Confirmation

A few months ago, while blog-stalking, I read a quote that jumped out at me. I have written it down several places, and have even memorized it. I often find myself reciting it over and over in my head:

Now we see through a glass, darkly; then we will see face to face. Now I know in part; then I will know fully, even as I am fully known.

I have always contemplated what life is all about, but lately it has weighed heavily on my mind. We lost a good friend and neighbor recently. It's been almost a year since Grandma Kemp passed away. I worry constantly about my uncle who is alone, and not in good health. Why the sadness and suffering?

But as much sadness and suffering as there is, there is also great joy. I have dear friends that are awaiting a new baby. I see my own children learning and accomplishing things every day. And especially at this time of year, I am blown away by the awesome beauty of the world we live in.

So, where do these pieces fit? Will it all make sense one day? Am I getting any closer to knowing the answers to these questions? Do I strive to make the world a better place, to contribute to society, to truly celebrate all that I have been given? I understand that we must experience pain and loss to appreciate the good things in life, of that I am sure. But it's a lot more complicated than that. If I could just have the answers to my questions, it would be so much easier!

Which brings me to Saturday. I was listening to a talk given by a great man I have always loved and admired. This person does not know me, and this talk was given over the airways to millions of listeners. Which is why I sat in my car with my mouth gaping open when I heard him recite the quote that is so often on my mind. I was alone, but I still found myself looking to the right, and then to the left, as if someone would suddenly appear in my empty car and say--yes, I heard it, too! He quoted your quote! But, no one showed up, and I found myself alone with my thoughts. It was the answer I had been looking for, but it took hearing him speak the words for me to finally understand. Of course. Now, I see through a glass, darkly. I only know in part, but there will come a day when I will fully know.