It was interesting to read my blog entry for January 1st, 2011 (here). Had I known what 2011 held, I would have given it back and probably asked for a better year. I saw death and I saw job loss. I faced days full of darkness and pain. I cried more this year than all the years before combined. 2011 was the darkest year so far in my life.
But the light of hope still shone, even when I could not see it. God provided for my family. He was patient with me as I wrestled with all the darkness both inside me and out. He brought friends that stood by us and helped us.
God never let go of me.
I now stand on the brink of 2012. What is this year going to bring? I know a couple things already. It will bring the fruition of 8 years of writing: my first book. It will bring the much-anticipated birth for a friend of mine. It will bring change as Dan and I move on with our lives to the next ministry God takes us to.
But those are only hazy glimpses. In the end, we do not know the future. And I’m glad. I would worry way too much ;). Instead, I know the one who holds the future. And I’m learning to trust in Him.
Morgan L. Busse 
So excited to see what God’s sovereign plan is for you, Dan and the children in 2012. Selfishly, I hope His plan includes some time with Gramma Em. lol. I cannot wait to purchase copies of your book and show everyone what God has done in the life of my beautiful, talented and faithful daughter in love. Hugs, MJ
Isn’t it interesting how God intersperses the joys with the sorrows? I think the gifts He gives remind us to trust Him when the sorrows seem to overwhelm us. May 2012 be a year of contentment, in plenty or in want.
I think as creatures of comfort, most of us would only want the joys. But its the sorrows that remind us this world is not our home and make us stronger. Good point Becky 🙂