Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?

Life in America is permeated with the call for “Blessings from God.” If that is what we believe and are striving for, then what happens to our hearts when a gasoline can explodes in our hands? Are we blind? Are we not aware of the thousands of children who die from starvation every year? And what of those who are blown to bits in the Middle East almost daily. People going about their lives, walking and riding here and there when suddenly a huge roar explodes in the air and life is forever changed. For some life on this earth is ended, for others, months of pain and suffering lay ahead.
God's promise of unconditional love for those who come to Him stands true. His promise of eternal life with Him also stands true. In the interim, we have life here. A life filled with daily challenges and trials. We are told to not only consider them but expect sufferings in various forms.

Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Happy New Year!

We huddled together and watched the Times Square ball drop as we counted out the last few seconds of 2008. Then cheers, kisses, grins and shouts of encouragement filled the air across our land, framed by time zones so far apart that by the time they were jumping up and down on the West Coast, we were sound asleep in New York, nestled beneath comfy, warm covers.
At last, I remember thinking, a new year to plan and accomplish projects, bring dreams to reality, make amends and build that garden shed. Yes, this will be a year of change and hope. I can hardly wait for sunrise.
Six months later: one divorce, losing a life-long friendship (she knew the divorce was my fault) several bad investments, one serious car accident followed by mending broken limbs and three months of physical therapy, having books rejected again, I sit on my deck (the rather small deck of my one bedroom apartment, sipping coffee and looking over my New Year’s list of projects. I wince.
And here we are again, thinking of what may lay ahead for this next New Year. Will I make yet another list or am I too fragile and suspicious, wondering if this will be tempting fate and causing disaster.
But then I recall when my faith in God was stronger, when I was willing to step out, not fearful of any tribulations or obstacles but considered such things as mere ruts in the road of life; Ruts all people must drive into, over or become bogged down in. Dear God, my quiet prayer begins, remember me?