Lessons in separation

I learn things when Josh is away that I feel I can't learn, unless he's away.  One of the beautiful truths that I rediscover in a way, each time Josh has to be away from us for a few days or more, is that Christ is my primary provider, and that he is sufficient to carry me through long days of being the mama to these four boys.   I know those things, but it becomes more apparent and I find I appreciate it much more when my husband is away.
Through the deep friendships he's blessed us with just in our short time here in Turkey he gave me picture again of the way the Church is designed to come alongside those in need.  I'm not a widow and my children are not orphans, but we were without our earthly provider for a short time and our friends (family) here came alongside me and the boys and upheld us while Josh was gone, providing support and encouragement as I parented our boys alone, bringing and sharing meals with us and praying for Josh's safe return home.  

Josh returns home late this evening and we are very ready for it.  I've been sick with cold for the better part of the time he's been away and haven't been sleeping well at night - both are catching up with me, as I am beginning to feel more drowsy, fatigued and just plain wiped out than I have in a long time.  Sleep deprivation tends to compound with other minor bodily issues I deal with, making them more noticeable and taxing.  I'm hoping as we transition back into me not being the only set of ears at night that these things will balance back out and go back to normal.  

I love how gentle Christ is in the way he teaches me, time and time again, that my dependence ought lie solely in Him.  He is my sustainer.