Things We Learn in the Fire

There is an abundance of lessons to be learned as we pass through life situations, something I often refer to as the fire. I think of diamonds and gold and blown glass all the more beautiful when passed through the flame. Sometimes to learn we have to be burned, to be shaped we have to be softened.
As I walked into the WIC office that day, my pride fell and I realized two things. One no matter how bad off I think I am still, I am blessed. The other is more complicated. Nothing makes you more humble than having to ask for help. I never thought of myself as suck up or self-centered but I see now just how far I really have to go concerning the subject of humility. For me, not only asking but also accepting help is hard, as to say it hurts my pride.
I have been overwhelmed by the support of certain people. I don't deserve a single thing and yet I am being blessed. So along with humility, I am learning grace. How to give it and how to receive it. I am also learning trust, because some days are so hard and I'm not sure how things will work out.
While in the midst of life's fires, my hope is that I will emerge humbled. That the lessons will not drift like smoke but that they will remain permanently with me forever.