Dear Jesus,

"When my life is flowing smoothly, the golden cord of hope provides additional blessings-like icing on a cake. However, when I'm dealing with multiple trials, this cord is a lifeline protecting me from despair. As I cling to hope in the midst of trouble, I am to perceive YOU cheering me on: encouraging me with the absolute certainty of heaven. In order to behold YOU, though, I have to keep my head held high. If it droops down, I lose sight of YOU and see only the perplexity of my problems."