I have been dealing with chronic pain for about three and a half years now. Some days are better than others. Some days I just can’t seem to get any relief. It has been a very challenging season of life. Along with the physical pain, my mama-heart has been broken repeatedly and I have cried more tears than I ever thought possible. If the Lord really does keep all of our tears then mine are taking up some major real estate in heaven! Sometimes life is just hard.

One of the most important lessons that I have learned during this time is that it is possible to experience joy in the midst of pain. Even on the worst days, I have had the most exquisite moments of joy. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Joy can be present even in times of great sorrow. Tears of suffering can turn into tears of joy.

Whatever you might be going through, allow yourself to lean into those little moments of joy that pop up along the way. A little bit can go a long way towards sustaining us even when the road is rough. Unexpected joy is a precious gift that reminds us we are loved.