The morning brings activity my way. I distance myself that I may watch it unfold. Is your will for me that I join my fellows? Or sit quietly, alone with you?

Lord, let me not pore over every minor choice. I treat each fork as a great decision, when they are simply diversions along a steady path. You will guide my feet nonetheless.

As I encounter these crowds along the way, let me greet them with good cheer even as I pass quietly through.

(Letter #1,652)

How might I see these fears, these trials and woes, as gifts for which to give thanks?

Bearing the judgment of others teaches me humility. Living in the face of fear teaches me the power of faith in you. Tragedy brings me face-to-face with compassion.

Lord, let me learn the lessons you have set for me today. Let me not squander these treasures, though I may see them as pain in my weakness.

(Letter #1,651)

With each rift, let me see the hidden opportunities to strengthen bonds.

With each setback, let me see the opportunity to correct past error.

With each criticism, let me view with gratitude the opportunity to see myself as others do.

Why do I face these trials? Let me see their reality.

Shall I be a beacon, Lord, to demonstrate how your children might cling to faith? Let me recognize the secret gifts you have hidden in the events of this day.

(Letter #1,650)

When disappointment comes, Lord, what am I to do? Have you abandoned me?

I walk through this world a creature of wants. I am in a state of unfulfillment, for there is always one more desire to pursue.

Let me see what you have already given me. I am overflowing with wealth. Yet I ignore these mounds of treasure as if they were heaps of rusted scrap.

Lord, open my eyes.

(Letter #1,649)

Worry creeps in to this secret dwelling. My refuge, in this light, is a place of torment. Sitting alone, with none around, I bring this unrest on myself.

Lord, still my racing thoughts. All these things that I have left undone – this is your will.

Let me bring my thoughts into agreement with you. When in peace, let me think peace. When safe, let me think safety. When it is time for charity, let me think, love.

(Letter #1,648)

What does it matter, that I am prepared for this day or not? It will arrive and unfold regardless.

The sun’s rays will hit my bare feet as I open my door, the wind will blow fresh scents to me. The rain may fall.

And here am I, thinking I can hold back the tide through greater effort. Let me, instead, walk barefoot on the shore.

(Letter #1,647)

The world is not the world. My body goes through the day, yet so, too, does my soul.

Let me see the drama of my relationship with you in these ordinary and tangible events.

In this quiet room, Lord, a love story is unspooling, between you and me. Let me see it rightly, that I may tell of it.

(Letter #1,646)