It has been difficult to write something pleasant or cheerful. For a few days, I felt guilty being hemmed in by laughing children and the beautiful desert spring. I feel strange that I can take a deep breath knowing others are suffering.

But my position as a wife and mother is to keep my house joyful and peaceful right now. I’ve tried so hard to discuss the news with only Brian and my older children. I’m protecting the little ones from the stress, anger, and suffering that feels so heavy on my heart. 

My role may not be that of a front line medical professional or grocery store employee, but I know that God has me right here for a purpose. I won’t make the headlines keeping five children fed, rested, and mostly happy, but that is not my path right now.

My job is to care deeply for those in my home. My job is to say “yes” when they ask me to dance, sing, play on the floor, and swim when I think the water is much too cold. My job is to pray for all suffering and to beg our sweet Savior to look upon their face with mercy if they were not ready to meet Him yet.

I can find joy in the little moments of my day. I can hear the birds singing and the children laughing. 

I hope you find joy today. I hope if you are one of the brave, choosing to stay home, that your cup overflows with kind words and silly smiles.

There is hope. We will figure this out. We must.

In the meantime, laugh with your children. That is our job right now. So that when the doors are flung open and we run into each other’s arms, the children will guide us with the smiles and the laughter that we’ve shown them despite everything.