I lost my voice for nearly five months. No…not my physical voice. My writing “voice”. In my ten years of blogging, I’ve never taken an intentional or unintentional blogging break that lasted this long. Whatever the reason, the break was needed.
Even so, I’ve missed being here. I’ve missed communicating with you all. I’ve missed sharing the ups and downs of this precious life I’ve been given. Last year was nothing short of tragic…from nearly the beginning to the very end. I lost my husband in February…my dad in December. I had five surgeries (only one was planned). I totaled a car. I banged up another one. I contracted pneumonia…twice. My air conditioner went out, my basement wiring is messed up, and several other minor things. My nephew was diagnosed with an aggressive, rare terminal illness. I’m still in shock over that one. And yet…
God is still so very good.
Through Joel’s death, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know an entirely new community of people. I’ve made some very dear friends I probably never would have otherwise. I’ve seen the love of Christ poured out on my children and me in quantities which can’t be measured. Friends of old and some I’ve just met have cared for us deeply, when we’ve needed it most. People have given me the opportunity to “step away” from my solo parenting duties several times so I could be refreshed and restored. My gratitude for all we’ve been given cannot be expressed in words. We can never repay all that has been done for us over the last (nearly) twelve months.
God is still so very good.
So, why the silence? Why haven’t I been able to share on this platform in nearly five months? Truthfully…I don’t know. Nothing significant silenced me. I have so much in my heart I’ve wanted to share, but the words just wouldn’t come in a way that would make sense in a blog post. I know the Holy Spirit has been doing a new work in me, and I feel certain He silenced me while He’s worked. But why? That I don’t know. But this I do know…
God is sill so very good.
I feel my voice is returning. I feel my heart is ready to release some of those “messages” that have been tucked away for safekeeping. I feel I’m ready to return to this community. Will you join me again? Thank you for your patience during my silence.
#HeIsStillGood
Sheila Reed says
Oh, yes! I hear you! I’ve felt silenced as times too, sometimes because it just can’t be put into words! Take your time! He will show you when to return and the words will be there! As you wait, relish your precious memories, love on your babies and lean on Him! I love you sweet sister ♥️
Leah Stirewalt says
Thank you sweet Sheila! Love you!
Charlotte Chaney says
But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. Luke 2:19
Leah Stirewalt says
Thanks for your wisdom Charlotte! You always know the right thing to say.
Linda Lint says
Sometimes God calls us to silence so we can “hear” His fingers weaving the beautiful pattern for our lives that only He can see…..
Leah Stirewalt says
So, so true sweet Linda! <3
Connie Johnson says
So, so glad to see you writing again!!! Continue to pray for you and the kids!! What an amazing testimony of faith through the fire.
Leah Stirewalt says
Awww…thanks friend! We certainly welcome all those prayers!