There once was a woman who faced a great trial, and she cried out to God, “God, I need more strength!” God responded, “To grow stronger, you need to use the strength you have.” But instead of entering into the trial, she watched the trial grow larger. She cried out even louder, “God, I need more strength!” God responded, “To grow stronger, you need to use the strength you have.” But instead of entering into the trial, she watched the trial grow enormously large. She cried out yet once more, “God, I need more strength!” God responded yet again, “To grow stronger, you need to use the strength you have.” At that point, the woman looked at the enormous trial and tore her clothes in despair. She cried out to God, “God, I begged you for strength and received none! The trial is still here!” And the woman was overcome.

© Meisaan Chan