Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Trials

My mom once said that trials usually come in twos or threes.  This month they came in fours.  With each hardship it has brought on a new set of tests. I know I can come out a conqueror but can I do it with a smile on my face?

The first trial of the month was an emotional/physical trial. It tested the strength one can find within family walls.  When these sort of trials come out, you realize who is really there for you.  It was devastating and life changing. We are still praying for a positive outcome.  All I can say is, it is so important to be close to the Holy Ghost and to be able to hear those promptings. It is your only lifeline sometimes.

The second trial was one of patience. This is a stressful time of year for farmers and that alone brings a whole set of stresses and concerns. It affects every aspect of your life.

The third was a temporal trial. You never realize how much you rely on your vehicle until it is no longer there. The engine was seized in one of our cars this month.  We had family come to the rescue and help us replace it. We are so grateful for generous family members.

The fourth trial was one of physical pain. Garrett severed his right thumb while trying to tie up a wild horse. The rope was wrapped around his thumb and when the horse took off running, so it sliced off his thumb. It was a near amputation and he lost 90% of his arteries and veins and all of his tendons. He was rushed into surgery and now we are praying he regains circulation and mobility of his thumb.

Our faith has never been more tested at one time. We are truly being put to the test and I hope we can come out successful.  I know our prayers are being heard. This too shall pass if we have faith in every footstep.

14 comments:

JJLanier said...

I am sorry that your family has been going through so much! I hope Garrett's thumb will heal as well as possible.

C said...

Oh my goodness, BJ! I'm so sorry to hear about Garrett's thumb and we'll keep him (and your whole family) in our prayers.

Trials do seem to come in bunches, don't they? I hope you'll have a more peaceful next few months than this one was. Your attitude is really good, inspiring!

Love,
Christy

Newton said...

Hang in there BJ.... no one said you have to smile through it all, but I know you and I can imagine that you will. If you keep your faith, that's all that matters. And you are a great example of faith and hope. It's in your blood! It's ok to take it one day at a time. I know I've had years like that. I always have to tell myself- it came to pass, it didn't come to stay! I love you!

Ashley said...

Darn those trials! So. Not. Fun. Hang in there. Everthing will turn out okay in the end :) Ouch! Poor Garrett! Hope his thumb heals quickly!

b.liz said...

I'm praying for you and Garrett at this difficult time. You are so right that you need the spirit close now more than ever.

Love you!

laurice. said...

so sorry to hear about Garrett. Hope things start to go better.

Kari Ann said...

You are amazing! It is nice to know that others have hard times too. I will pray for you.

The Farmer's Wife said...

Sending hugs.....trials are ever present...stay strong...you will make it through!

Beth said...

Oh man... I'm sorry and I'm thinking about you, hang in there!

Jarmeg Family said...

I am so sorry, i didn't know all this was going on with you guys! sorry also to hear about garret's finger, sounds painful! this to shall pass and you will be a stronger person afterward.

Flora said...

Barbara Jo and Garrett - We love you so much. You are in our prayers.

Tiffany said...

BJ, We are so sorry to hear about Garrett and all of the other trials you are enduring! You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Tiffany Erickson Clayson

Serline said...

Hope Garrett gets well soon. I shall keep you in my prayers...

Sonia @ My Sweet Monkey said...

I hope things get better for your family... and I hope Elder Hatch is ok. (sorry... I just can't call him Garrett... he'll always be Elder to me!)