This is the best of times and the worst of times...

" I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

While I was in my teenage years, I was always under the shadow of my fear of the end of times and of the Second Coming of Christ. I was endlessly fascinated about it especially about what was said on the Bible - on the book of Revelation specifically.  I grew up during the time that there was the US/Iraq war, and I can clearly remember the sky grew dark at 12 noon when Mt Pinatubo erupted! I really thought that was it. I am going to meet Jesus and I will be judged and punished for my sins. 

I prayed everyday that if it came that the Lord will take me during the Rapture. I didn't want to stay behind and to suffer when the Horses of the Apocalypse are let loose. So I prayed and prayed, and hoped that all of the good works I did being a dutiful daughter afforded me a place in heaven. 

Fast forward to about 25 years, I am now in my forties. And I feel that I am back to my childhood when any moment now, I will hear the horn that will herald the end of days. 

"Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. "

But this is not yet the end of times I think. Each generation has a challenge that it will face. Ours is this time. I just wish for strength to endure and to be able to cling to hope that everything is going to be fine.  For in these difficult times, our characters and faith are strengthened. This will make us appreciate life even more.  

When you are thinking of surviving, I think this is the time that you cling to hope and to look forward to better days. 

This too shall pass...