Yesterday we took a drive up the mountain and through our old stomping grounds. We shared memories of taking our kids there when they were little. We reminisced about camping and fishing, backpacking and hunting trips, picnics and wood cutting on the mountain.
I remembered back in the day when we had a wood stove in our basement. We went on the mountain each summer to cut wood for the winter. We would cut ten cords each summer. It was a lot of work, but we sure loved doing it. We would take a picnic and have a fun day.
I can still see my little boys and girls carrying logs to load the truck. I remember thinking that it might have been easier to leave them at home and just run up and do it ourselves. But they loved it and wanted to contribute. They knew how important it was to have wood, and they wanted to help.
I realize that it might have been easier without their help, but that would have done them a disservice.
Each of these little ones learned how to work by contributing one log at a time. By working side by side with us they learned the value of work. And they felt a sense of accomplishment seeing all that wood stacked by the house and knew they had helped prepare for the winter. Now each of them have a strong work ethic and understand the value of contributing. I'm so glad I let them help when they wanted to and were willing.
I really loved my day on the mountain. I felt such gratitude for the wonderful memories of raising my kids. I have learned so much by being a mother!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Wow! I forgot all about this blog. Pretty sad, since I love sharing my thoughts and feelings. I'm so behind on all my blogs. Actually not many people even know about this blog, so I guess I'm pretty safe!
Anyway, Sunday was Mother's Day, and the Primary children sang a song to their mothers in Sacrament Meeting. It was sweet as usual. Then something happened that got me all choked up. Crazy. At the end of the song a little girl reached over the crowd of many, many children to grab the hand of her little three year-old brother.
That simple action spoke volumes to me. I thought about the love I share with my siblings. I KNOW without a doubt, that if I were getting lost in the crowd, one of them would reach out and grab me, ensuring my safety.
I'm so thankful for the blessing of siblings. I'm so glad to know that there is always someone there to reach out to me when I may be in danger of getting lost.
I'm thankful for Heavenly Father's plan for families!!!
Anyway, Sunday was Mother's Day, and the Primary children sang a song to their mothers in Sacrament Meeting. It was sweet as usual. Then something happened that got me all choked up. Crazy. At the end of the song a little girl reached over the crowd of many, many children to grab the hand of her little three year-old brother.
That simple action spoke volumes to me. I thought about the love I share with my siblings. I KNOW without a doubt, that if I were getting lost in the crowd, one of them would reach out and grab me, ensuring my safety.
I'm so thankful for the blessing of siblings. I'm so glad to know that there is always someone there to reach out to me when I may be in danger of getting lost.
I'm thankful for Heavenly Father's plan for families!!!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Adversity
Recently, I taught a Sunday lesson about adversity and how it can help us to grow. As I prepared and taught the lesson I thought of all the adversity I have faced in my life. I know that the Lord loves me enough to let me go through these things so I can grow. Each difficult experience has brought me closer to my Heavenly Father and one step closer to what He wants me to be.
I can honestly say that I am thankful to have learned from the sorrows I have experienced. Eight miscarriages, many surgeries and illnesses, betrayal of those I have trusted, the loss of a child, fathers, neices, nephews, and several close friends, have all taught me important lessons.
"...how can you and I really expect to glide naively through life, as if to say, “Lord, give me experience, but not grief, not sorrow, not pain, not opposition, not betrayal, and certainly not to be forsaken. Keep from me, Lord, all those experiences which made Thee what Thou art! Then let me come and dwell with Thee and fully share Thy joy!” ~ Elder Neal A. Maxwell
Real faith is required to endure this necessary but painful developmental process.”--Elder Maxwell
If we want to become as He is, we must have these experiences to grow. Each sorrow and adversity we experience gives us a foundation of empathy and knowledge in which to share with others who are suffering similar hardships. Lord, I'm not asking for more, but thank you for all you have taught me through these experiences!
I can honestly say that I am thankful to have learned from the sorrows I have experienced. Eight miscarriages, many surgeries and illnesses, betrayal of those I have trusted, the loss of a child, fathers, neices, nephews, and several close friends, have all taught me important lessons.
"...how can you and I really expect to glide naively through life, as if to say, “Lord, give me experience, but not grief, not sorrow, not pain, not opposition, not betrayal, and certainly not to be forsaken. Keep from me, Lord, all those experiences which made Thee what Thou art! Then let me come and dwell with Thee and fully share Thy joy!” ~ Elder Neal A. Maxwell
Real faith is required to endure this necessary but painful developmental process.”--Elder Maxwell
If we want to become as He is, we must have these experiences to grow. Each sorrow and adversity we experience gives us a foundation of empathy and knowledge in which to share with others who are suffering similar hardships. Lord, I'm not asking for more, but thank you for all you have taught me through these experiences!
The Berlin Wall ~ 22 Years Ago
20 years ago today the Berlin Wall came down. (This Post was accidentally left in my Draft Folder. It should have been posted on November 9 2009. Now, in just 5 few days it will have been 22 years since the Berlin Wall came down)
The concrete barrier was part of the Iron Curtain erected by the German Democratic Republic after World War II and completely split Berlin in half, creating East and West Germany. It was guarded by towers and trenches where many people lost their lives trying to escape.
I had read about those who had dropped their children over the wall hoping they would have a better life on the other side and those who had lost loved ones trying to escape. Many people went to extreme measures to help others escape from Eastern Germany and had risked their own lives in the process. I had always felt empathy for those who were separated from loved ones on the other side of the wall and imagined the horror they felt knowing they had not escaped in time.
On November 9, 1989 after civil unrest and a feeling of revolution had swept across Eastern Europe the wall came down. I watched the events unfold on television as crowds on both sides of the wall flung sledge hammers at it and watched it crumble. Many grappled for something to cling to as they climbed on a portion of the wall to see over or cross it for the first time. People celebrated and cheered, and many jumped on the concrete pieces as they fell. It was an incredible feeling of euphoria.
I remember the joy I felt for so many people who were suddenly free to see beyond the Iron Curtain that had held them captive and separated them from freedom for years. For several weeks people chipped away at the wall and collected pieces for souvenirs and eventually it was mostly all gone. It was a great miracle in their lives and a wonderful piece of history to witness!
Ten years later my son James served a mission in Berlin. If the wall hadn’t come down he wouldn’t have been blessed to minister to those people who had previously been trapped on the eastern side of the Berlin Wall. He had the opportunity to visit museums and historical sites and on a P-Day he and his companion hiked to a place where a large portion of the wall had been. He learned much of their strength and fortitude and much of their suffering. I know it made him more grateful to live in this great land of America!
Learning what these people lived through has made me more grateful for my freedom and given me hope that with strength from God I too could survive something horrible and difficult. As I think about the history I have witnessed in my lifetime I am even more grateful to have a knowledge that the Lord is in control of all the events that unfold in the world. He has the power to free His people in His own due time. It strengthens my faith knowing that if we are required to suffer through difficult times like the people of East Berlin we can be assured that God has not forgotten us and will free us when He sees fit.
The concrete barrier was part of the Iron Curtain erected by the German Democratic Republic after World War II and completely split Berlin in half, creating East and West Germany. It was guarded by towers and trenches where many people lost their lives trying to escape.
I had read about those who had dropped their children over the wall hoping they would have a better life on the other side and those who had lost loved ones trying to escape. Many people went to extreme measures to help others escape from Eastern Germany and had risked their own lives in the process. I had always felt empathy for those who were separated from loved ones on the other side of the wall and imagined the horror they felt knowing they had not escaped in time.
On November 9, 1989 after civil unrest and a feeling of revolution had swept across Eastern Europe the wall came down. I watched the events unfold on television as crowds on both sides of the wall flung sledge hammers at it and watched it crumble. Many grappled for something to cling to as they climbed on a portion of the wall to see over or cross it for the first time. People celebrated and cheered, and many jumped on the concrete pieces as they fell. It was an incredible feeling of euphoria.
I remember the joy I felt for so many people who were suddenly free to see beyond the Iron Curtain that had held them captive and separated them from freedom for years. For several weeks people chipped away at the wall and collected pieces for souvenirs and eventually it was mostly all gone. It was a great miracle in their lives and a wonderful piece of history to witness!
Ten years later my son James served a mission in Berlin. If the wall hadn’t come down he wouldn’t have been blessed to minister to those people who had previously been trapped on the eastern side of the Berlin Wall. He had the opportunity to visit museums and historical sites and on a P-Day he and his companion hiked to a place where a large portion of the wall had been. He learned much of their strength and fortitude and much of their suffering. I know it made him more grateful to live in this great land of America!
Learning what these people lived through has made me more grateful for my freedom and given me hope that with strength from God I too could survive something horrible and difficult. As I think about the history I have witnessed in my lifetime I am even more grateful to have a knowledge that the Lord is in control of all the events that unfold in the world. He has the power to free His people in His own due time. It strengthens my faith knowing that if we are required to suffer through difficult times like the people of East Berlin we can be assured that God has not forgotten us and will free us when He sees fit.
Inspiration
For a few months I have been part of a Life Coaching group The last few months while serving in the temple I have been using the principles we have been studying in the coaching sessions. I have been striving to greet all whom I meet with love in my heart, and I have smiled at every person I have come in contact with.
At first some people seemed skeptical and reserved, but It hasn’t taken very long for them to feel how genuine my love for them is. In a very short period of time many of them have told me that my smile was beautiful and made their day. Many have shared their stories and experiences with me and are starting to greet me as they would an old friend. It’s been a very rich and satisfying experience.
I have always felt that love was something we can’t live without, more important that food or shelter is the need for love. This morning I sat alone in the most beautiful of all rooms in the temple looking at a painting of Jesus Christ. He is my ultimate example of one who exemplifies love to all. As I thought of him I felt a greater desire to be like Him, and truly love everyone. Something very powerful happened to me. I instantly felt His love for me. I have felt it before, but this time it was overwhelming.
Many thoughts flooded my mind. I realized that it’s easy for me to love others, but the thing that holds me back the most is my inability to love myself. It’s so easy for me to see the good in others and so hard to see the good in myself. I remember hearing that the qualities we see in others are also in us. As I thought of this I realized that I am surrounded with amazing, gifted, incredible people. These people wouldn’t choose my companionship if I didn’t share some of their good qualities.
I then felt richly blessed by great friends and family. Two distinct conversations I recently had with some of these great people was brought to my memory. I remembered them sharing their feelings about me, and the gifts and qualities I have that they admire. I realized that these amazing people can see who I really am. They see me as my creator does, yet it’s hard for me to see myself the way they do.
At that moment I realized that I am divinely designed with every attribute and quality I need. I have been summing myself up to others who were designed with different qualities and gifts. I realized that my creator loves me just how I am. He made me perfect. I don’t need to try to be someone else. It’s painful trying to be like someone else, and there’s no need to do that when I have everything I need to succeed within myself. I realized that some of the qualities I see in others are also hidden in me. I may have suppressed them, minimized them, or been unwilling to share them with others, but I have all the gifts and talents I need already.
I thought of the new friends that I have made while serving in the temple who have come out of the shadows because of the love I have shown them. They are excited to greet me and they are drawn to me. This has only happened because I chose to show them love. Today I was taught that I now need to extend that same love to myself. If I can start loving myself for who I truly am, divinely designed, I too will come out of the shadows and thrive. I will be able to be a happier and more successful person.
I am so thankful for this gift today. 30 minutes alone in that beautiful and peaceful place opened my heart to the inspiration and love that I needed. What a blessing God's love for each of us truly is!
The Path
God's path is always straight and clear to follow. In D&C 3:2 it says, "For God doth not walk in crooked paths, neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left, neither doth he vary from that which he hath said, therefore his paths are straight, and his course is one eternal round."
His is laid out straight before us, while the one we try to carve out on our own is laden with danger. Big rocks, potholes, and obstacles of all kinds seem to always be on the path I take when I get distracted and don't pay attention to the one my feet should follow.
Since breaking my leg twice while hiking, I have learned that's it's dangerous for me if I don't carefully watch where I step. I've learned the hard way that getting distracted by the pretty and alluring things that hit me from the side are only neat for a few minutes, and then I end up getting hurt.
When our feet hit the ground each morning we must put them on that straight and narrow path, and like little Ryan, we should take off running and run right past those distractions!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
President Benson Warns America
A friend of mine just posted the following video which I saw years ago. Following her post a few people mocked it and said President Benson didn't speak for God, wasn't a righteous man, used scare tactics to make people believe Communism was a threat to Americans, and that the Law of Consecration was the greatest form of Socialism according to the scriptures and latter-day prophets. These comments made me livid! I generally stay out of people's mindless discussions, but I just couldn't hold back on such an important topic. I love and respect Ezra Taft Benson and knew he had the light of Christ in him. I know what he said about this topic was true, and I couldn't stand by while people said disparaging things about this great man. This was my response to their unenlightened comments:
President Ezra Taft Benson was an amazing man, full of love and very inspired. He spoke the word of God. He toured Europe following WWII as the Secretary of Agriculture in U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s cabinet. He witnessed firsthand the ravages of war brought on by the works of evil men like Hitler and Stalin. He saw what happens when Socialism, Communism, and dictatorship reigns. He didn't use scare tactics but quoted proof of what he had seen through his own eyes, and from the accounts of people he had met. He vowed to spend his entire life trying to ensure that his predecessors wouldn’t have to live under any type of Socialism, Communism, or under the reign of any evil leader, because he had seen how they destroy lives and take away individual freedoms. These forms of government are totally opposite of the Law of Consecration. It is lived only by choice and is a plan where all who participate do so willingly, not by force, and offer all they have for the good of everyone. They can choose to participate or not, where as Socialism and Communism offer no choice. And all those who choose to live the Law of Consecration are required to contribute and earn their keep in order to receive, as opposed to Socialism and Communism where the masses are forced to give all they have to the government so others who aren’t willing to do anything for it can receive. The Law of Consecration is a law of equality for the good of everyone, not something forced on them so that only a few choice people can prosper, hold all the power, and dictate how the majority will live!
President Ezra Taft Benson was an amazing man, full of love and very inspired. He spoke the word of God. He toured Europe following WWII as the Secretary of Agriculture in U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s cabinet. He witnessed firsthand the ravages of war brought on by the works of evil men like Hitler and Stalin. He saw what happens when Socialism, Communism, and dictatorship reigns. He didn't use scare tactics but quoted proof of what he had seen through his own eyes, and from the accounts of people he had met. He vowed to spend his entire life trying to ensure that his predecessors wouldn’t have to live under any type of Socialism, Communism, or under the reign of any evil leader, because he had seen how they destroy lives and take away individual freedoms. These forms of government are totally opposite of the Law of Consecration. It is lived only by choice and is a plan where all who participate do so willingly, not by force, and offer all they have for the good of everyone. They can choose to participate or not, where as Socialism and Communism offer no choice. And all those who choose to live the Law of Consecration are required to contribute and earn their keep in order to receive, as opposed to Socialism and Communism where the masses are forced to give all they have to the government so others who aren’t willing to do anything for it can receive. The Law of Consecration is a law of equality for the good of everyone, not something forced on them so that only a few choice people can prosper, hold all the power, and dictate how the majority will live!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Kids are SO Honest
Sunday I taught a lesson at church on Moral Discipline. We may have morals, but the discussion was about whether or not we back them up by our actions. Do we have the courage to do what's moral when others aren't or do we give in to the pressure and leave our values behind when others do?
One girl had a funny story to share. It really was innocent enough, but it gave us all something to think about. She's a single divorced mom with a few kids. Her mother had told her about an activity at church for singles 31 and over, and had encouraged her to attend, probably hoping she would meet a great guy. She agreed to go. When she was leaving she told her kids she was going to a 31 and over singles activity. Her son who is seven said, "Mom, how old are you?" She told him she was 29. He said, "Mom, you know what? You lie a lot. You aren't really 31 and you are going anyway, and you also sneak candy into the movie theater even though there's a big sign on the door that says you can't."
It made us all laugh. The people at the activity wouldn't care if she wasn't really 31, they would just be glad she came. And many of us sneak candy into the theater because they don't sell what we want or it costs twice as much as it's worth. That's my justification, which I know isn't right either.
Her story reminded us all that it's a guarantee that our kids are always watching us and learning by our good or bad examples. The boy made a good point that we all need to think about. Do we do what we're supposed to do and set a good example of honesty and integrity for them? I will probably always feel guilty now if I take treats to the movie! Don't you just love how honest kids are? They put us right in our place!!!
One girl had a funny story to share. It really was innocent enough, but it gave us all something to think about. She's a single divorced mom with a few kids. Her mother had told her about an activity at church for singles 31 and over, and had encouraged her to attend, probably hoping she would meet a great guy. She agreed to go. When she was leaving she told her kids she was going to a 31 and over singles activity. Her son who is seven said, "Mom, how old are you?" She told him she was 29. He said, "Mom, you know what? You lie a lot. You aren't really 31 and you are going anyway, and you also sneak candy into the movie theater even though there's a big sign on the door that says you can't."
It made us all laugh. The people at the activity wouldn't care if she wasn't really 31, they would just be glad she came. And many of us sneak candy into the theater because they don't sell what we want or it costs twice as much as it's worth. That's my justification, which I know isn't right either.
Her story reminded us all that it's a guarantee that our kids are always watching us and learning by our good or bad examples. The boy made a good point that we all need to think about. Do we do what we're supposed to do and set a good example of honesty and integrity for them? I will probably always feel guilty now if I take treats to the movie! Don't you just love how honest kids are? They put us right in our place!!!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Perks of Exercising
I workout five days a week, and most days I ride an exercise bike for miles (as well as walk, swim, lift, etc). I'm feeling better and stronger with each passing week, and feeling good about myself because I know how hard I'm working. As I pedal the bike I read a book or magazine to help pass the time. This week I have been reading the church magazine, "The Ensign".
Today I realized a fringe benefit of working out. As I multitask I'm not only strengthening my body, but also my spirit!
Just this week I had read articles that have taught me:
The importance of nourishing my Spirit ~ To seek the Lord and draw near to Him ~ To hold on to the Lord during difficult times ~ That we can overcome trials with the Lord's help ~ That the Lord loves and remembers us always ~ How to become more self-reliant ~ To take time to gaze into the heavens at the stars and planets which are evidence of God's majesty ~ To remember that God created all things and has all the wisdom and power ~ That the Savior's grace is sufficient for all and that He atoned for EVERYONE ~ That we must be spiritually prepared to face the difficulties and challenges in our lives ~ To remember that we DO NOT walk alone through life ~ That like the Wise Man who built his house upon the rock, we too must build our lives on the firm foundation of the Lord ~ That we should try to stay out of debt ~ That we can only be redeemed through the precious blood of Christ ~ That Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will NEVER give up on us ~ That it's very important to discipline with love ~ That we MUST put our family before other worldly endeavors ~ And that God's love for us is infinite and eternal!!!!
Even though my Spirit isn't visible, I want it to be just as strong as my body; I want it to be firm and unshakable during the turbulent days that will inevitably be ahead, and I'm thankful for this chance to be strengthened from the inside out!
Today I realized a fringe benefit of working out. As I multitask I'm not only strengthening my body, but also my spirit!
Just this week I had read articles that have taught me:
The importance of nourishing my Spirit ~ To seek the Lord and draw near to Him ~ To hold on to the Lord during difficult times ~ That we can overcome trials with the Lord's help ~ That the Lord loves and remembers us always ~ How to become more self-reliant ~ To take time to gaze into the heavens at the stars and planets which are evidence of God's majesty ~ To remember that God created all things and has all the wisdom and power ~ That the Savior's grace is sufficient for all and that He atoned for EVERYONE ~ That we must be spiritually prepared to face the difficulties and challenges in our lives ~ To remember that we DO NOT walk alone through life ~ That like the Wise Man who built his house upon the rock, we too must build our lives on the firm foundation of the Lord ~ That we should try to stay out of debt ~ That we can only be redeemed through the precious blood of Christ ~ That Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will NEVER give up on us ~ That it's very important to discipline with love ~ That we MUST put our family before other worldly endeavors ~ And that God's love for us is infinite and eternal!!!!
Even though my Spirit isn't visible, I want it to be just as strong as my body; I want it to be firm and unshakable during the turbulent days that will inevitably be ahead, and I'm thankful for this chance to be strengthened from the inside out!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
An Inspirational Experience
Today at church I had an interesting experience. There is a woman who lost her daughter a few years ago in a tragic accident just as she was about to get married. Although she lives just down the road I never knew her. I remember when it happened and my heart was broken for her. I wanted so badly to just stop at her house and tell her how sad I was for her, but I just didn't dare. As a stranger I didn't want to intrude at an emotional moment and hurt her. I have even crossed paths with her in the temple and felt such empathy and sorrow for her, but noticing her sadness just never dared to speak to her.
Just recently our wards merged and now I see her at church. She looks like one of the saddest people I have ever seen. I have desperately been trying to get the courage up to approach her and tell her that I have been thinking of her for years. I have felt a great need to become her friend.
Today I was sitting behind her in Sacrament Meeting and finally decided that it was time to muster up the courage to visit her or approach her at church and tell her what that I have been feeling and to try to befriend her. All through the meeting I was deciding how best to do it.
Later at church in Relief Society meeting I looked at the calendar for the month and noticed her birthday was on it. I decided that would be a great way to break the ice and to visit her for her birthday and then I could get to know her and express my concern for her.
Relief Society was a Visiting Teacher Training and after the meeting the new booklets were handed out which outlined the new beats and companionships. When I looked at the name of my new companion it was the very woman I had been thinking of all day and for a very long time. My eyes welled up with tears. The strong prompting I had been blessed with today had been verified. I knew it was time to get acquainted with her, and the Lord has just issued the call.
I know that He knows what we need in our lives. And He knows who we need in our lives. My testimony of inspiration was strengthen today. I look so forward to getting to know her. I don't know if I have anything to offer to her, but I know I am supposed to get to know her. I am so thankful that Heavenly Father helps paves the way for us meet our worthy goals. I'm so thankful for His love!
Just recently our wards merged and now I see her at church. She looks like one of the saddest people I have ever seen. I have desperately been trying to get the courage up to approach her and tell her that I have been thinking of her for years. I have felt a great need to become her friend.
Today I was sitting behind her in Sacrament Meeting and finally decided that it was time to muster up the courage to visit her or approach her at church and tell her what that I have been feeling and to try to befriend her. All through the meeting I was deciding how best to do it.
Later at church in Relief Society meeting I looked at the calendar for the month and noticed her birthday was on it. I decided that would be a great way to break the ice and to visit her for her birthday and then I could get to know her and express my concern for her.
Relief Society was a Visiting Teacher Training and after the meeting the new booklets were handed out which outlined the new beats and companionships. When I looked at the name of my new companion it was the very woman I had been thinking of all day and for a very long time. My eyes welled up with tears. The strong prompting I had been blessed with today had been verified. I knew it was time to get acquainted with her, and the Lord has just issued the call.
I know that He knows what we need in our lives. And He knows who we need in our lives. My testimony of inspiration was strengthen today. I look so forward to getting to know her. I don't know if I have anything to offer to her, but I know I am supposed to get to know her. I am so thankful that Heavenly Father helps paves the way for us meet our worthy goals. I'm so thankful for His love!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
The Gift of Giving
I read a book review for a book called, "29 Gifts: How a month of giving can change your life".
Here is Amazon's description of the book:
I haven't actually read the book, but I decided to take the challenge. It's been a month since I started focusing on doing something nice for someone everyday. Even it's just making a phone call, sending a letter, or giving a compliment when it comes to my mind, I'm trying. It's teaching me to think of someone besides myself. I don't always succeed and often do things without really thinking about them--things that I should be doing anyway--but I'm getting better at it. And I've learned that making a face to face contact if possible makes a big difference to someone who is lonely!
Sometimes we feel like we need to give large amounts of money or time to make a difference. But often it's the SMALL things that make a BIG difference as we reach out to "The One". We all need to start somewhere! It may be letting the elderly gentlemen go before us in the grocery line, letting a car go in front of us in a line of traffic, helping someone open a door, being patient with someones screaming child, or giving a heartfelt compliment when it comes to our minds.
We often don't give ourselves credit for the good things we do. We compare ourselves to others and feel inadequate if we aren't like them. Writing down my actions and plans to serve has helped me realize that I do more good than I thought. My heart has always been in the right place, I just got distracted from what matters the most--people!
I haven't done anything big, but since I have committed to this experiment I feel really good! I've made contact with old friends, spent more time with extended family, and have become more aware of people's needs. I've been writing down my actions and it's amazing to realize that I often go beyond one deed a day without ever planning to.
Recording these things has helped me evaluate my strengths and weaknesses. I realize that I have a lot of improvement to make, but I'm on my way! I'm really comfortable serving in my extended family, but I need to have more courage to branch out to neighbors, ward members, and strangers. There are many people to serve and much good to do in the world!
One magical thing that I have noticed is that now I look forward to random acts of service and find joy in planning and carrying out deeds of kindness. Of course, my good intentions still outweigh my actions, but I'm starting to remember who I used to be and how I used to think! It feels like I have been so preoccupied and busy every minute of my day for so long that I had forgotten how to be spontaneous and thoughtful. I haven't been a horrible person, but I have been too distracted and spent too much time on things that didn't matter. This experiment has been fun and it's jump started my goal of learning to serve again.
And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. ~ Mosiah 2:17
Here is Amazon's description of the book:
~~~ At age thirty-five, Cami Walker was burdened by a battle with multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurological condition that made it difficult for her to walk, work, or enjoy her life. Seeking a remedy for her depression after being hospitalized, she received an uncommon prescription from an African medicine woman: Give to others for 29 days.
29 Gifts is the insightful story of the author’s life change as she embraces and reflects on the naturally reciprocal process of giving and receiving. Many of Walker’s gifts were simple —a phone call, spare change, a Kleenex. Yet the acts were transformative. By Day 29, not only had Walker’s health and happiness improved, but she had created a worldwide giving movement.
The book also includes personal essays from others whose lives changed for the better by giving, plus pages for the reader to record their own journey. More than a memoir, 29 Gifts offers inspiring lessons on how a simple daily practice of altruism can dramatically alter your outlook on the world. ~~~
I haven't actually read the book, but I decided to take the challenge. It's been a month since I started focusing on doing something nice for someone everyday. Even it's just making a phone call, sending a letter, or giving a compliment when it comes to my mind, I'm trying. It's teaching me to think of someone besides myself. I don't always succeed and often do things without really thinking about them--things that I should be doing anyway--but I'm getting better at it. And I've learned that making a face to face contact if possible makes a big difference to someone who is lonely!
Sometimes we feel like we need to give large amounts of money or time to make a difference. But often it's the SMALL things that make a BIG difference as we reach out to "The One". We all need to start somewhere! It may be letting the elderly gentlemen go before us in the grocery line, letting a car go in front of us in a line of traffic, helping someone open a door, being patient with someones screaming child, or giving a heartfelt compliment when it comes to our minds.
We often don't give ourselves credit for the good things we do. We compare ourselves to others and feel inadequate if we aren't like them. Writing down my actions and plans to serve has helped me realize that I do more good than I thought. My heart has always been in the right place, I just got distracted from what matters the most--people!
I haven't done anything big, but since I have committed to this experiment I feel really good! I've made contact with old friends, spent more time with extended family, and have become more aware of people's needs. I've been writing down my actions and it's amazing to realize that I often go beyond one deed a day without ever planning to.
Recording these things has helped me evaluate my strengths and weaknesses. I realize that I have a lot of improvement to make, but I'm on my way! I'm really comfortable serving in my extended family, but I need to have more courage to branch out to neighbors, ward members, and strangers. There are many people to serve and much good to do in the world!
One magical thing that I have noticed is that now I look forward to random acts of service and find joy in planning and carrying out deeds of kindness. Of course, my good intentions still outweigh my actions, but I'm starting to remember who I used to be and how I used to think! It feels like I have been so preoccupied and busy every minute of my day for so long that I had forgotten how to be spontaneous and thoughtful. I haven't been a horrible person, but I have been too distracted and spent too much time on things that didn't matter. This experiment has been fun and it's jump started my goal of learning to serve again.
And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. ~ Mosiah 2:17
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Freedom of Speech is Paramount to Liberty
“If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.”~ George Washington
This nation was founded on Christian principles and is unlike any other in the world. The Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights set us apart from all other nations. The First Amendment to the Bill of Rights states that we will not be prohibited from freedom of Speech, Press, Religion, Assembly, and Freedom to Petition.
Likewise, the gospel of Jesus Christ allows us freedom to choose. Yet our freedom of speech is on the chopping block and we regularly see cases in the media where these freedoms seem to be swept under the rug to cater to those who only believe in free speech from their point of view. All across America conservative people are being attacked for their beliefs. Those who speak in contrast to the liberal bias are being persecuted for not following the masses.
My own freedom of speech was recently challenged when I posted an Internet comment that was perceived as being offensive because it was conservative in nature. I found myself in a firestorm and was told to never again post anything that may offend that persons liberal friends’. Nothing has EVER felt so un-American to me in my entire life! I have also had friends reported on social networking sites for posting Christian thoughts.
At times I too don’t agree with someone's opinion on political or social issues, but I respect their God given right to their opinion. If I don’t like what someone is saying or posting I simply don’t read or listen to it. But I would never dare tell them they weren’t entitled to that God given right no matter how much I disagree with their point of view. I believe it’s against God’s law to take away the freedom of others!
Carrie Prejean, Miss California, was in the Miss USA Pageant. During the question and answer session she was asked,
In an interview on the Today Show she said,
“Without Freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as Wisdom; and no such thing as public Liberty, without Freedom of speech” ~ Benjamin Franklin
This nation was founded on Christian principles and is unlike any other in the world. The Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights set us apart from all other nations. The First Amendment to the Bill of Rights states that we will not be prohibited from freedom of Speech, Press, Religion, Assembly, and Freedom to Petition.
Likewise, the gospel of Jesus Christ allows us freedom to choose. Yet our freedom of speech is on the chopping block and we regularly see cases in the media where these freedoms seem to be swept under the rug to cater to those who only believe in free speech from their point of view. All across America conservative people are being attacked for their beliefs. Those who speak in contrast to the liberal bias are being persecuted for not following the masses.
My own freedom of speech was recently challenged when I posted an Internet comment that was perceived as being offensive because it was conservative in nature. I found myself in a firestorm and was told to never again post anything that may offend that persons liberal friends’. Nothing has EVER felt so un-American to me in my entire life! I have also had friends reported on social networking sites for posting Christian thoughts.
At times I too don’t agree with someone's opinion on political or social issues, but I respect their God given right to their opinion. If I don’t like what someone is saying or posting I simply don’t read or listen to it. But I would never dare tell them they weren’t entitled to that God given right no matter how much I disagree with their point of view. I believe it’s against God’s law to take away the freedom of others!
Carrie Prejean, Miss California, was in the Miss USA Pageant. During the question and answer session she was asked,
“Vermont recently became the fourth state to legalize same sex marriage (followed by cheering). Do you think every state should follow suit? Why or why not?” Her answer was, “I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman, no offense to anyone out there.”She was booed and lost the pageant. She also lost her job because of her answer. She was punished for exercising her God given right to freedom of speech. People have tried to silence, embarrass and humiliate her for her statement. They have publicized her past moral indiscretions and called her a hypocrite. Her opinion on this topic isn’t the point. The point is—someone shouldn’t be punished for sharing their opinion on an issue! In our society it seems that it’s not okay to express your opinion if it’s a conservative one, but it is okay to call conservative people horrible names and persecute them for their opinions.
In an interview on the Today Show she said,
“There is an extreme double standard out there that conservative woman (people) are under attack. ..If Sean Hannity went out there and said some of the things that Keith Olbermann has said about me…if he said things about Sonia Sotomayor or Michelle Obama, he would be off the air. Why is there this double standard?”It’s so true! People are welcome to mock and persecute some while forbidden to do so to others. There is a lesson to be learned in this though. What history has demonstrated time and again is that those who so eagerly take away the freedoms of their opponents eventually find that they too have lost their freedom as well. The old adage, “What goes around, comes around” is right.
“Without Freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as Wisdom; and no such thing as public Liberty, without Freedom of speech” ~ Benjamin Franklin
Monday, November 9, 2009
Miracles and Blessings
Just in case you’ve ever wondered, miracles do still happen! I have witnessed several things this week that I consider to be a miracle and I thank God for blessing us with miracles in our lives! I know that as we pray in faith our prayers are answered and that the temple prayer rolls are a great resource and blessing to us if we will use them and believe!
First, last week someone I am close to had a really bad infection with serious symptoms. She knew she would have to see a doctor and get on an antibiotic to get better, but having no insurance she requested a Priesthood blessing first. In the blessing she was told that the infection would leave her body quickly. She was ill for several hours and then without any medical care she was healed through the power of the Priesthood. A marvelous power is at our fingertips if we just have faith and call on the elders to bless us. I wonder how many times in my life I have suffered through illness when if I had first asked for a blessing I may have been spared so much suffering. Not that we won’t have to go through illness or take medicine—because it’s often necessary—but I know that God does have the power to heal all that ails us if necessary!
Second, I know a young man who knew he might lose his job. With faith he and his wife fasted, prayed, and attended the temple. His name was placed on the temple prayer roll. In an unlikely turn of events he was blessed with the work of his choice and offered a benefits package. With all those who are losing their jobs right now I know this was a blessing and a miracle for this faithful young couple!
And lastly, this may sound really strange, but last weekend on a little vacation I saw a teenage boy who was horribly disfigured. His head was shaped unlike any I have ever seen. His face was frightening to look at. If a human being could resemble a monster, that is what he looked like. He was with his mother and I could tell that he was very important to her and that she loved him dearly. He seemed gentle and kind in his communication with her. Some might say he was a freak of nature, an accident. But when I looked at him I realized that he was a miracle. I could tell that the very fact that he was a living, breathing soul was a miracle to his family and all who loved him. I knew that God loved him just the way he was!
It is comforting to me to remember that God does love us. He knows what is going on in our lives and what we need, and He can perform miracles to help us in times of need—if we will just see—and believe!
First, last week someone I am close to had a really bad infection with serious symptoms. She knew she would have to see a doctor and get on an antibiotic to get better, but having no insurance she requested a Priesthood blessing first. In the blessing she was told that the infection would leave her body quickly. She was ill for several hours and then without any medical care she was healed through the power of the Priesthood. A marvelous power is at our fingertips if we just have faith and call on the elders to bless us. I wonder how many times in my life I have suffered through illness when if I had first asked for a blessing I may have been spared so much suffering. Not that we won’t have to go through illness or take medicine—because it’s often necessary—but I know that God does have the power to heal all that ails us if necessary!
Second, I know a young man who knew he might lose his job. With faith he and his wife fasted, prayed, and attended the temple. His name was placed on the temple prayer roll. In an unlikely turn of events he was blessed with the work of his choice and offered a benefits package. With all those who are losing their jobs right now I know this was a blessing and a miracle for this faithful young couple!
And lastly, this may sound really strange, but last weekend on a little vacation I saw a teenage boy who was horribly disfigured. His head was shaped unlike any I have ever seen. His face was frightening to look at. If a human being could resemble a monster, that is what he looked like. He was with his mother and I could tell that he was very important to her and that she loved him dearly. He seemed gentle and kind in his communication with her. Some might say he was a freak of nature, an accident. But when I looked at him I realized that he was a miracle. I could tell that the very fact that he was a living, breathing soul was a miracle to his family and all who loved him. I knew that God loved him just the way he was!
It is comforting to me to remember that God does love us. He knows what is going on in our lives and what we need, and He can perform miracles to help us in times of need—if we will just see—and believe!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Confessions of a Woman Without a Paycheck
After working full-time for several years I resigned from my high stress job. If I hadn't had such a strong confirmation that it was the right thing to do it may have been a hard decision to make.
You may ask, "Why would you give up a fairly high paying job with great benefits in this economy?" I know people have thought it even if they haven’t said it. It's only been two weeks and already I can tell you why. It’s true I am making no money, but I wake up excited to be alive EVERY day!
One of the best things about being home is having time to REALLY think about what matters most in life, and to start getting my priorities straight.
I have had time to reconnect with people I care about, make cookies and give them away and call old friends to visit or wish them happy birthday.I have been able to check on our parents every day, play with my grand baby and record things in a journal. I have helped someone I care about catch up on their housework, cooked real meals for my family, and have given rides to someone who doesn’t have a car. I have read four books and started studying gospel teaching that are important to me. I have started organizing and repairing things in my home and finally feel hopeful that eventually it will be the kind of home I can be proud to live in, a haven of refuge where everyone feels welcome and will love to be no matter how simple and humble it may be. I have had some really great conversations with my kids unlike some in the past that were all too often carried on while I was preoccupied with an activity that had a deadline. I have been able to spend time with my husband and look forward to being spontaneous like I used to be, running off on some wilderness adventure of his making! It has been great building relationships with sisters I have been close to in the past, and working on building one with a sister I never knew while growing up, but am already learning to love just like the rest!
I know everyone doesn’t have the opportunity to work at home so I feel SO blessed! I love life! I love having time to work on things that are truly important. I have thanked God every day that I was blessed to be home when my kids were little. Those were the happiest days of my life and I wouldn’t trade them for any amount of money. And once again I thank Him to be working at home. I know I don’t have any little people who are here depending on me, but I have pledged to be useful to God and others with this gift I have been given—the gift of time.
Yes, there are many things to add to my to-do list. I need to improve on my Visiting Teaching, add in a fitness plan to improve my health, volunteer my time to serve others and many more things. But for now this is a good start and I am determined not to waste the thing I have come to appreciate the most lately—TIME!
You may ask, "Why would you give up a fairly high paying job with great benefits in this economy?" I know people have thought it even if they haven’t said it. It's only been two weeks and already I can tell you why. It’s true I am making no money, but I wake up excited to be alive EVERY day!
One of the best things about being home is having time to REALLY think about what matters most in life, and to start getting my priorities straight.
I have had time to reconnect with people I care about, make cookies and give them away and call old friends to visit or wish them happy birthday.I have been able to check on our parents every day, play with my grand baby and record things in a journal. I have helped someone I care about catch up on their housework, cooked real meals for my family, and have given rides to someone who doesn’t have a car. I have read four books and started studying gospel teaching that are important to me. I have started organizing and repairing things in my home and finally feel hopeful that eventually it will be the kind of home I can be proud to live in, a haven of refuge where everyone feels welcome and will love to be no matter how simple and humble it may be. I have had some really great conversations with my kids unlike some in the past that were all too often carried on while I was preoccupied with an activity that had a deadline. I have been able to spend time with my husband and look forward to being spontaneous like I used to be, running off on some wilderness adventure of his making! It has been great building relationships with sisters I have been close to in the past, and working on building one with a sister I never knew while growing up, but am already learning to love just like the rest!
I know everyone doesn’t have the opportunity to work at home so I feel SO blessed! I love life! I love having time to work on things that are truly important. I have thanked God every day that I was blessed to be home when my kids were little. Those were the happiest days of my life and I wouldn’t trade them for any amount of money. And once again I thank Him to be working at home. I know I don’t have any little people who are here depending on me, but I have pledged to be useful to God and others with this gift I have been given—the gift of time.
Yes, there are many things to add to my to-do list. I need to improve on my Visiting Teaching, add in a fitness plan to improve my health, volunteer my time to serve others and many more things. But for now this is a good start and I am determined not to waste the thing I have come to appreciate the most lately—TIME!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Lessons from the Scriptures
Yesterday in Sunday School the instructor asked people to share their favorite scriptures. My life has been so seriously impacted by the scriptures that I couldn’t be quiet or it would have felt like a sin not to share.
I have way too many favorites to choose just one, but I did. The ones that came to my mind weren’t necessarily my favorites, but rather scriptures that the Lord led me to in answer to prayer or to teach me something that I needed to understand.
2 Nephi 2:1-2 is where Lehi knew he was about to die and gave blessings to all his children. In these verses he said:
And now, Jacob, I speak unto you: Thou art my first-born in the days of my tribulation in the wilderness. And behold, in thy childhood thou hast suffered afflictions and much sorrow, because of the rudeness of thy brethren.
Nevertheless, Jacob, my first-born in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain.
Wow! He consecrates our afflictions for our gain! That means that our challenges are really a blessing. At the time of this teaching moment I was struggling to understand why one of my sons had such a difficult time with certain things when the same things came so easily for the other kids. It felt so unfair. I learned that the Lord didn’t give my son (or any of us) trials and challenges to make him suffer or to punish him, but to bless him.
I guess it does make sense that we need trials to make us strong. If everything came easy to us we would never be challenged or learn to overcome anything. The hard things we go through in life humble us so the Lord can shape us into people who are useful to Him. From the day I read this I came to understand that the Lord loved my son enough to give him challenges and trials so He could mold him to be the kind of man He needed him to be.
Another scripture that taught me a great lesson was found while doing home school and scripture study with my son while he was in junior high. We were reading in Moses 6 when the Lord came to Enoch and told him that He was angry with the people because their hearts had waxed hard and their ears were dull of hearing. He told Enoch to prophesy unto the people and to call them unto repentance. In verse 31 it says:
And when Enoch had heard these words, he bowed himself to the earth, before the Lord, and spake before the Lord, saying: Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech; wherefore am I thy servant?
And the Lord said unto Enoch: Go forth and do as I have commanded thee, and no man shall pierce thee. Open thy mouth, and it shall be filled, and I will give thee utterance, for all flesh is in my hands, and I will do as seemeth me good.
My son could relate to this and mentioned that he had felt scared to speak to people too. We talked about it and looked up the footnotes and learned so much. Moses, Enoch, Jeremiah and other great prophets felt unqualified to do what the Lord asked them to do. They felt they were slow of speech, hated, dumb, having a slow tongue, and too young for the people to listen to them. The Lord knew otherwise and called them regardless.
In Exodus 4:10 even Moses felt inadequate when the Lord called on him:
And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.
In verses 12 and 15 the Lord’s answer was:
Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.
And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth…and will teach you what ye shall do.
Moses was obedient and the Lord molded Moses into a great man.
In Jeremiah 1:6-9 Jeremiah told the Lord:
Then said I, Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.
But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.
Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord.
Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.
I totally loved learning from theses scriptures that even the Lord’s chosen haven’t felt up to the task. The key is that they were willing to be obedient and let the Lord make of them what He knew they were capable of becoming.
Some of the greatest talks I have ever heard came from the mouths of humble people who didn't necessarily have great speaking skills, but instead were filled with the Spirit. That's what really matters.
President Monson said, “Whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies.” I know this is true, for the Lord has called me to do things that were frightening to me and has taught me how to do them with His help. I hope to become more like Enoch, Moses, Jeremiah, and others who listened to the Lord and with faith put their fears aside and became a tool in the Lord’s hands!
I have way too many favorites to choose just one, but I did. The ones that came to my mind weren’t necessarily my favorites, but rather scriptures that the Lord led me to in answer to prayer or to teach me something that I needed to understand.
2 Nephi 2:1-2 is where Lehi knew he was about to die and gave blessings to all his children. In these verses he said:
And now, Jacob, I speak unto you: Thou art my first-born in the days of my tribulation in the wilderness. And behold, in thy childhood thou hast suffered afflictions and much sorrow, because of the rudeness of thy brethren.
Nevertheless, Jacob, my first-born in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain.
Wow! He consecrates our afflictions for our gain! That means that our challenges are really a blessing. At the time of this teaching moment I was struggling to understand why one of my sons had such a difficult time with certain things when the same things came so easily for the other kids. It felt so unfair. I learned that the Lord didn’t give my son (or any of us) trials and challenges to make him suffer or to punish him, but to bless him.
I guess it does make sense that we need trials to make us strong. If everything came easy to us we would never be challenged or learn to overcome anything. The hard things we go through in life humble us so the Lord can shape us into people who are useful to Him. From the day I read this I came to understand that the Lord loved my son enough to give him challenges and trials so He could mold him to be the kind of man He needed him to be.
Another scripture that taught me a great lesson was found while doing home school and scripture study with my son while he was in junior high. We were reading in Moses 6 when the Lord came to Enoch and told him that He was angry with the people because their hearts had waxed hard and their ears were dull of hearing. He told Enoch to prophesy unto the people and to call them unto repentance. In verse 31 it says:
And when Enoch had heard these words, he bowed himself to the earth, before the Lord, and spake before the Lord, saying: Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech; wherefore am I thy servant?
And the Lord said unto Enoch: Go forth and do as I have commanded thee, and no man shall pierce thee. Open thy mouth, and it shall be filled, and I will give thee utterance, for all flesh is in my hands, and I will do as seemeth me good.
My son could relate to this and mentioned that he had felt scared to speak to people too. We talked about it and looked up the footnotes and learned so much. Moses, Enoch, Jeremiah and other great prophets felt unqualified to do what the Lord asked them to do. They felt they were slow of speech, hated, dumb, having a slow tongue, and too young for the people to listen to them. The Lord knew otherwise and called them regardless.
In Exodus 4:10 even Moses felt inadequate when the Lord called on him:
And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.
In verses 12 and 15 the Lord’s answer was:
Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.
And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth…and will teach you what ye shall do.
Moses was obedient and the Lord molded Moses into a great man.
In Jeremiah 1:6-9 Jeremiah told the Lord:
Then said I, Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.
But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.
Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord.
Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.
I totally loved learning from theses scriptures that even the Lord’s chosen haven’t felt up to the task. The key is that they were willing to be obedient and let the Lord make of them what He knew they were capable of becoming.
Some of the greatest talks I have ever heard came from the mouths of humble people who didn't necessarily have great speaking skills, but instead were filled with the Spirit. That's what really matters.
President Monson said, “Whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies.” I know this is true, for the Lord has called me to do things that were frightening to me and has taught me how to do them with His help. I hope to become more like Enoch, Moses, Jeremiah, and others who listened to the Lord and with faith put their fears aside and became a tool in the Lord’s hands!
A Great Example to All
A couple of days ago we attended the funeral of our niece. It was one of the most beautiful funerals that I have ever been to. It touched me deeply on many levels.
She was born with some handicaps that made her life different than others, but these disabilities perhaps increased her ability to love. All who spoke told of the impact her life had on them.
Her brother gave an incredible talk and reminded us that because she came to earth the way she did, that satan couldn’t touch her. She was innocent and wasn’t influenced by him. Like her mother told me on the phone, ‘She has her golden ticket, she’s got it made.” And it’s so true. She came to earth to do what she needed to do and she has succeeded and has now returned to her Heavenly Father to gain her reward. Her brother also said that because of her he was more understanding, less judgmental, a better father, son, husband, and friend.
Her sister asked the congregation if we knew anyone who didn’t worry about what everyone was thinking, didn’t care about the trends, someone who was genuine and loved everyone. That described this sweet girl. She loved everyone and didn’t get caught up in the world. What a great example to all of us!
I could tell from hearing her family speak that her life has been a huge blessing to each of them. She has helped them to stay grounded and love others like she did.
People feel such sorrow when a child is born with limitations. They focus on all the things that the child will not be able to do, and all the dreams that they had for the child that may never be realized. But I can see that in a way it is a thing to rejoice about. Children like this have it made. They come to teach us all how to love and how to live life to the fullest. We all focus way too much on what the world expects from us. We should be more like them and focus on what matters more, and that is being genuine, without guile, and full of love!
Thanks for being an awesome example to everyone who ever came in contact with you!
She was born with some handicaps that made her life different than others, but these disabilities perhaps increased her ability to love. All who spoke told of the impact her life had on them.
Her brother gave an incredible talk and reminded us that because she came to earth the way she did, that satan couldn’t touch her. She was innocent and wasn’t influenced by him. Like her mother told me on the phone, ‘She has her golden ticket, she’s got it made.” And it’s so true. She came to earth to do what she needed to do and she has succeeded and has now returned to her Heavenly Father to gain her reward. Her brother also said that because of her he was more understanding, less judgmental, a better father, son, husband, and friend.
Her sister asked the congregation if we knew anyone who didn’t worry about what everyone was thinking, didn’t care about the trends, someone who was genuine and loved everyone. That described this sweet girl. She loved everyone and didn’t get caught up in the world. What a great example to all of us!
I could tell from hearing her family speak that her life has been a huge blessing to each of them. She has helped them to stay grounded and love others like she did.
People feel such sorrow when a child is born with limitations. They focus on all the things that the child will not be able to do, and all the dreams that they had for the child that may never be realized. But I can see that in a way it is a thing to rejoice about. Children like this have it made. They come to teach us all how to love and how to live life to the fullest. We all focus way too much on what the world expects from us. We should be more like them and focus on what matters more, and that is being genuine, without guile, and full of love!
Thanks for being an awesome example to everyone who ever came in contact with you!
The Beauty of Aging
I’m going to say something that may sound unbelievable. I actually like aging. The older I get the more I like myself, the more comfortable I am in my own skin, and the more I love life. It sounds like an oxymoron, or perhaps a paradox considering the person I see in the mirror, a person with wrinkles and ever increasing gray hair emerging from my head. I look at myself and see that I am no longer young, cute, or fit, yet I am more comfortable and confident than I was when I had more visual assets. I honestly mean it.
It’s funny how much less I liked myself when I was young and seemed to have more going for myself than now. It has taken me years to accept the person that has always been hidden within. I used to think that to be adequate I needed to be perfect, to be thinner, and to look better. The list went on and on. No matter how good I looked, or how good a person I tried to be, it was never good enough to live up to my own expectations. It’s really quite funny that now, of all times, when I’ve passed my days of youth, that I am finally comfortable with who I have become. Funny that now—at middle age—I have finally found out who I really am and I like what I’ve found. I have finally accepted who I am. I now can see that I always have been adequate. I just couldn’t clearly see who I was. One blessing of aging is seeing things more clearly. Experiences gained have taught me so much. Each year of my life has provided new opportunities for growth and understanding.
One day my sister and I were in the food line at Wendy’s. We were talking about her cruise and how much fun it had been. We decided that although we are older and no longer look as good as when we were young that it would be really fun to take a cruise and lounge on a beach. We agreed that we don’t need to worry what anyone thinks about us because nobody is looking any more anyways. It was funny because as one of us said that, a guy in the line in front of us—while trying not to let us see that he was looking—very carefully checked us out over his sunglasses. He just had to see what the women who said that might look like. It gave us a good laugh. So maybe I’m all wrong and people are still looking, but I just don’t care anymore, because I like myself, and that’s good enough for me. I am learning to enjoy life on my terms, not the terms and expectations society has set for me.
I love the confidence gained by living life. I love being able to look back a few years and compare my younger self to me now. Through this new found light I can see what I have learned, the experiences I have had, and the people I have been blessed to know. And I wouldn’t take back any of it to be young again. I like where I am now.
For once I can honestly see beauty in aging. I can see wisdom in a wrinkles face, and experience in gray hair, in wrinkly hands I see the labors of a life well spent. Old people are beautiful. The way they look shows that they have lived a life worth living, a life of meaning, a life that has meant something to someone else.
I have now most likely passed the middle point of my life. It’s probable that more than half of my life is over, but I’m at the prime of my life at 45. I am just where I want to be. I might be at the top of the hill, but I’m at a place where I can clearly see the view from both sides of the peak. Looking behind me I see where I came from, looking straight ahead I see that I am exactly where I want to be, and looking ahead I see many more opportunities await me as I venture down the other side of the peak. There is much more life to live.
It’s funny how much less I liked myself when I was young and seemed to have more going for myself than now. It has taken me years to accept the person that has always been hidden within. I used to think that to be adequate I needed to be perfect, to be thinner, and to look better. The list went on and on. No matter how good I looked, or how good a person I tried to be, it was never good enough to live up to my own expectations. It’s really quite funny that now, of all times, when I’ve passed my days of youth, that I am finally comfortable with who I have become. Funny that now—at middle age—I have finally found out who I really am and I like what I’ve found. I have finally accepted who I am. I now can see that I always have been adequate. I just couldn’t clearly see who I was. One blessing of aging is seeing things more clearly. Experiences gained have taught me so much. Each year of my life has provided new opportunities for growth and understanding.
One day my sister and I were in the food line at Wendy’s. We were talking about her cruise and how much fun it had been. We decided that although we are older and no longer look as good as when we were young that it would be really fun to take a cruise and lounge on a beach. We agreed that we don’t need to worry what anyone thinks about us because nobody is looking any more anyways. It was funny because as one of us said that, a guy in the line in front of us—while trying not to let us see that he was looking—very carefully checked us out over his sunglasses. He just had to see what the women who said that might look like. It gave us a good laugh. So maybe I’m all wrong and people are still looking, but I just don’t care anymore, because I like myself, and that’s good enough for me. I am learning to enjoy life on my terms, not the terms and expectations society has set for me.
I love the confidence gained by living life. I love being able to look back a few years and compare my younger self to me now. Through this new found light I can see what I have learned, the experiences I have had, and the people I have been blessed to know. And I wouldn’t take back any of it to be young again. I like where I am now.
For once I can honestly see beauty in aging. I can see wisdom in a wrinkles face, and experience in gray hair, in wrinkly hands I see the labors of a life well spent. Old people are beautiful. The way they look shows that they have lived a life worth living, a life of meaning, a life that has meant something to someone else.
I have now most likely passed the middle point of my life. It’s probable that more than half of my life is over, but I’m at the prime of my life at 45. I am just where I want to be. I might be at the top of the hill, but I’m at a place where I can clearly see the view from both sides of the peak. Looking behind me I see where I came from, looking straight ahead I see that I am exactly where I want to be, and looking ahead I see many more opportunities await me as I venture down the other side of the peak. There is much more life to live.
When All Is Said And Done
Today I read a talk by Elder Richard G. Hinckley, President Hinckley’s son. He said that about a few years ago President Hinckley married and sealed his 24th of 25 grandchildren in the Salt Lake Temple. It was the last sealing he performed before his death.
He said that during the ceremony President Hinckley said something with such force that he vowed to remember it always. He quietly said, “It has just occurred to me that I have sealed all five of my children and all 24 of my married grandchildren in this temple.” He then paused for a moment or two and concluded, “I think that is the finest thing I have ever done.”
His son said, “I thought of his 97 years, and of the tremendous, untiring efforts he had made to bring the kingdom forward in the earth, yet when all was said and done, just eight months before the end of his long and productive life, in the quiet privacy of that sealing room, he reflected that the finest thing he had ever done was to bind his family—his posterity—together for eternity.
After reading that I thought, what could be more important to us than our families? Nothing. He’s right, when all is said and done if we have succeeded within our own family, it will be our greatest accomplishment. If our family members love each other, live good lives, and stay together that will be the greatest thing we could have ever done. The most important things we do in our lives are within the walls of our own homes.
He said that during the ceremony President Hinckley said something with such force that he vowed to remember it always. He quietly said, “It has just occurred to me that I have sealed all five of my children and all 24 of my married grandchildren in this temple.” He then paused for a moment or two and concluded, “I think that is the finest thing I have ever done.”
His son said, “I thought of his 97 years, and of the tremendous, untiring efforts he had made to bring the kingdom forward in the earth, yet when all was said and done, just eight months before the end of his long and productive life, in the quiet privacy of that sealing room, he reflected that the finest thing he had ever done was to bind his family—his posterity—together for eternity.
After reading that I thought, what could be more important to us than our families? Nothing. He’s right, when all is said and done if we have succeeded within our own family, it will be our greatest accomplishment. If our family members love each other, live good lives, and stay together that will be the greatest thing we could have ever done. The most important things we do in our lives are within the walls of our own homes.
Sisters--One Of God's Greatest Gifts
From my perspective sisters are one of God’s greatest gifts to us. As the baby of the family I was blessed with incredible sisters who played a significant role in my life. They have always been there for me at the crossroads in my life. We have shared joys and sorrows; births and deaths. And we have helped carry each other’s burdens. We have had many unforgettable moments; blissful, exciting, joyful, and heartbreaking. These experiences have been unique and memorable with each sister and have bound us tightly together.
Last weekend I had a baby shower planned for my daughter-in-law but after breaking my leg I didn’t know if I could still hold the shower. Instead of cancelling, my sisters stepped in and helped my girls pull it off. They did a wonderful job complete with great food and fun! It made me remember a time about 20 years ago when I ripped all the ligaments in my ankle. I had two little children to care for and Robert worked long shift work hours. My sister offered to care for us. Each day on his way to work Robert would take us over to her house and she would babysit all three of us. I could do nothing for weeks but lie on her couch and let her tend and feed my boys. Last weekend I found myself once again the recipient of my sisters goodness.
We haven’t only shared hard times. We have also had a lot of fun and went on some great girl’s trips together...an East Coast tour to Washington D.C. and New York... a trip to Moab to hike in Arches National Park...a trip to Salt Lake City to shop, have a nice dinner, and watch a movie…and a flight to Seattle for a drive around the Olympic Peninsula and a ferry ride to Victoria, Canada.
Some of my favorite memories are the simple ones, like having birthday luncheons and going out to the movies together. I love just talking and laughing. And I love those crazy late nights when we get the giggles so bad. When sleep deprivation has made us so silly that we laugh about anything. One such moment was during our East Coast Tour. It was 1:30 in the morning and we had to get up at 5:00 am. We couldn’t stop laughing and mom asked us if she needed to spank us so we would go to sleep. This just made us laugh harder. These are moments I cherish.
So to my sisters, I love you. I appreciate you. I cherish you. And I thank you for everything!
Last weekend I had a baby shower planned for my daughter-in-law but after breaking my leg I didn’t know if I could still hold the shower. Instead of cancelling, my sisters stepped in and helped my girls pull it off. They did a wonderful job complete with great food and fun! It made me remember a time about 20 years ago when I ripped all the ligaments in my ankle. I had two little children to care for and Robert worked long shift work hours. My sister offered to care for us. Each day on his way to work Robert would take us over to her house and she would babysit all three of us. I could do nothing for weeks but lie on her couch and let her tend and feed my boys. Last weekend I found myself once again the recipient of my sisters goodness.
We haven’t only shared hard times. We have also had a lot of fun and went on some great girl’s trips together...an East Coast tour to Washington D.C. and New York... a trip to Moab to hike in Arches National Park...a trip to Salt Lake City to shop, have a nice dinner, and watch a movie…and a flight to Seattle for a drive around the Olympic Peninsula and a ferry ride to Victoria, Canada.
Some of my favorite memories are the simple ones, like having birthday luncheons and going out to the movies together. I love just talking and laughing. And I love those crazy late nights when we get the giggles so bad. When sleep deprivation has made us so silly that we laugh about anything. One such moment was during our East Coast Tour. It was 1:30 in the morning and we had to get up at 5:00 am. We couldn’t stop laughing and mom asked us if she needed to spank us so we would go to sleep. This just made us laugh harder. These are moments I cherish.
So to my sisters, I love you. I appreciate you. I cherish you. And I thank you for everything!
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