Before we are married, we all have a picture or expectation of what life will be like for us. We have hopes, dreams, aspirations, a perception of our future. I did. I thought that a marriage relationship was something I had control over. I can choose my spouse and choose the dynamic of our relationship. The reality is, there are so many things out of our control. And so many things we would have never ever expected to happen. None of us know what we are getting into when we say "yes, I will marry you." We make covenants to remain with this person through sickness and trial, for time and all eternity without even understanding what that means. Isn't it interesting that God has designed it that way. He doesn't say, get married civilly first, try it out for a while, then come to the temple and make eternal covenants.
I think there is wisdom in that. If we really knew what we were getting into - really knew - we wouldn't do it. Jumping blindly and naively into the unknown is where the true test lies. Facing things we never thought ourselves capable of facing, climbing mountains we never imagined we had the power to climb, is where true strength is found and potential discovered. So, when I am faced with missed expectations or lost hopes and dreams, I want to realize that MY plan never was the plan. THIS, what is happening right now, this pain, heartache, sorrow, these missed expectations, THIS is the plan. This is what will bring about a change of heart, this is what will help me discover my potential, this is what will make me strong, patient, compassionate, wise, and humble. I can run from it, and constantly be running from it, or I can embrace it with humility, gratitude, and constant faith and trust in God to lead me through it.
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