Be Still

Lately, as I have been trying to wrap my mind around so many of the “weightier” things, I have been feeling additional anxiety as I look at my sweet babies and think of the fact that someday, they will most likely be going through many of these same things and feeling many of the same feelings.

The thought has been so discouraging to me.  I’m not stupid, and I know that they have to experience pain and difficulty to grow.  I just love them so much that I wish they didn’t ever have to.  I mean, they’re my babies.  I want to protect them and keep them safe.

But as I have sought and received so much help and felt those whispers of peace, though nothing has changed, I do feel lighter.

I look at my girls now and think of what I want them to know “someday,” when those hard times come.

I would tell them to be still.

Be Still My soul, the Lord is on thy side
Stand calm within the storm of grief and pain

Trust in thy God to order and provide;

In every change, He faithful will remain.

Be still, my soul: Thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul: Thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;

All now mysterious shall be bright at last.

Be still, my soul: The waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

His burning sun shall melt the ice of fear

Lift up your heart, His soothing voice to hear

Be still my soul, when light you cannot see

When trembling skies speak to the fear in thee

The face of God illuminates the night

Unending peace and trust in perfect light

Be still my soul, when tears fall from above
You are divine, eternally in love.

(- Combination of lyrics from “Be Still My Soul” performed by Lisbeth Scott, and traditional lyrics by Katharina von Schlegel, b. 1697; trans. by Jane Borthwick)