I looked at some photos from twenty years ago and felt very sad. The pain of thinking back over things I have lost- the ability to walk or do all the things I used to do without even thinking about it is horrible. But what do I have now that brings the brightness into my world? So much.

It is right to allow yourself time to grieve over what you have lost but we can’t stay there. If we can dry our tears, we could make a list of all the things we still have. That is where I am finding myself now- a difficult place of hard won thankfulness. Can you get there?

We are heading to the coast soon, and I will shake off the desire to paddle, luxuriating in the presence of two of my favourite people and the salty smell of the seaside. Chips would help too!

There is almost too much sadness in this life, an unbearable amount in the world, but there are bright treasures as well. Can you think of one right now?

There’s a verse for this thought in Psalm 126v5 – ‘Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.’ There is a strong link between sadness and brightness. If you believe that, life might feel a little bit easier. I hope you do.