If your family is anything like ours, during the last few weeks of May, we LIMP over the finish line of school instead of crossing with flying colors! If you, like me, are in need of the reminder that it is ok to feel deep gratitude during certain seasons of life while feeling deep frustration and weariness all at the same time, then take a few moments to sit back and listen to one of the wisest moms I know.

Kristen Stedham is not only a good friend but someone I turn to for advice, counsel, and prayer. She speaks the language of the heart, a language she’s learned through facing suffering with a great deal of endurance, patience, and joy.

So even if you have to lock yourself in the bathroom or hide yourself in the back seat of your car to enjoy a quiet moment, join in the conversation with two moms who are right there in the race with you. (But don’t get too quiet – if you’re anything like me, you might fall asleep and forget someone in the carpool line!)