Dear reader,
I mentioned on my blog recently that I have been rereading Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen). I am in the mood for stories that feel cosy and restful, and all the better if they are familiar. Picking up a novel that we used to know and love offers a sigh of relief from the busy world around us. This is what I have been drawn to.
One reason I love Jane Austen’s work is how you experience true anticipation of the happy ending. Halfway through and no one is pursuing the right person, the protagonist is saying all the wrong things, and those meddling side characters are only causing more damage. But it all falls into place at the last possible second. Nothing happens before it needs to. We can only relax once the last page has reassured us.
I loosely relate my life to this sentiment. There are times when it all just seems too messy, painful, or hopeless. But I have a strong faith in God and in His plans. Nothing is out of His control, nothing goes unnoticed, nothing catches Him by surprise. Which means even amidst the hardest (or weirdest!) times in your life, He has a purpose, a way forward, and an everlasting love.
Shortly after turning 25, I wrote the following;
“I have done so much, and so much has happened, that I did not choose yet has grown me or brought immense joy. Not everything pleasant, but everything handled by God. It is with this knowledge that I will face the year ahead.”
This remains true. In fact, I feel it all the more strongly now after the changes I’ve faced.
I start a full-time job tomorrow, which I’m so grateful for. It feels like God is telling me that there is a place for me here, that I can settle down somewhere. (I’ve been discussing my recent move on my blog, and in last month’s newsletter.)
I’m looking forward to having a new routine and learning to prioritise my time differently. I’m hoping it will motivate me to implement good habits. But I also don’t want to put extra pressure on myself right away, when I know there will be a period of adjustment. The day I write this newsletter may change, as well as my blog posts. But these are all good changes, and I will find consistency again.
As always, I welcome replies and look forward to continuing the conversation.
Sarah xx
Currently listening: Backseat of My Mind by Thelma Plum
Currently reading: I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
the softest words 