I am sure you can recall situations where you have made really good plans to do something or to achieve a goal and then as aptly noted by Scottish poet, Robert Burns, “The best-laid plans of mice and men oft’ go awry.” This famous line, part of which is used as a title of a novella by John Steinbeck, is from a beautiful poem written to a mouse whose house suddenly gets ploughed over by a farmer, despite the mouse’s careful planning of the build.  

The past few weeks, unfortunately, we have had a lot of colds and flus around the school, and I know for some of our community, the illnesses may have hit quite hard.  It is in moments like these that I have reflected on what is the appropriate way to respond when our plans go awry as indeed, they will from time to time. 

My thoughts are that when things don't go according to plan, it's a reminder to trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan, even if it doesn't align with our own desires or expectations.  God is still in control, and He is continually working all things, including difficult situations, for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28).  This understanding encourages me to seek guidance from God's Word, trust in His promises, and rely on His wisdom in navigating challenges.  

I wonder how you deal with all things, not just in big decisions, but your daily lives when things do not go according to your expectations and preparations.  Would you see it as an opportunity for growth and development?  Would you learn from the challenges you face along life’s journey?  Think on these as you find ways of keeping well in the colds and flus.