Winter's Sun

It's December, December 20th to be exact. As I sit in the winter's sun I reflect on winter's past. Some spent in the Australian sun, most spent here in the cold tundra that is Canada. My heart is content, is warm and thankful. Gratitude fills my soul, I am home, to flourish where God has planted me for this time. To grow not without struggles or hardships, but with. 

Has anyone been stretched, matured, or been pushed without pain? I think not. Growth only comes with some sort of pain. No pain, no gain, right? 

I used to be afraid of pain, but now I see how there is beauty in the struggle and trials. Beauty often comes out of the darkest of places, if we let it. This past year I have learned how to let that beauty come out. I have learned the true value and meaning of perseverance and the importance of pushing through when all things seem to be against you. I've learned how to push back, to walk through without losing heart and come out the other side with more grace and wisdom than before. Winter is a funny thing, it is cold and harsh, but there is so much beauty that comes with it and after it.