One night I had a dream.

I dreamed that I was walking along the beach with God when across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to me and the other to God.

When the last scene was over, I looked back and noticed that at times along the path of life there was only one set of footprints. I also noticed that this happened at the lowest and saddest times of my life.

This really concerned me and I questioned God about it.

"God, You said that once I decided to follow You, You would walk with me all the way, but I notice that during the most troubled times in my life there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I need You most, You leave me."

God replied. "My precious child, I love you and would never leave you during your times of trials and suffering. When you see only one set of footprints, it was then I carried you. "