Dear God, what calamity will you save me from today, of which I am ignorant? When I look back on this day, will I see how grateful I ought to be?

Lord, wipe the mist from my eyes and let me see this moment clearly. I construct fantasies that I strive for, treasures that I grasp for – and these blind me to the favor you already shower upon me.

As I take each step today, let me cry out with thanks.

Place gratitude in my heart, Lord.

(Letter #1,586)

Dear God, you have reordered my thoughts. What I value is not what my fellows do.

Living apart from others, a foreigner, is wearing. I dwell among shadow people. At these times the world barely touches me. Nor, indeed, do I register. I glide, a cipher. Others speak, I speak, and we might well be speaking different tongues.

Lord, let me feel your friendship. I am weary today and feel alone.

(Letter #1,585)

Dear God, I sit quietly in the dawn and seek your will. When you answer, do I pay heed?

Willful, I set off daily in my own directions. I congratulate myself for being a seeker of your will, yet I stop short of being a doer. Where, Lord, is the virtue in asking, and even hearing, without acting?

Lord, move my hands today. Let me do your will.

(Letter #1,584)

Dear God, the whirlwind blows, yet not a leaf is moving. It is in my heart, this tumult. Worry gnawing at me, confusion biting my heels. My head spins with fear.

Lord, pluck me up and hold me tight like a squirming child. I have frightened myself. Sing softly into my ear, slow my breath. Shine light into the dark corners and show me there is nothing there after all.

The storm I battle never was. It is within my mind. All around me is calm. Open my eyes, Lord, to all the ways I have always been in your care.

(Letter #1,583)