To find the strength to do such a supernatural thing, however, requires some very practical soul care. A soul that is empty from the constant draining of life will not find resources to stand against the darkness that tries to overwhelm.

One thing that helps me greatly is reading. My favorite authors become my friends. Just reading their stories has fed my soul and shown me how to live my life.

Of course, I also keep chocolate hidden as a treat for a difficult day, and I always have tea in a real china cup every afternoon with candles lit and just a bit of civility — even if only for fifteen minutes.

Most of all, I remind myself over and over again that God, my precious Father, loves me and wants me to experience His joy. I have resolved to look for His love and receive it by faith, even when I don’t feel it.

Read more about this in Mom Heart Moments.