Yesterday I was feeling very blue.
At some point, I curled up in bed to take a nap hoping to sleep off some
of the sleepy sadness I was feeling.
It felt familiar...depression of not too long ago.
As I lay in bed, I reached up for the scriptures and read where I had left
off the night before.
Mosiah Chapter 3
A beautiful chapter on Jesus Christ's atonement.
When I came to verse 19...which reads:
"For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."
...my spirit felt the need to reach for the Atonement to heal and lift and
pull me from the place I was in.
I had been relying on my dear husband to help pull me out of the blue and
depressed state in which I felt stuck.
And when I read this verse, I knew to Whom I needed to turn.
Only in Christ can my burdens truly be lifted.
So, in that quiet moment,
I poured out my heart...
and waited...
and listened....
I felt His peaceful reassurance,
and comfort
that coming to Him is the only sure Way to find peace.
Sometime later, after sleeping for just a short while,
I woke,
my spirit lifted,
filled with hope and reassurance of God's and Christ's love for me.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Fingers and Toes
A conversation I had yesterday with my 7 year-old after clipping her fingernails and toenails and she had gathered them all into her hands.
7 year-old: Mom, do you know what I am going to do with these (fingernails and toenails)?
Mom: Um. Collect them in a jar?
7 year-old: Nope! I'm going to plant them!
Mom: Really? What do you think will grow?
7 year-old: I'm not sure.
Mom: Hmmm. Would be interesting to see what grows. Well, there are some great spots for planting out back.
7 year-old: Thanks, Mom!
Today, the conversation continued.
Mom: Well, did you plant your fingernails and toenails?
7 year-old: Yup! Out back in the dirt where that little stick tree is sticking out.
Mom: And what do you think will grow?
7 year-old: A tree with fingernails and toenails.
I am almost tempted to plant some seeds there...tee hee!
7 year-old: Mom, do you know what I am going to do with these (fingernails and toenails)?
Mom: Um. Collect them in a jar?
7 year-old: Nope! I'm going to plant them!
Mom: Really? What do you think will grow?
7 year-old: I'm not sure.
Mom: Hmmm. Would be interesting to see what grows. Well, there are some great spots for planting out back.
7 year-old: Thanks, Mom!
Today, the conversation continued.
Mom: Well, did you plant your fingernails and toenails?
7 year-old: Yup! Out back in the dirt where that little stick tree is sticking out.
Mom: And what do you think will grow?
7 year-old: A tree with fingernails and toenails.
I am almost tempted to plant some seeds there...tee hee!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Oooo. Gospel learning!!
I was reading Elder L Tom Perry's conference address.
MAGNIFICENT!!!
It has given me better direction and a huge boost of joy and determintation in teaching my children.
"Teaching in the home is becoming increasingly important in today’s world, where the influence of the adversary is so widespread and he is attacking, attempting to erode and destroy the very foundation of our society, even the family. Parents must resolve that teaching in the home is a most sacred and important responsibility. While other institutions, such as church and school, can assist parents to “train up a child in the way he [or she] should go” (Proverbs 22:6), ultimately this responsibility rests with parents. According to the great plan of happiness, it is parents who are entrusted with the care and development of our Heavenly Father’s children. Our families are an integral part of His work and glory—“to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). On God’s eternal stage, it is usually intended that parents act as the central cast members in their children’s lives. Fortunately, there are understudies involved in the production who may step in when parents can’t. It, however, is parents who have been commanded by the Lord to bring up their children in light and truth (see D&C 93:40).
Parents must bring light and truth into their homes by one family prayer, one scripture study session, one family home evening, one book read aloud, one song, and one family meal at a time. They know that the influence of righteous, conscientious, persistent, daily parenting is among the most powerful and sustaining forces for good in the world. The health of any society, the happiness of its people, their prosperity, and their peace all find common roots in the teaching of children in the home."
Elder Perry continues:
"The inspired document “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” states:
“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. ‘Children are an heritage of the Lord’ (Psalm 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. . . .
“ . . . By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners” (Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102).
According to “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” the principles I have taught about teaching in the home apply to both parents, but they are especially crucial to the role of a mother. Fathers most often spend much of their day away from home in their employment. That is one of the many reasons so much of the responsibility for teaching the child in the home falls on mothers. While circumstances do vary and the ideal isn’t always possible, I believe it is by divine design that the role of motherhood emphasizes the nurturing and teaching of the next generation. We see so many challenges today from distracting and destructive influences intended to mislead God’s children. We are seeing many young people who lack the deep spiritual roots necessary to remain standing in faith as storms of unbelief and despair swirl around them. Too many of our Father in Heaven’s children are being overcome by worldly desires. The onslaught of wickedness against our children is at once more subtle and more brazen than it has ever been. Teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the home adds another layer of insulation to protect our children from worldly influences.
God bless you wonderful mothers and fathers in Zion. He has entrusted to your care His eternal children. As parents we partner, even join, with God in bringing to pass His work and glory among His children. It is our sacred duty to do our very best. Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
MAGNIFICENT!!!
It has given me better direction and a huge boost of joy and determintation in teaching my children.
"Teaching in the home is becoming increasingly important in today’s world, where the influence of the adversary is so widespread and he is attacking, attempting to erode and destroy the very foundation of our society, even the family. Parents must resolve that teaching in the home is a most sacred and important responsibility. While other institutions, such as church and school, can assist parents to “train up a child in the way he [or she] should go” (Proverbs 22:6), ultimately this responsibility rests with parents. According to the great plan of happiness, it is parents who are entrusted with the care and development of our Heavenly Father’s children. Our families are an integral part of His work and glory—“to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). On God’s eternal stage, it is usually intended that parents act as the central cast members in their children’s lives. Fortunately, there are understudies involved in the production who may step in when parents can’t. It, however, is parents who have been commanded by the Lord to bring up their children in light and truth (see D&C 93:40).
Parents must bring light and truth into their homes by one family prayer, one scripture study session, one family home evening, one book read aloud, one song, and one family meal at a time. They know that the influence of righteous, conscientious, persistent, daily parenting is among the most powerful and sustaining forces for good in the world. The health of any society, the happiness of its people, their prosperity, and their peace all find common roots in the teaching of children in the home."
Elder Perry continues:
"The inspired document “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” states:
“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. ‘Children are an heritage of the Lord’ (Psalm 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. . . .
“ . . . By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners” (Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102).
According to “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” the principles I have taught about teaching in the home apply to both parents, but they are especially crucial to the role of a mother. Fathers most often spend much of their day away from home in their employment. That is one of the many reasons so much of the responsibility for teaching the child in the home falls on mothers. While circumstances do vary and the ideal isn’t always possible, I believe it is by divine design that the role of motherhood emphasizes the nurturing and teaching of the next generation. We see so many challenges today from distracting and destructive influences intended to mislead God’s children. We are seeing many young people who lack the deep spiritual roots necessary to remain standing in faith as storms of unbelief and despair swirl around them. Too many of our Father in Heaven’s children are being overcome by worldly desires. The onslaught of wickedness against our children is at once more subtle and more brazen than it has ever been. Teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the home adds another layer of insulation to protect our children from worldly influences.
God bless you wonderful mothers and fathers in Zion. He has entrusted to your care His eternal children. As parents we partner, even join, with God in bringing to pass His work and glory among His children. It is our sacred duty to do our very best. Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
Thursday, June 10, 2010
My husband and I went to the temple last night.
Thankful for the quiet time to ponder and pray and absorb the peace in the temple.
Today is a new day.
It is sweet to be with family and in that same breath...I am ready for us to be on our feet.
In an email from a dear friend, she asked, "How [your husband] doing? Did he find his spot yet, or does GOD ask you for patience?"
Those words have brought a lot of comfort and reassurance that the Lord is so aware and mindful of us and our lives. That we are not in this alone and that there are lessons to be learned...lessons the Lord is teaching us.
So, I feel like the answer to my grasping for how do I live joyfully... while moving forward however small the steps feel...the answer is in prayer. Turning this all to the Lord. Give Him everything and listen for His calm reassurance and counsel.
Thankful for the quiet time to ponder and pray and absorb the peace in the temple.
Today is a new day.
It is sweet to be with family and in that same breath...I am ready for us to be on our feet.
In an email from a dear friend, she asked, "How [your husband] doing? Did he find his spot yet, or does GOD ask you for patience?"
Those words have brought a lot of comfort and reassurance that the Lord is so aware and mindful of us and our lives. That we are not in this alone and that there are lessons to be learned...lessons the Lord is teaching us.
So, I feel like the answer to my grasping for how do I live joyfully... while moving forward however small the steps feel...the answer is in prayer. Turning this all to the Lord. Give Him everything and listen for His calm reassurance and counsel.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Teaching
So, I'll be teaching lesson 12 in Relif Society in two weeks.
I've been preparing to teach about the Atonement.
I struggle with not knowing the sisters and hope that the spirit will lead the discussion because I don't know them or their needs...but the Lord does.
So, if I am prepared, I trust He will fill my mouth.
Anyway, while preparing, I've discovered some wonderful scriptures and conference talks about the Atonement...mmmmm!!!
I think the next couple of posts will be my running list of scriptures or talks.
"The Rock of Our Redeemer" Elder Wilford A Andersen
I loved this talk! He teaches how the Atonement strengthens us throughout life. Gives latter-day examples.
A couple of things he says that stuck out.
First, in speaking about the early saints who were driven from Nauvoo:
"These early Saints were indeed homeless, but they were not hopeless. Their hearts were broken, but their spirits were strong. They had learned a profound and important lesson. They had learned that hope, with its attendant blessings of peace and joy, does not depend upon circumstance. They had discovered that the true source of hope is faith—faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His infinite Atonement, the one sure foundation upon which to build our lives."
"Hope comes from faith in Jesus Christ. He has already overcome the world and has promised that He will wipe away our tears if we will only turn to Him and believe and follow.
Some who at this very moment feel desperate or discouraged may wonder how they can possibly regain hope. If you are one of those, remember that hope comes as a result of faith. If we would build our hope, we must build our faith.
Faith in the Savior requires more than mere belief. The Apostle James taught that even the devils believe and tremble. But true faith requires work. The difference between the devils and the faithful members of this Church is not belief but work. Faith grows by keeping the commandments. We must work at keeping the commandments. From the Bible Dictionary we read that 'miracles do not produce faith but strong faith is developed by obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ; in other words, faith comes by righteousness.'
When we strive to keep the commandments of God, repenting of our sins and promising our best efforts to follow the Savior, we begin to grow in confidence that through the Atonement everything will be all right. Those feelings are confirmed by the Holy Ghost, who drives from us what our pioneer mothers and fathers called “our useless cares.” In spite of our trials, we are filled with a sense of well-being and feel to sing with them that indeed 'all is well.'"
"I speak to all who suffer, to all who mourn, to all who now face or who will yet face trials and challenges in this life. My message is to all who are worried or afraid or discouraged. My message is but an echo, a reminder of the constant comforting counsel from a loving Father to His children since the world began.
“'Remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.'
I testify of Him, that He has overcome the world, that He will never forget or abandon us, for He has graven us upon the palms of His hands. I testify that those who keep His commandments will grow in faith and hope. They will be given strength to overcome all of life’s trials. They will experience peace that passes all understanding."
Anyway, you can click the link for the full talk. AMAZING! Hope to post more later today and throughout the week.
I've been preparing to teach about the Atonement.
I struggle with not knowing the sisters and hope that the spirit will lead the discussion because I don't know them or their needs...but the Lord does.
So, if I am prepared, I trust He will fill my mouth.
Anyway, while preparing, I've discovered some wonderful scriptures and conference talks about the Atonement...mmmmm!!!
I think the next couple of posts will be my running list of scriptures or talks.
"The Rock of Our Redeemer" Elder Wilford A Andersen
I loved this talk! He teaches how the Atonement strengthens us throughout life. Gives latter-day examples.
A couple of things he says that stuck out.
First, in speaking about the early saints who were driven from Nauvoo:
"These early Saints were indeed homeless, but they were not hopeless. Their hearts were broken, but their spirits were strong. They had learned a profound and important lesson. They had learned that hope, with its attendant blessings of peace and joy, does not depend upon circumstance. They had discovered that the true source of hope is faith—faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His infinite Atonement, the one sure foundation upon which to build our lives."
"Hope comes from faith in Jesus Christ. He has already overcome the world and has promised that He will wipe away our tears if we will only turn to Him and believe and follow.
Some who at this very moment feel desperate or discouraged may wonder how they can possibly regain hope. If you are one of those, remember that hope comes as a result of faith. If we would build our hope, we must build our faith.
Faith in the Savior requires more than mere belief. The Apostle James taught that even the devils believe and tremble. But true faith requires work. The difference between the devils and the faithful members of this Church is not belief but work. Faith grows by keeping the commandments. We must work at keeping the commandments. From the Bible Dictionary we read that 'miracles do not produce faith but strong faith is developed by obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ; in other words, faith comes by righteousness.'
When we strive to keep the commandments of God, repenting of our sins and promising our best efforts to follow the Savior, we begin to grow in confidence that through the Atonement everything will be all right. Those feelings are confirmed by the Holy Ghost, who drives from us what our pioneer mothers and fathers called “our useless cares.” In spite of our trials, we are filled with a sense of well-being and feel to sing with them that indeed 'all is well.'"
"I speak to all who suffer, to all who mourn, to all who now face or who will yet face trials and challenges in this life. My message is to all who are worried or afraid or discouraged. My message is but an echo, a reminder of the constant comforting counsel from a loving Father to His children since the world began.
“'Remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.'
I testify of Him, that He has overcome the world, that He will never forget or abandon us, for He has graven us upon the palms of His hands. I testify that those who keep His commandments will grow in faith and hope. They will be given strength to overcome all of life’s trials. They will experience peace that passes all understanding."
Anyway, you can click the link for the full talk. AMAZING! Hope to post more later today and throughout the week.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Spirit of Prophecy
While reading, I came across this verse:
2 Ne. 25:4
4 Wherefore, hearken, O my people, which are of the house of Israel, and give ear unto my words; for because the words of Isaiah are not plain unto you, nevertheless they are plain unto all those that are filled with the spirit of prophecy. But I give unto you a prophecy, according to the spirit which is in me; wherefore I shall prophesy according to the plainness which hath been with me from the time that I came out from Jerusalem with my father; for behold, my soul delighteth in plainness unto my people, that they may learn. (Italics added)
I know Nephi was a prophet and had this gift.
So does this mean that only prophets have this gift? Will I not understand the words of Isaiah unless they are defined and clarified by prophets?
Here are some wonderful excerpts that helped clarify:
From Elder Robert D. Hales: A testimony is the spirit of prophecy (see Rev. 19:10). It is a personal revelation from God, revealing the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. A testimony comes through the Holy Ghost; it makes a deep and lasting impression on the soul.
From Elder Bruce R. McConkie:
As members of the church and kingdom of God on earth, we enjoy the gifts of the Spirit—those wonders and glories and miracles that a gracious and benevolent God always has bestowed upon his faithful saints. The first of these gifts listed in our modern revelation on spiritual gifts is the gift of testimony, the gift of revelation, the gift of knowing of the truth and divinity of the work. This gift is elsewhere described as the testimony of Jesus, which is the spirit of prophecy. This is my gift. I know this work is true.
I have a perfect knowledge that Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God and that he was crucified for the sins of the world. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God through whose instrumentality the fullness of the everlasting gospel has been restored again in our day. And I know that this Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the kingdom of God on earth, and that as now constituted, with President Harold B. Lee at its head, it has the approval and approbation of the Lord, is in the line of its duty, and is preparing a people for the second coming of the Son of Man.
And I know further that the Lord pours out upon his people today the same glorious and wondrous gifts enjoyed by the ancient saints. To us in this day he gives the spirit of prophecy and of revelation, even as he did to them of old. “I will tell you” the glories and wonders of the everlasting gospel, he says; “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation.” (D&C 8:2–3.)
Another by Elder McConkie:
The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. It is a gift of the Spirit. It comes in full measure only to faithful members of the Church. It is reserved for those whose right it is to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. It is the spiritual endowment which sets a man apart as a prophet in fulfillment of the prayer of Moses: “Would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit upon them!” (Num. 11:29.)
Also referring to the spirit of prophecy is this from a Proclamation given by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1980:
We testify that the spirit of prophecy and revelation is among us. “We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God” (A of F 1:9). The heavens are not sealed; God continues to speak to his children through a prophet empowered to declare his word, now as he did anciently.
So I think what I am learning is that although prophets, former and living, have the gift of prophecy, and can and DO prophecy in our day, I, a member of Christ's church, am able to receive this gift if I earnestly seek and keep myself clean and pure. I will understand the scriptures as they apply to me and my family...in my own little sphere.
Wonderful!!
2 Ne. 25:4
4 Wherefore, hearken, O my people, which are of the house of Israel, and give ear unto my words; for because the words of Isaiah are not plain unto you, nevertheless they are plain unto all those that are filled with the spirit of prophecy. But I give unto you a prophecy, according to the spirit which is in me; wherefore I shall prophesy according to the plainness which hath been with me from the time that I came out from Jerusalem with my father; for behold, my soul delighteth in plainness unto my people, that they may learn. (Italics added)
I know Nephi was a prophet and had this gift.
So does this mean that only prophets have this gift? Will I not understand the words of Isaiah unless they are defined and clarified by prophets?
Here are some wonderful excerpts that helped clarify:
From Elder Robert D. Hales: A testimony is the spirit of prophecy (see Rev. 19:10). It is a personal revelation from God, revealing the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. A testimony comes through the Holy Ghost; it makes a deep and lasting impression on the soul.
From Elder Bruce R. McConkie:
As members of the church and kingdom of God on earth, we enjoy the gifts of the Spirit—those wonders and glories and miracles that a gracious and benevolent God always has bestowed upon his faithful saints. The first of these gifts listed in our modern revelation on spiritual gifts is the gift of testimony, the gift of revelation, the gift of knowing of the truth and divinity of the work. This gift is elsewhere described as the testimony of Jesus, which is the spirit of prophecy. This is my gift. I know this work is true.
I have a perfect knowledge that Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God and that he was crucified for the sins of the world. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God through whose instrumentality the fullness of the everlasting gospel has been restored again in our day. And I know that this Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the kingdom of God on earth, and that as now constituted, with President Harold B. Lee at its head, it has the approval and approbation of the Lord, is in the line of its duty, and is preparing a people for the second coming of the Son of Man.
And I know further that the Lord pours out upon his people today the same glorious and wondrous gifts enjoyed by the ancient saints. To us in this day he gives the spirit of prophecy and of revelation, even as he did to them of old. “I will tell you” the glories and wonders of the everlasting gospel, he says; “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation.” (D&C 8:2–3.)
Another by Elder McConkie:
The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. It is a gift of the Spirit. It comes in full measure only to faithful members of the Church. It is reserved for those whose right it is to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. It is the spiritual endowment which sets a man apart as a prophet in fulfillment of the prayer of Moses: “Would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit upon them!” (Num. 11:29.)
Also referring to the spirit of prophecy is this from a Proclamation given by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1980:
We testify that the spirit of prophecy and revelation is among us. “We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God” (A of F 1:9). The heavens are not sealed; God continues to speak to his children through a prophet empowered to declare his word, now as he did anciently.
So I think what I am learning is that although prophets, former and living, have the gift of prophecy, and can and DO prophecy in our day, I, a member of Christ's church, am able to receive this gift if I earnestly seek and keep myself clean and pure. I will understand the scriptures as they apply to me and my family...in my own little sphere.
Wonderful!!
So, while the family sleeps, I'll post.
It is quiet...relatively.
I can hear my husband snoring, an airplane over head, the traffic rushing to and fro, and of course the clicking of the keys as I type.
I feel happy, content that everything works out.
I am a natural stresser. I don't like it. So, I search for places and moments of peace to help me hold steady when I feel like my world is swirling...or being jumbled about.
In these quiet mornings when I feel the whispers of peace from the Spirit, my mind steadies and the stress dissipates.
Anyway, time to get mentally ready for the day, before the day gets ahead of me.
It is quiet...relatively.
I can hear my husband snoring, an airplane over head, the traffic rushing to and fro, and of course the clicking of the keys as I type.
I feel happy, content that everything works out.
I am a natural stresser. I don't like it. So, I search for places and moments of peace to help me hold steady when I feel like my world is swirling...or being jumbled about.
In these quiet mornings when I feel the whispers of peace from the Spirit, my mind steadies and the stress dissipates.
Anyway, time to get mentally ready for the day, before the day gets ahead of me.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Transition
So, we've been back for almost 2 1/2 weeks now.
Living in transition is really quite an experience.
I realize that leaving Texas and all that we were learning and living...and leaving so suddenly...I really felt like it had torn a hole in my heart.
You know the stages of losing a loved one? Well, in some respects, I have been dealing with similar feelings. Going through similar stages.
Grateful for supportive family around.
And grateful for the Spirit that teaches me that I can have peace and enjoy this moment...even if it not what I hoped for. Life is full of experiences and this is one I get to have now.
Living in transition is really quite an experience.
I realize that leaving Texas and all that we were learning and living...and leaving so suddenly...I really felt like it had torn a hole in my heart.
You know the stages of losing a loved one? Well, in some respects, I have been dealing with similar feelings. Going through similar stages.
Grateful for supportive family around.
And grateful for the Spirit that teaches me that I can have peace and enjoy this moment...even if it not what I hoped for. Life is full of experiences and this is one I get to have now.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Lesson #8
Church was WONDERFUL!
The speakers in Sacrament spoke on the Restoration. Fabulous! One of the speakers was recently called to serve a mission...Chinese speaking. The other speaker was a stake high counciler. They both spoke so well.
A family that we have become friends with came together today! It was so good to see them both.
Our twenty month old enjoyed nursery...even after I slipped out. Big YAY!
I went to Relief Society and so enjoyed the lesson from Gospel Principles on prayer: Lesson #8.
During our discussion, one sister shared how their family prayers often were answered and not recognized till later in the day when one of her teenagers had come home from school and mentioned that by some miracle they escaped what could have been a fatal accident. That was when they recognized that their family prayer earlier that day had been answered.
It reminded me of our own family prayers and the things for we which we have been asking. And then I wondered how the Lord had answered these prayers.
I learned that His answer to our prayers did come, just not come in the form I was looking for. But it has come.
I am at peace with moving and supporting my husband in his effort to provide for our family. There is strength in knowing the Lord's will and going at it together.
The speakers in Sacrament spoke on the Restoration. Fabulous! One of the speakers was recently called to serve a mission...Chinese speaking. The other speaker was a stake high counciler. They both spoke so well.
A family that we have become friends with came together today! It was so good to see them both.
Our twenty month old enjoyed nursery...even after I slipped out. Big YAY!
I went to Relief Society and so enjoyed the lesson from Gospel Principles on prayer: Lesson #8.
During our discussion, one sister shared how their family prayers often were answered and not recognized till later in the day when one of her teenagers had come home from school and mentioned that by some miracle they escaped what could have been a fatal accident. That was when they recognized that their family prayer earlier that day had been answered.
It reminded me of our own family prayers and the things for we which we have been asking. And then I wondered how the Lord had answered these prayers.
I learned that His answer to our prayers did come, just not come in the form I was looking for. But it has come.
I am at peace with moving and supporting my husband in his effort to provide for our family. There is strength in knowing the Lord's will and going at it together.
Friday, April 16, 2010
An end of a chapter
How can I sum up the past nine months without feeling overcome with emotion?
I can't.
What started as a move to Texas, a new adventure in our lives, has become a pivotal point for our family. A place and time to REMEMBER the Lord's hand...continually.
Our time in Texas has come to an end.
We are returning to Utah.
And with so many mixed emotions I post this blog.
In this short time here, I connected...reconnected with people whom I will treasure in my heart forever. The thought of meeting and reuniting in Heaven again is BEAUTIFUL!
Carrie, that's right! That's what the Celestial Kingdom is all about. And I look forward to that sweet reunion if our time here doesn't cross again.
I have seen lives lived in service to God and His Kingdom. I have felt the reach of the Lord's hand so many times.
And so, as this part of our chapter comes to a close, I can't help but feel that the Lord in His goodness has given us something AMAZING in this experience. In so many ways, it has reminded me of my own mission when I would transfer to a new area. Leaving the people I grew to love and serve but with the deep sense of love for them that never leaves.
Each of us have learned the love of the Lord. These nine months were compacted spiritual learning for our family.
Heavenly Father is so kind to give us this time to learn together.
I can't.
What started as a move to Texas, a new adventure in our lives, has become a pivotal point for our family. A place and time to REMEMBER the Lord's hand...continually.
Our time in Texas has come to an end.
We are returning to Utah.
And with so many mixed emotions I post this blog.
In this short time here, I connected...reconnected with people whom I will treasure in my heart forever. The thought of meeting and reuniting in Heaven again is BEAUTIFUL!
Carrie, that's right! That's what the Celestial Kingdom is all about. And I look forward to that sweet reunion if our time here doesn't cross again.
I have seen lives lived in service to God and His Kingdom. I have felt the reach of the Lord's hand so many times.
And so, as this part of our chapter comes to a close, I can't help but feel that the Lord in His goodness has given us something AMAZING in this experience. In so many ways, it has reminded me of my own mission when I would transfer to a new area. Leaving the people I grew to love and serve but with the deep sense of love for them that never leaves.
Each of us have learned the love of the Lord. These nine months were compacted spiritual learning for our family.
Heavenly Father is so kind to give us this time to learn together.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Who's your favorite sibling?
My ten year old daughter and I are both reading in the same place in the Book of Mormon. We finished 2 Ne 3 two days ago. AMAZING chapter!! This is what I learned about her.
Daughter - Mom, do you know who my is my favorite of Nephi's brothers?
Me - No. Who?
Daughter - Who do you think it is?
Me - Sam?
Daughter - Nope. Joseph!
Me - Really? Why Joseph?
Daughter - I don't know, He just is.
Daughter - Mom, do you know who my is my favorite of Nephi's brothers?
Me - No. Who?
Daughter - Who do you think it is?
Me - Sam?
Daughter - Nope. Joseph!
Me - Really? Why Joseph?
Daughter - I don't know, He just is.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Heart update
We had our LAST visit with the doctors about Kawasaki.
Our 6 year olds heart looks PERFECT!
I think of all the blessings she has had.
I see Heavenly Father's blessings through this.
He has made her well.
Our 6 year olds heart looks PERFECT!
I think of all the blessings she has had.
I see Heavenly Father's blessings through this.
He has made her well.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Conference
Tomorrow is General Conference and we will be going to our ward house to watch.
I love General Conference. It is like a dear friend who's visit we've been anticipating. And when it comes, my spirit is recharged.
It reminds me that the Lords' Church is here.
Now.
Led by living prophets.
And, oh, how the Spirit sings this in my soul.
Watching the prophets speak, listening to them testify of Jesus Christ and His gospel is electrifying. The Holy Ghost witnesses they are truly latter-day apostles. What a magnificent thing to feel, to know, to see!
And when they speak, I feel a rebirth to follow my Savior.
These next two days will go, oh too quickly.
And when Conference ends, my heart feels as though my good friend's visit has wrapped up. I am comforted to know that for the next six months there is counsel to follow that will protect and guide me and my family. And then in six months when living prophets will gather again to teach us, my dear friend will visit again.
I love General Conference. It is like a dear friend who's visit we've been anticipating. And when it comes, my spirit is recharged.
It reminds me that the Lords' Church is here.
Now.
Led by living prophets.
And, oh, how the Spirit sings this in my soul.
Watching the prophets speak, listening to them testify of Jesus Christ and His gospel is electrifying. The Holy Ghost witnesses they are truly latter-day apostles. What a magnificent thing to feel, to know, to see!
And when they speak, I feel a rebirth to follow my Savior.
These next two days will go, oh too quickly.
And when Conference ends, my heart feels as though my good friend's visit has wrapped up. I am comforted to know that for the next six months there is counsel to follow that will protect and guide me and my family. And then in six months when living prophets will gather again to teach us, my dear friend will visit again.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
A quick entry before I go to sleep.
For whatever silly reason I thought that Latter-day Saints had a monopoly on Christ like living...Hmmm.
I know. And I thought I was level headed...open minded...hmmmm. Let me rethink that.
So, living here has given me an open heart to others and is giving me new perspective.
My dear friend, Linde stopped over to deliver some German bread. I gave her asparagus and zucchini...I know, what an exchange!
But she was telling me about her family, how close they are. There is not a competition with any sibling to be right or better or anything like that. There is a genuine love and acceptance and respect for each other. She attributes these qualities as starting from her father. He seems like an amazing person. Her counsel to me is that it starts with example. One cannot expect this to happen without being the first one to love, respect and not compete.
I realize that Heavenly Father has given each of us gifts to develop in this life. We are His children and we have divine qualities that are like Him. So, Linde has oodles of amounts of love and respect for humanity. She knows that Christ loves her as she is. She accepts herself, flaws and all and believes she is a daughter of God. And she acts as such.
I think the thing that I am learning is...remember the people of Zoram...Heesh!
Well, I'd like to be as far from that as possible.
For whatever silly reason I thought that Latter-day Saints had a monopoly on Christ like living...Hmmm.
I know. And I thought I was level headed...open minded...hmmmm. Let me rethink that.
So, living here has given me an open heart to others and is giving me new perspective.
My dear friend, Linde stopped over to deliver some German bread. I gave her asparagus and zucchini...I know, what an exchange!
But she was telling me about her family, how close they are. There is not a competition with any sibling to be right or better or anything like that. There is a genuine love and acceptance and respect for each other. She attributes these qualities as starting from her father. He seems like an amazing person. Her counsel to me is that it starts with example. One cannot expect this to happen without being the first one to love, respect and not compete.
I realize that Heavenly Father has given each of us gifts to develop in this life. We are His children and we have divine qualities that are like Him. So, Linde has oodles of amounts of love and respect for humanity. She knows that Christ loves her as she is. She accepts herself, flaws and all and believes she is a daughter of God. And she acts as such.
I think the thing that I am learning is...remember the people of Zoram...Heesh!
Well, I'd like to be as far from that as possible.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
This morning, I feel weary.
I wonder, when the burden will lift.
Not that I haven't seen the Lord's hand, because I have. So much.
Perhaps, I need more time with Him today, to help me lift the load.
I think I found some help.
Going to read now.
I wonder, when the burden will lift.
Not that I haven't seen the Lord's hand, because I have. So much.
Perhaps, I need more time with Him today, to help me lift the load.
I think I found some help.
Going to read now.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Sleep
So, we've had the stomach bug here for the past week and a half. It is rotating from person to person.
It has been starting at bed time...about 9 p.m. and ends about 6 a.m. and then the morning begins.
So, this morning jump started that way. Luckily I got a nap at noon. It helped stop the twitchy tremors. Those seem to come when I lack sleep and have stress build-up.
When I woke up, I felt so much better!
It is 8:20 p.m. and I am ready to call it a night.
TTFN
It has been starting at bed time...about 9 p.m. and ends about 6 a.m. and then the morning begins.
So, this morning jump started that way. Luckily I got a nap at noon. It helped stop the twitchy tremors. Those seem to come when I lack sleep and have stress build-up.
When I woke up, I felt so much better!
It is 8:20 p.m. and I am ready to call it a night.
TTFN
Saturday, March 20, 2010
A broken doorknob and prayer
We left home to run a few errands before finishing our Saturday chores.
I locked up the house good and tight and away we went.
When we came home, to our surprise, the back door, the one coming in from the garage, would not open.
We wiggled the handle. Locked and unlocked the knob. When that didn't work, my husband tried all the doors...the ones that I bolted well.
We were locked out.
My McGyver husband got out a wrench and tried prying off the handle. I had children pleading for a bathroom and hovering over the fix-it man.
I remembered and quoted Sis. Beck's counsel she had learned from her father.
"If we're going to laugh about it in 20 years, we may as well laught at it right now."
It seemed to alleviate the tension and worry and put a few smiles on faces.
After a good fifteen minutes of prying and twisting, our six year old shouted out, "Why don't we have a prayer?"
So, we all piled in the van and dad prayed while we all exerted faith.
I hopped out of the van and wiggled the handle again. Still no movement on the lock. By this time, we determined the lock was broken. As I wiggled the handle again, I remembered movies where someone would use a credit card to unlock a door.
I tried a plastic card in the door...wiggled...and whah la! It opened.
As soon as the door swung open, it was as if light had jumped into each of us. All the children shouted to say how Heavenly Father answered our prayers.
We all went inside the house, happier than we ever had before going in. Happy children. Happy parents. Our eight year old, gleaming now, so happy to be INSIDE the house, asked if we had remembered to thank Heavenly Father for all the other MIRACLES he had given us.
Listing them off, they named all the times since coming here that Heavenly Father had delivered us from sickness, car troubles, back troubles, etc. They named off one experience after another. Each of them with something different.
Husband and I looked at each other. We could SEE the Lord's hand today. The children could SEE His hand and miracles today and all the yesterday's. We thanked Heavenly Father as a family.
Faith has been strengthened yet again.
"In the strength of the Lord, we can do hard things." Sis. Elaine Dalton
I locked up the house good and tight and away we went.
When we came home, to our surprise, the back door, the one coming in from the garage, would not open.
We wiggled the handle. Locked and unlocked the knob. When that didn't work, my husband tried all the doors...the ones that I bolted well.
We were locked out.
My McGyver husband got out a wrench and tried prying off the handle. I had children pleading for a bathroom and hovering over the fix-it man.
I remembered and quoted Sis. Beck's counsel she had learned from her father.
"If we're going to laugh about it in 20 years, we may as well laught at it right now."
It seemed to alleviate the tension and worry and put a few smiles on faces.
After a good fifteen minutes of prying and twisting, our six year old shouted out, "Why don't we have a prayer?"
So, we all piled in the van and dad prayed while we all exerted faith.
I hopped out of the van and wiggled the handle again. Still no movement on the lock. By this time, we determined the lock was broken. As I wiggled the handle again, I remembered movies where someone would use a credit card to unlock a door.
I tried a plastic card in the door...wiggled...and whah la! It opened.
As soon as the door swung open, it was as if light had jumped into each of us. All the children shouted to say how Heavenly Father answered our prayers.
We all went inside the house, happier than we ever had before going in. Happy children. Happy parents. Our eight year old, gleaming now, so happy to be INSIDE the house, asked if we had remembered to thank Heavenly Father for all the other MIRACLES he had given us.
Listing them off, they named all the times since coming here that Heavenly Father had delivered us from sickness, car troubles, back troubles, etc. They named off one experience after another. Each of them with something different.
Husband and I looked at each other. We could SEE the Lord's hand today. The children could SEE His hand and miracles today and all the yesterday's. We thanked Heavenly Father as a family.
Faith has been strengthened yet again.
"In the strength of the Lord, we can do hard things." Sis. Elaine Dalton
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