The Gift of Friendship

I have always admired humble individuals from all religious (or non-religious) paths....who, with no thought of themselves, power, position, or agenda quietly live their lives and serve those around them. I have been blessed in my life to have several amazing examples of just such people. One of these is a former Bishop from my youth. He was never my Bishop because he presided over the adjoining ward, but he still influenced my life. As an adult--thanks to the merging of the two wards--I have had the opportunity, when visiting, to see more of him and his family. They continue to be examples to me of authentic and genuine friendship. Recently, as I struggled to deal with some transitions in my life, he was a great sounding board....and this humble man, who to the best of my knowledge has worked as a custodian all of his life...was able to lift my spirits during our conversation. He was able to touch on all the areas of which I was concerned and was able to give me a greater perspective of who I really am and what truly lies ahead. I am so grateful for those in my life who "accept me as I am but still gently invite me to grow". I hope to become more like them and offer the same love and acceptance to those in my circle of influence.

Journey of Self-Discovery

I am moving/downsizing to a new apartment in the next couple of weeks. While this change has me feeling a bit anxious, it also feels like an exciting opportunity to move onto the next leg of my life's journey. I am going to be living in my own "four walls" and will be 100% responsible for my shelter and my livelihood. I can do this. This new arrangement is going to provide me with the challenge of continuing to learn and discover about how to build a healthy and fulfilling life.

What Matters Most

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYhDhiojBPA

Fragile but Frank Testimony

I fasted last Saturday/Sunday for the strength to have the courage to face down a tough decision I have been needing to make. I was overwhelmed with some important insights as I took time to pray, reflect, and retreat from my daily concerns.

Insight #1: I am incredibly stubborn and can easily slip into being prideful. Daily scripture study and honest and sincere prayer are essential to my ability to work on this weakness.

Insight #2: When I turn away from the Lord and His guidance, I am actually choosing to do things "the hard way" and make it more difficult for myself in the long run.

Insight #3: Change and transitions are difficult for me and my first instinct is to shut down, grit my teeth, and just get through them. Heavenly Father waits there for me to open up to Him, share my concerns and fears, and guide me through the process.

Insight #4: No matter how much I learn I am still desperately imperfect and need the Lord's guidance and forgiveness in my life.

I was humbled as I re-read President Monson's reminder to "never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved." I realized that I had been focusing so much on what I thought were "problems" or "situations" to get through that I had forgotten to just love myself and those around me.

I am one of the seminary teachers this year and I need to remember this as I teach these great youth about the truths of God's love.

I am actually anxious and excited about church this Sunday. I am looking forward to the opportunity to fast again, reflect on what matters most, renew my covenants, and listen to the testimonies of my fellow ward family members.

I am so grateful to a loving Heavenly Father who sent His son to mark the path and show me the way--who continuously invites me to come unto Him and for His spirit which testifies of the truth and comforts me. I have much to learn but I am so grateful that I know of God's love.