So a few little tid-bits of good news before I start with my boring life!
1. ROBERT GOT INTO BYU-I! Not that I doubted him, but man am I proud. He deserves the best and I know we haven't always gotten along the best, but he's my brother and I love him and am proud! I really think he deserves this and MUCH more! You go Rob!
2. My good friend Sister Katelyn Tucker is officially set apart as a sister missionary!!! I am SO proud of her, and I know she's going to be GREAT! She has helped me through this long wait, and I SWEAR she is INSPIRED in the timing of her texts to me!
3. My bar chart that I wrote officially came in and is on sale for $5.95... that's right guys... I'm PUBLISHED!
4. Mormon Messages have saved my life. Seriously. I will explain this further as I blog.
So... as most of you may or may not know I got my wisdom teeth out. Both top ones were impacted, one was partially on the bone and the other was completely on the bone. The surgery went SO smooth and I didn't feel an ounce of pain! I LOVED it. I have been blessed with a great recovery. I haven't bled at all in my mouth, and no super intense pain! HOWEVER I decided not to take the narcotics due to chance of addiction and the possible side effects. I don't do pain but I decided since I'm being obedient the Lord will bless me. And as I read my scriptures and pray I know that I am being healed and blessed for obedience. I have been having a rough day though today. My mom has been an ANGEL in trying to keep me distracted and busy, but she also does everything to try and let me sleep. It's sweet how concerned she is. I love her so much! But it doesn't mean that I'm not in pain. Because I am. I am trying to stay positive and relax to help the healing but I just keep getting frustrated. I haven't even drank a whole bottle of water in 36 hours! That's BAD for me! I also haven't been eating hardly anything because I just don't feel up to it. I feel lonley and bored and just in pain! It is a nice weight loss program though! HA! So tonight I took like 20 minutes and watched a few Mormon Messages. They were just what I needed and have helped me a lot. I still have that pain but I know if it gets bad I can always ask for a blessing! I also know that I will be ok. That people have it worse than me. I am really working on humbling myself and focusing myself on Him and what I can do to serve my Lord.
I am SO grateful for church websites. I have all the hymns playing as I blog, uplifting my spirit! I love this church SO much! I am excited to think that in 3 weeks time, I will be at the Provo MTC!!!!!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Friday, January 24, 2014
Pondering scriptures gives great direction to life.
I just can't get the lesson I had at institute last night out of my head. I just keep thinking that I didn't make a sacrifice. "giving up" my 4 year full ride scholarship to FIU really isn't a sacrifice. (Maybe one for FIU haha) But really it's a blessing. The Lord has a different, a better plan for me. To the world giving up college is a big deal. And even to me it was. Until last night. I realized I'm not the one making a sacrifice. I'm putting faith in my Lord. I'm doing what He wants, and in the end that path will take me to eternal marriage, a family, happiness, and the life I've always dreamed of having. I will be given eternal life. What greater a blessing?
We read this passage and it really touched me and inspired me to read the rest of the talk. So
Pondering a passage of scripture can be a key to unlock revelation and the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Ghost. Scriptures can calm an agitated soul, giving peace, hope, and a restoration of confidence in one’s ability to overcome the challenges of life. They have potent power to heal emotional challenges when there is faith in the Savior. They can accelerate physical healing.
This talk really teaches me how important the scriptures are and what a blessing they are in my life. I really am learning all about the blessings in my life. So here is the link to the talk. read and enjoy.
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/10/the-power-of-scripture?lang=eng
We read this passage and it really touched me and inspired me to read the rest of the talk. So
Pondering a passage of scripture can be a key to unlock revelation and the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Ghost. Scriptures can calm an agitated soul, giving peace, hope, and a restoration of confidence in one’s ability to overcome the challenges of life. They have potent power to heal emotional challenges when there is faith in the Savior. They can accelerate physical healing.
This talk really teaches me how important the scriptures are and what a blessing they are in my life. I really am learning all about the blessings in my life. So here is the link to the talk. read and enjoy.
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/10/the-power-of-scripture?lang=eng
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Life Lessons
Yesterday was my 19th birthday! Best thing about turning 19?! I'm OFFICIALLY MISSIONARY AGE! And yes, that was my highlight of the day. As I reflected on the past year, (my birthday is like my New Years) I realized just how far one can come in just a years time. And I was astonished. SO i decided I was going to make a list of 19 things I've learned to be true, or to live by. I know I'm still young and have much to learn, but in terms of maturity I feel as if this past year I have blossomed into someone who I am actually proud of. I'm finally becoming who I want to be.So here's the list!
1. Be happy. In life SOOO many things will disappoint you, people will hurt you, and bad things do happen... even to good people. Decide now that these trials are for a purpose and Smile your way through them. I know its easier said than done, but I've been really working on looking at the positives of EVERYTHING! It really is always better to look up and just get over things. Bad days happen. But guess what? So do good ones. And if you sulk in your own pain or sorrows you miss those good days and memories that turn into missed chances. So smile. learn from your lessons. And be happy.
2. Have faith. Sounds so simple. Yet sometimes it's the hardest things to do. Our God is a loving one. He knows what we can handle. Just have faith in EVERYTHING! If I miss a flight I think "must have been for some reason" And sometimes you know why. Sometimes you meet someone who touches you or vice-versa. Other times you never really know why. But it doesn't matter. He knows, and that's all that matters. I have come to realize that when I truly put all of my "Fate" in His hands I am happy and confident in every choice made. Know you have a plan and a purpose.
3. Know you are loved. If NO ONE else loves you, you always have a loving Heavenly Father waiting to bless you. He loves you. He wants what's best for you. Knowing someone loves you helps you to be the best YOU possible. Embrace yourself. You are loved and you are divine. Everyone on this earth is a literal Son or Daughter of God. Take that Satan!
4. That being said, Love others. Everyone needs to be loved. Everyone needs friends, someone to rely on and someone who they know loves them. Jesus said love EVERYONE. we aren't here to judge their weaknesses. That's not our job. We are to love them regardless of them. Look on their countenance.
5. Love yourself. That's all. You are loved. You are precious and someone needs you. Remember your worth. When you love yourself you will take care of yourself.
6. Have integrity. Embrace being different. Stay true to your standards. Hold on. You truly can do anything you put your mind too. You are stronger than you can imagine. Don't give in. Stay true to what you know or even once knew to be true if that's all you have.
7. Serve others. You can answer others' prayers. Or your own. You feel better, and so do those whom ye serve. You are uplifted and edified. Service is a way of life and honestly, you can never feel bitter after serving others. It's a commandment, and an easy one! JUST DO IT!
8. Don't gossip. Seriously, what's the point? If they wanted everyone to know they would post it on Facebook. Even if they do. It's not your business and it's not meant to be. Want something to tell everyone about?! Talk about the Church, what you know to be true! Wanna share something? Share your testimony! It's just that simple. Gossip = drama. No one likes drama. And if you do, go into theater. End of story.
9. Stop Judging others. Judge righteously when it comes to discerning and making choices. Who are you to judge? You really Don't know where people are coming from and what goes through their mind, no matter how well you think you know them. Everyone is different.
10. Embrace change. We live in a changing world and if you don't embrace it you will find yourself constantly disappointed. And no one wants to be unhappy. So just live with it. Move on.
11. Hope. Not just for yourself, but for others. For better days, better times and happiness. Isn't that what everyone wants? Why not hope for them. Hope can change your attitude. How you look at life. Just hope for the best.
12. Pray. Always pray. No matter how big or small something may seem, pray. He is listening. He is waiting to pour out blessings upon you. He doesn't just listen. He answers all of your prayers. I promise and I testify that prayers are heard AND answered. Always.
13. Repent. Take advantage of the atonement. It doesn't matter what you did. It doesn't matter how horrible you feel. God loves you and wants you to feel his love. If this means talking to your bishop, stop waiting. If this means praying for forgiveness do it. It is the most humbling and beautiful experiences one can ever have. Repentance is a blessing. He died for you. Take advantage of it. When you sin and don't repent think of all the pain you caused him in the Garden. Just imagine. He lves you and wants nothing more than for you to come back. It's not too late. It will never be too late. Have a leap of faith and go for it.
14. Forgive yourself. You deserve to be forgiven. Feel sorry, repent and move on. Don't sulk in your sins. Just enjoy your life and know that you can forgive yourself. It's hard. Tears are involved. But it's ok. I promise it's worth it.
15. Forgive others. The Lord forgives you. What gives you the right not to forgive back? The scriptures teach us to always forgive because we know that we can always be Forgiven. We are not to judge, we are to look beyond and forgive.
16. Read scriptures! Whatever you believe! The bible, the Book of Mormon, it doesn't matter! Conference talks, general conference, etc.. Words from our prophets are scripture! Read it. Study it. Learn from it! There are SO many scriptures that apply to YOU that will touch YOUR spirit and benefit YOU! So read them. 10 minutes a day. That's all you NEED! I promise as you read and study diligently you will learn and grow and become stronger than you ever knew to be possible.
17. Have an open heart. You never know who or how you can be touched. Talk to everyone with an open heart and really listen to what they say! Seriously. Sometimes people amaze me with what they say/do. You never know what can really hit home!
18. FOLLOW A PROMPTING! I can not stress this enough! If you have a feeling to do something.. DO IT! Following a prompting can save people and souls. It can bring others to Christ. I promise that following those "random thoughts/ideas" will bless those people and keep you in tune with the Spirit. Listen to that still small voice.
19. Live. Live everyday. Don't wish away days. Don't get so caught up in the future that you forget to live in the NOW! You are living in a blessed time. A time that no other time in history will get to experience. Life is short. In an eternal prospective this life in a blink of an eye. So stop and enjoy. Spend a LITTLE money on things that you enjoy. Have fun. Relax. Remember there is always another day.
These are not in any kind of order other than the way they came to me. I know its long but it's what I've learned to be true and what I strive to live by. I really hope you feel uplifted and enjoyed this. I loved writing it as I got to reflect on my personal and spiritual growth. I feel blessed beyond words. I am grateful for my life and for those within it.
1. Be happy. In life SOOO many things will disappoint you, people will hurt you, and bad things do happen... even to good people. Decide now that these trials are for a purpose and Smile your way through them. I know its easier said than done, but I've been really working on looking at the positives of EVERYTHING! It really is always better to look up and just get over things. Bad days happen. But guess what? So do good ones. And if you sulk in your own pain or sorrows you miss those good days and memories that turn into missed chances. So smile. learn from your lessons. And be happy.
2. Have faith. Sounds so simple. Yet sometimes it's the hardest things to do. Our God is a loving one. He knows what we can handle. Just have faith in EVERYTHING! If I miss a flight I think "must have been for some reason" And sometimes you know why. Sometimes you meet someone who touches you or vice-versa. Other times you never really know why. But it doesn't matter. He knows, and that's all that matters. I have come to realize that when I truly put all of my "Fate" in His hands I am happy and confident in every choice made. Know you have a plan and a purpose.
3. Know you are loved. If NO ONE else loves you, you always have a loving Heavenly Father waiting to bless you. He loves you. He wants what's best for you. Knowing someone loves you helps you to be the best YOU possible. Embrace yourself. You are loved and you are divine. Everyone on this earth is a literal Son or Daughter of God. Take that Satan!
4. That being said, Love others. Everyone needs to be loved. Everyone needs friends, someone to rely on and someone who they know loves them. Jesus said love EVERYONE. we aren't here to judge their weaknesses. That's not our job. We are to love them regardless of them. Look on their countenance.
5. Love yourself. That's all. You are loved. You are precious and someone needs you. Remember your worth. When you love yourself you will take care of yourself.
6. Have integrity. Embrace being different. Stay true to your standards. Hold on. You truly can do anything you put your mind too. You are stronger than you can imagine. Don't give in. Stay true to what you know or even once knew to be true if that's all you have.
7. Serve others. You can answer others' prayers. Or your own. You feel better, and so do those whom ye serve. You are uplifted and edified. Service is a way of life and honestly, you can never feel bitter after serving others. It's a commandment, and an easy one! JUST DO IT!
8. Don't gossip. Seriously, what's the point? If they wanted everyone to know they would post it on Facebook. Even if they do. It's not your business and it's not meant to be. Want something to tell everyone about?! Talk about the Church, what you know to be true! Wanna share something? Share your testimony! It's just that simple. Gossip = drama. No one likes drama. And if you do, go into theater. End of story.
9. Stop Judging others. Judge righteously when it comes to discerning and making choices. Who are you to judge? You really Don't know where people are coming from and what goes through their mind, no matter how well you think you know them. Everyone is different.
10. Embrace change. We live in a changing world and if you don't embrace it you will find yourself constantly disappointed. And no one wants to be unhappy. So just live with it. Move on.
11. Hope. Not just for yourself, but for others. For better days, better times and happiness. Isn't that what everyone wants? Why not hope for them. Hope can change your attitude. How you look at life. Just hope for the best.
12. Pray. Always pray. No matter how big or small something may seem, pray. He is listening. He is waiting to pour out blessings upon you. He doesn't just listen. He answers all of your prayers. I promise and I testify that prayers are heard AND answered. Always.
13. Repent. Take advantage of the atonement. It doesn't matter what you did. It doesn't matter how horrible you feel. God loves you and wants you to feel his love. If this means talking to your bishop, stop waiting. If this means praying for forgiveness do it. It is the most humbling and beautiful experiences one can ever have. Repentance is a blessing. He died for you. Take advantage of it. When you sin and don't repent think of all the pain you caused him in the Garden. Just imagine. He lves you and wants nothing more than for you to come back. It's not too late. It will never be too late. Have a leap of faith and go for it.
14. Forgive yourself. You deserve to be forgiven. Feel sorry, repent and move on. Don't sulk in your sins. Just enjoy your life and know that you can forgive yourself. It's hard. Tears are involved. But it's ok. I promise it's worth it.
15. Forgive others. The Lord forgives you. What gives you the right not to forgive back? The scriptures teach us to always forgive because we know that we can always be Forgiven. We are not to judge, we are to look beyond and forgive.
16. Read scriptures! Whatever you believe! The bible, the Book of Mormon, it doesn't matter! Conference talks, general conference, etc.. Words from our prophets are scripture! Read it. Study it. Learn from it! There are SO many scriptures that apply to YOU that will touch YOUR spirit and benefit YOU! So read them. 10 minutes a day. That's all you NEED! I promise as you read and study diligently you will learn and grow and become stronger than you ever knew to be possible.
17. Have an open heart. You never know who or how you can be touched. Talk to everyone with an open heart and really listen to what they say! Seriously. Sometimes people amaze me with what they say/do. You never know what can really hit home!
18. FOLLOW A PROMPTING! I can not stress this enough! If you have a feeling to do something.. DO IT! Following a prompting can save people and souls. It can bring others to Christ. I promise that following those "random thoughts/ideas" will bless those people and keep you in tune with the Spirit. Listen to that still small voice.
19. Live. Live everyday. Don't wish away days. Don't get so caught up in the future that you forget to live in the NOW! You are living in a blessed time. A time that no other time in history will get to experience. Life is short. In an eternal prospective this life in a blink of an eye. So stop and enjoy. Spend a LITTLE money on things that you enjoy. Have fun. Relax. Remember there is always another day.
These are not in any kind of order other than the way they came to me. I know its long but it's what I've learned to be true and what I strive to live by. I really hope you feel uplifted and enjoyed this. I loved writing it as I got to reflect on my personal and spiritual growth. I feel blessed beyond words. I am grateful for my life and for those within it.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Let go and Let God
Sometimes you just need to let it all out. I've has a bit of a rough week. I have just been getting frustrated with everything and tired. I started noticing I was being selfish in my thoughts, judging others, and just being unhappy. After a nicee lonnnnnggg vent to my friend I knew what I had to do. I've been doing the general conference 40 day and night thing where you read a talk from the April 2013 conference everyday! It seems as though everyday the talk speaks to me. It is always literally exactly what I needed. Here is the calendar
Anyway, I decided I needed to humble myself and come unto the Lord. I got on my knees and instantly I felt so much better. I poured my heart out and now I feel so much better. As I read the words of the prophet and apostles I know my Heavenly Father loves me. I know I was meant for these times and I know for a fact I was saved for this time. I have such a strong testimony of the plan of salvation. I am so grateful for this gospel. For the wise words given to us during conference. I am eternally indebted to my Father in Heaven. I love this church. I am grateful for my friends, for their support and encouragement. I know that as long as we do our best and try to stand by Him and follow Him, we will be happy. We will find joy in this life and we will receive blessings unimaginable from Him. I know these things to be true. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Anyway, I decided I needed to humble myself and come unto the Lord. I got on my knees and instantly I felt so much better. I poured my heart out and now I feel so much better. As I read the words of the prophet and apostles I know my Heavenly Father loves me. I know I was meant for these times and I know for a fact I was saved for this time. I have such a strong testimony of the plan of salvation. I am so grateful for this gospel. For the wise words given to us during conference. I am eternally indebted to my Father in Heaven. I love this church. I am grateful for my friends, for their support and encouragement. I know that as long as we do our best and try to stand by Him and follow Him, we will be happy. We will find joy in this life and we will receive blessings unimaginable from Him. I know these things to be true. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
I've got a friend in me
I want to dedicate this blog post to friends. Often times in life I find myself saying "I have no friends" or "forever alone" But the truth is, neither of those are true. I have a few very special friends, who lately, have made a huge impact in my life.
The first is Katelyn Tucker. We met years ago in the Hill Cumorah Pageant, as will most of my friends on this list. Her and I have the same birthday, anddddd are going to the same state for our missions. She has been there for me as I worked on my papers. She listened to me rant when my sister got her call before me. She understands my struggle of shopping for modest clothes, and we helped each other prepare for the temple. She is absolutely an amazing friend! I know I can count on her to give the best advice and to listen to me! I am SO excited for us to be in Salt Lake City together! HOLLLLLAAAA :D
Mariah Mader is another very special friend. She is why and how I got through Highschool. She is the reason I graduated magnet. She supports me in every choice I make. She is so hardworking and determined, not to mention her intelligence. I know she will always listen to my stories, and most of the time take my side. Adventures are always the best with her and she is always up for them! Although she is in college now (rocking it might I add!) I treasure her visits! We can be silly, funny, stupid, and even deep with each other. Isn't that the best? NOT to mention her family... Her mom takes me in and loves me, and I love her. And her twin?! ONLY THE BEST! She always has me rollin and because of her I started working out. Melissa is a great workout buddy! HA! AND they had me over for Thanksgiving! I sure do love Mariah, Melissa, Mommy and the family.. except Lucy the cat!
Ali Spears is next on the list! First I wanna say she is BEAUTIFUL. I never thought someone as beautiful as her would want to be friends with me, I ruin all the pictures :p HA! ANYWAY! She makes time for me during her busy college life. She understands me and gets me. With all my mormon struggles. I know she will be a great missionary too. She is so proud and I admire that! She is truly an example to me. I know I can count on her with my issues and my secrets. She will always listen. I admire that quality in others. Her sister Tara is also fantastic, and I look at both of them as sisters, and I am SO proud of Tara's choice to get married and he is a lucky guy! Congrats to these lovely sisters on their accomplishments <3
Elder Bryan Jacobson... The first and only guy I trusted with everything. He is currently serving his mission, but boy am I proud! He is so fantastic. He always listened to me, and knew what to say. His testimony is stronger than anyone I know. He just has this spirit to him. I know just by reading his testimony how strong his faith is. He listens. He cares. He is my best friend (that's a male). I wish I could tell him all about my life, but I want him to focus on his mission because I know he is doing the right thing. I Know one day he will be the perfect dad and husband. He is such a pure and perfect person. He is already being an amazing missionary and I am SO proud of him! And his brother?! Such a great example! And His brothers blog always makes me want to go and do!
Next up is Crystal. I love her. It's as simple as that. Her faith is strong and rock solid. She always says and does the right things at the right time. She has a nack for that. I am proud of her in college. Her testimony amazes me, and I love how outspoken she is about the Gospel! You go Crystal!
Jenna Workman... My mission prep companion. My friend. She is so funny! And modest... literally! She always says the best comments and never fails to make me laugh. She is a HOOT! HA! Anyway, I love her strength and how outgoing she is. I love how she's not afraid to stand up for what she believes in! I just love her. And She is THE BEST letter writer! I can't wait to get all her letters while I'm serving a mission!
Last but NOT least, my beautiful sister. Ashley. We don't always get along. We fight sometimes. We laugh. A lot. I am going to miss her something FIERCE! She is my sister. My best friend. She gets me. We study together. We laugh together. Luckily we get to see movies together. I am excited to hear her stories and how she's growing. I love her. She is just so amazing and her heart is so big! Honestly, She loves everyone.
I know I have other friends, and many people help me in my everyday life. And I thank everyone for being apart of my life and for your support! I just felt like I need to express my gratitude for my friends more often. SO why not start here?! HA! God Bless everyone!
PS I AM STOKED FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The first is Katelyn Tucker. We met years ago in the Hill Cumorah Pageant, as will most of my friends on this list. Her and I have the same birthday, anddddd are going to the same state for our missions. She has been there for me as I worked on my papers. She listened to me rant when my sister got her call before me. She understands my struggle of shopping for modest clothes, and we helped each other prepare for the temple. She is absolutely an amazing friend! I know I can count on her to give the best advice and to listen to me! I am SO excited for us to be in Salt Lake City together! HOLLLLLAAAA :D
Mariah Mader is another very special friend. She is why and how I got through Highschool. She is the reason I graduated magnet. She supports me in every choice I make. She is so hardworking and determined, not to mention her intelligence. I know she will always listen to my stories, and most of the time take my side. Adventures are always the best with her and she is always up for them! Although she is in college now (rocking it might I add!) I treasure her visits! We can be silly, funny, stupid, and even deep with each other. Isn't that the best? NOT to mention her family... Her mom takes me in and loves me, and I love her. And her twin?! ONLY THE BEST! She always has me rollin and because of her I started working out. Melissa is a great workout buddy! HA! AND they had me over for Thanksgiving! I sure do love Mariah, Melissa, Mommy and the family.. except Lucy the cat!
Ali Spears is next on the list! First I wanna say she is BEAUTIFUL. I never thought someone as beautiful as her would want to be friends with me, I ruin all the pictures :p HA! ANYWAY! She makes time for me during her busy college life. She understands me and gets me. With all my mormon struggles. I know she will be a great missionary too. She is so proud and I admire that! She is truly an example to me. I know I can count on her with my issues and my secrets. She will always listen. I admire that quality in others. Her sister Tara is also fantastic, and I look at both of them as sisters, and I am SO proud of Tara's choice to get married and he is a lucky guy! Congrats to these lovely sisters on their accomplishments <3
Elder Bryan Jacobson... The first and only guy I trusted with everything. He is currently serving his mission, but boy am I proud! He is so fantastic. He always listened to me, and knew what to say. His testimony is stronger than anyone I know. He just has this spirit to him. I know just by reading his testimony how strong his faith is. He listens. He cares. He is my best friend (that's a male). I wish I could tell him all about my life, but I want him to focus on his mission because I know he is doing the right thing. I Know one day he will be the perfect dad and husband. He is such a pure and perfect person. He is already being an amazing missionary and I am SO proud of him! And his brother?! Such a great example! And His brothers blog always makes me want to go and do!
Next up is Crystal. I love her. It's as simple as that. Her faith is strong and rock solid. She always says and does the right things at the right time. She has a nack for that. I am proud of her in college. Her testimony amazes me, and I love how outspoken she is about the Gospel! You go Crystal!
Jenna Workman... My mission prep companion. My friend. She is so funny! And modest... literally! She always says the best comments and never fails to make me laugh. She is a HOOT! HA! Anyway, I love her strength and how outgoing she is. I love how she's not afraid to stand up for what she believes in! I just love her. And She is THE BEST letter writer! I can't wait to get all her letters while I'm serving a mission!
Last but NOT least, my beautiful sister. Ashley. We don't always get along. We fight sometimes. We laugh. A lot. I am going to miss her something FIERCE! She is my sister. My best friend. She gets me. We study together. We laugh together. Luckily we get to see movies together. I am excited to hear her stories and how she's growing. I love her. She is just so amazing and her heart is so big! Honestly, She loves everyone.
I know I have other friends, and many people help me in my everyday life. And I thank everyone for being apart of my life and for your support! I just felt like I need to express my gratitude for my friends more often. SO why not start here?! HA! God Bless everyone!
PS I AM STOKED FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Dare to be a Mormon
This month has been a month where I truly have been grateful for so many things. I have tried to express my gratitude and love to my Heavenly Father. On November 19th I had the opportunity of a life time. Let me begin my saying that I never thought (except for the day I'm engaged/married in the temple for time and all eternity) I would never have a better day then the day I met Elder Oaks AND got to open my mission call. The sheer joy that emanated from me can not be faked, and doesn't occur often. So, I think its pretty reasonable to assume that October 19th, and in the future my wedding day, would be the happiest day of my life would be a reasonable thought. FALSE. On November 18th my parents and I flew to St. Louis then drove to Nauvoo, IL.We stayed at a little B&B right down next to the Pageant stage. The next morning we took a tour if the place, went to breakfast and then my life changed. The way I view things, the way I think, even the way I dress has changed. A beautiful day in the Nauvoo Temple did this for me. It was magical. It was like nothing before, the whole time I was in there all I could do was feel a feeling of conformation. I knew I was in the right place. I knew that i was doing what the Lord wanted. My stake president gave me some advice before going in for the first time, and to summarize he basically said "Going on a mission is great. But going through the temple is even more important. In order to become exalted, to live with our Heavenly Father again we must go through the temple and receive our endowment. Try not to focus as going through the temple as a checklist for going on a mission. It is SO much more than that. It is a saving ordinance. A gift from God. A blessing greater than anything ever given to you." And can I just say he was absolutely, 100% correct. Too often in life we take for granted what has been given to us from our Heavenly Father. But luckily for me, President Richards said the right thing at the right time, and I kept it in my heart and my mind as I entered the temple. Sure everyone in there knew I was going on a mission, but I made a point to focus on what I was there to do, and to feel. The feelings I felt are indescribable. I think often times we get wrapped up in what's being said and we focus so much on what's going on in our mind. I was given some advice from a good friend. She said "Just know that you are keeping your covenants. You aren't going to know everything now and if you focus on the words and trying to understand you will come out feeling confused. Just focus on the feeling. As you return to the temple things will clarify. For now, focus on the feeling" And I did. I came out feeling on top of the world. Ready to stand up for what I believe in. It was a magical experience. I also was able to go to the temple on Saturday in Orlando, (after an AMAZING time in Disney) and I had the time of my life. Seriously. I knew I was meant to be there. The spirit was so strong and one of the ladies I meant told me she needed me there. I know the Lord works in ways we can't even imagine. I am so GRATEFUL for this gospel and for the life I have. I want to end with a quote the President Monson quoted in General Conference.
"Dare to be a Mormon, Dare to stand Alone, Dare to have a Purpose Firm, Dare to make it KNOWN!"
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Lead, Kindly light
Preparing for a mission can be so full of stress! And for anyone who knows me, knows that I stress easily, and it is BAD! I will stress over little things and drive me, and everyone around me crazy. However, I know that serving a mission is called of God, and all things can be accomplished through him.. so that keeps me pretty sane! Well, in all the chaos of trying to remember all the advice people give me, writing it down, figuring out where and what clothes to bring, the constant worry of if I know my scriptures well enough, etc.. I have found peace. This Tuesday, October 19th, exactly one month after I opened my call, I will be going through the temple for the first time! Anyway, I have been having a pretty good day so far! My best friend Mariah FINALLY started replying back to me. Her phone was broken :/ It made her TONS! OHHHHHH! SO an elder from my mission wrote me on FB today.. Do you know what that means?!?! It means I will have FB on my mission! HOLLLLLAAAAAA!!!! I am just so happy at this point in my life. Everything seems to be going right, and life is just a fun journey. Sure I have little stresses and trials, but life couldn't be better! Knowing that in a few months I will be serving the Lord, and that I will get to go to the temple in a few days brings me SO much comfort!
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