Have you ever taken the time to watch the evolution of a sunrise or sunset? It is something I have often enjoyed, but not for a while. Life is busy. However, this week I sandwiched in a little dish duty before I had to work in the morning. I’m so glad I did.

This was the view outside my kitchen window that morning. The breaking forth of a new day. I watched as the light changed. At first a fiery promise, then shifting to an overall golden glow.

As I washed and watched, something hit me. The sunrise was so breathtaking because of the clouds. The variations gave the light different reference points to bounce off of. Without the clouds, the light would just break forth in full force. While still useful in helping us see and giving the earth warmth, it would have lacked the power to inspire. That is so much like life, isn’t it?

While we all would like smooth sailing and have things just go well, it is through the clouds and storms in our personal lives where our own inner beauty and strength are best born. It is actually the struggle that gives us depth and greater understanding. We learn more about ourselves and life. Think about those souls we admire who have lived through very challenging difficulties – Corrie Ten Boom, Helen Keller, Nelson Mandela, just to name a few. Then we have amazing heroes and heroines in the scriptures – Joseph of Egypt, Esther, Daniel, Abinadi, Helaman and the Stripling Warriors. I’m sure you know of people in your own circle too. They had hard experiences, but oh how they were shaped by them! What about yours?

I have grumbled more than a little about the hard of this semester. It has really stretched me. Not just the struggles with assignments but the balancing of school and all my other responsibilities. It has been rough and messy. I’ve definitely made mistakes, but I am learning from them. One of those lessons means I will tackle a lighter load moving forward. But as I look back, I also see some of the beauty.

In the October 2022 General Conference, Elder Anthony D. Perkins had this to say about adversity, “Refined souls can bear others’ burdens with true empathy and compassion. Refined souls who have come ‘out of great tribulation’ are prepared to joyfully live in God’s presence forever.”

I want to be worthy of those types of sunrises. Don’t you?

**I felt like I needed to wait to publish this post for a few days and reflect on what I wrote. In the waiting, I had another thought come in regards to the clouds. They were made beautiful as they reflected the light of the Sun. They didn’t keep the brilliance and warmth for themselves. This weekend we have the opportunity to bask in the glow of inspired messages from men and women who are dedicating their lives to reflecting the Light of the Son of God – Jesus Christ. I encourage you to think about what light and hope you are in need of and join us this weekend. And bring someone with you. You both will come away lighter and brighter.

https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/event/april-2022-general-conference