Steppingstones to God

An aching heart is but a steppingstone

To greater joy than you've ever known.

For things that cause the heart to ache

Until you think that it must break

Become the strength by which we climb

To higher heights that are sublime

And feel the radiance of God's smiles

When we have soared above life's trials.

So when you're overwhelmed with fears

And all your hopes are drenched in tears,

Think not that life has been unfair

And given you too much to bear,

For God has chosen you because

With all your weaknesses and flaws,

He feels that you are worthy of

The greatness of His wonderous love.

          Helen Steiner Rice          

                          A collection of encouragement