As a mom, my biggest wish is for the days to go more smoothly.

I wish for a peaceful, uninterrupted night’s sleep. I wish to wake truly refreshed and ready for all the day may bring. I wish for the energy to tackle a physical workout and spiritual devotional time before everyone else joins me.

I wish for no arguing as we eat breakfast and start schoolwork. I wish for seamless, smooth transitions from work to play. I wish that play were less about screens and more about imagination. I wish for the children to get along with each other and with me, so our errands would go smoothly and without incident.

I wish all these things happened consistently, rather than sporadically.

In other words, smooth days seem beyond my grasp.

Yet so much of what matters most is already mine.

I do not have to wish for children who love me and want to be with me. I do not have to wish for a husband who is home with me after so many seasons of separation.

I do not have to wish for supportive family or friends. I do not have to wish for enough food or a place to call home, even during times of transition.

I do not have to wish for peace, grace, or salvation.

No, my days do not run smoothly in this season of life, but I have so much for which to be thankful.

Perhaps the miracle is not a perfectly smooth day. Perhaps I need to notice how much I have already been given.