Sitting among the ashes.

I've been reading about the story of a man who lived long ago; from all accounts, he was successful in every way. He was the "greatest man" in his town; his family got along and all was well, until one day when something out of the ordinary came against him....... twice.

Not only did he suffer great personal loss, but his life was also touched with physical ailments. It seemed that even this righteous man was allowed to discover and uncover what it meant to "suffer". If he was such a good person, how could the God he knew of, allow this to happen......

He sat scraping his wounds, listening to so called friends give their opinions as to why such tragedy would strike his life. As he sat among the ashes, he came to the conclusion that if he could accept the good he believe came from God, why could he not accept the trouble that came as well..... This is the life of Job.

With the passing of our loved one, there are times we would feel justified in treating people poorly, lashing out in anger, and even making excuses for bad behavior. I have had more headaches with my rentals than ever before in our history together. I want to make sense of it, but can't......

As I reflect upon the last few years we've had, I think about this same subject. Particularly in the last 17 months........ when it seems as if all hell has been stirred up and I think life should be a bit easier if I try to live a "good life."

There were two tests Job went through and he came through each with questions and queries, but conquering. He kept his integrity intact because he held onto his beliefs and the relationship(s) that were real to him................

Here in LA, those closest to us know the compromises we have shaken off time and again, as part of our "testing......." Countless come to find fame and fortune, but soon betray the beliefs once held dear. It is heartbreaking how lives are changed, hearts are hardened so easily. It doesn't have to happen.

You gotta know what's real to recognize it. Goodnight.