Where I expected pain, I found joy.

Where I expected tears, I found the edges of my smile curling up.

Where I expected sadness, I found a surprising depth of peace.

Where I expected loneliness, I found the quiet companionship of my own heart.

Because nothing outside me can steal the love of God away.

And you are not responsible for the way I choose to feel.

I take responsibility for all my thoughts and constant projections.

When my ego wants to scream, hide, kick, cry, hurt, shame, and vanish;

My soul says be silent, trust, love, smile, wait, rest and do nothing.

I can see peace instead of this.

I can rest quietly in God’s Hand.