Dear God, I seek your solace and warmth, yet I myself bar the door when you knock. I profess that I have willingness – but I am not obedient when your instructions are not to my liking.

You test me, Lord. Let me be obedient.

(Letter #1,551)

Dear God, I arise depleted and weary at the thought of my duties. How will I meet the tasks I have been set?

I mouth the words that seek strength, yet in my heart I pray for escape. Change my thinking, Lord. Let me live acceptance.

(Letter #1,550)

Dear God, let me work with a glad heart today. Let every effort be a prayer.

(Letter #1,549)

Dear God, buried in my heart, there you are. My treasure, my secret. The raw wind blows, yet my chest is warm, glowing.

Glowing souls, some of us come together and share the warmth. What cheer! Others walk, lonely, their solitary heat fading.

I give up nothing to join my sisters and brothers, yet still I walk single, creating the conditions of my own trial and woe. I shiver, but need not.

Cold, I wrap my arms tightly around my chest. But look at all these friends nearby! I mulishly ignore their glowing warmth, tending to my own tiny flame with misplaced pride.

Let me, Lord, enter others’ circles. This warmth improves the land as we share it.

Thy will be done.

(Letter #1,548)