Boxes

Upon returning home from a trip a few months ago I felt impressed that I had accomplished what I needed to in my current location. It was time to move on. This impression came as a surprise since when I moved here a year and a half ago, I fully intended on being here for at least 5 years. My life here has been very good and I wasn't looking for a change. However, when promptings come, it's important to heed them!
For a month, I prayed and fasted as to where I should move next. Ironically, while at work, the distinct prompting came that I needed to return to my last location. I knew this wasn't my own thought because I had no desire to return. I immediately began looking into jobs. Two months later, all that has transpired is one phone interview which didn't go that well. It is incredibly frustrating! I feel like I'm doing my very best to follow Heavenly Father's direction but nothing is coming from my effort. I prayed and fasted countless times seeking further guidance and direction. It's always difficult to step into the darkness, having faith that Heavenly Father will provide the way!
I have tried to show my faith through making the steps necessary to move, despite the lack of a job in my new location. Two weeks ago I began packing. This weekend my replacement for my housing contract moved in (yet I'm still here). Last night I received a mass email asking if anyone needed moving boxes. (I used all those I had and need more boxes.) As frustrating as my situation is, I felt that this man's offer to give boxes was a tender mercy of the Lord! I know that Heavenly Father is mindful of me, my situation, and my frustrations. He doesn't want me to lose hope. So, he gives me small reminders that He is apart of my life. I know He loves me!

Regret

I was among friends this afternoon. We were talking about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and it's influence in our lives. One friend said, "I've never regretted following the Spirit." Initially her comment struck me as odd. Of course you would never regret following the Spirit! The Spirit won't lead you astray! But then I realized it's so true! When I receive promptings I should always heed them in complete faith and trust! I will never regret doing so!

The pursuit of the good luck card

Last week I went to Hallmark in pursuit of a good luck card. I searched the aisles. To my dismay I discovered hundreds of birthday, congratulations, wedding, and thinking of you cards but very few good luck cards. The few which I could find weren't applicable for my situation. I was feeling frustrated and hopeless. Then from a distance, I saw a zebra print card. As I approached I noticed that it was a blank card and the black stripes were fuzzy. All three aspects of the card were perfect for the recipient and situation. I was thrilled I had found the "perfect" good luck card and was impressed that it was better than I could have planned.
The parable of the good luck card is parallel to my life. . . Even though my life is in a bit of disarray right now I have hope that it will turn out better than I can plan. Heavenly Father is in charge. And as I make the effort to walk up and down the aisles I will find the "perfect" life, or at least one better than I could have planned.

The secret to success

I've decided that the secret to success is delayed gratification. It may sound a little odd but everything we want is within our reach, if we are patient. When I was in high school, there were a few wealthy businessmen coming into town to meet with my dad. I asked my dad where he was going to take the businessmen for lunch. He said that they were going to Burger King because they had $.99 Whoopers. I told him that it was inappropriate to try and win over businessmen at Burger King. My dad asked, "How do you think they became wealthy? They save their money." Being a teenager, I couldn't understand the concept of saving.
Delayed gratification helps in tempering one's self. People who feel entitled are going no where. I see many people who want the newest gadget, car, home, clothes, etc. immediately. They are constantly in pursuit of the best in the moment. This pursuit will get you no where. There will always be something else to want. There will always be something new.
I work with people from a variety of economic backgrounds. It's interesting that in general, the people who make the least have the I phones and buy their lunch everyday. Those who make significantly more aren't worried about "keeping up with the Jones'." They bring their lunch, have the old cell phones, and old cars. They aren't concerned about appearances. I'm not suggesting that people shouldn't care at all about material goods. There is some fun that comes from things but I think the balance comes in patience in the pursuit.

Good days

What causes us to believe it is going to be a good or bad day? Many times we make this assumption before anything significant has happened in the day. . . This morning I stopped at a gas station on my way to work. Over the loud speaker was John Denver. I don't hear John Denver very often and it made me think of home. At that moment I decided that it was going to be a good day. A few minutes later when I arrived at work, I found a good parking spot. Wow! How could my day get any better?! The rest of my day went well probably because I chose to have a good day.
Shouldn't we choose to have good days every day?! We can choose to find good "signs" and hold onto them.

The World's Problems

There are a vast number of problems in today's world! They range from natural disasters, disease, political strife, and general decay of society. I would go as far to say that many of the problems could be prevented through discipline. Discipline should not be misinterpreted as forced coercion. Discipline comes from within. It comes from one with insight and perspective. Discipline requires looking beyond natural, momentary desires. Discipline or a lack thereof, effects all aspects of our lives. When discipline is part of our lives we are healthier and happier because we have greater control over the body which Heavenly Father blessed us with. A lack of discipline creates exactly the opposite effect in our lives. It seems so easy to choose. We have a choice between eternal happiness or eternal damnation. Which will it be?! Discipline isn't easy but Christ showed us the perfect way! He has experienced more temptation than any of us; He never fell. He developed discipline through always standing firm to Heavenly Father's laws. Eternal laws are there to bless us, so why not follow?! Yes, we will fall. But that is why Christ suffered for our sins. But that is not reason to give up; it is reason to try harder! He loves us and He will always be there to help us be better!

There's a Holiness to the Heart's Affections

Last night I saw one of the most incredible movies I've ever seen. It contained one of the best depictions of love, grief, pain, and joy. A quote from John Keats (in the movie) was "There's a holiness to the heart's affections." That rang true with me. There is something so powerful in love. There are feelings which are in-explainable. Those feelings can only be understood by someone who has also experienced them. The feelings are so deep that there does seem to be a holiness to them. It reaches a part of our soul that the only other person who can touch, is God.

Answered Prayers

I've been pondering many important decisions. Many things are up in the air with regards to my future. I try to look at the decisions with perspective of my priorities. Everything we choose in life is evidence of priority. The ultimate question is: what is best? There are so many good things in life but what is ultimately the best decision? What decisions will affect eternal consequences? Sometimes decisions seem to be daunting and eternal although they aren't.
My ultimate dream is to be an inspiring wife and mother. But what decisions will lead me up that path? I become so encompassed with daily decisions some of which matter more than others. It is ultimately Heavenly Father who can help us know which decisions need extra effort, or are more important. And it is in making those decisions that we are led on a divine path.
I'm in the midst of making some potentially eternal decisions. . . I suppose all decisions are eternal because every choice leads us to our future. But I'm pondering a few choices which could affect my eternal destination. . . I'm so grateful for family, friends and a loving Heavenly Father who guide me. This week has been phenomenal with regards to receiving inspiration and guidance. Whenever the stars seem to align and I feel Heavenly Father's guiding hand I feel of His love. I realize in these moments that He cares about me and my eternal destiny. He loves me, my family, and my posterity. And He will do all in His power to help me return to Him. I'm grateful for His involvement in my life.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

I love to cook; I especially love to bake! For the past few months I've been looking for the "perfect" chocolate chip cookie recipe. For a few years I thought I was in possession of the "perfect" recipe I am now in search of. From my perspective, the "perfect" cookie is soft, a little poofy, but not cakey. I've been experimenting with recipes, oven temperatures, cooking time, and baking sheets. I have yet to find the "perfect" cookie but in the process realized that the "perfect" cookie requires balance. The ingredients, oven, temperature, and cooking time all affect the final product.
In our lives, balance is just as important. So often I have noticed in my own life and in the lives of my friends, an unequivocal imbalance. I think it's human nature to focus on one thing at a time. But why?! In different periods of my life I have been focused on school, career, family, or a social life. I have found times when I lean more to works or faith.
There are extremes in anything. Extreme diets end in unhealthy eating habits, potentially binging. Extreme perspectives in political agendas may help to initiate change but once the goal is obtained, pushes the agenda further than originally desired. Even devoting all of one's time to the church negates the responsibility of family and community. Extremes aren't healthy. I have most recently seen the effects of extreme beliefs and actions have on the unhealthy lifestyle of the individual. The sad reality is that once we become extreme in mindset, it is difficult to accept or view reality. We become enveloped in beliefs which isolate us from the norm.
Even in the small things it is important to maintain balance. The most important thing in my life is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Christ was a balanced leader. He is my exemplar! In order to maintain balance I need to begin each day by acknowledging His influence in my life. And in the process He can help me to balance family, friends, career, education, community, and church.

Cars, decisions, and a seal of approval

A week and a half ago my transmission went out. I was a bit surprised since it was only three years ago that it was replaced. I was frustrated and unprepared to buy a new car. I tried to move forward by illiciting the help of my father. He immediately gave me suggestions. It was perfect timing because he was researching various vehicles and was extremely helpful. The vehicle highest on his list caught my attention. My dad felt that it was the best deal and I felt good about it. I was excited and I felt I had Heavenly Father's seal of approval.
Considering this was the biggest purchase thus far in my life I felt determined to look into all my options before making the purchase. I looked into other makes and models. I researched online and test drove various cars at dealerships. I sought personal knowledge. I wanted to feel like I had made the decision, not others.
In the meantime, the "perfect" car was sold to a quicker buyer. And I found a different car. The car I'm buying is good. It meets my needs. But it doesn't excite me as the first car did. Through this experience I realized that sometimes large decisions come when we least expect. We can find ourselves feeling unprepared to make the decision. However, when we have Heavenly Father's "seal of approval" we need to accept his will and move forward in faith. If I had done this with my car I would have the "perfect" car. I would have something that made me excited and not just meet my basic needs. However, I'm grateful to have learned this lesson when all that is at stake is a car and not my eternal happiness. Heavenly Father loves me and He will not lead me astray. I do not need to know all of the options when I'm making decisions. All I need to know is what Heavenly Father wants me to do!

Out of the mouths of babes

Last night my little sister called. She left home for college a year ago. When she arrived at college she planned to become an interior designer. She was dedicated and determined. But to no avail; she wasn't accepted into the program. I was surprised when she took the news in stride. She was calm and ready to move on. Her plan for the summer was to work and save money for school. However, despite her efforts she hasn't been able to obtain a job. She never gave up. She continued to apply for menial jobs. She was willing to accept pretty much anything. Her summer is almost over and nothing happened as she desired. I was shocked and impressed when my little sister explained to me that she has learned so much from her experiences over the past year. She said that she used to want things to happen her way, now she realizes that Heavenly Father will take care of her and that she doesn't need to worry about it. My baby sister is confident in Heavenly Father's plan; what an example! I'm appreciative to the strong people in my life. My sister is an incredible example to me!

Curling with a flat iron

Years ago a friend attempted to teach me to curl my hair with a flat iron. I really liked the result of curling with the flat iron vs. the curling iron. I had the desire to learn! I tried over and over to learn this technique. I even solicited the help of other teachers; maybe someone else's take on the technique would click a little easier in my mind. But alas, I couldn't grasp it! I practiced and practiced but to no avail.
Then this week I had a little extra time, and once again the desire to curl my hair with a flat iron, so I tried. It worked! What changed? Not the movements, but the force of the movements. In the past I had pulled the hair tight from the flat iron because I felt that it would curl more tightly. I was wrong! The tighter I pulled, the more my hair refused to do what I wanted.
The same can be true of life. . . the more we try to force the future, the more we don't get the results we desire. With patience and a soft hand, we can accomplish the very results we desire.

The Beauty of Knowing

How does one thank people who do more for us than we can even comprehend?! I have no idea! Sometimes there are those in life who know exactly what we need. They can read us so clearly that everything about us is open. This can be a little scary; there is no way to hide the facets of ourselves which we don't like. But there is beauty in knowing someone's soul and loving them for all that they are: good and bad.

Masterpieces

The human body is incredible! Last night I went to the symphony. It was phenomenal! It is amazing to watch the movement of the instruments and musicians, all working together to create a masterpiece. I play the violin and piano and understand the dedication that is required in order to play any instrument well. I appreciate good music and people who create good music.

What more can ye ask?!

I can't help but be in awe of the price Jesus Christ paid for you and me! I've been pondering the depth and breadth of this incredible gift. Although, at least in this life, I will never understand the full implications, I'm deeply grateful for a gift that only Christ could give.
Jeffrey R. Holland said, "Because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so. . . We will never be left alone nor unaided, even if sometimes we may feel that we are. Truly the Redeemer of us all said: 'I will not leave you comfortless: [My Father and] I will come to you [and abide with you].' "
The Savior of the world can provide comfort and peace unlike any other source. I have been blessed with this peace numerous times and am grateful to Him who brings it.

Nigh unto perfection

There are a few things in my life that are nigh unto perfect: crepes, friends, family, and my job. I have made crepes twice in the past week. They are so divine! They are sweet but not too sweet for a nice breakfast. Crepes bring my heart to home and all that's divine.
I became quite sick about a week ago and it granted me the opportunity to see that my friends are nigh unto perfect. A few friends made me dinner and provided companionship when I wasn't able to leave my house. Wow! What more can you ask for?!
Three days from now I will be on my way to the annual family campout! This is one event that I dearly look forward to each year! I have many fond memories of playing cards with my cousins, hiking, warming water to wash our faces, walking to the bathroom with a flashlight, roasting marshmellows over the campfire, etc. I eagerly anticipate the reunion!
Since I've been unable to work the past few days I've realized how much I love my job! I have the opportunity to work with children in need; what job could be more perfect? And my co-workers are a second family; we are united in purpose and love each other!

Puzzle pieces

"She’s everything I’m not. She’s my other half. Without her I’m not whole. The thing about meeting your other half is, is you’re walking around, you think that you’re happy, right? You think that you’re whole, then realize you ain’t dirt without her, then you can’t go back to being just a half ‘cause now you know what it’s like to be a whole, ya know what I mean?"
-Ashton Kutcher in Guess Who

Lately I've been thinking about what makes two people compatible. . . is it two similar people who are connected through their commonalities or is it complete opposites who connect like puzzle pieces? I recently talked with a friend and asked him for his thoughts on the subject. He cited a book he read which suggested that we are best with those who are similar to ourselves. If we are similar we have less to learn about our significant other. We supposedly understand them and where they come from.
The more I think about it, marriage has many facets. One of the purposes is to become better together. Men and women are inherently different. We learn from each other because of our differences.
I used to be interested in men who had many qualities in common with me. However, lately I've realized that a man who is very different from myself brings so much more to the table. :) I have so much more to learn from a man who is so different than me.

Love and Temples

Today I was in the presence of the Spirit and felt the overwhelming love Heavenly Father has for me. It couldn't have come at a better time! Lately I have felt burdened with thoughts of self doubt. I question my ability, intelligence, and beauty. But feelings of self doubt tend to dissipate when you feel love. Love conquers all!

The other day I was in a religion class where we were discussing 1 Corinthians. We read:
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." (3:16-17)
These verses really hit me! Heavenly Father loves His temples! He expects us to respect His temples. If our bodies are temples, Heavenly Father expects us to respect our bodies as well! He expects me to respect my body!

His Plan

When Heavenly Father closes a window he opens the garage door. (I'm sure there's a better analogy.) Sometimes we feel like opportunities close without our consent. But what we don't see is Heavenly Father's eternal perspective. I'm the first to admit, I'm not always the best at trusting and believing in Heavenly Father's plan. However, I have seen time and time again that Heavenly Father always has a better plan prepared for me then I could have imagined. I don't know what he has in store for me. But I trust that it will be wonderful!

Time, my friend and enemy

So, in my last post I wrote about patience. . . in the moment I was thinking how I had gained this profound appreciation for patience and was impressed by my own growth. However, a very short time later I find myself frustrated with time. Time can be a friend, when it's on my side. When it isn't on my side it is the most frustrating thing ever! I hate it when I'm the one waiting for things to happen! But what can you do?!

Patience. . .

Wow, it's been too long since I've written. . . many things have changed in the past months. With each experience comes new perspective. I've gained a greater appreciation for patience, not that I've mastered the virtue. Only a year ago I was eager to change my surroundings. I was frustrated a few months later when it didn't seem to be working as fast as I would like. However, things turned out extremely well! I look back at many of the trying times of my life and realize that if I were just patient things would have passed and I would have been happier during the "trial."
Once again, I find myself going through a particular problem. I realized that every trial passes and if I'm patient during the trial, the time seems to fly.
It's impossible for me to know how my life will turn out. But it doesn't make my life any better by wondering. Life is best when I'm happy in the present!