A hundred fold

     A weary traveler takes a lonely road through storms of tribulation and strife, up inclines and down steep canyons with hunched shoulders and a heavy load to bear. With a tear stained face they cry out from parched lips, "what have I done to deserve such a trial. How can I manage to carry on. I can not do this alone." As the traveler sinks to their knees continuing to beg with their heart full of sorrow, a sudden voice is heard above, as a caring arm is wrapped around their shoulders, "I will be here to carry your sorrows, and carry your burdens through these storms. I will be your light and joy until you can walk again upon your feet." As the lonely traveler looks up they see the face of an angel. A good samaritan passing by and placed in the path at the right moment when all seemed lost. Both pressed forward through the challenges, enduring what others refused to see and blinded by their own pride of helping another. Angels walk among us as people. They listen to the council of the spirit and follow it until they are led to the broken weary travelers that have stumbled along the way. They give words of guidance and comfort when the bleakest hours are upon us. They seem to come out of no where as if mists upon the lakes. We may never know who they are, but they are there ready to carry us home. "Do not fear." They may add, and "keep your faith and carry on, for you are never alone." May we all remember that we are here to help another when all perception of good seems to fade and the darkest hours leave us crying out to another to save us. Do not turn your eyes away from a trouble traveler for in your darkest moments you may find yourself crying out just the same. We are strangers among many, but angles to those in need.