On the outside looking in so to speak, and truly hoping to not offend...  Aren't we given the ability to rationalize unfortunate timing? Aren't we given choice and freewill? Is it possible that He created all that is, gave us the tools to deal with all that can be, and then leaves it up to us to use those tools? As TJ puts it, what would we learn in terms of our own character if all the trials were taken away? Is it possible that God is busy keeping your father-in-law in remission instead? Just some quesitons I have, as I often wonder why people feel that God could possibly care about the outcome of a football game, or golf session. Thanks Kristen for being so open about what you ponder.