Make My Spirit Strong

"Our Father knows what's best for us, so why should we complain?
We always want sunshine, but He knows there must be rain.

We love the sound of laughter and the merriment of cheer,
But our hearts would lose their tenderness if we never shed a tear.

For growing trees are strengthened when they withstand the storm,
And the sharp cut of the chisel gives the diamond grace and form.

God never hurts us needlessly, and He never wastes our pain,
For every loss He sends to us is followed by rich gain.

And when we count our blessings that God so freely sent,
We'll find no cause for murmuring, and no time to lament.

For our Father loves his children, and to Him all things are plain,
So He never sends us pleasure when the soul's deep need is pain.

So whenever we are troubled, and when everything goes wrong,
We know God's working in our hearts, to make our spirit strong."
-amy carmichael


I know I speak for myself, my family, Zack's family, & friends, but I am SO proud of my man. (I'm feeling emotional right now so just go with it). I have never seen anyone grow as much and as fast as I have watched Zack grow, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, (not physically babe sorry... you're still only like 5'2). He has been through a lot in his life, and to see him come out of it a strong believer of the Love of Christ is inspiring. His faith has encouraged MY faith, and so many others around me. Babe, here's a shout out to you, b/c you are freaking awesome.

I received another warm & fuzzy email from the CO of Zack's unit.

"Hello, This is LtCol Eric Davis from CLB-46, and today I have a brief message for Friends and Families. The entire Battalion has arrived safely in Iraq. We are currently conducting turnover, learning the ropes and getting used to our new homes. We have started to receive mail, and that is always a morale booster. We look forward to our work here and our eventual return home.
J. E. Davis"



I'm ready for you to come home.




(Z right before he left for his first convoy)