| Staying Strong in Tribulation 19 September 2001 Dear Sisters in the Lord I hear that many mothers are undecided whether to tell, teach or expose their children to the evil act which has recently happened in America. There are many tragedies in life. Some of them greater than others. It is a tragedy that our children have to experience this GREAT tragedy in their lifetimes. But God, Who was 'In the beginning' is the founder and author of us, His creation. And just like His created man-authors of the Earth, as an Author ~ The Author ~ of life itself, God has the power over whatever happens, whatever unfolds in our world. Simply speaking, God is in control. For reasons we know not, God has allowed this great tragedy to occur. All that we do know is that whatever happens will ultimately bring glory to Him. There are many of us who are so sick-to-the-stomach with what has happened and because of it, don't want to hear anymore about it. We want to return to our comfort zones, have our beautiful and wonderful lives back. The fact of the matter is, dear Sisters, that life, as we have known it, will never be the same again. "The Lord openeth the eyes of the blind; the Lord raiseth them that are bowed down; the Lord loveth the righteous; The Lord preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow; but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down" Psalm 146: 8 & 9 And so, what do we do, knowing this (whether we admit to this acknowledgement or not)? Here's what I do. I teach my children as I learn myself. I don't want them to be ignorant of all that is going on. I talk with them matter of fact-ly about life in general, whether it be religion, politics, Christianity, flower arranging or domestic science! As an example of this mindset, I have bought a national newspaper, and pointed out all the articles connected to the terrorist act, having them read and ask questions. I continue to inject fun and laughter into their daily lives. Oh, how they laugh when I grab their scooter and take off down the street, oblivious to strangers in cars, shaking their heads...... The children and I are still working on our spring garden, preparing beds, tidying up, planning and planting. When these projects are finished, we will continue with the next item on our 'to do' list. I am building up pantry and general stock supplies. Many of us did this before the year 2000 arrived on our doorstep. My parents have done this all of their lives. I continue to maintain domestic life and chores and maintenance and... and.... I continue to research health and healthy alternatives. I want my family to be strong and healthy, should hard times befall us. This is practical! Finally, Dear Sisters, keep those homefires burning. Stay on top. Pray and ask the Lord that you remain healthy and strong, with a heart to help wherever and whenever needed. America will need you. Canada, South Africa and England will need you. Australia will need us. We are the Florence Nightingales of the 21st century, moms and wives, who have been so touched by this course of events. Many blessings to you! Love Helen |