Tranquility

Tranquility, what a beautiful word. I didn't use it enough in the States, actually I don't think I ever used it.

The word for calm in Spanish is "tranquilo" and so I find myself using the word tranquil more and more each day.

Right now, at 2:30 pm on Friday afternoon, my life is the epitome of tranquility.

Here I sit at my compter, with my cup of coffee. 9 0f the 12 kids have gone into Tegucigalpa for the day. The other three are playing quietly in the living room after spending the morning doing yard-work.

Looking out the window, I am met by beautiful green trees and a single pink rose that has risen above the rock wall of the front porch. Listening to the light rain, inhaling that "wet grass" smell and watching the fog roll up the mountain.

Yes. Tranquility.

And yet, a year ago (maybe even a few months ago) I would never have dared to use that word to describe my life. How can my life be calm with 13 kids and a enthusiastic puppy? How can I enjoy the stillness of nature when life is moving so fast around me? How can I possibly say that things are "tranquilo" when there is always someone yelling (yes yelling) my name?

Still, here I am writing about tranquility. The tranquility of a soul that rests in the presence of the One who is in control.

At somepoint in the last couple months, a transformation began to take place in my being. Somewhere along the road, the Katie that always had to be in control learned how to roll with the punches. The girl who always wanted to know that plan, has learned ask less questions and enjoy the adventure ahead. The worrysome heart has surrendered. The spirit that was easily overwhelmed by details has learned to take a breathe.

Yes life is still hectic and crazy. There are somedays that my "to do" list has the most basic things on it (like "shower") just so that I'll make sure to keep time open to complete them. No, life is not stress-free or without hiccups in the road.

But I have changed. I am the tranquility. God has calmed the storms of my heart, the worries that tried to creep around with me from day to day. And as He continues to transform my heart, I have become aware of one thing:

I carry the tranquility within me.

Even admist an intense game of cards, or an argument in the kitchen, I can find my inner peace and quiet among the chaos.

What a beautiful feeling.

And so as I finish my cup of coffe and prepare for activity and noise that is soon to arrive, I thank God for this day, the rain shower and all the joys that come with it. And I praise God for the inner peace and a calm spirit that only comes from faith in Him.