Comfort

I oftentimes feel as though I should be able to do all things. I feel like I'm capable of controlling my own life. It was almost to a point where I've felt I could make anything happen......all it required was that I try hard enough. Even now I still feel as though this isn't a terrible philosophy to live by. There is a poem, Invictus, that expresses this same idea:

Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate:

I am the captain of my soul.

I find this poem to be very inspiring, and I feel that it teaches a wonderful lesson of self mastery and determination in the midst of difficulty. But I've also come to realize that I'm not always able to do everything. From another perspective, I am not at the helm; my Savior is. He is the master of my soul, and I know through him all things right and good will come. A scripture that has helped to give me comfort in times of despair or little hope is

Alma 26:27 - "Now when our hearts were depressed, and we were about to turn back, behold, the Lord comforted us, and said: Go...bear with patience...and I will give unto you success."

Truth is I rarely know what that success will be. Many times I find I am clueless as to how he will bless me, but I know he will. Most importantly I have felt his comforting hand, and it helps me to know if I but be patient, He will guide me through the rough patches of life.