There was a man whose livelihood was in the wine industry. He was asked by a friend if the drought they were having in California was negatively impacting him. He said no and that actually grapevines are amazing plants because the harsher the weather and the rougher the vines are treated, the better grapes they eventually produce. Their roots are forced to dig deep to get what they need to survive, thus producing healthier plants. This farmer had no idea how true what he said was for life in general.We all are going through harsh times right now. Throughout the last few months, the pandemic has closed down businesses and schools, and fear runs rampant. No one knows when it will end or how it will affect the future. Will we adopt a new normal? However, these are the very things that make us dig deep to find what—and Whom—we need to survive. It may not feel like it now, but hold on. These trying times are making us stronger and healthier, and eventually we will see fruit coming from them.God is the vine; we are the branches; and united in Him, we shall flourish. God wastes nothing, and from these ashes, beauty will arise.