Reflecting a church visit with Tobias

 

Feeling Out of Place, Finding Comfort in God

Being at church today was bittersweet. As I sat beside Tobias, I couldn’t help but notice the young, healthy people around us—the kind of vibrant individuals Tobias once was. It’s hard not to feel a sense of loss seeing him there, knowing how different things are now. Life has a way of making us feel out of place sometimes, like we’ve been misplaced in the very places we once belonged. But I’m reminded that God has a plan for each of us, even when we can’t see it. His love is constant, and even when life feels like it’s moving us into unfamiliar spaces, He is there, guiding us.

A Moment of Reflection at Church

Today, I went with Tobias to church, and as I sat beside him, I couldn’t help but notice the young, vibrant people around us—the same kind of healthy, energetic individuals Tobias used to be. It was hard not to feel a pang of sorrow seeing him in between those who hadn’t faced the challenges he now carries. Yet, amidst the contrasts, something beautiful happened. Tobias’ eyes began searching for his niece and nephew, and the moment he spotted them, his entire face lit up. The simple touch of his niece’s small hand or a laugh shared with his nephew brings him such joy, and it’s in those interactions that his heart lightens. They bring out the brightest side of him, and for a moment, all the limitations seem to fade away.

Church has taught me today that we don’t have to worry about our problems in life. With an eternal perspective, life is wonderful, a school, a playground, a place to give to endure to find love and to share love and sometimes we lose what is most precious to us. Nevertheless, looking at it, losing gives us also a chance to learn appreciation for the moment as well as not taking granted that we have. This relates to relationships and physical belongings. 

In the Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 2:2 offers comfort: 

“Thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain.” Even in our hardest moments, God is working through our challenges to bring us strength. 

And in Romans 8:28, the Bible reassures us: 

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

These scriptures remind me that, even when life feels out of place or when I question why things are the way they are, there is a greater purpose at play. God knows where we are meant to be, and He is working through every struggle to bring us closer to Him.

Nature’s Comfort: A Sign of Hope:

On the way home from church, something unexpected happened. As we drove home after church, I was struck by the beauty of the world around us. The sun was shining, and the wind swirled the leaves in the air, creating a dance of orange, red, and yellow. It was like the elements were
playing a game, and I was caught in the middle of it. I was sad but nature let me feel truly at peace, like I was in the right place at the right time.Lets remember who created nature and the perfection we find in nature.

Nature and its perfection:

Nature has a way of offering comfort when we need it most. It was as if God was speaking to me through the colors of the leaves, reminding me that even in the chaos of life, there is beauty. The elements were working together in perfect harmony, much like Tobias’ mind and body try to do every day. It was a reminder that even when things seem out of sync, there is still order, still purpose, and still hope.

Conclusion: Finding Strength in the Journey

Being a caregiver to Tobias has been the most challenging experience of my life. Emotionally and physically, still the learning experience is priceless. 

Let’s appreciate our challenges so that we can enjoy life as it is today. Life is good. Take good care of yourself. Love yourself the way you are. God loves you just the way you are. Take care of your body and your soul. They are are a unit. 

Have a wonderful day 

Katja, another caregiver, mother, wife, grandma and friend