying for you and your family.
nettie
28 Jan 2011Thank you so much, Angie!
Linda Burklin
28 Jan 2011Oh dear . . . to have the car crisis and the bad tax news in the same week! I’m a little nervous about our taxes also because my husband’s income increased but his withholding did not. We should know soon. I’ll be praying for you. I know that is a lot to deal with, and I know very well how crushing financial stress can be. Hope Paul is able to find a new car soon that is both reliable and affordable!
nettie
28 Jan 2011Thank you, Linda. Financially, sometimes you can’t win — we are stuck with this tax bill because of the fact that we paid of a large chunk of debt in 2010. That was smart. But this just smarts!
Pauline Holston
28 Jan 2011Oh my dear…being here and living through this week and all it has entailed has b een stressful on all of us! It surely does help us to cling more closely to God, tho’ , does it not????
nettie
28 Jan 2011It does indeed. What I’m learning about prayer this week I suppose I couldn’t learn any other way…
Jenni
29 Jan 2011Oh, I am so sorry! I have had those weeks. It sure did help me to understand what is meant by a “sacrifice of praise” though.
sarah
29 Jan 2011Today I found it so difficult to even get out of bed. I was weary emotionally and physically but then kids don’t stop needing their mommy. So up I got and God provided the strength to get through another day. It also helps having kids like Emma and Abbie who help out so much! So I know what you mean about not feeling like doing it. I’m glad God gave you the strength to get through this week too and pray He will continue to get you through the car and tax problems!
nettie
29 Jan 2011My sweet sister, with all you are facing, our tax and car troubles dwindle in comparison. I have been praying and trusting God to give you the strength you need… and will continue. So proud of Emma and Abbie for being your helpers. Give them an extra hug from Aunt Nettie, and remind them to pick their colors! 🙂