Sunday, March 31, 2013
Abby's Birthday Shout Out!
Today my beautiful sister Abby turns eighteen years old. She is two years older than me and one of my best friends. I love her spirit and her beautiful smile. Although we may fight, I still love her and she is a huge part of my life. I am so grateful to have her as my sister. She has brought me so much strength and built up my testimony in an amazing way. She is one of the strongest people I know. I could never have gone through the things she has gone through and I am so grateful to have her as an example in my life. I'm so happy to have known her my sixteen years of life. I love you Abby! Happy Birthday! <3
Easter: My Savior's Atonement
Please watch this video:
http://www.lds.org/bible-videos/videos/he-is-risen?lang=eng
Yesterday afternoon I went into the kitchen and found cartons of eggs and food dye. Confused for a moment, I looked at the calendar and realized that March was ending and tomorrow was Easter Sunday. Last night, I was given the opportunity to attend the Young Women's Broadcast at the conference center. It was my first time ever being in that building and ever being in the same room as the prophet. The spirit felt tangible. As soon as I took my seat and looked at the giant organ before me, I started to cry, overwhelmed with a feeling of love and gratitude. How lucky I was to have that experience and to see the prophet and hear the spirit. It prepared me to feel the spirit today on this Easter Sunday when we are given the opportunity to reflect on our Savior's life and sacrifice and His unconditional love for us.
I have to be honest. My knowledge and understanding of Christ is limited. Although I know about His life and His teachings, I feel as if there is so much more for me to learn. Every story I read, no matter how many times I read it, I find something new and amazing each time. Christ is our Savior, our Redeemer, the Son of God, the Only Begotten of the Father. He is our brother. He gave His life for us so that we may be saved, so that we may be able to return to our Father in Heaven. He gave us the opportunity to repent of our sins and be forgiven and although our sins may bring us pain and sorrow, through Christ's atonement, He has made it possible for us to feel great amounts of joy and happiness and love.
Sister Dalton shared at the Young Women's Broadcast this statement, "Christ made it possible for us to change. Satan makes us feel as though we cannot change. That is a lie." That is a lie. The Atonement is our chance to change. I experienced a time in life when I felt unworthy and I didn't think I could change. I would kneel down to pray. I felt as if there was no pray in my heart and when I would try to speak the words, I felt a physical pain. My words were strained during this time, but I continued to pray. I did not feel worthy; the pain caused me to cry many times. I knew Satan was putting these feelings of unworthiness and pain into my thoughts and heart. You are never unworthy to pray. You are never unworthy to speak to God. Christ made us worthy. He gave us a chance to not only be worthy, but to feel worthy. We cannot allow the adversary to fill our hearts with lies. President Ezra Taft Benson told us, "If we do not feel like praying, then we should pray until we do feel like praying." If we do not feel worthy to pray, we should pray until we do feel worthy. If we do not feel worthy to read the scriptures, we should read until we do. If we do not feel clean to enter the temple, even without a reason to be unclean, we need to continue to attend. We are sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. We are worthy of him.
Easter is a time to reflect on Christ's Atoning sacrifice for us. Although painting eggs and receiving Easter basket's creates excitement in our day, the spirit we feel on this day is what makes this day memorable. Christ is our Savior. He saved us. We cannot allow ourselves to fall. We cannot allow ourselves to believe the lies of the adversary. The Lord was not spit upon for us, He was not scorned for us, He was not mocked, He did not bleed, He did not die for us just to have us fall and become scared by the lies and the pain of Satan. You will rise through Christ. You will rise as He rose. You have the ability to become perfect through Christ. We all have a part here. We are all a part of this plan. Fight to achieve. Fight to rise. Fight to feel worthy. Christ's love for you is infinite. He knows your pains. He suffered and He bled for your pains. He knows you. He knows who are you and He knows what you feel. You will find peace through Him. I can promise every one of you that your trial will not be forever. And it is worth the fight. This life is worth it, it is beautiful. It doesn't rain forever. The sun always finds its way through the storm.
I love my Savior. I love the peace and strength I can receive for him. I love this gospel. Happy Easter!
http://www.lds.org/bible-videos/videos/he-is-risen?lang=eng
Yesterday afternoon I went into the kitchen and found cartons of eggs and food dye. Confused for a moment, I looked at the calendar and realized that March was ending and tomorrow was Easter Sunday. Last night, I was given the opportunity to attend the Young Women's Broadcast at the conference center. It was my first time ever being in that building and ever being in the same room as the prophet. The spirit felt tangible. As soon as I took my seat and looked at the giant organ before me, I started to cry, overwhelmed with a feeling of love and gratitude. How lucky I was to have that experience and to see the prophet and hear the spirit. It prepared me to feel the spirit today on this Easter Sunday when we are given the opportunity to reflect on our Savior's life and sacrifice and His unconditional love for us.
I have to be honest. My knowledge and understanding of Christ is limited. Although I know about His life and His teachings, I feel as if there is so much more for me to learn. Every story I read, no matter how many times I read it, I find something new and amazing each time. Christ is our Savior, our Redeemer, the Son of God, the Only Begotten of the Father. He is our brother. He gave His life for us so that we may be saved, so that we may be able to return to our Father in Heaven. He gave us the opportunity to repent of our sins and be forgiven and although our sins may bring us pain and sorrow, through Christ's atonement, He has made it possible for us to feel great amounts of joy and happiness and love.
Sister Dalton shared at the Young Women's Broadcast this statement, "Christ made it possible for us to change. Satan makes us feel as though we cannot change. That is a lie." That is a lie. The Atonement is our chance to change. I experienced a time in life when I felt unworthy and I didn't think I could change. I would kneel down to pray. I felt as if there was no pray in my heart and when I would try to speak the words, I felt a physical pain. My words were strained during this time, but I continued to pray. I did not feel worthy; the pain caused me to cry many times. I knew Satan was putting these feelings of unworthiness and pain into my thoughts and heart. You are never unworthy to pray. You are never unworthy to speak to God. Christ made us worthy. He gave us a chance to not only be worthy, but to feel worthy. We cannot allow the adversary to fill our hearts with lies. President Ezra Taft Benson told us, "If we do not feel like praying, then we should pray until we do feel like praying." If we do not feel worthy to pray, we should pray until we do feel worthy. If we do not feel worthy to read the scriptures, we should read until we do. If we do not feel clean to enter the temple, even without a reason to be unclean, we need to continue to attend. We are sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. We are worthy of him.
Easter is a time to reflect on Christ's Atoning sacrifice for us. Although painting eggs and receiving Easter basket's creates excitement in our day, the spirit we feel on this day is what makes this day memorable. Christ is our Savior. He saved us. We cannot allow ourselves to fall. We cannot allow ourselves to believe the lies of the adversary. The Lord was not spit upon for us, He was not scorned for us, He was not mocked, He did not bleed, He did not die for us just to have us fall and become scared by the lies and the pain of Satan. You will rise through Christ. You will rise as He rose. You have the ability to become perfect through Christ. We all have a part here. We are all a part of this plan. Fight to achieve. Fight to rise. Fight to feel worthy. Christ's love for you is infinite. He knows your pains. He suffered and He bled for your pains. He knows you. He knows who are you and He knows what you feel. You will find peace through Him. I can promise every one of you that your trial will not be forever. And it is worth the fight. This life is worth it, it is beautiful. It doesn't rain forever. The sun always finds its way through the storm.
I love my Savior. I love the peace and strength I can receive for him. I love this gospel. Happy Easter!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Day 4/5: The Last Days
I have never been more tired, more exhausted, more hungry, more sore...in my whole life. I have never been more grateful, more humbled, more faithful, more strong in my whole life. There were many weaknesses that kept me from completing a full week of this challenge and that kept me from being able to do every part of it. They showed in my complaining and on the days I wanted to give up. But, some of those weaknesses have been made strong and have been replaced with gratitude in my heart for the things that I have. I have never been more grateful for a bed to sleep in, a warm shower, food when I need and want it, access to music and media. My week has been exhausting, but I will never regret this week. For who can regret being grateful? Who can regret a chance to exercise faith?
I never would have gotten through this week without the Lord. He blessed me with so much strength this week. On the nights I wanted to cry, because I was emotional from lack of sleep, He made my floor just a little more comfortable and I was able to get through the night with a few hours of sleep. He gave me strength to resist temptation when food was in my pantry, when I could turn the nozzle to warm in the shower, when I could get into my bed and under my covers. I was able to resist, because I knew it would be worth it. And it was. He gave me knowledge this week. Even though I was tired and exhausted, He helped me on tests He knew I was stressing about. I was able to focus in school and I never fell behind on my work. Not only did He give me knowledge, but He gave me wisdom. I had words of wisdom for both myself and those around me. I hope I was able to make at least a small difference in someone's life this week.
Tonight I will never be more grateful to sleep in my bed. I will never be more grateful to take a warm shower and be able to eat breakfast in the morning. I will never be more grateful to turn the radio on in my car, to update my Facebook, and all of those small things in life that seemed so much more important just a few days ago and now seem so pointless. I will not think of them as a need or a want, but as a chance to share my testimony and to be a witness of our Father in Heaven.
There is a war that we all face in our lives between ourselves and the adversary and we need help in that war. We need strength and we need protection.
THE ARMOR OF GOD
Ephesians 6: 10-18
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the lord, and in the power of his might.
11 Put on the WHOLE armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13 Wherefore take unto you the WHOLE armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness.
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
Gird your loins with truth, swear the breastplate of righteousness, shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace, take the shield of faith, take the helmet of salvation and the sword of truth which is the word of God. The armour of God is our protection and we can't leave any part of us unprotected, to be wounded by the adversary.
HELP FOR THE WAR
Ephesians 2:4-8
4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love where with he loved us,
5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are save;)
6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.
Ephesians 2:19-20
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.
Ephesians 3:3-6
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in the other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel.
Ephesians 4:11-15
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
Ephesians 5:19-20
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
Ephesian 5:29, 31-33
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Ephesians 6:1-3
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
All of these point to so many different things we are blessed with to overcome trial and affliction, but almost every scripture mentions Christ, the Lord. He is our main help. We can not overcome beat the adversary without Christ in our lives. He will be the one fighting beside us.
For those of you facing a trial that you feel won't ever end, it will and I can promise you that. I know trial is hard and it seems like it will never be over. I also know it is hard to convince you that it won't last forever, I was there once. But don't be discouraged, never give up. Giving up is giving into the adversary. Give you burdens to Christ and He will make them light. We were promised that our trials will only be a short while. Something great always follows and I am a witness of that. We all will get to a point in our lives where we love our trials. Maybe not in the moment, but we get to the point that we know they won't last forever and we wait for the day that they are so that we can rejoice in the person they have made us. Remember, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you." Christ said this, but we have to remember that there were people who loved Christ. Those who love Christ will love you. You are never alone. A trial only means that you are being prepared for something even greater than you can imagine.
Thank you for this challenge Brother Taggart.
I never would have gotten through this week without the Lord. He blessed me with so much strength this week. On the nights I wanted to cry, because I was emotional from lack of sleep, He made my floor just a little more comfortable and I was able to get through the night with a few hours of sleep. He gave me strength to resist temptation when food was in my pantry, when I could turn the nozzle to warm in the shower, when I could get into my bed and under my covers. I was able to resist, because I knew it would be worth it. And it was. He gave me knowledge this week. Even though I was tired and exhausted, He helped me on tests He knew I was stressing about. I was able to focus in school and I never fell behind on my work. Not only did He give me knowledge, but He gave me wisdom. I had words of wisdom for both myself and those around me. I hope I was able to make at least a small difference in someone's life this week.
Tonight I will never be more grateful to sleep in my bed. I will never be more grateful to take a warm shower and be able to eat breakfast in the morning. I will never be more grateful to turn the radio on in my car, to update my Facebook, and all of those small things in life that seemed so much more important just a few days ago and now seem so pointless. I will not think of them as a need or a want, but as a chance to share my testimony and to be a witness of our Father in Heaven.
There is a war that we all face in our lives between ourselves and the adversary and we need help in that war. We need strength and we need protection.
THE ARMOR OF GOD
Ephesians 6: 10-18
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the lord, and in the power of his might.
11 Put on the WHOLE armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13 Wherefore take unto you the WHOLE armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness.
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
Gird your loins with truth, swear the breastplate of righteousness, shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace, take the shield of faith, take the helmet of salvation and the sword of truth which is the word of God. The armour of God is our protection and we can't leave any part of us unprotected, to be wounded by the adversary.
HELP FOR THE WAR
Ephesians 2:4-8
4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love where with he loved us,
5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are save;)
6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.
Ephesians 2:19-20
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.
Ephesians 3:3-6
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in the other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel.
Ephesians 4:11-15
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
Ephesians 5:19-20
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
Ephesian 5:29, 31-33
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Ephesians 6:1-3
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
All of these point to so many different things we are blessed with to overcome trial and affliction, but almost every scripture mentions Christ, the Lord. He is our main help. We can not overcome beat the adversary without Christ in our lives. He will be the one fighting beside us.
For those of you facing a trial that you feel won't ever end, it will and I can promise you that. I know trial is hard and it seems like it will never be over. I also know it is hard to convince you that it won't last forever, I was there once. But don't be discouraged, never give up. Giving up is giving into the adversary. Give you burdens to Christ and He will make them light. We were promised that our trials will only be a short while. Something great always follows and I am a witness of that. We all will get to a point in our lives where we love our trials. Maybe not in the moment, but we get to the point that we know they won't last forever and we wait for the day that they are so that we can rejoice in the person they have made us. Remember, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you." Christ said this, but we have to remember that there were people who loved Christ. Those who love Christ will love you. You are never alone. A trial only means that you are being prepared for something even greater than you can imagine.
Thank you for this challenge Brother Taggart.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Friends
This post is for all of my friends who have supported me and loved me through the hard times. Who gave me comfort before I asked for it. Who took my hand when I needed it the most.
"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17
I was given the most loving friends who strengthened me through my adversities. That is what we have friends for. They are there to love us and to help us through adversity. A friend loveth at all times. Remember that. If you lose a friend, because they did not love you, you know they were not your friend. But if you lose a friend who loved you, you know that friend will return at some point.
"A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24
A friendship is a two sided relationship. You can not give effort without receiving effort. You can not give without being given. At times we try and we feel as if we failed. Always give your effort in a friendship. Every friendship is worth it, because friends are those who impact your life the most. They teach you the most. They strengthen you the most. They trust you the most. No effort is wasted on a friendship, but at times you just have to wait patiently for your effort to be received. We can not have friends and not be a friend.
"There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." This year, I met the person that answered my prayers. She is my best friend and she is my closest friend. She has brought a little more trust into my life and little more love. I didn't know what I was praying for, but suddenly this small, bubbly girl started calling me her best friend and I took a moment to thank my Heavenly Father for sending her my way. She has been such an amazing example to me and the most amazing friend I've ever had.
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 24:17
Friends bring out the best in you, true friends. People can try to say that friends bring out both the worst and the best in you, but a true friend will only bring out the best. They will make your countenance sharper. They will build you up stronger and bigger. One true friend is more important than a hundred false friends. One true friend will make you feel wanted while a hundred false friends will make you feel alone. The true friends are the ones you tell your secrets to without being scared that they'll spread them. True friends will not be your judge, but they will be your counselor. True friends are the ones worth having.
Friendship quotes:
"Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend."
"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender heart."
"A single rose can be my garden...a single friend, my world."
"A friendship can weather most things and thrive in thin soil; but it needs a little mulch of letter and phone calls and small, silly presents every so often - just to save it from drying out completely."
"I value the friend who for me finds time on his calendar, but I cherish the friend who for me does not consult his calendar." I hope my friends know that this is the friend I want to be for them.
"A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself."
"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17
I was given the most loving friends who strengthened me through my adversities. That is what we have friends for. They are there to love us and to help us through adversity. A friend loveth at all times. Remember that. If you lose a friend, because they did not love you, you know they were not your friend. But if you lose a friend who loved you, you know that friend will return at some point.
"A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24
A friendship is a two sided relationship. You can not give effort without receiving effort. You can not give without being given. At times we try and we feel as if we failed. Always give your effort in a friendship. Every friendship is worth it, because friends are those who impact your life the most. They teach you the most. They strengthen you the most. They trust you the most. No effort is wasted on a friendship, but at times you just have to wait patiently for your effort to be received. We can not have friends and not be a friend.
"There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." This year, I met the person that answered my prayers. She is my best friend and she is my closest friend. She has brought a little more trust into my life and little more love. I didn't know what I was praying for, but suddenly this small, bubbly girl started calling me her best friend and I took a moment to thank my Heavenly Father for sending her my way. She has been such an amazing example to me and the most amazing friend I've ever had.
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 24:17
Friends bring out the best in you, true friends. People can try to say that friends bring out both the worst and the best in you, but a true friend will only bring out the best. They will make your countenance sharper. They will build you up stronger and bigger. One true friend is more important than a hundred false friends. One true friend will make you feel wanted while a hundred false friends will make you feel alone. The true friends are the ones you tell your secrets to without being scared that they'll spread them. True friends will not be your judge, but they will be your counselor. True friends are the ones worth having.
Friendship quotes:
"Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend."
"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender heart."
"A single rose can be my garden...a single friend, my world."
"A friendship can weather most things and thrive in thin soil; but it needs a little mulch of letter and phone calls and small, silly presents every so often - just to save it from drying out completely."
"I value the friend who for me finds time on his calendar, but I cherish the friend who for me does not consult his calendar." I hope my friends know that this is the friend I want to be for them.
"A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself."
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Day 2/3: Hard Floors and Sleepless Hours
The past two days have been very difficult. I can barely stay awake while writing this post. If it cuts short you'll know why.
The past two nights I have slept on my floor and I'm missing my bed more than I ever thought I could. The first night was harder. I went to bed at around 9 and woke up constantly until 1 am, no pillow remember. At that point I was on the verge of tears and jumped on top of my bed. I didn't get into bed, just on top of it. It was all made with about eight pillows in my way. Still, I woke up constantly until 4 am. I think this time it was from the guilt...which brought me back to the floor at 4 am, but this time I brought my flattest pillow. I didn't sleep until my alarm went off at 6 am. Last night was easier. I knew I had to get some sleep, so I allowed myself to keep my flattest pillow. I slept this time, but still woke up about ten times during the night. The sleep I got was probably all from exhaustion from the night before. Two days later and although I have not fallen asleep during class, I really don't remember what I've learned all week...and tomorrow I have a Physics final. My bed will probably be the thing I'll be grateful for at the end of this week.
Now...two meals a day, no snacks. It's definitely one of the easier ones. I'm grateful I'm at school for six and half hours than at rehearsals for two hours. That way I only have to wait an hour before I can eat dinner. I could never live like this though. I'm missing my snacks...desperately, but I also can't complain. I think if I could have one thing right now it would be my bed.
I've realized how weak I am by myself. First, I had to alter the challenge to even think about doing it. I don't think I could have survived the whole week doing the whole challenge like no showering and wearing the same pair of clothes every day and walking everywhere I went. I'm having a hard time now, but I'm grateful I was able to fast this last Sunday before I started my challenge. I've had a lot of temptations this week to sleep in bed or text a certain someone, but I know I've been able to withstand these small temptations, because although this is short, God knows I need it. He knows it will strengthen me and I'm grateful to have him strengthening me through the small things this week. I wish I could be stronger, though, and maybe one day I will. One step at a time. Maybe one day I'll be able to say I completed the whole challenge, by myself with God right beside me.
I'm so grateful I had Seminary this week. If I had to do this challenge without getting to go to Seminary...I wouldn't have been able to make it half way. Seminary has become so much of my testimony. It has made me so much stronger than I used to be just a few months ago. It has made me want even more to overcome my weaknesses and to exercise my faith. It has been my life changer this year. I know trials are short, they don't last forever. And I know I will always be able to overcome them no matter how difficult they are. My trials are so small compared to so many others, but to me they are large and they make me feel weak. The last couple of weeks have been filled with small temptations to give up and times that I felt like my chest would collapse, but Seminary has gotten me through those times so much more than I thought it could. It has been the answer to my lifelong prayer of happiness and I want to thank my Seminary teacher and class for the lessons they have taught me. I want to thank them for the strengthening me and for bringing the spirit into my life. Thank you for loving me through the spirit. <3
I am weak, but through Christ I am strong. I am small, but through God I can be mighty. I am me, and as small and weak as I am, I am a daughter of God. I am a child of God as you all are, and we are strong and mighty.
The past two nights I have slept on my floor and I'm missing my bed more than I ever thought I could. The first night was harder. I went to bed at around 9 and woke up constantly until 1 am, no pillow remember. At that point I was on the verge of tears and jumped on top of my bed. I didn't get into bed, just on top of it. It was all made with about eight pillows in my way. Still, I woke up constantly until 4 am. I think this time it was from the guilt...which brought me back to the floor at 4 am, but this time I brought my flattest pillow. I didn't sleep until my alarm went off at 6 am. Last night was easier. I knew I had to get some sleep, so I allowed myself to keep my flattest pillow. I slept this time, but still woke up about ten times during the night. The sleep I got was probably all from exhaustion from the night before. Two days later and although I have not fallen asleep during class, I really don't remember what I've learned all week...and tomorrow I have a Physics final. My bed will probably be the thing I'll be grateful for at the end of this week.
Now...two meals a day, no snacks. It's definitely one of the easier ones. I'm grateful I'm at school for six and half hours than at rehearsals for two hours. That way I only have to wait an hour before I can eat dinner. I could never live like this though. I'm missing my snacks...desperately, but I also can't complain. I think if I could have one thing right now it would be my bed.
I've realized how weak I am by myself. First, I had to alter the challenge to even think about doing it. I don't think I could have survived the whole week doing the whole challenge like no showering and wearing the same pair of clothes every day and walking everywhere I went. I'm having a hard time now, but I'm grateful I was able to fast this last Sunday before I started my challenge. I've had a lot of temptations this week to sleep in bed or text a certain someone, but I know I've been able to withstand these small temptations, because although this is short, God knows I need it. He knows it will strengthen me and I'm grateful to have him strengthening me through the small things this week. I wish I could be stronger, though, and maybe one day I will. One step at a time. Maybe one day I'll be able to say I completed the whole challenge, by myself with God right beside me.
I'm so grateful I had Seminary this week. If I had to do this challenge without getting to go to Seminary...I wouldn't have been able to make it half way. Seminary has become so much of my testimony. It has made me so much stronger than I used to be just a few months ago. It has made me want even more to overcome my weaknesses and to exercise my faith. It has been my life changer this year. I know trials are short, they don't last forever. And I know I will always be able to overcome them no matter how difficult they are. My trials are so small compared to so many others, but to me they are large and they make me feel weak. The last couple of weeks have been filled with small temptations to give up and times that I felt like my chest would collapse, but Seminary has gotten me through those times so much more than I thought it could. It has been the answer to my lifelong prayer of happiness and I want to thank my Seminary teacher and class for the lessons they have taught me. I want to thank them for the strengthening me and for bringing the spirit into my life. Thank you for loving me through the spirit. <3
I am weak, but through Christ I am strong. I am small, but through God I can be mighty. I am me, and as small and weak as I am, I am a daughter of God. I am a child of God as you all are, and we are strong and mighty.
Hate Is Heartache: Heartache Is Not Hate
So, I've decided that I don't write enough just to write. I'm going to try a poem just for fun and what's better than a love poem, right? Plus...it's the easiest kind of poem.
HATE IS HEARTACHE: HEARTACHE IS NOT HATE
Taller than me, stronger than me
A smile to take my breath from me
Brighter than me, smarter than me
Have to know you're perfect for me
Thought you took my heart away
But felt it in a brand new way
Cause looking into so much blue
Finally realized I gave it to you
Lost my sense of when and where
Lost all thoughts of who is there
For when you tapped me lightly twice
Couldn't help but tap back thrice
Took me up right to cloud nine
Where you cannot help but shine
And when you took me slightly down
Still I could not bare to frown
Cause heartache comes from too much hate
But that will never be my fate
For this heartache comes and goes
Because of everything I chose
I chose you from the very start
I gave you every inch of my heart
And that is something I will never regret
Since our friendship's not over yet
I'm not an inspiration writing, I sort of just write down clever words.
I'm not an inspiration writing, I sort of just write down clever words.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Day 1: Cold Showers and Sore Muscles
Today was Day 1 of my Moccasin walk challenge. Just a reminder of what I'm doing:
- No cell phone--at all
- No iPods or CDs
- No TV, movies, or video games
- Sleep on the floor with no pillow
- No fast food
- Eat only one or two meals a day
- No snacks
- No superfluous (unnecessary) purchases
- No driving
- Only cold showers
- Wash clothes and dishes by hand
- Give money normally spend on good and entertainment as offering
- Give half your paycheck to humanitarian aid, Perpetual Education Fund, etc.
I started off my challenge today by fasting. I honestly don't think I can do it without the Lord's help. Already I'm having withdrawals from my phone. I took my first cold shower today and I have to say...it sucked. My muscles have been sore all day long, because the cold water made them tense up. It was always extremely hard to wash out the shampoo and conditioner from my hair which made it even harder to blow dry it. I also had to walk to church with my sore muscles in the cold wind which made them tense even more. I had two people offer me a ride and as much as I wanted to accept it, I had to turn them down. My Sunday school class had cupcakes today. I told them I was fasting so I'll just eat mine later...then I realized I can't have any snacks. I plan on weighing myself at the end of this week to see if I lose any weight...not that I need to, but it will be an interesting test. I just set out my bed for the week. Looks comfortable enough, but I'm planning on a sore neck in the morning since I can't use a pillow. Let's just add some more pain to my muscles.
Okay, now enough complaining. I know that those are ridiculous things to be complaining about and I know my week is going to be harder than that, but here's what went well in my day. I was able to go through my fast without any temptations and I had all the strength I needed. This is the first time I have fasted and not felt hungry. I am also already feeling grateful for warm showers. I was sure grateful to be done with my cold shower this morning. I almost think no showering would be a lot better. I also played a piano solo in sacrament meeting today. The solo was "Jesus Once of Humble Birth". I made very few mistakes and felt very good about my performance. I got to eat brownies for my second meal today! That probably won't happen again. I was also in one of the best moods I could be in today. I felt happy and I felt so much joy in what I was doing. I realized today that this challenge is going to be extremely difficult and I sat and thought if I should really do it. But, I know I can. God knows I can do hard things and I know he will strengthen me this week. I've realized that we become so needy in our world today. It is hard for us to give up some of the simplest things that we have, but already I am feeling a new sense of gratitude and I can't wait to see what the week throws at me. I'll keep you posted every one to two days during my challenge. Hope you stay tuned! Most of my post will have a lot more depth to them, I promise.
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- No cell phone--at all
- No iPods or CDs
- No TV, movies, or video games
- Sleep on the floor with no pillow
- No fast food
- Eat only one or two meals a day
- No snacks
- No superfluous (unnecessary) purchases
- No driving
- Only cold showers
- Wash clothes and dishes by hand
- Give money normally spend on good and entertainment as offering
- Give half your paycheck to humanitarian aid, Perpetual Education Fund, etc.
I started off my challenge today by fasting. I honestly don't think I can do it without the Lord's help. Already I'm having withdrawals from my phone. I took my first cold shower today and I have to say...it sucked. My muscles have been sore all day long, because the cold water made them tense up. It was always extremely hard to wash out the shampoo and conditioner from my hair which made it even harder to blow dry it. I also had to walk to church with my sore muscles in the cold wind which made them tense even more. I had two people offer me a ride and as much as I wanted to accept it, I had to turn them down. My Sunday school class had cupcakes today. I told them I was fasting so I'll just eat mine later...then I realized I can't have any snacks. I plan on weighing myself at the end of this week to see if I lose any weight...not that I need to, but it will be an interesting test. I just set out my bed for the week. Looks comfortable enough, but I'm planning on a sore neck in the morning since I can't use a pillow. Let's just add some more pain to my muscles.
Okay, now enough complaining. I know that those are ridiculous things to be complaining about and I know my week is going to be harder than that, but here's what went well in my day. I was able to go through my fast without any temptations and I had all the strength I needed. This is the first time I have fasted and not felt hungry. I am also already feeling grateful for warm showers. I was sure grateful to be done with my cold shower this morning. I almost think no showering would be a lot better. I also played a piano solo in sacrament meeting today. The solo was "Jesus Once of Humble Birth". I made very few mistakes and felt very good about my performance. I got to eat brownies for my second meal today! That probably won't happen again. I was also in one of the best moods I could be in today. I felt happy and I felt so much joy in what I was doing. I realized today that this challenge is going to be extremely difficult and I sat and thought if I should really do it. But, I know I can. God knows I can do hard things and I know he will strengthen me this week. I've realized that we become so needy in our world today. It is hard for us to give up some of the simplest things that we have, but already I am feeling a new sense of gratitude and I can't wait to see what the week throws at me. I'll keep you posted every one to two days during my challenge. Hope you stay tuned! Most of my post will have a lot more depth to them, I promise.
My bed for the week... :/
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This will definitely be my motto for the week and I will be become a witness that the Lord is with me wherever I am in a new way.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Forgiveness
My ninth grade year was one of the most difficult times in my life. I didn't know how to deal with all the loss I was experiencing and so I closed myself off. It seemed to me like all my friends just threw me away. They didn't seem to care. It started with this story. This was the turning point in my life.
It’s Better to Stand Alone
Lauren M., Utah, USA
I went to a party one with a group of my closest friends. As we sat laughing, the conversation turned. My friends started to gossip about a young man we all knew who was my friend. The conversation went on for a while with everyone except me agreeing with what was being said. Eventually I had enough. I expressed my feelings that it was wrong for them to belittle this young man.
The room went silent, and no one stood by me. I had never felt so alone in my life than at that moment. Eventually the conversations moved on, but everyone ignored me. I decided to call my mom to come pick me up. Then I announced that I was going home. No one asked questions, and small good-byes were said as I left.
It was hard for me to go against my friends, but I knew that it was the right thing to do. This experience changed my life, and I feel good about my decision to stick up for this young man. I learned that even if you stand alone, you should always do what’s right. Your crowd may not be the crowd you’re meant to be with. It’s better to stand alone and do what’s right than to stand with others doing wrong. (January 2012 New Era, Stand For Truth)
“We have been and continue to be taught God’s laws. Despite what you may see or hear elsewhere, these laws are unchanging.
“As we go about living from day to day, it is almost inevitable that our faith will be challenged. We may at times find ourselves surrounded by others and yet standing in the minority or even standing alone concerning what is acceptable and what is not. Do we have the moral courage to stand firm for our beliefs, even if by so doing we must stand alone? … It is essential that we are able to face—with courage—whatever challenges come our way." (January 2012 New Era, Stand For Truth)
This experience impacted my life more than anything else. I had consequences for what I did. I was judged and rejected by my friends and that sent me into a state of depression. I felt alone and shut out. I didn't feel like there was anyone I could turn to.
Then, I was given this pamphlet. It was given to me by a therapist and it was titled "The peace that comes through forgiveness". I have read it on multiple occasions and it has changed my life. I consider it scripture, because it has set a new standard of living for me. The thing I loved the most in this book was this poem on forgiveness:
Therefore
look gently on men
And even
more gently on women.
Although
they may go a little wrong,
Do not
condemn them.
Above all consider
not merely what they have done,
But why.
God alone
has the power to look into a human heart,
To judge actions
and motives and regrets.
He alone
knows not only what one has done and why,
But what one
has resisted doing and why—
Man’s
responsibility is to forgive:
Only God has
the authority to judge.
- Robert Burns
"I will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men." - Jesus Christ
"Only Christ is in a position to judge. None of us are in a position to judge anyone, for we are far from perfect. In the meantime, if we take offense we are required to forgive all men. This is not just suggested, or a good idea, but required!"
Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Till seven times?" Jesus saith unto him, "I say not unto thee, until seven times but until seventy times seven."
I do not believe Jesus meant that we must forgive someone four hundred and ninety times. As humans we have a very good memory. We don't forget and we especially do not forgive hurts or offenses. What we must do is forgive that person when we think of the hurt or offense which may be even more than four hundred and ninety times, but each time it will become easier and easier to forgive.
I took this lesson into my life and I acted on it. I thought about the hurts and offenses that people had done to me, but I also had thought why and I came to forgive them and to love them again. I became happier and each time I thought of the offense I forgave over again until I didn't think of the offense as an offense. I thought of it as an opportunity to grow and to draw closer to Christ and was grateful to them. I thank God for my trials every time I say a prayer. I thank him for those people who taught me to forgive and for those people who helped me to grow and become the person I am, because I have been able to love that person.
Forgive others for you are required to forgive. It was benefit your life in so many ways. I am a witness of that. Take time to thank God for your trials and the gift of forgiveness. Ask Him to help you to be able to forgive those who have offended and hurt you. Ask Him to help you love them. He will strengthen you to forgive and to love. It is the greatest lesson I have been taught and I will carry it with me throughout my life.
My New Era story: http://www.lds.org/new-era/2012/01/stand-for-truth?lang=eng
I Am A Witness
"Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." Joshua 1:9
Be strong. Be courageous. Be not afraid. Be not dismayed. The Lord is with you where ever you are. I am a witness. I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father who loves me and I love him. I will stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things and in all places as I strive to live my values which are: faith, divine nature, individual worth, knowledge, choice and accountability, good works, integrity, and virtue. These are my standards. These are my beliefs. This is my life. I came here to be a witness of God, not a witness of the world.
God is with us. He may seem far at times, but we can be close to him through prayer, the scriptures, the temple, and so much more. I have a testimony of this. If you are a witness of God be strong to share the gospel. Be courageous in sharing it. Do not be afraid or dismayed in being a witness of Christ our Savior. Let the spirit be your strength and your faith.
Be strong. Be courageous. Be not afraid. Be not dismayed. The Lord is with you where ever you are. I am a witness. I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father who loves me and I love him. I will stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things and in all places as I strive to live my values which are: faith, divine nature, individual worth, knowledge, choice and accountability, good works, integrity, and virtue. These are my standards. These are my beliefs. This is my life. I came here to be a witness of God, not a witness of the world.
God is with us. He may seem far at times, but we can be close to him through prayer, the scriptures, the temple, and so much more. I have a testimony of this. If you are a witness of God be strong to share the gospel. Be courageous in sharing it. Do not be afraid or dismayed in being a witness of Christ our Savior. Let the spirit be your strength and your faith.
So You Think You Can Write
This was written for my Film Lit class as we listened to the song "Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley. Listen to the song as you read this. It makes it a hundred times better.
SONG: Three Little Birds
Gratitude Attitude
My morning started off pretty rough with a late start, but then I went to Seminary. Seminary has become the one class that I regret not going to. It makes may day special no matter what and it helps me get through math the next period. Today was extra special. It was an answer to my prayers in a way that I didn't expect and I wanted to be able to share that with you. This was a lesson that brought tears to my eyes for the first time in Seminary. This was a lesson that changed the way I saw myself. It gave me a desire to be better and it gave me a "gratitude attitude".
We watched a video about some people who decided to spend a week in a camp in Uganda. From the outside the camp looked fine, but once you were on the inside you realized their suffering. They only have one pair of clothes every week. They don't have socks or shoes. They don't have what we are so blessed to have. A boy named Sunday - who knows English better than most in his camp - tells them that he wants to become a doctor, because there aren't even 1,000 doctors in Uganda. He doesn't want his people to suffer and he wants there to be more doctors. Not once did you see this boy without a smile, a sincere smile. He believes that the rest of the world cares about them, cares about their suffering. So, care.
Lastly, I was given a challenge. My teacher said that very few of his students have taken up the challenge and I have decided that next week I am going to do it. I have changed it around a little bit to fit my rules:
The Moccasin Walk Challenge
- No cell phone--at all
- No iPods or CDs
- No TV, movies, or video games
- Sleep on the floor with no pillow
- No fast food
- Eat only one or two meals a day
- No snacks
- No superfluous (unnecessary) purchases
- No driving
- Only cold showers
- Wash clothes and dishes by hand
- Give money normally spend on food and entertainment as offering
- Give half your paycheck to humanitarian aid, Perpetual Education Fund, etc.
Now, I challenge you to take on The Moccasin Walk Challenge and I promise it will bless your life. You will be filled with gratitude to have a bed to sleep in, to have warm water to shower with, to not have to worry about your meals. Leave you comments if you are willing to take on this challenge. I will keep you posted on how my challenge is going next week. It will be hard, but it will be worth every second.
Christ gave us everything. Give back by giving everything to someone else and that is everything, that is what will make you rich. I am so grateful to have been given the life that I have. When I was given this lesson I realized how selfish I am. I don't always stop to think how blessed I am. I am so grateful to have been given the trials that I have had. I love my trails and the person that they have made me. I am grateful for the people who have been put in my path to teach me and to strengthen and comfort me. I am grateful for the amazing friends I have been given this year. I am grateful for their love and I am grateful that they are there for me. I am so grateful for Christ and my Heavenly Father who have sacrificed so much for me. Now, I want to give back to them. I want to become poor so that I may become rich.
Just a few of the people I'm grateful for :)
This lesson was on gratitude if you haven't noticed by now. I'll admit, I don't remember most of the lesson, but I do remember the spirit I felt and it was a spirit worth having. It changed my day completely and the smile has not left my face. It made me want to take action to the point that I could not sit still. As I share some of my thoughts with you I want you to ask yourself these questions. Have I had a 'gratitude attitude' today? Have I smiled at someone? Have I stopped to help someone? Have I laughed with a friend? Have I taken time to sit and thank God for not only my blessings, but my trials? There are so many other questions you could ask yourself, but here are just a few. Ask yourself these questions every day and take action.
2 Corithians 8:8-9 "I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich."
Prove your sincerity and love. Prove that you believe. Prove that you are grateful. Christ gave us everything to the point that he had nothing. He was willing to go from rich to poor so that we may go from poor to rich. Be willing to go from rich to poor in order to help someone to go from poor to rich, because you will always be rich if you are grateful. It is something that you can obtain more of.
We live in a world where we have so much access to such wonderful things, but we have become so involved in these things that we just want more. We want and we want. We ask for more and we take more. When we are given less we complain. When we lose something we complain. We don't stop to think of those who have even less than we will ever have and they have never complained. They keep their hope and they keep their gratitude, because they are at the point that they cannot be given any less, they can only be given more.
President Thomas S. Monson said, "Through divine intervention those who were lepers were spared from a cruel, lingering death and given a new lease on life. The expressed gratitude by one merited the Master´s blessing; the ingratitude shown by the nine, His disappointment.
My brothers and sisters, do we remember to give thanks for the blessings we receive? Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God´s love.
My beloved friend President Gordon B. Hinckley said, "When you walk with gratitude, you do not walk with arrogance and conceit and egotism, you walk with a spirit of thanksgiving that is becoming to you and will bless your lives."."
Take the time to be grateful, because it will only bless your life.
"Gratitude is a feeling of appreciation and thankfulness for blessings or benefits we have received. As we cultivate a grateful attitude, we are more likely to be happy and spiritually strong. We should regularly express our gratitude to God for the blessings He gives us and to others for the kind acts they do for us.The Lord has promised, "He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious" (D&C 78:19). Gratitude is an uplifting, exalting attitude. People are generally happier when they have gratitude in their hearts. We cannot be bitter, resentful, or mean-spirited when we are grateful.We should be thankful for the wonderful blessings that are ours and for the tremendous opportunities we have. We can be thankful to our parents, family, friends, and teachers. We should express appreciation to everyone who has assisted us in any way.We should thank our Heavenly Father for His goodness to us by acknowledging His hand in all things, thanking Him for all that He gives us, keeping His commandments, and serving others. We should especially thank Him for His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, for the Savior's great example, for His teachings, for His outreaching hand to lift and help, for His infinite Atonement."We watched a video about some people who decided to spend a week in a camp in Uganda. From the outside the camp looked fine, but once you were on the inside you realized their suffering. They only have one pair of clothes every week. They don't have socks or shoes. They don't have what we are so blessed to have. A boy named Sunday - who knows English better than most in his camp - tells them that he wants to become a doctor, because there aren't even 1,000 doctors in Uganda. He doesn't want his people to suffer and he wants there to be more doctors. Not once did you see this boy without a smile, a sincere smile. He believes that the rest of the world cares about them, cares about their suffering. So, care.
Lastly, I was given a challenge. My teacher said that very few of his students have taken up the challenge and I have decided that next week I am going to do it. I have changed it around a little bit to fit my rules:
The Moccasin Walk Challenge
- No cell phone--at all
- No iPods or CDs
- No TV, movies, or video games
- Sleep on the floor with no pillow
- No fast food
- Eat only one or two meals a day
- No snacks
- No superfluous (unnecessary) purchases
- No driving
- Only cold showers
- Wash clothes and dishes by hand
- Give money normally spend on food and entertainment as offering
- Give half your paycheck to humanitarian aid, Perpetual Education Fund, etc.
Now, I challenge you to take on The Moccasin Walk Challenge and I promise it will bless your life. You will be filled with gratitude to have a bed to sleep in, to have warm water to shower with, to not have to worry about your meals. Leave you comments if you are willing to take on this challenge. I will keep you posted on how my challenge is going next week. It will be hard, but it will be worth every second.
Christ gave us everything. Give back by giving everything to someone else and that is everything, that is what will make you rich. I am so grateful to have been given the life that I have. When I was given this lesson I realized how selfish I am. I don't always stop to think how blessed I am. I am so grateful to have been given the trials that I have had. I love my trails and the person that they have made me. I am grateful for the people who have been put in my path to teach me and to strengthen and comfort me. I am grateful for the amazing friends I have been given this year. I am grateful for their love and I am grateful that they are there for me. I am so grateful for Christ and my Heavenly Father who have sacrificed so much for me. Now, I want to give back to them. I want to become poor so that I may become rich.
Just a few of the people I'm grateful for :)
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Through My Looking Glass
I am a teenager like any other. I live a psychosane life of emotional roller coasters, but no matter how much someone tries to say they understand me, they have never ridden my roller coaster and I have not ridden there's. Someone not too long ago said to me, "Now you know how I feel." I immediately responded bluntly by saying, "I don't think I know how you feel. I'll never really understand how someone feels as much as I may think I do." Because they have not ridden my roller coaster and I have not ridden there's. So, I'm taking you along for the ride to give you a glimpse through my looking glass.
I am at the extremely exciting age of sixteen. Don't ever listen to people when they say turning sixteen doesn't change anything. It changes everything! It's like you took your first real breath on your own. It's freedom and it's a crazy roller coaster of first cars, first dates, first kisses, and new experiences (all of which have been very exciting). I am also at the age where I have no idea what I'm going to do with my life. It changes from time to time. English teacher, writer, psychologist. At the moment I'm heading in the direction of a drama/writing therapist. Two things I love and two things I can't live without. I currently teach piano (teaching I don't love, piano I do, but its the only job I can get). Word of advice, don't take piano from me, I don't have the patience and I love pianos, therefore I want to be playing them more than I want to hear you play. I don't get along with people like me, piano hoggers. I also love to write, except my most recent piece of work is from last April...another reason why I have created this blog. I live in a family of one boy, four girls, a sister-in-law, and a dog. I got dropped off at the last of the line, but like I always, but never say. Last the best of all the game.
I'll share secrets, jokes, music, talents, stories (both fiction and true), and many many thoughts with you as you look through my looking glass. I hope you enjoy the ride.
I am at the extremely exciting age of sixteen. Don't ever listen to people when they say turning sixteen doesn't change anything. It changes everything! It's like you took your first real breath on your own. It's freedom and it's a crazy roller coaster of first cars, first dates, first kisses, and new experiences (all of which have been very exciting). I am also at the age where I have no idea what I'm going to do with my life. It changes from time to time. English teacher, writer, psychologist. At the moment I'm heading in the direction of a drama/writing therapist. Two things I love and two things I can't live without. I currently teach piano (teaching I don't love, piano I do, but its the only job I can get). Word of advice, don't take piano from me, I don't have the patience and I love pianos, therefore I want to be playing them more than I want to hear you play. I don't get along with people like me, piano hoggers. I also love to write, except my most recent piece of work is from last April...another reason why I have created this blog. I live in a family of one boy, four girls, a sister-in-law, and a dog. I got dropped off at the last of the line, but like I always, but never say. Last the best of all the game.
I'll share secrets, jokes, music, talents, stories (both fiction and true), and many many thoughts with you as you look through my looking glass. I hope you enjoy the ride.
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