Lord, How Long?

2 Nephi 16:11- "...Lord, how long?"

    I wonder how many of us have asked this question at some point? Not intended to be impatient or demonstrate a lack of faith but just a genuine yearning for some insight. When asking, I personally would accompany this question with some reassurance that I will not stray or stop trusting. I wonder if it is asked more so as a self-reflection than seeking a genuine answer, though that too would be appreciated. Sometimes, it seems, I ask questions not to get an answer but because doing so relieves the thoughts floating around in my head. I don’t particularly want to have a philosophical conversation with someone, and certainly not a debate with or challenging God. Sometimes it is meaningful to just wonder for a moment about His grandeur. To consider that you have no clue what is going on but it will all end up ok because He's got you. I can imagine a conversation 

    “Lord, how long?”

    “Oh, sweet daughter, you know I won’t leave you, and that is enough to know for now.”

     My questions don’t stop, but neither does His patience and grace.