Although my life is filled with extraordinary blessing, the past two years were filled to the brim with opportunities to overcome. The death of 10 loved ones, a severe car accident, health challenges in my children and myself and deep emotional problems of a family member. These events can either tear a family apart or bring them closer together. In my case our family came together to support, nurture and cherish each other. Seeing how precious life is we are now stronger, healthier and more joyful than ever.

This is what also happens in our relationship with God. We either become angry and resentful at the challenges in our lives, blaming them on the creator or we find a deeper connection to God's love and strength. It is when we find this deeper relationship that we are then able to heal.

At one particular moment when life felt very heavy and I felt overwhelmed, I cried out, "If you are there God, please give me a sign." I was guided to go outside. As the sun was beginning to set, the sky was ablaze with the most delicious hues. As I gazed at our beautiful Bougainvillea tree that was in full magenta bloom, dancing on every branch was a dragonfly. There must have been 20 of them. I was immediately infused with a shower of delight.

The dragonfly has deep symbolic meaning in my life; it exemplifies the ability to rise above anything, to fly with joy and to move effortlessly through the winds of change. I gave thanks and just as I did, several of them, which looked like little iridescent fairies, landed on my arms. It was my reminder that God was and always is there for me.

My validation of God's presence came in the form of a dragonfly. At other times in my life, it appeared as a rainbow, a beautiful sunset, my children's gentle hugs, the sweet song of a bluebird, or a whisper in my heart. When you are facing obstacles pray that the creator make his presence known, then pay attention for the signs that you are safe in the arms of God.

I wish you the lesson that the dragonfly offered me, as spring brings rebirth into your life and the lives of your children, remember with God's love, you can rise above anything, fly with joy and move effortlessly through the winds of change. May you and your children be showered with peace, health, joy and most of all love.

Copyright © 2006 Debbie Milam
Debbie Milam is the author of Stop Fighting and Start Connecting. An occupational therapist and life coach whose work has been featured in over 300 media outlets including The Miami Herald, Elle, Ladies Home Journal, PBS and The Hallmark Channel. Visit her website for more books and resources to help you be a create a life of peace, joy, and success for you and your children. Sign-up for her newsletter at BestYouCanBe.org and receive your special report 'Creating Peace Within Yourself and Your Family.'

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