From rest, to intense sorrow, to great joy…it is amazing how the human spirit can handle so much, shifting emotions rapidly within a very short period of time.

While visiting my folks, I took a nice nap yesterday afternoon and enjoyed a pleasant time of reading and relaxation.

As I emerged from my long snooze, my mom encouraged me to go on her computer and see if she had any photos of Jud that I did not have.  As I began to peruse her pictures, sorrow errupted within me; by the time I finished, I was wailing, retching, and crying uncontrollably.  It was one of those moments where I was gasping for air, wondering how to survive the pain of the moment.  Long deep breaths became necessary to pull myself together.

As the intensity began to subside I made my way downstairs to join my family.  I discovered Jessie in a parcel box.  She was laughing and playing as she wrapped herself up as a gift and sang “Happy Birthday!”  A smile surfaced on my face as joy filled my heart.  I was suddenly overcome with great delight from my Ladybug’s giggles.

This extreme assortment of emotions is a perplexing glimpse into the dynamic nature of our souls.  It astounds me how so much sadness can coexist with such tremendous joy!