Inflation, hackers, pain and first Father’s Day, and 4th of July without the hubby.

Life has its trials, and since the first of this New Year, our Can Opener has had the same ones everyone else has- but has seen God move on her behalf every time. She’s learning that trials don’t have to mean defeat. Pain doesn’t have to equal quitting, and recurring holidays and special occasions without a spouse that has passed doesn’t have to mean lonliness, emptiness and depression.

She has learned to hold fast to her strength by the power of the Holy Spirit- who tells her to worship, not worry. To pray, not dwell on all the evil that is going on- and to give thanks for what she has, and what she can do, instead of complaining about what she doesn’t have or can’t do.

Oddly enough, even in the midst of it all, she is doing better now than she has in previous years. And, somehow has joy and unexpalinable peace in the middle of it all-

I hear her say that God has given us an open invitation to cast all our burdens, anxieties and fears on Him- (I Peter 5:7) – and when people don’t do that, they get overcome with anxiety, depression, fears and insecurities (who wouldn’t with the way things are right now)?

But she has learned that when she dares to just bring it all to Jesus and LEAVE IT THERE in His hands, things have a way of working out while she sings praise.

She says there really is power in prayer and singing praise. But only those who actually try it will discover it and experience the peace of God which surpasses understanding.

But- she also says God created cats for a reason too- Sushi and I keep her smiling, and load her up with cuddles when she’s in pain- since Sushi and I can’t visit you guys and help with whatever stress you’re going through- we’re sending some of our pals to brighten your day a little!

Give your kitties a hug! 😻