Matthew 23:12 in the Message:

If you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty.

there it is. this verse has been messing with me. why is it so hard to be simple? why do we make it so hard? why do we compare ourselves when we were never meant to be the same as someone else? why can't we just learn to really truly trust Him?!
one of the songs i've had on repeat lately:

What joy, what joy for those whose hope is in the name of the Lord!
What peace, what peace for those whose confidence is Him alone!

and that is what i want! i've had moments where i've been there. i've touched that peace. but then all the old insecurities come back to whisper lies in my ear. but then just the other morning i read this:

I'm hurt and in pain;
Give me space for healing, and mountain air.

tehe! i love that last part.
and that is what i need right now because my finals week is a week early this quarter-which does mean 2 weeks of spring break-but it also means a lot to do for this next week:
- 5 page paper on the significance of costumes in Merchant of Venice (ok, not gonna lie--i'm actually excited about writing this one :)
- 2-3 page analysis on Things Fall Apart
- A French composition
- A whole set of French homework
- A French Quiz
- A French Final
- A reflective essay
- An English Lit final

all of that between now and 8:30 next Saturday morning!
but I think it will be alright. like always, i just need His grace!

one last thought - you know when life can be really hard but it's so okay because you know He's up to something? that's how i feel. so i can be at peace.

ok. i'm going to go grab my slippers because my little toesies are freezing! and then i'm going to start into that list. and i'm probably going to bed early. that's a sweet thought.
sweet dreams to all of you!

bon soir! ;)