I was taught today that no matter my dream, my vision, my goals and desires, nothing matters if it is not according to Father's wishes for me. He puts me through many experiences every day to teach lessons. Some lessons are life changing, some are experiences that are stored away for the Spirit to awaken within my mind when I need to draw upon that experience.
As I write this lesson I learned also today, I relate that with memories those we had before we came to this earth. I am sure relationships with certain people, experiences that Father blessed us with to prepare us for certain trials in this life, and even part of a blessing we received before we came to mortality, all these things are also stored away within our memory.
I honestly believe that these experience can be drawn from our "memory" at proper times, in proper circumstances, and for the purposes of Father. I am sure you have met, as I have met certain people who seem to be either past associates, or even associates we had in the pre-earth life that we are "remembering" feelings, knowledge, and associations.
We all have many memories, experiences, the feelings of love and compassion from our Eternal Parents. And at times, in this life I am sure we feel glimpses of those feelings of our Parents to give us strength, give us the desire to carry on, and the touch of Divinity within us.
For we should all remember that we will one day if all is right, if we are all right, we shall be Divine, have Spirit children, and populate our own worlds. What a glorious future to look forward to.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
DAY 315 -- Rejoicing in our Grandchildren
We just returned from "playing" with our grand-kids and kids, getting dirty, eating burned, not so burned food, and watching all the bugs and ear wigs carry off a few of those smaller grand-kids. Of course, those who were prone to be crying through the night, we didn't not go claim them until the morning being able to get a good night's sleep.
It is interesting to be sleeping on an air mattress, but since it was not my real bed, the sounds that greeted me throughout the night were crazy - trains all night long, cows mooing, smelling cows and who knows what else, birds screaming at each other through the night sounding like a cocktail party, wolves howling letting me know they were watching our camp ground, and then of course there were those other sounds that did not let me sleep.
As Bonnie and I watched the grand-kids continue to develop into real people, showing a personality, attitudes toward others, as they played with their cousins, and even fought with other cousins, we felt joy and fulfillment. We felt joy in our posterity.
We both looked at those great kids and couldn't help but fear for their sanity, their safety with Satan's efforts in the world today, and the friends they would find along the way, good ones, and of course those not so good. It was a fearful fact to realize that we had nothing to do in raising them, or at least very little. We have to leave that to our own children and the spouses they have chosen.
When we watch our grand-kids, we we prepare to go on a mission, it brings to our mind fears and joys. Fears what will happen while we are gone, but then the joy of leaving them in Father's hands and having our grand kids be excited about the privilege they will have to support their grandparents.
Every day that passes, we are getting closer to that elusive mission call we are praying for in June, 2012. We are pretty much on schedule, except for that big stomach I have which seems to be getting larger, not smaller. We are on our way. There is much more I should be doing, but we are making progress each and every day.
It is interesting to be sleeping on an air mattress, but since it was not my real bed, the sounds that greeted me throughout the night were crazy - trains all night long, cows mooing, smelling cows and who knows what else, birds screaming at each other through the night sounding like a cocktail party, wolves howling letting me know they were watching our camp ground, and then of course there were those other sounds that did not let me sleep.
As Bonnie and I watched the grand-kids continue to develop into real people, showing a personality, attitudes toward others, as they played with their cousins, and even fought with other cousins, we felt joy and fulfillment. We felt joy in our posterity.
We both looked at those great kids and couldn't help but fear for their sanity, their safety with Satan's efforts in the world today, and the friends they would find along the way, good ones, and of course those not so good. It was a fearful fact to realize that we had nothing to do in raising them, or at least very little. We have to leave that to our own children and the spouses they have chosen.
When we watch our grand-kids, we we prepare to go on a mission, it brings to our mind fears and joys. Fears what will happen while we are gone, but then the joy of leaving them in Father's hands and having our grand kids be excited about the privilege they will have to support their grandparents.
Every day that passes, we are getting closer to that elusive mission call we are praying for in June, 2012. We are pretty much on schedule, except for that big stomach I have which seems to be getting larger, not smaller. We are on our way. There is much more I should be doing, but we are making progress each and every day.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
DAYS 316 & 317 -- Nephi's Psalm
(I am going to be gone tomorrow, reunion)
One of my most favorite people in the Book of Mormon is Nephi. In 2 Nephi 4, we have contained therein Nephi's Psalm. I can't wait to meet him. He went through so much with his brothers, yet never lost sight of the prize, of our Savior.
In this, his psalm, he shares the inner feelings of his heart. So humble and "real" I wish I could sit and talk with him for a few days. He was the prophet after his father Lehi passed away. He separated from his brothers, nephews and nieces, etc and yet tried to do all he could do for his family.
He saw God. He had his election made sure and then he laments the weaknesses he has. "Oh wretched man that I am..." There are so many days that I feel that way. I feel so awful for errors. "...the sins that do so easily beset me.." Though I try so hard, sins do beset me and I fail. If I am not perfect and I fail once in a while, it sounds as if so did Nephi. "Why should I give way to temptations..." He expresses my feelings so fully.
Then he says feelings that I feel often, "Awake my soul. No longer droop in sin. Rejoice oh my heart." Nephi expresses my feelings that I feel so often, struggling through mortality, sinning, losing focus on the good things of life, and failing. Then feeling to yell, AWAKE my soul.
Once I said I wished I could write with power. Then I read Nephi's feelings, thoughts of his heart, and I realize that perhaps writing the feelings of one's soul, thoughts of the heart, and desires would help.
I love Nephi. I feel as if I am a kindred spirit with him, for he expresses so many feelings I have felt, so feel. And he saw God, yet has those feelings.
There is hope, even if I start walking on the water and then drop into the waves. There is hope, which gives peace. Thanks Nephi.
One of my most favorite people in the Book of Mormon is Nephi. In 2 Nephi 4, we have contained therein Nephi's Psalm. I can't wait to meet him. He went through so much with his brothers, yet never lost sight of the prize, of our Savior.
In this, his psalm, he shares the inner feelings of his heart. So humble and "real" I wish I could sit and talk with him for a few days. He was the prophet after his father Lehi passed away. He separated from his brothers, nephews and nieces, etc and yet tried to do all he could do for his family.
He saw God. He had his election made sure and then he laments the weaknesses he has. "Oh wretched man that I am..." There are so many days that I feel that way. I feel so awful for errors. "...the sins that do so easily beset me.." Though I try so hard, sins do beset me and I fail. If I am not perfect and I fail once in a while, it sounds as if so did Nephi. "Why should I give way to temptations..." He expresses my feelings so fully.
Then he says feelings that I feel often, "Awake my soul. No longer droop in sin. Rejoice oh my heart." Nephi expresses my feelings that I feel so often, struggling through mortality, sinning, losing focus on the good things of life, and failing. Then feeling to yell, AWAKE my soul.
Once I said I wished I could write with power. Then I read Nephi's feelings, thoughts of his heart, and I realize that perhaps writing the feelings of one's soul, thoughts of the heart, and desires would help.
I love Nephi. I feel as if I am a kindred spirit with him, for he expresses so many feelings I have felt, so feel. And he saw God, yet has those feelings.
There is hope, even if I start walking on the water and then drop into the waves. There is hope, which gives peace. Thanks Nephi.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
DAYS 317 -- Every Opportunity...
The first part of Elder Hollands statement said that we should take every opportunity to learn and to grow. There is so much to learning and growing. But according to Elder Holland, when an opportunity presents itself, we should jump at the privilege of being involved. I would suggest that means any opportunity to volunteer to serve.
I was given that opportunity this past Sunday. I paused to see if they would fill the assignment without me. Why did I do that? I had nothing else planned on the appointed day. Finally, since they needed more, I volunteered. I know it will be a great experience and privilege to serve those less fortunate than I. Why did I pause?
Perhaps if we do not jump at the chance of learning and growing, our dreams and visions will also hesitate, or Father will hesitate to grant them to us??? I need to ponder about that, and recommit to serving, learning and growing to further my achieving our goal of serving a mission.
I have known many who jump at the chance of serving and growing, giving and learning. I guess I have a way to go to be like they are, like you are, like Father would have me be when it comes to that.
As I continue to progress (I hope it is not totally regression toward our ultimate goal) I keep finding more weaknesses and faults I have. I keep finding more and more I have to work on. Would I be called to awareness of those weaknesses if I was not pursuing this dream? Or am I just totally a weak, lazy, soul not nearly where I need to be?
I was given that opportunity this past Sunday. I paused to see if they would fill the assignment without me. Why did I do that? I had nothing else planned on the appointed day. Finally, since they needed more, I volunteered. I know it will be a great experience and privilege to serve those less fortunate than I. Why did I pause?
Perhaps if we do not jump at the chance of learning and growing, our dreams and visions will also hesitate, or Father will hesitate to grant them to us??? I need to ponder about that, and recommit to serving, learning and growing to further my achieving our goal of serving a mission.
I have known many who jump at the chance of serving and growing, giving and learning. I guess I have a way to go to be like they are, like you are, like Father would have me be when it comes to that.
As I continue to progress (I hope it is not totally regression toward our ultimate goal) I keep finding more weaknesses and faults I have. I keep finding more and more I have to work on. Would I be called to awareness of those weaknesses if I was not pursuing this dream? Or am I just totally a weak, lazy, soul not nearly where I need to be?
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
DAY 318 -- Lonliness Lessons
No man is an island. No man stands alone. Each man's joy is joy to me. Each man's grief is my own. We need one another, so I will defend each man as my brother, each man as my friend. Often during my learning from my Divine Tutor, I feel alone, forsaken, and fore lorn. Is that necessary?
Christ was totally alone when He was enduring Gethsemane. Joseph Smith was not alone, but felt alone shortly before he died. Brigham Young felt alone when crossing the plains knowing that he, alone would tell they saints where they were to settle. Each of us will go through periods of loneliness, feeling rejected and alone. Are there lessons there? What should we learn being alone?
Our Divine Teacher is really never very far away. If we feel alone and fighting the world, we need to believe that the feelings of being forsaken are for our good, and gain us experience.
As I have thought, pondered, and prayed about it, I must agree that the challenge of feeling alone has within that experience many lessons that the Master Tutor must teach each of us.
I remember the feelings of being totally alone on my mission, knowing that no one knew where I was, what I was doing, and wondering if anyone would care if I never came back. I remember being alone when I was totally lost. I remember many times where I felt that feeling of being alone.
However, there are angels among us. If we are feeling alone, would a loving Father ever really leave us along to battle the adversary alone. NO! Would we ever leave our child totally alone knowing that a "satan" was close and trying to destroy. NO! There are Eternal lessons to learn when feeling alone, lessons that are necessary to progress onward, but we must learn them first before being given the opportunity to progress further. No man is an island. He is there, always will be though we do not feel His presence. I promise!
Christ was totally alone when He was enduring Gethsemane. Joseph Smith was not alone, but felt alone shortly before he died. Brigham Young felt alone when crossing the plains knowing that he, alone would tell they saints where they were to settle. Each of us will go through periods of loneliness, feeling rejected and alone. Are there lessons there? What should we learn being alone?
Our Divine Teacher is really never very far away. If we feel alone and fighting the world, we need to believe that the feelings of being forsaken are for our good, and gain us experience.
As I have thought, pondered, and prayed about it, I must agree that the challenge of feeling alone has within that experience many lessons that the Master Tutor must teach each of us.
I remember the feelings of being totally alone on my mission, knowing that no one knew where I was, what I was doing, and wondering if anyone would care if I never came back. I remember being alone when I was totally lost. I remember many times where I felt that feeling of being alone.
However, there are angels among us. If we are feeling alone, would a loving Father ever really leave us along to battle the adversary alone. NO! Would we ever leave our child totally alone knowing that a "satan" was close and trying to destroy. NO! There are Eternal lessons to learn when feeling alone, lessons that are necessary to progress onward, but we must learn them first before being given the opportunity to progress further. No man is an island. He is there, always will be though we do not feel His presence. I promise!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Day 319 --- My Personal Tutor
When I was a tutor for young kids and I tutored math, it was so interesting to me, yes and even frustrating to me to observe that every week my student came to my house, I had to teach the same principle. Now come on, when I taught the idea of factoring, that 3 and 4, together was 7 and multiplied together was 12. Thus that was the key of factoring. However, every week I had to teach, and re-teach my students that concept.
I can remember that often I paused after they had left, feeling just a tiny bit guilty, collecting payment for teaching the same thing over and over. It's such a simple principle and so much math is based upon, I could not understand why those young kids could not grasp it.
So I taught it over and over again. Finally after about $200 worth, and repeating myself hundreds of times, a light turned on and this "slow" student started to understand. Three weeks later, they were experts in factoring. But what a road, to teach him/her the concept of factoring.
Then, sadly I look in the mirror and realize the challenges I have currently I have had before. Often, throughout my life, I have realized that Father was "blessing" me with the same type of challenge, trail, and opportunity of growth.
I am sure my Father questioned His "slow" students, me in particular. He knew that the lesson was one that I had to understand before I could progress to another one He was holding for me. I had to master that special concept before I could move to the next concept. If I never did, then the next lesson He wanted to teach me would not make sense and I would fail my course.
I guess my tutoring should have prepared me for these repeated lessons, these repeated trials, these familiar challenges that I get to enjoy today. He is my Tutor, and I must learn and perhaps one day that lesson will come to me as factoring did long ago to those students.
I can remember that often I paused after they had left, feeling just a tiny bit guilty, collecting payment for teaching the same thing over and over. It's such a simple principle and so much math is based upon, I could not understand why those young kids could not grasp it.
So I taught it over and over again. Finally after about $200 worth, and repeating myself hundreds of times, a light turned on and this "slow" student started to understand. Three weeks later, they were experts in factoring. But what a road, to teach him/her the concept of factoring.
Then, sadly I look in the mirror and realize the challenges I have currently I have had before. Often, throughout my life, I have realized that Father was "blessing" me with the same type of challenge, trail, and opportunity of growth.
I am sure my Father questioned His "slow" students, me in particular. He knew that the lesson was one that I had to understand before I could progress to another one He was holding for me. I had to master that special concept before I could move to the next concept. If I never did, then the next lesson He wanted to teach me would not make sense and I would fail my course.
I guess my tutoring should have prepared me for these repeated lessons, these repeated trials, these familiar challenges that I get to enjoy today. He is my Tutor, and I must learn and perhaps one day that lesson will come to me as factoring did long ago to those students.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
DAY 320 -- Trust
In God We Trust. I am just beginning to understand our motto, In God We Trust. In trying to understand the challenges of life, the frustration, I am brought back to the concept of Trust. Bonnie recently talked with a dear friend who was serving a mission with her husband. They replied how urgent some of those places across the world need senior missionaries to help the new converts direct the church in their area. We are ready, packed and wondering where to go. ;)
My heart started to ache again. Oh how I/we desire to be of service in the Lords Kingdom out in some bush country of the world. But do I trust? How can that desire get in the way of my trust in my Father in Heaven. He knows what is best for us right now. Why should I complain, ache, and feel frustration because I am not able to go right now?
There is nothing too hard for the Lord. (With tongue in cheek, I am sure He could remove my extra 20 pounds off my fat body!) The obstacles we have right now in our way of serving could be removed in a myriad of ways, if it was right for us to serve right now. I know that is true. So, there must be another reason why we are not permitted to serve to our hearts desire. Do I trust my Father?
In my Loving Father I trust. Therefore, I must realize there are divine reasons why He won't make the miracles to let us go now. I just must try to figure out what lessons I need to learn before He blesses us with a mission call. No matter the circumstances, if we trust in our loving Father, then we should learn the lessons He is teaching, then expect our prayers to be answered, even in miraculous ways. In whom do we trust?
My heart started to ache again. Oh how I/we desire to be of service in the Lords Kingdom out in some bush country of the world. But do I trust? How can that desire get in the way of my trust in my Father in Heaven. He knows what is best for us right now. Why should I complain, ache, and feel frustration because I am not able to go right now?
There is nothing too hard for the Lord. (With tongue in cheek, I am sure He could remove my extra 20 pounds off my fat body!) The obstacles we have right now in our way of serving could be removed in a myriad of ways, if it was right for us to serve right now. I know that is true. So, there must be another reason why we are not permitted to serve to our hearts desire. Do I trust my Father?
In my Loving Father I trust. Therefore, I must realize there are divine reasons why He won't make the miracles to let us go now. I just must try to figure out what lessons I need to learn before He blesses us with a mission call. No matter the circumstances, if we trust in our loving Father, then we should learn the lessons He is teaching, then expect our prayers to be answered, even in miraculous ways. In whom do we trust?
Saturday, July 23, 2011
DAY 321 -- Purpose of Dreams
From the last few days, I investigated the idea that whether I had a good day, a bad day, or a great, wonderful day was mostly up to me. If I tried to create for myself a great day, one thing I could do was serve others, have my focus outside of myself rather than within myself. I proved that mostly yesterday.
But I also know that even when I decide to be outgoing, service oriented throughout my day, even when I strive to control my thoughts, those Satan puts into my mind, I am still going to have those ugly days, those depressing days, and those where I want to give up, scream and yell, and go to jail, not passing go, and living in jail for they have three square meals a day there.
So as I wonder about the idea that I can create myself a good day, or just take what comes and see how I react, I question the purpose of mortality. The Brethren preach that there will be totally awful days mixed with the great ones. When those days come, the question is how I respond to them. Do I react, or act? Do I complain, or practice enduring and developing faith.
I guess that is the purpose of this privilege of mortality. We must decide how we will accept each day, either chosen by us, or having to endure by us. We choose to be happy, sad, frustrated, peaceful, short circuited, crushed, or flying through the midst of whatever comes.
Dreams, visions, and such are to help us realize that there are possibilities greater and wonderful that we can work toward no matter the hill to climb. I believe that is one of the reasons Elder Holland suggested that we have dreams and visions and work toward their realization, to have a wonderful, sought-after utopia that we can imagine in our mind, and that will help us endure whatever uglies come our way.
But I also know that even when I decide to be outgoing, service oriented throughout my day, even when I strive to control my thoughts, those Satan puts into my mind, I am still going to have those ugly days, those depressing days, and those where I want to give up, scream and yell, and go to jail, not passing go, and living in jail for they have three square meals a day there.
So as I wonder about the idea that I can create myself a good day, or just take what comes and see how I react, I question the purpose of mortality. The Brethren preach that there will be totally awful days mixed with the great ones. When those days come, the question is how I respond to them. Do I react, or act? Do I complain, or practice enduring and developing faith.
I guess that is the purpose of this privilege of mortality. We must decide how we will accept each day, either chosen by us, or having to endure by us. We choose to be happy, sad, frustrated, peaceful, short circuited, crushed, or flying through the midst of whatever comes.
Dreams, visions, and such are to help us realize that there are possibilities greater and wonderful that we can work toward no matter the hill to climb. I believe that is one of the reasons Elder Holland suggested that we have dreams and visions and work toward their realization, to have a wonderful, sought-after utopia that we can imagine in our mind, and that will help us endure whatever uglies come our way.
Friday, July 22, 2011
DAY 322 -- IT IS UP TO ME....
Today is day 322 and it is July 22. I have not made that connection before today.
As I said yesterday, I started out today to make today different. I talked about creating a better day, one that will be remembered for a few days, or at least today. I felt yesterday that I am the captain of my soul, and I decide what kind of a day I am going to have.
Well, as I talked to my Father, I explained my plan. As I drove off to work, I felt a very strong witness from Father that he condoned my decision. I felt His Spirit in my heart and I knew He was there and knew me. I felt a special feeling for my children where I live. As I passed a group of kids on the way, they were selling cinnamon rolls. I passed them, returned and decided to purchase a roll from them, not that I was hungry or wanted a roll, I just thought I would like to "make their day." Then when I got to work, I told a co worker how much I appreciated her, the work she does, how she helps me to do my work.
I volunteered to fix a few things, went beyond my usual practices, and thought of others, how to lighten their burdens and how to think outside myself. I played a card game with one of my grandsons, and enjoyed making a memory with him.
In other words, I propose that each of us can, and should make a difference every day. If we decide to think not about ourselves, how we would have things differently in our lives, exercise faith in Father and seek to enlighten others, think of others, and strive to serve others, even anonymously, our day will be much brighter. Mine was today. It was by little things, not huge, life-changing things, just little things. I spent one dollar to purchase a Cinnamon roll, gave them a quarter tip, and you should have seen their faces light up. It didn't cost me much, but made my day, and hopefully helped make theirs.
Yes, I am the captain of my soul. I largely determine if I am going to have a positive, uplifting, spiritual, peaceful day, or a depressing, sad, frustrated day-judging others, angry cause things are not as I thought they should be. Today may not be a day that will change any one's life nor be a day I will always remember. But it will be a day when I learned a very important, Eternal Principle, that I can create peace in my life, happiness in my soul, and faith in Father. It is up to me.
As I said yesterday, I started out today to make today different. I talked about creating a better day, one that will be remembered for a few days, or at least today. I felt yesterday that I am the captain of my soul, and I decide what kind of a day I am going to have.
Well, as I talked to my Father, I explained my plan. As I drove off to work, I felt a very strong witness from Father that he condoned my decision. I felt His Spirit in my heart and I knew He was there and knew me. I felt a special feeling for my children where I live. As I passed a group of kids on the way, they were selling cinnamon rolls. I passed them, returned and decided to purchase a roll from them, not that I was hungry or wanted a roll, I just thought I would like to "make their day." Then when I got to work, I told a co worker how much I appreciated her, the work she does, how she helps me to do my work.
I volunteered to fix a few things, went beyond my usual practices, and thought of others, how to lighten their burdens and how to think outside myself. I played a card game with one of my grandsons, and enjoyed making a memory with him.
In other words, I propose that each of us can, and should make a difference every day. If we decide to think not about ourselves, how we would have things differently in our lives, exercise faith in Father and seek to enlighten others, think of others, and strive to serve others, even anonymously, our day will be much brighter. Mine was today. It was by little things, not huge, life-changing things, just little things. I spent one dollar to purchase a Cinnamon roll, gave them a quarter tip, and you should have seen their faces light up. It didn't cost me much, but made my day, and hopefully helped make theirs.
Yes, I am the captain of my soul. I largely determine if I am going to have a positive, uplifting, spiritual, peaceful day, or a depressing, sad, frustrated day-judging others, angry cause things are not as I thought they should be. Today may not be a day that will change any one's life nor be a day I will always remember. But it will be a day when I learned a very important, Eternal Principle, that I can create peace in my life, happiness in my soul, and faith in Father. It is up to me.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
DAY 323 -- ONE MORE DAY
Can one day make a difference? Twenty four hours, not much. June 6. June 27. September 18. December 25. April 6. October 31. February 12. April 22. May 28.
On those days, something great, bad, wonderful, devilish happened, I am sure. Exactly what, I am not sure for all of them, but on some of them things happened that we celebrate even in this year. In a great play/musical the "One More Day" often rings through my mind. We all pass one day more of our life. Most often nothing of note happens on any one day. Yesterday there was 324 days until ?our mission. Now there is 323 days left. Am I different? Have I made great strides toward our mission. Am I fatter, more fit, closer to my Father? Or am I closer to becoming a failure in this quest?
One year has 365 days. Each day has 24 ours. How often is there a day in my/your life that is very significant? How often does a day, does an event within a day drastically change the direction we are pursuing? How often does one day change our focus, what we think about, what we pursue, what we are?
So many days seems insignificant when I am finally climbing into bed. I am questioning what happened today that I should remember? What changed? Who did I meet or whom did I serve that I will remember for a day, a week, or the rest of my life? Is every day just one more drop of water flowing in a river toward some destination that I know not of?
I don't know what tomorrow is bringing into my life. I don't know what is destined to happen. I wonder if I will fall into bed tomorrow night wondering the same things I am now. Do most of our days seem the same and very boring?
I am going to strive to make tomorrow different. How, I don't know yet, but I am going to ponder on it tonight and see if I can make tomorrow something special. I am the master of my destiny. I am the captain of my soul. Tomorrow I will report if I feel I have personally made a difference in the events of July 22, 2011.
On those days, something great, bad, wonderful, devilish happened, I am sure. Exactly what, I am not sure for all of them, but on some of them things happened that we celebrate even in this year. In a great play/musical the "One More Day" often rings through my mind. We all pass one day more of our life. Most often nothing of note happens on any one day. Yesterday there was 324 days until ?our mission. Now there is 323 days left. Am I different? Have I made great strides toward our mission. Am I fatter, more fit, closer to my Father? Or am I closer to becoming a failure in this quest?
One year has 365 days. Each day has 24 ours. How often is there a day in my/your life that is very significant? How often does a day, does an event within a day drastically change the direction we are pursuing? How often does one day change our focus, what we think about, what we pursue, what we are?
So many days seems insignificant when I am finally climbing into bed. I am questioning what happened today that I should remember? What changed? Who did I meet or whom did I serve that I will remember for a day, a week, or the rest of my life? Is every day just one more drop of water flowing in a river toward some destination that I know not of?
I don't know what tomorrow is bringing into my life. I don't know what is destined to happen. I wonder if I will fall into bed tomorrow night wondering the same things I am now. Do most of our days seem the same and very boring?
I am going to strive to make tomorrow different. How, I don't know yet, but I am going to ponder on it tonight and see if I can make tomorrow something special. I am the master of my destiny. I am the captain of my soul. Tomorrow I will report if I feel I have personally made a difference in the events of July 22, 2011.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
DAY 324 -- Fiery Darts
In my Book of Mormon reading, it mentions those two words. At work today, my boss said that the adversary was continuing to thwart anything good. I thought of those fiery darts that Satan uses to throw at us to get us away from that which is good.
I haven't played darts too many times in my life, but I have a few times. I look at a dart which is pointed and sharp on one side and digs into whatever it is thrown at. Then I think of FIERY darts that Satan has to infest our lives with them. What's the purpose of fiery darts? Not just darts, but fiery darts.
To me, Satan does everything beyond the normal, like darts. He sends fiery darts. Just as he sends anything else into our lives. He makes it worse, more damaging, more likely to cause us to lose our focus, and dedication. He will do whatever he can to get us depressed and get us to lose sight of that wonderful Eternal Perspective.
Though I reach upwards to Father's outstretched hands, I also too often see those fiery darts coming my way which causes me often to drop my hands low enough that I cannot reach Father's hands. In other words, Satan is doing whatever he can to stop me from believing as I want, focusing on Eternal things, and winning in the battle. Satan is crafty and effective. It is a constant battle, for he doesn't give up!
I haven't played darts too many times in my life, but I have a few times. I look at a dart which is pointed and sharp on one side and digs into whatever it is thrown at. Then I think of FIERY darts that Satan has to infest our lives with them. What's the purpose of fiery darts? Not just darts, but fiery darts.
To me, Satan does everything beyond the normal, like darts. He sends fiery darts. Just as he sends anything else into our lives. He makes it worse, more damaging, more likely to cause us to lose our focus, and dedication. He will do whatever he can to get us depressed and get us to lose sight of that wonderful Eternal Perspective.
Though I reach upwards to Father's outstretched hands, I also too often see those fiery darts coming my way which causes me often to drop my hands low enough that I cannot reach Father's hands. In other words, Satan is doing whatever he can to stop me from believing as I want, focusing on Eternal things, and winning in the battle. Satan is crafty and effective. It is a constant battle, for he doesn't give up!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
DAY 325 -- How Many Cobwebs Do You Have in Your Mind?
LONG ago there was a movie entitled, "The Americanization of Emily." I never saw it, and it probably was named something else, for my mind is as old as my gray hair and often doesn't remember anything correctly. Anyway, I was impressed with the title since it put across the idea that Emily was converted to be an American, I guess. (Those who have seen that movie, please forgive my errant memory, or lack of knowledge about the movie.)
Well, as I go about trying to listen to the Spirit telling me things, as I go about working toward being prepared in many ways to serve a mission, I would counter entitle this blog, or the events of my life as "The Spiritualization of Bill." As I strive to listen to those whisperings that come and are so soft to my understanding, often I do not hear them. Thus I am not becoming Spiritualized very fast. If I go a few days without remembering that ultimate goal of serving a mission, once again I am failing. If I have a day when I don't feel at peace with my life and the way things are going, then again, I am losing.
I guess if I talk about that movie concerning teaching Emily to be American, I ought to know what it was about. I mean for all I know it could have been a movie about anything. My kids are always telling me I remember movie quotes erroneously. They all make fun of me. I contend that it is just because of the cobwebs within my mind that I can't remember as perfectly as they all do. So, because of those smothering cobwebs of my mind, the A of E might have been a downer, a murderer goes wild, or a story about a chicken that was named Emily who wanted to vote for woman's rights? Who knows. If anyone remembers the correct name and the story line, let me know and I will try to put it somewhere in my mind that isn't as infested with thick cobwebs as others are.
Well, as I go about trying to listen to the Spirit telling me things, as I go about working toward being prepared in many ways to serve a mission, I would counter entitle this blog, or the events of my life as "The Spiritualization of Bill." As I strive to listen to those whisperings that come and are so soft to my understanding, often I do not hear them. Thus I am not becoming Spiritualized very fast. If I go a few days without remembering that ultimate goal of serving a mission, once again I am failing. If I have a day when I don't feel at peace with my life and the way things are going, then again, I am losing.
I guess if I talk about that movie concerning teaching Emily to be American, I ought to know what it was about. I mean for all I know it could have been a movie about anything. My kids are always telling me I remember movie quotes erroneously. They all make fun of me. I contend that it is just because of the cobwebs within my mind that I can't remember as perfectly as they all do. So, because of those smothering cobwebs of my mind, the A of E might have been a downer, a murderer goes wild, or a story about a chicken that was named Emily who wanted to vote for woman's rights? Who knows. If anyone remembers the correct name and the story line, let me know and I will try to put it somewhere in my mind that isn't as infested with thick cobwebs as others are.
Monday, July 18, 2011
DAY 326 - More Lessons about Hearing the Whispering of the Spirit
There are always times when I get stumped over something I should have said, should have done. Today, when I felt stumped with a duty I had at work, I remembered the need I have to recognize Father's hand in my life. So, I quietly asked Father what He would have me do. I waited, paused again and asked Him.
Then quietly He whispered something into my mind with that famous Still Small Voice. I knew it was from Father and proceeded forth with my plans. Then a little later in my day, I was stumped again. I repeated the same thing and nothing came into my mind. I paused and thought perhaps I wasn't asking right. Nothing.
Then I decided I would divorce myself from the situation totally. I went outside and walked a bit. I found a nice shady place, away from people and the sun and sat down. I re-thought out the problem I was having and tried to "feel" or hear the still small voice. It didn't come. Then I decided to change my plan.
I started to think of other things that did not even pertain to what I was trying to do. After about ten minutes, then came the inspiration I was waiting for. Once again it was a quiet whispering to my mind. After I noticed Father touching my mind, answering my inquiry, I felt very humbled and asked forgiveness for my impatience, my short sightedness, and proceeded on what I was doing.
I guess once in a while we have to struggle, we have to rid our mind of the pressure we are feeling, and even once in a while we have to be reading the scriptures and we will get the whispering from the Spirit. At times it comes quickly, and at times it comes slowly, and at times it does not come. Lessons to be learned? In each circumstance or event, I learned a different lesson about inspiration. I am still learning.
Then quietly He whispered something into my mind with that famous Still Small Voice. I knew it was from Father and proceeded forth with my plans. Then a little later in my day, I was stumped again. I repeated the same thing and nothing came into my mind. I paused and thought perhaps I wasn't asking right. Nothing.
Then I decided I would divorce myself from the situation totally. I went outside and walked a bit. I found a nice shady place, away from people and the sun and sat down. I re-thought out the problem I was having and tried to "feel" or hear the still small voice. It didn't come. Then I decided to change my plan.
I started to think of other things that did not even pertain to what I was trying to do. After about ten minutes, then came the inspiration I was waiting for. Once again it was a quiet whispering to my mind. After I noticed Father touching my mind, answering my inquiry, I felt very humbled and asked forgiveness for my impatience, my short sightedness, and proceeded on what I was doing.
I guess once in a while we have to struggle, we have to rid our mind of the pressure we are feeling, and even once in a while we have to be reading the scriptures and we will get the whispering from the Spirit. At times it comes quickly, and at times it comes slowly, and at times it does not come. Lessons to be learned? In each circumstance or event, I learned a different lesson about inspiration. I am still learning.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
DAY 327 -- Will Yet Live On.....
As I pondered about the existence of this blog, what purpose was it given as it was created, why it should continue to live, or should I give it a timely death, the sweet Spirit brought back to my mind one of the brethren in our last conference encouraging us to keep a list of "The Hand of The Lord" in our lives. He counseled that we should write down every time we felt, saw, or experienced a "touch" of the Masters hand in our lives.
As I considered the breath of this blog, as I tried to evaluate the purpose of helping us realize a dream given to us by our loving Father, I noted that one of the greatest witnesses of His love in our mortality is the influence of Father in our daily life. Too often I do not notice His touch. Too often I am oblivious of His quiet nurturing of my growth, or lack of it, and learning experiences. Too often I dwell upon events of the day and ignore the fact that I have a Father closely involved in my life who loves me and wants me back with Him.
Thus, the life of this blog. If I couple the witnesses I have daily of His influence in my life, especially in helping me make progress toward this goal of a mission, if I am more aware of Father's presence in my life, then I will live my life more closely in accordance with His will, His wishes for me, and His direction how I can influence and serve others. This will very positively prepare us for serving Him 24-7 in the coming years, I would surmise. Thus this blog, though it was terminally ill a few hours ago will live on.
As I considered the breath of this blog, as I tried to evaluate the purpose of helping us realize a dream given to us by our loving Father, I noted that one of the greatest witnesses of His love in our mortality is the influence of Father in our daily life. Too often I do not notice His touch. Too often I am oblivious of His quiet nurturing of my growth, or lack of it, and learning experiences. Too often I dwell upon events of the day and ignore the fact that I have a Father closely involved in my life who loves me and wants me back with Him.
Thus, the life of this blog. If I couple the witnesses I have daily of His influence in my life, especially in helping me make progress toward this goal of a mission, if I am more aware of Father's presence in my life, then I will live my life more closely in accordance with His will, His wishes for me, and His direction how I can influence and serve others. This will very positively prepare us for serving Him 24-7 in the coming years, I would surmise. Thus this blog, though it was terminally ill a few hours ago will live on.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
DAY 328 -- Blog Purpose
Why do people write blogs? Why do some write every day on a blog? What good is a blog? Does anyone really care? Is it a way for some to express things, to share with other beloved friends and family things that are happening to them? Why did I start to write on this blog over one month ago?
I remember celebrating our anniversary of 39 years and then unitedly making the goal to serve a mission, and to set goals that would permit us to do so in 365 days. I remember finding Elder Hollands quotation and falling in love with it. I remember knowing that I wanted to set a goal and work toward it's realization.
How could I continue along that path? It has been a very strong desire to serve a mission one day. I guess setting that goal for June 9, 2012 to go on a mission was very important to me and I thought that I would write my struggles, my miracles, and the progress Bonnie and I are making toward that goal. I figured if I had a reason to recall and renew our goal DAILY, they I would be able to see progress, to move toward that goal of next year.
Then I realize that perhaps my original purpose of starting this blog of daily writing about our goal isn't really doing what I started this blog to do. Is it helping me work toward this goal?
I remember Elder Ballard once urging members of the church to use the Internet to further the Kingdom. Is that what I am doing? Or am I wasting my time?
I am working toward that goal/dream and trying to turn it into a vision of serving full time with my own companion. Is this blog helping me do so? Where would I be if I was not blogging every day.
I guess I should look backward and see where I have been, and what progress I have made, as I counseled one of my scouts one day. Have I really made progress toward this goal, am I realizing benefits in writing daily reaching for this dream? Does it help to address that goal daily? Thinking.... Pondering... Questioning...
I remember celebrating our anniversary of 39 years and then unitedly making the goal to serve a mission, and to set goals that would permit us to do so in 365 days. I remember finding Elder Hollands quotation and falling in love with it. I remember knowing that I wanted to set a goal and work toward it's realization.
How could I continue along that path? It has been a very strong desire to serve a mission one day. I guess setting that goal for June 9, 2012 to go on a mission was very important to me and I thought that I would write my struggles, my miracles, and the progress Bonnie and I are making toward that goal. I figured if I had a reason to recall and renew our goal DAILY, they I would be able to see progress, to move toward that goal of next year.
Then I realize that perhaps my original purpose of starting this blog of daily writing about our goal isn't really doing what I started this blog to do. Is it helping me work toward this goal?
I remember Elder Ballard once urging members of the church to use the Internet to further the Kingdom. Is that what I am doing? Or am I wasting my time?
I am working toward that goal/dream and trying to turn it into a vision of serving full time with my own companion. Is this blog helping me do so? Where would I be if I was not blogging every day.
I guess I should look backward and see where I have been, and what progress I have made, as I counseled one of my scouts one day. Have I really made progress toward this goal, am I realizing benefits in writing daily reaching for this dream? Does it help to address that goal daily? Thinking.... Pondering... Questioning...
Friday, July 15, 2011
DAY 329 -- How Often Do We Get Side Tracked from Our Ultimate Goal?
When I pause to consider the dream/vision that we are working toward of going on a mission in less than one year, I often sit and consider how many times in the last day, last ten hours, last hour, and even the last few minutes does this goal go through my mind. Then I realize that it is not foremost in my mind. I let so many other things take the place of this dream that I often even go a few days without even thinking about how wonderful serving a mission would be.
When I remember the words of the prophet about the urgent need of obtaining Senior Missionaries, when I remember the reports I have of so many who are on missions pleading with seniors to go on a mission, when I recall the sacred feeling I have when I hear or sing, "Called to Serve," I question why so many hours, days go by without even thinking of our desire to go on a mission.
Then I relate that with how often I have that Eternal Goal of being worthy of the Celestial Kingdom. How long has it been since I have pondered about the Eternal truths that I know and love. Does that show how prepared I am, how much I desire it, or how much I would do anything for it?
I am weak. I let so many mundane, insignificant events occupy my mind at the expense of thinking about my ultimate goal. I know I should spend much more time, more thoughts, more effort in thinking about my mortal goals as well as my Eternal goals. It is so easy to get side tracked.
When I remember the words of the prophet about the urgent need of obtaining Senior Missionaries, when I remember the reports I have of so many who are on missions pleading with seniors to go on a mission, when I recall the sacred feeling I have when I hear or sing, "Called to Serve," I question why so many hours, days go by without even thinking of our desire to go on a mission.
Then I relate that with how often I have that Eternal Goal of being worthy of the Celestial Kingdom. How long has it been since I have pondered about the Eternal truths that I know and love. Does that show how prepared I am, how much I desire it, or how much I would do anything for it?
I am weak. I let so many mundane, insignificant events occupy my mind at the expense of thinking about my ultimate goal. I know I should spend much more time, more thoughts, more effort in thinking about my mortal goals as well as my Eternal goals. It is so easy to get side tracked.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
DAY 330 -- The Value of our Dreams
I was taught that one of the reasons why the Brother of Jared wrote with such power to have those who read his words be overcome is because he was writing in the Adamic Language. I am sure that Moroni knew that, but he mentioned that feeling in inadequacy in his recording the history and the translation of the Jaredites. I am sure he would have enjoyed the blessing of writing as the Brother or Jared, especially as he recorded their history, and when he was alone for all those years after the destruction of the Nephites.
Though I would love that blessing, that "gift" from Father of writing with powerful words, I would assume I shall "end my race" without having that gift bestowed upon me. But I certainly can dream what it would be like. I can dream to be able to share my inner thoughts and feelings and one day not be concerned about others mocking, ignoring, or laughing at my dreams.
I guess that is what Elder Holland was saying in his statement written above this blog. We must take every opportunity to dream and envision, to set goals, and work toward them. Will it hurt if I strive to become better in my placing of words, of trying to record my history, or of just trying to be understood even if I never realize that dream? Will it destroy some Eternal Plan if Bonnie and I don't ever get the blessing of going on a mission? Will it be a waste of time if anyone strives to achieve a dream or vision that has been sanctioned by Father without ever arriving at their destination?
I don't think so. I consider the lessons I have learned in the pursuit of these "righteous" dreams are lessons that Father would be teaching me. If Father calls us to another shore, another mountain to climb, the lessons learned while in the path toward a mission will never be wasted. Hence, the value of pursuing a dream. "We must take every opportunity..." Thank you Elder Holland.
Though I would love that blessing, that "gift" from Father of writing with powerful words, I would assume I shall "end my race" without having that gift bestowed upon me. But I certainly can dream what it would be like. I can dream to be able to share my inner thoughts and feelings and one day not be concerned about others mocking, ignoring, or laughing at my dreams.
I guess that is what Elder Holland was saying in his statement written above this blog. We must take every opportunity to dream and envision, to set goals, and work toward them. Will it hurt if I strive to become better in my placing of words, of trying to record my history, or of just trying to be understood even if I never realize that dream? Will it destroy some Eternal Plan if Bonnie and I don't ever get the blessing of going on a mission? Will it be a waste of time if anyone strives to achieve a dream or vision that has been sanctioned by Father without ever arriving at their destination?
I don't think so. I consider the lessons I have learned in the pursuit of these "righteous" dreams are lessons that Father would be teaching me. If Father calls us to another shore, another mountain to climb, the lessons learned while in the path toward a mission will never be wasted. Hence, the value of pursuing a dream. "We must take every opportunity..." Thank you Elder Holland.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
DAY 331 -- Can One Have Too Many Dreams?
Foremost in our mind is our mission. We heard of a dear friend that went out into places where there were many senior missionaries working. All of them pleaded that our friends would go right home and ask their bishops for mission calls. There is a great need all over the world for senior missionaries. President Monson mentioned this in the last general conference. Thus, our major goal of going to serve...
In Ether 12:24, it tells us that Moroni was lamenting that he was not made mighty in writing as the Brother of Jared, saying that as one read his words, they were overpowered as they read them.
I love to write. One of my inner goals, dreams would be to receive the same blessing as the Brother of Jared, so that I could have the talent of writing like him. If I could write things that were powerful, rather than be awkward of hands, as Moroni stated. The message is powerful, but the presenting of it is a challenge. I stumble because of the placing of my words.
Just thought I would share one additional dream I have, beyond that of serving as a missionary with my beautiful redhead. Can we have too many dreams?
In Ether 12:24, it tells us that Moroni was lamenting that he was not made mighty in writing as the Brother of Jared, saying that as one read his words, they were overpowered as they read them.
I love to write. One of my inner goals, dreams would be to receive the same blessing as the Brother of Jared, so that I could have the talent of writing like him. If I could write things that were powerful, rather than be awkward of hands, as Moroni stated. The message is powerful, but the presenting of it is a challenge. I stumble because of the placing of my words.
Just thought I would share one additional dream I have, beyond that of serving as a missionary with my beautiful redhead. Can we have too many dreams?
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
DAY 332 -- Miracles All Around Us Every Day
Where are the miracles? What is a miracle? In days gone past, a miracle was something that happened that no one could explain. Is it the same today? In my opinion, a miracle is something that has the authorship being God. It is an event that can be identified as coming from Him.
I started the day out in the temple. As I prayed, I asked Father to show me many miracles. As I was driving to work, I felt a miracle in that I felt His Spirit whispering to me that He loves me and knows where I am. That is a miracle. I saw a new born baby. That is a miracle. As I realized that an injury I had a while ago had healed and was not bothering me any longer. Isn't that a miracle. The Atonement is a miracle. The love my wife and I share is a miracle. The way my children teach my grand children is a miracle. The testimony of my oldest grand son bearing it in front of a group, that is a miracle.
The computer and what I am writing now, at least for one or two others to read, is a miracle. The genealogy that my sister does, that is a miracle. The Holy Ghost is a miracle. The inspiration of any bishop or stake president is a miracle. The concept of Charity and Zion is a miracle too. The Book of Mormon is a miracle.
I could go on and on. I feel too often I ignore these miracles, these witnesses of Father's love in my life. I ignore the miracle of a daughter in law nurturing my grand children. I have miracles all around me, yet seldom observe them. The miracle of missionary work, seniors going on a mission and the work they do, the elders being a tool to convert many members daily, temple work being done, Eternal knowledge of what awaits us and what Father wants to give us, again, miracles.
Having a dream or a vision and working toward that goal, knowing that Father is helping us along our path, knowing that it is His will that we have a dream and we call upon Him to direct us, is also a miracle.
I was one of those who walked around daily, not seeing, being oblivious of His hand in my life. I must repent of that and "see" miracles every day.
I started the day out in the temple. As I prayed, I asked Father to show me many miracles. As I was driving to work, I felt a miracle in that I felt His Spirit whispering to me that He loves me and knows where I am. That is a miracle. I saw a new born baby. That is a miracle. As I realized that an injury I had a while ago had healed and was not bothering me any longer. Isn't that a miracle. The Atonement is a miracle. The love my wife and I share is a miracle. The way my children teach my grand children is a miracle. The testimony of my oldest grand son bearing it in front of a group, that is a miracle.
The computer and what I am writing now, at least for one or two others to read, is a miracle. The genealogy that my sister does, that is a miracle. The Holy Ghost is a miracle. The inspiration of any bishop or stake president is a miracle. The concept of Charity and Zion is a miracle too. The Book of Mormon is a miracle.
I could go on and on. I feel too often I ignore these miracles, these witnesses of Father's love in my life. I ignore the miracle of a daughter in law nurturing my grand children. I have miracles all around me, yet seldom observe them. The miracle of missionary work, seniors going on a mission and the work they do, the elders being a tool to convert many members daily, temple work being done, Eternal knowledge of what awaits us and what Father wants to give us, again, miracles.
Having a dream or a vision and working toward that goal, knowing that Father is helping us along our path, knowing that it is His will that we have a dream and we call upon Him to direct us, is also a miracle.
I was one of those who walked around daily, not seeing, being oblivious of His hand in my life. I must repent of that and "see" miracles every day.
Monday, July 11, 2011
DAY 333 -- Where Are All The Miracles???
Yesterday, I blogged about seeing miracles. I mentioned many who said that there miracles all around us, if we just look for them. So many go through each day without seeing any miracles.
So, I suggest that perhaps rather than just watching for miracles to happen in front of us and to be amazed at them, perhaps we need to search for them. Does that mean more than just watch for them?
As I went through this day, I didn't really see any miracles. Was I watching for them? Not really, but based on yesterdays blog, I figured I would recognize one if I saw one. But since I was not searching for one, I did not see one. Anyway, that is my opinion.
As I pause now and try to recreate the day behind me and run through the experiences I had today, I think through each thing that happened to me today. I didn't get in an accident as I went to work and returned. I talked to a few people. I did my duty at work. I touched bases with those I love. I thought about my kids and grandkids. Where is the miracle? If I am supposed to see one each day, why didn't I see one today?
What is a miracle? Where are they if they are supposed to be all around us? I will be thinking on that and glob, or should I say blog about that tomorrow after a day of thinking, pondering and praying. Stay tuned...
So, I suggest that perhaps rather than just watching for miracles to happen in front of us and to be amazed at them, perhaps we need to search for them. Does that mean more than just watch for them?
As I went through this day, I didn't really see any miracles. Was I watching for them? Not really, but based on yesterdays blog, I figured I would recognize one if I saw one. But since I was not searching for one, I did not see one. Anyway, that is my opinion.
As I pause now and try to recreate the day behind me and run through the experiences I had today, I think through each thing that happened to me today. I didn't get in an accident as I went to work and returned. I talked to a few people. I did my duty at work. I touched bases with those I love. I thought about my kids and grandkids. Where is the miracle? If I am supposed to see one each day, why didn't I see one today?
What is a miracle? Where are they if they are supposed to be all around us? I will be thinking on that and glob, or should I say blog about that tomorrow after a day of thinking, pondering and praying. Stay tuned...
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Day 334 --- Once I Was Blind, But Now I See!
One of our favorite songs is Amazing Grace. There is a line in that hymn where it says, that he was once blind but now he sees. If you have seen the movie, you will understand much more than just those words. As I heard that this morning, I realized that there is such wisdom in that statement.
We CAN all see, if we look. One movie we saw hundreds of years ago has this statement in it, about these words, since I always quote everything wrong, "90% of the people of this world go around blind, where the other 10% are walking around in total amazement because of what they see." I have also heard one of the brethren say that there are miracles all about us, but seldom do we see them, recognize them as miracles.
As I consider our dream of a mission, if I could only constantly see the miracles that surround me constantly, nothing would adjust my focus from my Savior. I wouldn't let comments by loved ones stop my focus, I wouldn't let $90 tickets get in the way. I wouldn't let tooth aches stop my vision of seeing miracles. Nothing would get in the way and I would be one of those 10% that always sees visions.
Hyrum Smith used to go around giving firesides preaching that everything depends upon the glasses we look through. If we look through glasses that are adjusted with the prescription of seeing miracles, then we will see miracles. If our glasses do not see miracles, in fact filter out the miracles, then we will not see them.
Recently I purchase a cheap pair of glassed and there were all kinds of promises of filters within the glass to filter out the unwanted sun rays. I would suggest that we all need to check the glasses we use every day and see if they are filtering out the miracles, the beauty, the witnesses of Father's love, of charity surrounding us, and only letting in the mundane, the influences of the adversary. I am sad to say often that is all I see, ignoring the beauties, the Eternal Perspective that shows me witnesses of Father's love each day. Too often I am blind, oh that I can say as the song, once I was blind, but now I can see.
We CAN all see, if we look. One movie we saw hundreds of years ago has this statement in it, about these words, since I always quote everything wrong, "90% of the people of this world go around blind, where the other 10% are walking around in total amazement because of what they see." I have also heard one of the brethren say that there are miracles all about us, but seldom do we see them, recognize them as miracles.
As I consider our dream of a mission, if I could only constantly see the miracles that surround me constantly, nothing would adjust my focus from my Savior. I wouldn't let comments by loved ones stop my focus, I wouldn't let $90 tickets get in the way. I wouldn't let tooth aches stop my vision of seeing miracles. Nothing would get in the way and I would be one of those 10% that always sees visions.
Hyrum Smith used to go around giving firesides preaching that everything depends upon the glasses we look through. If we look through glasses that are adjusted with the prescription of seeing miracles, then we will see miracles. If our glasses do not see miracles, in fact filter out the miracles, then we will not see them.
Recently I purchase a cheap pair of glassed and there were all kinds of promises of filters within the glass to filter out the unwanted sun rays. I would suggest that we all need to check the glasses we use every day and see if they are filtering out the miracles, the beauty, the witnesses of Father's love, of charity surrounding us, and only letting in the mundane, the influences of the adversary. I am sad to say often that is all I see, ignoring the beauties, the Eternal Perspective that shows me witnesses of Father's love each day. Too often I am blind, oh that I can say as the song, once I was blind, but now I can see.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
DAY 335 -- Renewal of Dreams
What is my goal? What is my dream? In about 11 months, we are desirous of having a mission call. That would be a major goal which would involved many smaller goals. One would be knowing the gospel better than I do today. One would be losing those unwanted pounds that seem to grow as dandelions. One would be to be physically fit, all old age things taken care of. Another would be to be financially fit, or prepared to go on a mission, paying off debt I assumed at the loss of a business and having enough to serve wherever He would have us go.
Often if one is serious about a goal or dream, it is necessary to renew it in our minds. When that renewal takes place, then as we review the smaller goals to arrive at the major one, we should evaluate what progress has been made, if any. If we are serious of working toward our goal, then what have we done the past month in progress along the journey? Have we made progress? Have we climbed a part of the mountain? Are we serious? Do we need to re-evaluate our main goal, or recommit to those smaller goals to get there?
With reference to our goal of a mission, I shall be personal for a minute. In regards to our debt, we are on a program to pay off debt and be ready. We are making progress along that line. Of course not as fast as we wanted, but still on schedule to arrive there in eleven months. With reference to knowing the gospel, of course we are progressing, but not as fast as we could have. Need a bit more dedication there. About my fat-hood. I am going the wrong way. I sit in front of a large dish of what I love, and I find it hard to remember that I want to lose weight. I just eat and eat and eat. I pay for it later. I feel awful sitting on the scale. I rededicate each time my grand kids tell me I am fat, and each time I weigh myself. But I guess that is not enough. That part of my goal needs to be worked on more seriously. Then the part about fixing our old bodies. We are accomplishing that part, pretty well. I recently went and had a new crown put in. I figured that all was done, then the next day, I got a tooth ache on the other side. Guess I am not done with that part of my goal.
Besides the goal of a mission, I have set another one. I want to write a musical about the creation of the National Anthem. I am pursing this one, but this one does not enter in to the large one, or does it? Father knows. Is it part of His plan for us? I will pursue it until it takes away from our other main goal. It may even help us along the way. Is that how Father helps us? Does He give us other goals that may help us arrive at our smaller goals along the way? That is up for debate.
Often if one is serious about a goal or dream, it is necessary to renew it in our minds. When that renewal takes place, then as we review the smaller goals to arrive at the major one, we should evaluate what progress has been made, if any. If we are serious of working toward our goal, then what have we done the past month in progress along the journey? Have we made progress? Have we climbed a part of the mountain? Are we serious? Do we need to re-evaluate our main goal, or recommit to those smaller goals to get there?
With reference to our goal of a mission, I shall be personal for a minute. In regards to our debt, we are on a program to pay off debt and be ready. We are making progress along that line. Of course not as fast as we wanted, but still on schedule to arrive there in eleven months. With reference to knowing the gospel, of course we are progressing, but not as fast as we could have. Need a bit more dedication there. About my fat-hood. I am going the wrong way. I sit in front of a large dish of what I love, and I find it hard to remember that I want to lose weight. I just eat and eat and eat. I pay for it later. I feel awful sitting on the scale. I rededicate each time my grand kids tell me I am fat, and each time I weigh myself. But I guess that is not enough. That part of my goal needs to be worked on more seriously. Then the part about fixing our old bodies. We are accomplishing that part, pretty well. I recently went and had a new crown put in. I figured that all was done, then the next day, I got a tooth ache on the other side. Guess I am not done with that part of my goal.
Besides the goal of a mission, I have set another one. I want to write a musical about the creation of the National Anthem. I am pursing this one, but this one does not enter in to the large one, or does it? Father knows. Is it part of His plan for us? I will pursue it until it takes away from our other main goal. It may even help us along the way. Is that how Father helps us? Does He give us other goals that may help us arrive at our smaller goals along the way? That is up for debate.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Day 336 -- Murmuring
Laman and Lemuel were murmuring constantly. Nephi said that they murmured because they "knew not the dealings of the Lord." Do I find myself in that situation and let murmuring escape my mouth? Or do I question things that happen to me that can be classified as murmuring?
During the last few weeks, there were times when I asked questions, complained, and couldn't figure out why certain things could happen. I was trying to do the work of the Lord. I was trying to do what He wanted. I was striving to realize dreams and visions about going on a mission. I was at least thinking about losing weight and working on that part of the dream. Then why did I feel forsaken, forgotten, and fail in my efforts?
I guess I was murmuring just like Laman and Lemuel. Yes, of course I know Father loves me. Yes I know He is teaching me things for my benefit. Yes I know He is letting me experience some of these things so I can be a more effective tool in His hands. But when things do not go as I plan them, when things come back to haunt me, and when I feel questions and don't see why things do not go as I plan them, I guess I am murmuring and forgetting the workings of the Lord.
If I kept in my mind always that He knows what is best, He knows when, how, and even the why's of things, how could I, why should I ever murmur? It is sad to realize that I have that murmuring bug that bites me too often which takes away the Spirit from my mind, my thoughts, and my welfare. If I know the dealings of the Lord, perhaps I should remember them.
During the last few weeks, there were times when I asked questions, complained, and couldn't figure out why certain things could happen. I was trying to do the work of the Lord. I was trying to do what He wanted. I was striving to realize dreams and visions about going on a mission. I was at least thinking about losing weight and working on that part of the dream. Then why did I feel forsaken, forgotten, and fail in my efforts?
I guess I was murmuring just like Laman and Lemuel. Yes, of course I know Father loves me. Yes I know He is teaching me things for my benefit. Yes I know He is letting me experience some of these things so I can be a more effective tool in His hands. But when things do not go as I plan them, when things come back to haunt me, and when I feel questions and don't see why things do not go as I plan them, I guess I am murmuring and forgetting the workings of the Lord.
If I kept in my mind always that He knows what is best, He knows when, how, and even the why's of things, how could I, why should I ever murmur? It is sad to realize that I have that murmuring bug that bites me too often which takes away the Spirit from my mind, my thoughts, and my welfare. If I know the dealings of the Lord, perhaps I should remember them.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
DAY 337 -- Why Study the Scriptures
Bonnie and I read the Book of Mormon twice each year. As of June 30, we finished the BOM and now we are beginning again. Prophet Kimball said that when we finish page 531, turn to page 1 and start again. We are trying to do that, make the study of the BOM a life time pursuit.
Today is July 7. I have not read much recently the Book of Mormon and I have lost sight of things. I felt physically ill. I was wondering the why's of things. Nothing seemed good, nor right. Then I realized I had not read the Book of Mormon. So, I recommitted again. As I read three chapters today, I felt His Spirit with me. I felt more focused once again. I remembered the importance of our goal of going on a mission. Nothing in my reading pertained exactly to our mission, but the Spirit of the book reminded me of the wonderful nature of the Book of Mormon, and it instilled within me a Spirit of good, right, and positive nature.
Reading the scriptures can provide us with an added feeling of comfort and peace. What we read doesn't have to be directly involved with our goal, but it will help us feel the comfort of things we know and have been taught all our life. In my opinion, it is not what we read when we read our scriptures, it is that we are reading the words of the prophets. It is that we are being obedient to our Prophet. It is getting us to leave the "world" behind and read words that were inspired by God to be written for you and me. Not only when we are murmuring, losing faith, wondering about a gospel principle, or anything like that.
At least in my life, reading the scriptures before I begin the day helps me to focus on what is good, what my goals are, the Eternal Perspective, and open myself to the Holy Ghost. I just experienced one of the reasons why we are challenged, or urged to read every single day.
Today is July 7. I have not read much recently the Book of Mormon and I have lost sight of things. I felt physically ill. I was wondering the why's of things. Nothing seemed good, nor right. Then I realized I had not read the Book of Mormon. So, I recommitted again. As I read three chapters today, I felt His Spirit with me. I felt more focused once again. I remembered the importance of our goal of going on a mission. Nothing in my reading pertained exactly to our mission, but the Spirit of the book reminded me of the wonderful nature of the Book of Mormon, and it instilled within me a Spirit of good, right, and positive nature.
Reading the scriptures can provide us with an added feeling of comfort and peace. What we read doesn't have to be directly involved with our goal, but it will help us feel the comfort of things we know and have been taught all our life. In my opinion, it is not what we read when we read our scriptures, it is that we are reading the words of the prophets. It is that we are being obedient to our Prophet. It is getting us to leave the "world" behind and read words that were inspired by God to be written for you and me. Not only when we are murmuring, losing faith, wondering about a gospel principle, or anything like that.
At least in my life, reading the scriptures before I begin the day helps me to focus on what is good, what my goals are, the Eternal Perspective, and open myself to the Holy Ghost. I just experienced one of the reasons why we are challenged, or urged to read every single day.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
DAY 338 -- Confirmation - Revelation
Once someone asked me how long it had been since I had received some kind of revelation. How would you respond to that question? If we review the blog of yesterday where we felt pressured to make sure that our dream was according to the will of Father, then we should decide if we have felt His confirmation.
As I said once before, if we have not received that assurance that we are pursuing what Father desires, we will find many obstacles that may be insurmountable. But if we have received that confirmation, then no matter the obstacles, the challenges, we should continue to pursue working toward their realization.
Once I mentioned that when I sit to write in this blog, that sweet Spirit touches my mind and whispers to me what I should write about. That is inspiration. Often when I am talking with someone and something whispers within my mind, that is inspiration. When I am reading the Book of Mormon and something feels good and right, that is inspiration. When something comes into my mind that was far from my mind and I feel sweet and comfortable, that is inspiration. When I am asking Father for an answer and something I see or experience makes me feel a certain way, that is inspiration.
We have all had inspiration and communication from our Father. It is sad to relate that often we do not recognize His voice and the feelings we have are overlooked and forgotten. When He calls and finds our line busy, I would assume He often does not call back because we seem to be too busy for His call.
Inspiration is a "gift" from our Father. But just as any talent or other gift, we have to develop it, nurture it, and exercise it so we will never be busy when He calls us.
As I said once before, if we have not received that assurance that we are pursuing what Father desires, we will find many obstacles that may be insurmountable. But if we have received that confirmation, then no matter the obstacles, the challenges, we should continue to pursue working toward their realization.
Once I mentioned that when I sit to write in this blog, that sweet Spirit touches my mind and whispers to me what I should write about. That is inspiration. Often when I am talking with someone and something whispers within my mind, that is inspiration. When I am reading the Book of Mormon and something feels good and right, that is inspiration. When something comes into my mind that was far from my mind and I feel sweet and comfortable, that is inspiration. When I am asking Father for an answer and something I see or experience makes me feel a certain way, that is inspiration.
We have all had inspiration and communication from our Father. It is sad to relate that often we do not recognize His voice and the feelings we have are overlooked and forgotten. When He calls and finds our line busy, I would assume He often does not call back because we seem to be too busy for His call.
Inspiration is a "gift" from our Father. But just as any talent or other gift, we have to develop it, nurture it, and exercise it so we will never be busy when He calls us.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
DAY 339 -- Turning Ideas into Dreams
How do you turn an idea into a dream? Where do ideas come from? Should all ideas be dreams? What is an idea? "No one knows your thoughts, save God only." Because Father uses money, either the abundance of it, or the scarcity of it, to teach us Eternal Principles, money is often heavily involved in our ideas/dreams. There are more than 450 billionaires in the United States. The number of those living below poverty levels is hard to determine.
Because of the "Science of Money" I would propose that many people have an idea what they want to earn, have in the bank, give to their children, etc. Money probably is associated with many people's ideas that they turn into dreams and thus work toward at the expense of many other things. Having money is not bad nor evil. There are many people who have money who use it wisely and are the cause of much good. But on the other hand, so many think it is what is needed to be happy, content, and comfortable.
What is your idea that has elevated into a dream? Thinking upon an idea constantly may turn that idea into a dream. We will investigate, study and work toward realizing that dream. Are all ideas we envision worthy of us turning them into dreams?
We are given the privilege of thinking, wanting, dreaming, pondering, coming up with ideas, and striving to improve and grow, become better and progress. Inherently, we desire to eternally progress. So having ideas and trying to turn them into dreams is a good thing. But if we strive to turn an idea into a dream that is not according to Father's desire or His plans, we can rest assured that He will not be helping us with that idea/dream. Maybe we should check on our ideas that have become dreams and evaluate them. And maybe we should come up with different ideas and turn them into righteous dreams?
Because of the "Science of Money" I would propose that many people have an idea what they want to earn, have in the bank, give to their children, etc. Money probably is associated with many people's ideas that they turn into dreams and thus work toward at the expense of many other things. Having money is not bad nor evil. There are many people who have money who use it wisely and are the cause of much good. But on the other hand, so many think it is what is needed to be happy, content, and comfortable.
What is your idea that has elevated into a dream? Thinking upon an idea constantly may turn that idea into a dream. We will investigate, study and work toward realizing that dream. Are all ideas we envision worthy of us turning them into dreams?
We are given the privilege of thinking, wanting, dreaming, pondering, coming up with ideas, and striving to improve and grow, become better and progress. Inherently, we desire to eternally progress. So having ideas and trying to turn them into dreams is a good thing. But if we strive to turn an idea into a dream that is not according to Father's desire or His plans, we can rest assured that He will not be helping us with that idea/dream. Maybe we should check on our ideas that have become dreams and evaluate them. And maybe we should come up with different ideas and turn them into righteous dreams?
Monday, July 4, 2011
DAY 340 -- How Often Do We Remember Our Dream?
Last night and today we went to Brigham City/Perry, our home up until about one year ago. We were there and listened to Elder Perry in a fireside. Afterwards last night and in the festivities today, I was able to explain to many well-wishers that Bonnie and I are planning on going on a mission within the year. With one sister, I told her how much I have wanted to go for quite some time. My parents served four missions, and I would love to wear out my body using every day of health I have left in mortality serving as a missionary with my beloved wife as my companion.
As I shared with others about our goal and this blog, I felt that our dream - it is real, it is going to happen, and I must do all I can do in my part to prepare for it. I remembered times in my past when I observed friends and dear ones leaving for their mission. I recalled the longing for our turn to go and serve. I remembered singing "Called to Serve" and wondering when we would be...
Thus, I would suggest that telling others of our dream, or any dream or vision, or expectation is a great way to promote our visions. Telling others will recall it to our mind and remind us how dedicated we are to realizing that dream. The longing returned and has stayed with me all day long. I kept remembering of my goals and dreams to take my wife wherever Father sends us to serve Him.
Wouldn't you agree that no matter what our dream/goal/vision is, by repeating it, by reminding ourselves of it, by remembering it, and by dwelling upon how much we desire to achieve it or making it become a reality is a great way to continue working toward realizing our visions?
When we have chosen a goal, if we do not keep it in our minds, if we do not keep it living in our actions and working toward these goals, they will slowly die and we will forget how much we want to realize them. If we only remember our goal once a week, or even less often, you can see how much progress we would achieve on our goal.
Therefore, I suggest that we must remember it, often dwell upon how important our goals is, and make sure that each day we do something that will help draw us closer to realizing it!
As I shared with others about our goal and this blog, I felt that our dream - it is real, it is going to happen, and I must do all I can do in my part to prepare for it. I remembered times in my past when I observed friends and dear ones leaving for their mission. I recalled the longing for our turn to go and serve. I remembered singing "Called to Serve" and wondering when we would be...
Thus, I would suggest that telling others of our dream, or any dream or vision, or expectation is a great way to promote our visions. Telling others will recall it to our mind and remind us how dedicated we are to realizing that dream. The longing returned and has stayed with me all day long. I kept remembering of my goals and dreams to take my wife wherever Father sends us to serve Him.
Wouldn't you agree that no matter what our dream/goal/vision is, by repeating it, by reminding ourselves of it, by remembering it, and by dwelling upon how much we desire to achieve it or making it become a reality is a great way to continue working toward realizing our visions?
When we have chosen a goal, if we do not keep it in our minds, if we do not keep it living in our actions and working toward these goals, they will slowly die and we will forget how much we want to realize them. If we only remember our goal once a week, or even less often, you can see how much progress we would achieve on our goal.
Therefore, I suggest that we must remember it, often dwell upon how important our goals is, and make sure that each day we do something that will help draw us closer to realizing it!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
DAY 341 -- The Journey is Great, but the Dream is Greater
I really feel strongly that we must "enjoy" the journey, or perhaps learn from the journey. Often the journey teaches Eternal Principles. I know that is one of the reasons for our journey toward going on a mission. We already have seen unplanned on challenges, obstacles, and trails trying to thwart our focus on the mission. HOWEVER, we have also seen doors cracking open with unforeseen blessings, shortcuts toward our goal. Yes the journey is very valuable and that is often how He gets our attention to teach us lessons.
But the importance of having an ultimate goal, a destination, a plan to receive a mission call within about eleven months is still there and should be something that is thought about, planned for, and hoped for daily. The working toward the realization of our dream/vision is a divine method that Father can open eyes, teach lessons, cause us to draw closer to Him, and show forth miracles in removing obstacles. True.
Keeping our goal in front of us is just as important if not more so as we trudge along our journey toward or dream. I have gone through some challenges this past month, and sadly there have been days when I did not keep in front of me the glorious opportunity of going on a mission, serving our Lord in the kingdom. I was bogged down in the journey, the lessons being taught, and lost my total focus on a mission. I have even written a few blogs talking about the importance of the journey. I don't want to minimize those lessons, for they were inspired by our Father.
But ultimately, we must always have in our mind, burning brightly the goal toward which we travel. If we can glimpse of the realization of that goal daily, it will indeed give us strength to learn, to continue our journey through snow, sleep, rain, tornadoes, etc. We must take every opportunity to progress toward our goal every day. Enjoy the journey, but daily focus on the destination.
But the importance of having an ultimate goal, a destination, a plan to receive a mission call within about eleven months is still there and should be something that is thought about, planned for, and hoped for daily. The working toward the realization of our dream/vision is a divine method that Father can open eyes, teach lessons, cause us to draw closer to Him, and show forth miracles in removing obstacles. True.
Keeping our goal in front of us is just as important if not more so as we trudge along our journey toward or dream. I have gone through some challenges this past month, and sadly there have been days when I did not keep in front of me the glorious opportunity of going on a mission, serving our Lord in the kingdom. I was bogged down in the journey, the lessons being taught, and lost my total focus on a mission. I have even written a few blogs talking about the importance of the journey. I don't want to minimize those lessons, for they were inspired by our Father.
But ultimately, we must always have in our mind, burning brightly the goal toward which we travel. If we can glimpse of the realization of that goal daily, it will indeed give us strength to learn, to continue our journey through snow, sleep, rain, tornadoes, etc. We must take every opportunity to progress toward our goal every day. Enjoy the journey, but daily focus on the destination.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
DAY 342 -- What is More Important than the Dream???
In April Conference this year, we were challenged to recognize and even record each time the Spirit whispered into our mind little revelations or even big ones. I imagined that it would be of good report if I started, with our goal to serve a mission, to do just that. Thus, on June 9th, I started this blog with the purpose of being more sensitive to the Holy Ghost and inspiration. I have been doing this almost a month.
I continue to feel inspiration from Father concerning our upcoming mission, but I have also felt His influence on what I am to record on these blogs. More and more as I record my feelings, my inspirations, and those things given me, I realize the proximity of Father in what I do, what I write, what I ponder about preparing to write daily here. I am coming to understand a concept. Please bear with me as I strive to explain this idea.
Dreams and visions, goals, and project to obtain these are wonderful. Elder Hollands statement goes through my mind daily. (I will stray a bit here, and return in a minute.) Yesterday I talked with a musician who is going to help me start pursuing another of my dreams that I have been trying to start for over ten years. I have desired to write a musical, along the lines of Saturday's Warrior, which will describe the creation of the National Anthem with Francis Scott Key. All of a sudden, a new dream has been thrown into my path, one that I feel strongly about. I love this country, our freedoms, the founding fathers, and the history of our nation's birth. So, along with our mission plans, I am going to start working toward realizing this dream also.
Now to return to what I began. As I have pondered about dreams and visions, as I have prayed about Elder Hollands statement, as I had another dream thrown at me yesterday and the possibilities, the desire to pursue that one also, I feel inspiration telling me that if I never arrive at any of the goals I have right now, even if we are never given the privilege of going on a mission, the effort of striving toward realizing these dreams and visions is what Father would have me to now.
So, Elder Hollands counsel to me right now, (it may not be for you) is to identify the dream or vision and work toward it. Whether I ever get there or not is not mine to determine. But the working toward, the striving to realize this vision, the lessons learned through it, the journey to fulfillment is more important than arriving at a realization of a dream. That is for me, at least at this point in my life.
I continue to feel inspiration from Father concerning our upcoming mission, but I have also felt His influence on what I am to record on these blogs. More and more as I record my feelings, my inspirations, and those things given me, I realize the proximity of Father in what I do, what I write, what I ponder about preparing to write daily here. I am coming to understand a concept. Please bear with me as I strive to explain this idea.
Dreams and visions, goals, and project to obtain these are wonderful. Elder Hollands statement goes through my mind daily. (I will stray a bit here, and return in a minute.) Yesterday I talked with a musician who is going to help me start pursuing another of my dreams that I have been trying to start for over ten years. I have desired to write a musical, along the lines of Saturday's Warrior, which will describe the creation of the National Anthem with Francis Scott Key. All of a sudden, a new dream has been thrown into my path, one that I feel strongly about. I love this country, our freedoms, the founding fathers, and the history of our nation's birth. So, along with our mission plans, I am going to start working toward realizing this dream also.
Now to return to what I began. As I have pondered about dreams and visions, as I have prayed about Elder Hollands statement, as I had another dream thrown at me yesterday and the possibilities, the desire to pursue that one also, I feel inspiration telling me that if I never arrive at any of the goals I have right now, even if we are never given the privilege of going on a mission, the effort of striving toward realizing these dreams and visions is what Father would have me to now.
So, Elder Hollands counsel to me right now, (it may not be for you) is to identify the dream or vision and work toward it. Whether I ever get there or not is not mine to determine. But the working toward, the striving to realize this vision, the lessons learned through it, the journey to fulfillment is more important than arriving at a realization of a dream. That is for me, at least at this point in my life.
Friday, July 1, 2011
DAY 343 -- The World Falls Apart
Yesterday I blogged (is that a word?) about the wonderful blessings, the eternal reward that Father wants to give us. So many times in my mortal journey it has not seems like that was true. So many times I have had my share of challenges, struggles, and questions about when, and if I was still in line to receive all those eternal blessings. I couldn't help but ask what I had done to deserve the trials I was facing. So often many of us have questions along the same line. We strive to do all we can do. We sacrifice for what we know to be true and right. Then the whole world falls apart.
I can't even share how many times I have been on the cold flat surface waiting for an xray to explain many internal problems, where the kidney stone was, why my shoulder was out of whack again, etc. When troubles were encountered at work and I suffered too many times being fired,when we were the focus for a sub for santa project, etc, etc. Why? What did I do to deserve that kind of pain, turmoil, forsaking from my Father?
Why do we always internalize and think that our trials and challenges are because of what we have done? Life isn't for wimps, even though we see one when we look in the mirror each morning. The whole challenge we have is to seek deep within the cobwebs of our mind and dust off our faith in our Savior, the knowledge we have that Father knows what we need, how much we need, and what we should be learning, and how we should be drawing closer to Him through it all. Even Joseph Smith pleaded with Father, Oh Father, where art thou? What covereth thy pavillion...?
I know there are reason for each one of these circumstances for my own growth, but it is often hard to remember that, live that, and exercise faith in that.
(Note:When I sit to write this blog each day, I offer a prayer to know what He would have me write. It is interesting that He continually has me write on this subject. Perhaps because it is something that I have to remember firmly in my mind?)
I can't even share how many times I have been on the cold flat surface waiting for an xray to explain many internal problems, where the kidney stone was, why my shoulder was out of whack again, etc. When troubles were encountered at work and I suffered too many times being fired,when we were the focus for a sub for santa project, etc, etc. Why? What did I do to deserve that kind of pain, turmoil, forsaking from my Father?
Why do we always internalize and think that our trials and challenges are because of what we have done? Life isn't for wimps, even though we see one when we look in the mirror each morning. The whole challenge we have is to seek deep within the cobwebs of our mind and dust off our faith in our Savior, the knowledge we have that Father knows what we need, how much we need, and what we should be learning, and how we should be drawing closer to Him through it all. Even Joseph Smith pleaded with Father, Oh Father, where art thou? What covereth thy pavillion...?
I know there are reason for each one of these circumstances for my own growth, but it is often hard to remember that, live that, and exercise faith in that.
(Note:When I sit to write this blog each day, I offer a prayer to know what He would have me write. It is interesting that He continually has me write on this subject. Perhaps because it is something that I have to remember firmly in my mind?)
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