I said yesterday that choosing to pursue this dream of having sufficient for our mission was going to be a life changing goal. I have felt good feelings as I have decided to see what I can do to realize this dream. It is a major one and one that will require much work.
But along with that, it will require me changing a few things in my life also. You see, I have started many businesses. I have pursued many dreams. I have followed many ideas to either failure (most of them) or success. So as I pursue this dream, working toward its realization, I will need to listen.
Our stake president said in our last Stake Conference that we should be receiving inspiration every day. We should receive whispering from the Holy Ghost daily. So if this is the case, and if Father is sending constant inspiration that I need to follow to realize this dream, then I need to do whatever is necessary to be worthy of that inspiration. I need to listen, I need to follow every idea that comes into my mind.
If Father is sending me ideas, people to contact, things to check out, then I need to be a partner with Father to do my part. I am sure if we are to realize this dream, there will be many things I need to do. I will need to be "talking" with Father daily, be worthy of His direction, and feel that inspiration daily. So I need to live my life more spiritually watching for that direction.
Two small miracles, or should I say two witnesses of this dream confirmation. I was asked to take a student to the airport today, earning myself $75 and then I received notice that a bookseller sold some of my books and has a check for me for $150. All of a sudden, I have $225 that I didn't know anything about yesterday. I will save the $225 as the first part of travelling along the road to saving $50,000. There is a long way to go, but at least we are started.
I know that Father can cause many miracles, many unplanned circumstances that will help add to that account, that mission account. I know that He is aware of my dream to provide and support us on a mission. I know that He can create small and even large miracles that will help realize this dream. I will try to record them all so you, dear reader, can also enjoy the miracles that will happen, the inspiration I receive, and monitor the path, the struggles, and the successes of going toward this dream.
No dream is too big to dream, to work toward, IF it is Father's will.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
DAY 254 --- Time To Go To Work
I have shared this dream with a few people. Many inwardly laugh and say good luck. By looking in their eyes, I can see a doubt and questioning in their minds. Why do we always judge someone else by what we would do, or would have done. The few that I have told about this dream have put themselves in our position to the point of asking questions.
""How did you come up with that amount?" "Do you really think you can find that much money in 8 months?" And inwardly I can imagine them asking, "Do you really think you can do that?" "There's no way in .... that you are going to have that amount of money in eight months." "What is wrong with having someone else support you on your mission?"
I question the same things. Will Father grant unto us the realization of that dream? How can I expect to achieve that dream? What do I do now? Where should I pursue that dream? How can I work "toward it?" And what happens if I do not achieve that dream?
As I said before, I am taking that question with me to conference in the next few days. I am going to get a confirmation of this dream, asking what I need to do to "work toward" this dream. I have to keep reminding myself that there is nothing to hard for the Lord. I need to remind myself that there is nothing wrong with that dream. I am not asking for anything that is beyond what Father would sanction. Our Prophet urged us to consider going on a mission, and so we are, and we are working toward it.
There are about 250 days for us to strive to realize this dream. I need to think about, work towards it, and never let it leave my mind. Just as the dream to go on our mission in that many days, I should be thinking about it always.
When Noah promised rain to those unbelievers, few believed. When Joseph talked about going West, few believed. When the windows of heaven are promised to be open, few believe. When we are promised great blessings, few actually can conceive of the glorious nature of those blessings awaiting us.
There are time when I doubt it, but when I do, I immediately know that those thoughts come from the adversary. Father has directed me to pursue it and I shall. It often causes me to stop and think, and consider, but with the Spirit, I know it is what Father wants me to do. Sorry about talking about this dream so much, but it is a drastic change of plans, and visions, and dreams. Must get to work to achieve it, for it is possible, if it is His will. But most importantly, setting this dream is a change in my own thought process, my own habits, and my own actions. It is life changing. Now it is time to go to work!
""How did you come up with that amount?" "Do you really think you can find that much money in 8 months?" And inwardly I can imagine them asking, "Do you really think you can do that?" "There's no way in .... that you are going to have that amount of money in eight months." "What is wrong with having someone else support you on your mission?"
I question the same things. Will Father grant unto us the realization of that dream? How can I expect to achieve that dream? What do I do now? Where should I pursue that dream? How can I work "toward it?" And what happens if I do not achieve that dream?
As I said before, I am taking that question with me to conference in the next few days. I am going to get a confirmation of this dream, asking what I need to do to "work toward" this dream. I have to keep reminding myself that there is nothing to hard for the Lord. I need to remind myself that there is nothing wrong with that dream. I am not asking for anything that is beyond what Father would sanction. Our Prophet urged us to consider going on a mission, and so we are, and we are working toward it.
There are about 250 days for us to strive to realize this dream. I need to think about, work towards it, and never let it leave my mind. Just as the dream to go on our mission in that many days, I should be thinking about it always.
When Noah promised rain to those unbelievers, few believed. When Joseph talked about going West, few believed. When the windows of heaven are promised to be open, few believe. When we are promised great blessings, few actually can conceive of the glorious nature of those blessings awaiting us.
There are time when I doubt it, but when I do, I immediately know that those thoughts come from the adversary. Father has directed me to pursue it and I shall. It often causes me to stop and think, and consider, but with the Spirit, I know it is what Father wants me to do. Sorry about talking about this dream so much, but it is a drastic change of plans, and visions, and dreams. Must get to work to achieve it, for it is possible, if it is His will. But most importantly, setting this dream is a change in my own thought process, my own habits, and my own actions. It is life changing. Now it is time to go to work!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
DAY 255 -- Conference Confirmations
I have been told that my new goal is a good one. Why should I look forward to depending upon someone else to go on a mission? Why not do all I can do to have sufficient for our needs for a mission or two? "Finding" $50,000 to be used in behalf of the Lord, serving Him on a mission is not beyond His abilities. The question is, will I be worthy of such a blessing?
A few days ago, I explained right after I decided to go for a dream of that money, I had three inputs, which could help me obtain that goal. Well, another one came today. By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. So when something small comes to pass, or happens in my life, I should not discount it, but realize that perhaps Father is using that small thing to motivate me, to impress me what I should be doing so I can make inroads toward this goal. (After I pursue this one a bit, I will record it.) (It is still a small and simple thing, as I am.)
I am feeling more and more positive about this new dream of ours. Why shouldn't we pursue it? If we do not, then there is no way something like this could happen. So, I am going for it.
As I said yesterday, I am going to think about this during conference and see how it feels during all those wonderful inspired talks. A co worker said today that he pauses before the sessions begin and writes down the questions he has. Then he glances at them during the five sessions of conference. He bears witness that most often he receives insights, even direct answers to his questions, those things that bother him and things that he has not received answers to through prayer.
Well, one of my written goals, my desires will be this new goal. I am going to pursue it and want a confirmation. I know it can come in conference, and thus I will prepare myself, and be ready for any direction I receive during those talks. I may even get a few more small and simple ideas that could result in helping me find a few ways to raise the Mission Money.
As I honestly consider how this idea came into my mind, I feel it was from Father and thus onward and upward. No stupors yet, and I don't believe I will get one pertaining to this idea.
A few days ago, I explained right after I decided to go for a dream of that money, I had three inputs, which could help me obtain that goal. Well, another one came today. By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. So when something small comes to pass, or happens in my life, I should not discount it, but realize that perhaps Father is using that small thing to motivate me, to impress me what I should be doing so I can make inroads toward this goal. (After I pursue this one a bit, I will record it.) (It is still a small and simple thing, as I am.)
I am feeling more and more positive about this new dream of ours. Why shouldn't we pursue it? If we do not, then there is no way something like this could happen. So, I am going for it.
As I said yesterday, I am going to think about this during conference and see how it feels during all those wonderful inspired talks. A co worker said today that he pauses before the sessions begin and writes down the questions he has. Then he glances at them during the five sessions of conference. He bears witness that most often he receives insights, even direct answers to his questions, those things that bother him and things that he has not received answers to through prayer.
Well, one of my written goals, my desires will be this new goal. I am going to pursue it and want a confirmation. I know it can come in conference, and thus I will prepare myself, and be ready for any direction I receive during those talks. I may even get a few more small and simple ideas that could result in helping me find a few ways to raise the Mission Money.
As I honestly consider how this idea came into my mind, I feel it was from Father and thus onward and upward. No stupors yet, and I don't believe I will get one pertaining to this idea.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
DAY 256 -- Is My New Goal Good?
I wonder. I mean, I have a dream to earn enough money to serve a mission, to do His will. But money is used to corrupt as well as do good. Money changes people, I have seen it.
When I consider that I have a goal to earn $50,000, I wonder whether I am missing the boat. I mean, if my High Priests will support us with my family, why worry about that money. When I was a kid, or at least younger, (even yesterday I was younger than I am today) I saw how Father uses money, or the lack thereof to teach Eternal Principles. I wanted to write a book about the "Science of Money" how is it used and abused, how people learn from it and get destroyed from the pursuit of it. I could see many lessons concerning money.
I watch my children, as well as others I know well, react to the struggle of money. I quietly watch as they learn lessons. I don't put my input in, for Father uses that tool to teach, make humble, uplift, and even bless His children. I recall the sad experience of seeing a dear friend become hardened, less Spiritual, and less serviceable because of the money he was given by Father.
Bonnie has repeatedly told me that she would love to have something when we come home from our mission. That is part of the purpose of this new goal. I am sure it is hard for a home maker to know that after a mission, she will be returning to nothing. Thus my new goal.
We are going to joy over General Conference this weekend. As I listen intently to the testimonies, the stories, and the witnesses I hear, I am going to seek a revelation that this new goal is according to Father's wishes. Once again, whether I get there or not is not that important. It is the path I have chosen to pursue, work toward this goal, this dream that is the important thing. I want to know that it is His will that I work toward the realization of this new goal involving a great deal of money.
I hope to return and report to the readers of this blog after conference about that wish and goal, to get an answer, or confirmation about pursing this goal. Thus far, I feel good about it, and I am excited to pursue realizing it. Then reality sets in and I question. Fifty Thousand is a lot of money.
When I consider that I have a goal to earn $50,000, I wonder whether I am missing the boat. I mean, if my High Priests will support us with my family, why worry about that money. When I was a kid, or at least younger, (even yesterday I was younger than I am today) I saw how Father uses money, or the lack thereof to teach Eternal Principles. I wanted to write a book about the "Science of Money" how is it used and abused, how people learn from it and get destroyed from the pursuit of it. I could see many lessons concerning money.
I watch my children, as well as others I know well, react to the struggle of money. I quietly watch as they learn lessons. I don't put my input in, for Father uses that tool to teach, make humble, uplift, and even bless His children. I recall the sad experience of seeing a dear friend become hardened, less Spiritual, and less serviceable because of the money he was given by Father.
Bonnie has repeatedly told me that she would love to have something when we come home from our mission. That is part of the purpose of this new goal. I am sure it is hard for a home maker to know that after a mission, she will be returning to nothing. Thus my new goal.
We are going to joy over General Conference this weekend. As I listen intently to the testimonies, the stories, and the witnesses I hear, I am going to seek a revelation that this new goal is according to Father's wishes. Once again, whether I get there or not is not that important. It is the path I have chosen to pursue, work toward this goal, this dream that is the important thing. I want to know that it is His will that I work toward the realization of this new goal involving a great deal of money.
I hope to return and report to the readers of this blog after conference about that wish and goal, to get an answer, or confirmation about pursing this goal. Thus far, I feel good about it, and I am excited to pursue realizing it. Then reality sets in and I question. Fifty Thousand is a lot of money.
Monday, September 26, 2011
DAY 257 -- Father is So Good to Me
Yesterday, I believe I shared that I had a new dream. One that would require many miracles to accomplish. I am certainly not saying that miracles do not happen, in fact they happen often, almost every day if we looked for them. Anyway, as I said yesterday, I have a new goal, a new dream to have $50,000 in my bank when we are ready to go on a mission. That is in 257 days.
One friend of mine shared with me a few years ago that he was a witness that if Father wants to bless us, He can. He shared that within six months he went from totally broke, ready to file bankruptcy to having $75,000 in his bank with a couple of houses, etc. He bore a strong testimony that there is nothing too hard for the Lord. If He agrees with the dream I have chosen to pursue, there is nothing to get in the way of it.
Well, as I said, I set this goal to have the money to support myself on a mission and not have to depend upon someone else. So within the last two days, three things have "happened." Miracles? You judge.
ONE: I was reminded of an investment that I have that we have sort of forgotten about. Those things often do not happen, but this one could mature about the time we will be ready to leave. I witnessed a neighbor in a previous ward bear witness that his stock matured right before he and his wife left on his mission. It certainly can happen to us.
TWO: My sister told me of another possibility of being trained, and work as a counselor for those with ADD syndrome. It is being done with others and she is going to direct me how to at least pursue the possibility.
THREE: I was talked to by a fellow high priest on Sunday and he said he was thinking of working with me on a project he had. I knew nothing about that, but again, I will pursue it.
These could just be a confirmation that I am on the right track, or they could be dead ends. Either way, I still have that goal to have $50,000 in my bank before we go. We shall see what becomes of these three possibilities, or any other ones that come my way. Why not dream big? Why not set a goal to have sufficient to pay for our own mission without depending upon anyone else?
It totally depends upon Father's tender mercies and what happens in the next 257 days.
One friend of mine shared with me a few years ago that he was a witness that if Father wants to bless us, He can. He shared that within six months he went from totally broke, ready to file bankruptcy to having $75,000 in his bank with a couple of houses, etc. He bore a strong testimony that there is nothing too hard for the Lord. If He agrees with the dream I have chosen to pursue, there is nothing to get in the way of it.
Well, as I said, I set this goal to have the money to support myself on a mission and not have to depend upon someone else. So within the last two days, three things have "happened." Miracles? You judge.
ONE: I was reminded of an investment that I have that we have sort of forgotten about. Those things often do not happen, but this one could mature about the time we will be ready to leave. I witnessed a neighbor in a previous ward bear witness that his stock matured right before he and his wife left on his mission. It certainly can happen to us.
TWO: My sister told me of another possibility of being trained, and work as a counselor for those with ADD syndrome. It is being done with others and she is going to direct me how to at least pursue the possibility.
THREE: I was talked to by a fellow high priest on Sunday and he said he was thinking of working with me on a project he had. I knew nothing about that, but again, I will pursue it.
These could just be a confirmation that I am on the right track, or they could be dead ends. Either way, I still have that goal to have $50,000 in my bank before we go. We shall see what becomes of these three possibilities, or any other ones that come my way. Why not dream big? Why not set a goal to have sufficient to pay for our own mission without depending upon anyone else?
It totally depends upon Father's tender mercies and what happens in the next 257 days.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
DAY 258 --- A New Dream
When we began this dream to be prepared to serve a mission, we figured on Bonnie's income and mine put together. That amount would rid us of all Bowling Alley debt. As we proceed toward June next year, once in a while we find something else that stems from the BA days. But we feel that we are beyond any further surprises coming for the Bowling Alley. But who knows?
Since we are on a financial path to realize our dream of being ready to serve a mission, I have found another dream. In the last few days I have been blogging about this and that concerning dreams. Are they good? Are they bad? If we have a dream that is a long distance in the future and there is even doubt about it ever being filled, should we still dream it, plan for it and work toward it?
I speak of none other than this new dream I have. As we put in our papers, rather than just be out of debt totally, and having someone else support us, I want to begin dreaming on another financial dream beyond the one just to be out of debt. I dream about having $50,000 in the bank beyond our debt so we can support ourselves. I present that to the world (the small one that reads this blog) based upon the scriptures and belief I have that "There is nothing to difficult for the Lord." The D and C states that there is enough and to spare (speaking of money) and the BOM states that if we have a hope in Christ, if we desire riches for good, then we shall have them.
So, knowing that Father can bless us in that manner also, I want to solidify my dream to have that amount saved to go on a mission. I have a little more than 8 months to realize that dream. I offer my talents, my abilities, and my heart to my Father to use as He sees fit. So we shall see what becomes of that dream.
Elder Holland says to work toward it, and thus I shall.
Since we are on a financial path to realize our dream of being ready to serve a mission, I have found another dream. In the last few days I have been blogging about this and that concerning dreams. Are they good? Are they bad? If we have a dream that is a long distance in the future and there is even doubt about it ever being filled, should we still dream it, plan for it and work toward it?
I speak of none other than this new dream I have. As we put in our papers, rather than just be out of debt totally, and having someone else support us, I want to begin dreaming on another financial dream beyond the one just to be out of debt. I dream about having $50,000 in the bank beyond our debt so we can support ourselves. I present that to the world (the small one that reads this blog) based upon the scriptures and belief I have that "There is nothing to difficult for the Lord." The D and C states that there is enough and to spare (speaking of money) and the BOM states that if we have a hope in Christ, if we desire riches for good, then we shall have them.
So, knowing that Father can bless us in that manner also, I want to solidify my dream to have that amount saved to go on a mission. I have a little more than 8 months to realize that dream. I offer my talents, my abilities, and my heart to my Father to use as He sees fit. So we shall see what becomes of that dream.
Elder Holland says to work toward it, and thus I shall.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
DAY 259 -- MISSION DREAM
I know, I said yesterday was going to be the last post on dreams. But as I sit here and ponder what I could write today, I feel that urge to explain my dream about our mission. I mean, that is why we started this dream, this goal to prepare for serving a mission together.
Bonnie did not serve a mission. I did in South East Mexico from 1968 - 1970. I remember, way back then, that I had a dream to work full time in the work of the Lord. My sister argues that raising a family, going to work, serving on Sundays, etc, is working for the Lord, building up the Kingdom. I finally can see her point and agree with her. But again, I have this vision, or whatever you want to call it to go and give my 24/7 to the Lord in the mission field. Last conference the Prophet again mentioned that they would like everyone who was able, prepared to serve a mission, emphasizing the seniors, of which we are two.
I watched my parents serve four missions, saw the joy that came into their lives, partially understood the good they did, and observe their testimonies get stronger and stronger, as well as many other blessings enter their lives. I have watched many others serve missions and I envy them.
I watched a group of "seniors" prepare in Perry before we moved from there and ached to be included with that group. It was not to be for many reasons. But our heart is in the right place, and I hope He understands our goal to serve in about 259 days.
Serving a mission somewhere in the world with my beloved companion would be the ultimate of joy and peace in this life. We dream, we prepare, we do every needful thing to be ready in 259 days, then leave it in the Lord's hands. He knows us. He knows our abilities and our willingness. He knows our desires to follow our prophet. But ultimately, He also knows what we need to be perfected, prepared for the coming years in mortality as well as what we need to be prepared for those glorious blessings that await us after mortality. We live our present days as best we can and leave our future days to Him, knowing that He is the Master. I just hope we can accept any eventuality that He chooses to "bless" us with, and be faithful, serving a mission or not.
Bonnie did not serve a mission. I did in South East Mexico from 1968 - 1970. I remember, way back then, that I had a dream to work full time in the work of the Lord. My sister argues that raising a family, going to work, serving on Sundays, etc, is working for the Lord, building up the Kingdom. I finally can see her point and agree with her. But again, I have this vision, or whatever you want to call it to go and give my 24/7 to the Lord in the mission field. Last conference the Prophet again mentioned that they would like everyone who was able, prepared to serve a mission, emphasizing the seniors, of which we are two.
I watched my parents serve four missions, saw the joy that came into their lives, partially understood the good they did, and observe their testimonies get stronger and stronger, as well as many other blessings enter their lives. I have watched many others serve missions and I envy them.
I watched a group of "seniors" prepare in Perry before we moved from there and ached to be included with that group. It was not to be for many reasons. But our heart is in the right place, and I hope He understands our goal to serve in about 259 days.
Serving a mission somewhere in the world with my beloved companion would be the ultimate of joy and peace in this life. We dream, we prepare, we do every needful thing to be ready in 259 days, then leave it in the Lord's hands. He knows us. He knows our abilities and our willingness. He knows our desires to follow our prophet. But ultimately, He also knows what we need to be perfected, prepared for the coming years in mortality as well as what we need to be prepared for those glorious blessings that await us after mortality. We live our present days as best we can and leave our future days to Him, knowing that He is the Master. I just hope we can accept any eventuality that He chooses to "bless" us with, and be faithful, serving a mission or not.
Friday, September 23, 2011
DAY 260 -- Final Day Of Dreams
One of the problems of dreaming is my poor wife. As I said before, I have started many businesses, many a result of dreams. She has supported me through thick and thin. However, our life has been think and thin. She has never complained. Though I often have made decisions that resulted in failure, poverty, no money for cloths or insurance, etc, I have a wonderful wife who continues to support me through it all.
Dreams are good, especially when they are shared by both spouses. We both anticipate and wish for this dream that started this blog, to serve a mission. We both desire to go and do as the Lord commands, and where He commands. Since we share this dream, even in times of challenges and trials, we can unitedly tackle it and strive to overcome any challenge.
When one of the couple has a dream not shared by the other, it can create problems. I have seen this happen within the bonds of matrimony, between spouses. At times, it can cause very serious difficulty between the married couple. Once in a while it even can, and does cause divorce.
So as I conclude my posting about dreams, I must offer gratitude to my Father for a wife who has supported me through my crazy ones, my failing ones, and my ill-thought out ones. She has supported me, no matter the outcome and I know I am very blessed to have her.
In conclusion, having dreams can be and should be a positive experience. It is when a couple, a family can work together to accomplish a unified goal. The working together could be part of the reason why Elder Holland urges us to dream dreams and see vision.
One dream we should all have and work toward is earning the Eternal Reward that is promised to us through our Savior Jesus Christ. We must work together with our spouse to achieve that dream, no matter what.
Dreams are good, especially when they are shared by both spouses. We both anticipate and wish for this dream that started this blog, to serve a mission. We both desire to go and do as the Lord commands, and where He commands. Since we share this dream, even in times of challenges and trials, we can unitedly tackle it and strive to overcome any challenge.
When one of the couple has a dream not shared by the other, it can create problems. I have seen this happen within the bonds of matrimony, between spouses. At times, it can cause very serious difficulty between the married couple. Once in a while it even can, and does cause divorce.
So as I conclude my posting about dreams, I must offer gratitude to my Father for a wife who has supported me through my crazy ones, my failing ones, and my ill-thought out ones. She has supported me, no matter the outcome and I know I am very blessed to have her.
In conclusion, having dreams can be and should be a positive experience. It is when a couple, a family can work together to accomplish a unified goal. The working together could be part of the reason why Elder Holland urges us to dream dreams and see vision.
One dream we should all have and work toward is earning the Eternal Reward that is promised to us through our Savior Jesus Christ. We must work together with our spouse to achieve that dream, no matter what.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
DAY -- 261 More Dreams Part Two
I have been thinking all day about dreams. I know that most people work in a place that they do not like, they just work for the money. They don't enjoy what they do but endure because they do not want to find another one. The unknown is hard to tackle.
These people cannot dream, are afraid of dreaming. They have convinced themselves that dreaming does no good, so they put up with a less than desirable situation. Do we do the same? Why are some people afraid of dreaming.
I guess some do not dream because of the devastation of not realizing that dream. I remember on my mission I was with a companion I was not comfortable with. Transfers were coming and I "knew" that he was going to be transferred because we couldn't get along. I "dreamed" that I would soon have a better companion. Well the day came and went, and I was indeed devastated. What a lesson.
I also know the depression of having dreams, believing in dreams and then having them turn into nightmares. When I purchased the bowling alley in Brigham City, I had dreams of so much success. The economy came and totally changed any success into much less than what my dreams and hopes were at the beginning.
So if that is the depression that awaits those who dream, those who can think of and work toward dreams and then fails, some feel that dreaming is not worth the probability of failing at that dream. Many say everyone should just be satisfied with circumstances which are present now in your life and do not dream.
I don't believe that. I endorse Elder Hollands counsel to dream and work toward those dreams, even if one dreams of very challenging event or goal. As I have thought about this question whether dreaming was worth the possibility of failing and not achieving, I still endorse Elder Holland.
Dreaming is a joy. Imagining possibilities that "could" one day happen can create something to look forward to. Working toward a dream or a vision is also a joy. It can give us strength to carry on, to strive to realize those dreams, and it teaches us a lesson.
I suggest that we should always dream. I will convince Bonnie that, though it may be difficult to imagine how and when, she needs to dream of the time when she can purchase a new wardrobe. "We must work toward their realization...:" says Elder Holland. If we never realize each dream, we will learn as we strive to realize each dream. Dream dreams and see visions. I am in favor, considering it all. I, at least for one person, will continue to dream. But that brings up another challenge, for my good wife.... Tomorrow will deal with that.
These people cannot dream, are afraid of dreaming. They have convinced themselves that dreaming does no good, so they put up with a less than desirable situation. Do we do the same? Why are some people afraid of dreaming.
I guess some do not dream because of the devastation of not realizing that dream. I remember on my mission I was with a companion I was not comfortable with. Transfers were coming and I "knew" that he was going to be transferred because we couldn't get along. I "dreamed" that I would soon have a better companion. Well the day came and went, and I was indeed devastated. What a lesson.
I also know the depression of having dreams, believing in dreams and then having them turn into nightmares. When I purchased the bowling alley in Brigham City, I had dreams of so much success. The economy came and totally changed any success into much less than what my dreams and hopes were at the beginning.
So if that is the depression that awaits those who dream, those who can think of and work toward dreams and then fails, some feel that dreaming is not worth the probability of failing at that dream. Many say everyone should just be satisfied with circumstances which are present now in your life and do not dream.
I don't believe that. I endorse Elder Hollands counsel to dream and work toward those dreams, even if one dreams of very challenging event or goal. As I have thought about this question whether dreaming was worth the possibility of failing and not achieving, I still endorse Elder Holland.
Dreaming is a joy. Imagining possibilities that "could" one day happen can create something to look forward to. Working toward a dream or a vision is also a joy. It can give us strength to carry on, to strive to realize those dreams, and it teaches us a lesson.
I suggest that we should always dream. I will convince Bonnie that, though it may be difficult to imagine how and when, she needs to dream of the time when she can purchase a new wardrobe. "We must work toward their realization...:" says Elder Holland. If we never realize each dream, we will learn as we strive to realize each dream. Dream dreams and see visions. I am in favor, considering it all. I, at least for one person, will continue to dream. But that brings up another challenge, for my good wife.... Tomorrow will deal with that.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
DAY 262 -- Dreaming - Part One
Why is it important to have dreams? My wife and I were talking about this the other day. She said she wanted a new wardrobe and we have not been in a position to grant that dream. There just seems to be so many other places to put our money these days. We are striving to rid ourselves of debt brought on by a previous business.
I asked her how much money she would like to have for her dream of a new wardrobe. She said she didn't know, but would like to have a certain amount every week rather than just one sum. I asked her how much and I would put it in the back of my mind and work toward it. She laughed and said, "Why dream?"
That started me thinking. Why do we dream? Why take circumstances of today and try to imagine how we would change things if we could? Why try to imagine possibilities when you are certain that none of your dreams will be realized?
Elder Holland said that we must dream dreams... and work toward their realization. Was he discounting certain dreams, say of money? I started this blog and Bon and I created in our mind a way to accomplish our dream of going on a mission. We are working toward that. We are trying to record any miracles along the way. We are comfortable, barring any unforeseen event, that we will be worthy of and ready for a mission call in 262 days.
But what of Bonnie's dream to have enough money to purchase her a new wardrobe? Should Elder Holland have said, we must dream dreams that are really possible? What good is a dream? In the popular play, "My Turn On Earth," there is a song that says, "Some dreams must wait, life isn't long enough, some dreams must wait to come true."
So, is Bonnie's dream one of those? Why dream? Even if you know your dream will never come true in this life, should we still dream? We should remember that nothing is too difficult for the Lord. Even Bonnie's dream could, and should come true. But it may be when we are almost a century old?
I am a dreamer. I have started more than 50 businesses, all had dreams of being totally successful or I would not have dreamed them, started those businesses. Was I wrong?
I am not sure I have said what I need to say about dreams, thus I will continue this tomorrow.
I asked her how much money she would like to have for her dream of a new wardrobe. She said she didn't know, but would like to have a certain amount every week rather than just one sum. I asked her how much and I would put it in the back of my mind and work toward it. She laughed and said, "Why dream?"
That started me thinking. Why do we dream? Why take circumstances of today and try to imagine how we would change things if we could? Why try to imagine possibilities when you are certain that none of your dreams will be realized?
Elder Holland said that we must dream dreams... and work toward their realization. Was he discounting certain dreams, say of money? I started this blog and Bon and I created in our mind a way to accomplish our dream of going on a mission. We are working toward that. We are trying to record any miracles along the way. We are comfortable, barring any unforeseen event, that we will be worthy of and ready for a mission call in 262 days.
But what of Bonnie's dream to have enough money to purchase her a new wardrobe? Should Elder Holland have said, we must dream dreams that are really possible? What good is a dream? In the popular play, "My Turn On Earth," there is a song that says, "Some dreams must wait, life isn't long enough, some dreams must wait to come true."
So, is Bonnie's dream one of those? Why dream? Even if you know your dream will never come true in this life, should we still dream? We should remember that nothing is too difficult for the Lord. Even Bonnie's dream could, and should come true. But it may be when we are almost a century old?
I am a dreamer. I have started more than 50 businesses, all had dreams of being totally successful or I would not have dreamed them, started those businesses. Was I wrong?
I am not sure I have said what I need to say about dreams, thus I will continue this tomorrow.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
DAY 263 -- Passive Way of Managing
I have a boss who struggles over many things. He is very compassionate and passive. He doesn't want to get involved with his employees. He thinks that every employee should leave employment at his business a better person. He wants to help everyone improve.
I have been working with him for six months. In that time, he has stated many times his feelings expressed above. I told him I can see his desire to serve others, uplift employees, help them become better, but the thing that frustrates me is there are so many who take advantage of his "laid back" attitude. I continually tell him that there are people who come when they want. There are those who do not give him the honest 8 hours or however many they are paid. I express frustration to him and try to explain that when it comes to business, you have to run a tight ship and make sure that they are not taking advantage of you.
I have been questioning myself in this attitude. For he says that I am very "hard" in my evaluate of those employees. When I say that they are "stealing" from him by wasting away their days and not working for the time they are paid, he says that they are doing things that will generate "good" in the future.
On Monday, he came into the office very depressed. He didn't want to talk with anyone. Finally, I had a few minutes with him and he finally decided that he was fed up with his employees. One quarter of them were immature, and were taking advantage of him. He thought about firing the whole lot and starting over.
I can see his desire to help employees learn lessons and leave better than they came, but in the mean time, they are hurting his business. He has struggled for the last few years making payroll, and I can see why.
There are two concepts. Perhaps I am too hard and critical. Perhaps I am the one who is a good saint during the week, but look at business differently, as I have seen so many do. Perhaps he is the one who is on the right track, treating everyone passively and compassionately. I can see his rationale, but I also see that so many are taking advantage and hurting his business.
Guess there is always two ways to view what is happening at work. I guess the next week or so will show, through his actions, what is going to win out. People are different, is one way wrong, and one right? Or what?
I am quietly observing his actions, his attitude toward us and every employee. It will be interesting to see what happens in his attitude as well as his business.
I have been working with him for six months. In that time, he has stated many times his feelings expressed above. I told him I can see his desire to serve others, uplift employees, help them become better, but the thing that frustrates me is there are so many who take advantage of his "laid back" attitude. I continually tell him that there are people who come when they want. There are those who do not give him the honest 8 hours or however many they are paid. I express frustration to him and try to explain that when it comes to business, you have to run a tight ship and make sure that they are not taking advantage of you.
I have been questioning myself in this attitude. For he says that I am very "hard" in my evaluate of those employees. When I say that they are "stealing" from him by wasting away their days and not working for the time they are paid, he says that they are doing things that will generate "good" in the future.
On Monday, he came into the office very depressed. He didn't want to talk with anyone. Finally, I had a few minutes with him and he finally decided that he was fed up with his employees. One quarter of them were immature, and were taking advantage of him. He thought about firing the whole lot and starting over.
I can see his desire to help employees learn lessons and leave better than they came, but in the mean time, they are hurting his business. He has struggled for the last few years making payroll, and I can see why.
There are two concepts. Perhaps I am too hard and critical. Perhaps I am the one who is a good saint during the week, but look at business differently, as I have seen so many do. Perhaps he is the one who is on the right track, treating everyone passively and compassionately. I can see his rationale, but I also see that so many are taking advantage and hurting his business.
Guess there is always two ways to view what is happening at work. I guess the next week or so will show, through his actions, what is going to win out. People are different, is one way wrong, and one right? Or what?
I am quietly observing his actions, his attitude toward us and every employee. It will be interesting to see what happens in his attitude as well as his business.
Monday, September 19, 2011
DAY 264 ---- Progress?
It has been 100 days since Bonnie and I began this quest to prepare for a mission. We have set goals and dreams how to be prepared when we will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. We started on June 9, and our goal date will be June 9 next year.
Physically, Bonnie is doing quite well. She arises each morning and goes exercising. Some times she rides a bike, some times she jogs, and some times she runs. She is feeling great with her physical preparation. Then there is me. I have not been exercising. I have not been losing weight. I HAVE been watching what I eat, but I only watch it go in and enjoy it. I need to do so much more. You are asking your self, as well as me, why I am not exercising. Would you believe my physical health is not permitting me to exercise as yet. I am working on it, but thus far, I cannot.
Financially we are doing fine. I work for a place, 40 hours per week, and Bonnie drives a bus of handicapped kids. I am being paid a very low amount, but with her income and mine, we are on a schedule of getting out of our debt within the pre-planned time. We are watching all our expenditures, and on the whole are on track of making it. Of course, we would be out of debt, but after we are out of that debt, either we need to find those who will support us, or we will need to have another plan to save sufficient for serving a mission or two.
Spiritually, we are doing well also. Bonnie has just been called to her most favorite job in the church, choir director. She is so excited. I am still teaching High Priests once a month or so. It is so good to be involved in the Kingdom, and we are also reading the BOM each day, scheduled to finish in December and read it again before we go in June. We discuss our progress toward our mission often and feel pretty good about it.
Mentally, Bonnie is trying to prepare for the time when we leave our 17 grand kids. I am trying to get over my mental sickness. If you know me, you will appreciate my mental inabilities, like saying stupid things that don't mean anything, forgetting things, looking at things that I can't see, and mumbling, etc. You get the picture. It is good that the Lord qualifies whom he calls. I will need lots of that.
So on the whole, we are on track, but need to keep following our preset plans. We are as the armies of Helaman, hopefully one day within the year. IF I can finally overcome some of these mental challenges. ;)
Physically, Bonnie is doing quite well. She arises each morning and goes exercising. Some times she rides a bike, some times she jogs, and some times she runs. She is feeling great with her physical preparation. Then there is me. I have not been exercising. I have not been losing weight. I HAVE been watching what I eat, but I only watch it go in and enjoy it. I need to do so much more. You are asking your self, as well as me, why I am not exercising. Would you believe my physical health is not permitting me to exercise as yet. I am working on it, but thus far, I cannot.
Financially we are doing fine. I work for a place, 40 hours per week, and Bonnie drives a bus of handicapped kids. I am being paid a very low amount, but with her income and mine, we are on a schedule of getting out of our debt within the pre-planned time. We are watching all our expenditures, and on the whole are on track of making it. Of course, we would be out of debt, but after we are out of that debt, either we need to find those who will support us, or we will need to have another plan to save sufficient for serving a mission or two.
Spiritually, we are doing well also. Bonnie has just been called to her most favorite job in the church, choir director. She is so excited. I am still teaching High Priests once a month or so. It is so good to be involved in the Kingdom, and we are also reading the BOM each day, scheduled to finish in December and read it again before we go in June. We discuss our progress toward our mission often and feel pretty good about it.
Mentally, Bonnie is trying to prepare for the time when we leave our 17 grand kids. I am trying to get over my mental sickness. If you know me, you will appreciate my mental inabilities, like saying stupid things that don't mean anything, forgetting things, looking at things that I can't see, and mumbling, etc. You get the picture. It is good that the Lord qualifies whom he calls. I will need lots of that.
So on the whole, we are on track, but need to keep following our preset plans. We are as the armies of Helaman, hopefully one day within the year. IF I can finally overcome some of these mental challenges. ;)
Sunday, September 18, 2011
DAY 265 -- The Sabbath - 100 Days
I look forward to Sunday each week. I thoroughly enjoy the three (at least) hours each Sunday when we pause and escape from the things of the world and reflect on the Eternal Perspective. It is a time of refreshment, of rejuvenation, and gathering strength to tackle a new week. It is a time to remember our Savior.
I pause each week and try to feel direction from Father for the coming week. I know He won't tell me much about what awaits me and us, but He can help me prepare in many ways. I pause to remember the atonement and how much I need that in my life. I consider how imperfect I am and strive to rededicate to the way of life I love and have chosen. Often in pondering during the Sacrament Meeting, I get "insights" and hope in my mind to propel me into this coming week.
I can't help but go away from those three hours built up, more prepared for the coming week, and with my focus on my Savior and my Father. Then of course there are the testimonies given by fellow members.
I know there are many who struggle with kids, with other things during those meetings and thus do not get much out of it. But I also know that they get more than they think out of it, if it is nothing but obedience to the commandment that we meet weekly to partake of the sacrament.
Then of course it is always, or most always a battle to fight those sleeping gremlins that try to make me sleep through meetings. If I am teaching, they don't have any success, but if I am not, it is often easy to feel those eyelids becoming heavier and heavier, and then I leave the meeting wondering what was said and what I missed. I try to get lots of sleep (we don't have our meetings until 2:30 when they start) before we go, and thus hoping I can stay awake, but often that does not work.
I believe it to be my age, always needing more sleep. Guess you could call it beauty sleep, or just OLD AGE. We won't fight about that right now. Honestly, it can't be beauty sleep either, cause I don't have many beauty factors I continue to feed. (I don't understand that either?)
It has been 100 days since we started this goal, dream, vision of going on a mission. Tomorrow I will start evaluating our progress, or lack of it the last 100 days.
I pause each week and try to feel direction from Father for the coming week. I know He won't tell me much about what awaits me and us, but He can help me prepare in many ways. I pause to remember the atonement and how much I need that in my life. I consider how imperfect I am and strive to rededicate to the way of life I love and have chosen. Often in pondering during the Sacrament Meeting, I get "insights" and hope in my mind to propel me into this coming week.
I can't help but go away from those three hours built up, more prepared for the coming week, and with my focus on my Savior and my Father. Then of course there are the testimonies given by fellow members.
I know there are many who struggle with kids, with other things during those meetings and thus do not get much out of it. But I also know that they get more than they think out of it, if it is nothing but obedience to the commandment that we meet weekly to partake of the sacrament.
Then of course it is always, or most always a battle to fight those sleeping gremlins that try to make me sleep through meetings. If I am teaching, they don't have any success, but if I am not, it is often easy to feel those eyelids becoming heavier and heavier, and then I leave the meeting wondering what was said and what I missed. I try to get lots of sleep (we don't have our meetings until 2:30 when they start) before we go, and thus hoping I can stay awake, but often that does not work.
I believe it to be my age, always needing more sleep. Guess you could call it beauty sleep, or just OLD AGE. We won't fight about that right now. Honestly, it can't be beauty sleep either, cause I don't have many beauty factors I continue to feed. (I don't understand that either?)
It has been 100 days since we started this goal, dream, vision of going on a mission. Tomorrow I will start evaluating our progress, or lack of it the last 100 days.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
DAY 266 -- Competition
I feel sorry for my two sons-in-law and my son and his wife. They just watched their team, the BYU Cougars get destroyed in their worst defeat at the hands of Utah ever. Though I was overjoyed about the outcome, I felt honest, real sadness for them. I remember being on the receiving end of that type of game too many times, and I know how it feels.
Do I look at something like the score in a footbll game with Spiritual Glasses? Can I do so? Competition is a strange thing. It can be good and often it is bad. It totally depends upon the winners and the losers. I don't know if Christ would endorse competition. In one of my wards of the past, we had a Stake President who cancelled all competition. There was to be no more. We played basketball with no winner. We had no referees, and it was just to have fun.
It destroyed the desire anyone had to play. So is competition good or bad, or a combination of both? Sadly too many Utah and BYU fans take it entirely too far and see what damage they can do, how many people they can argue with, or fight with. Is that good?
I know too often I may take it too far and I need to repent. But competition I believe is good, as long as it doesn't create a monster out of someone who otherwise wasn't a monster. It can, and has done that.
Of late, the Church cancelled the football program in BYU Ricks. After it was cancelled, more than double those who played intramural ball signed up to play sports. Was that because of the football program being eliminated? Ricks has enjoyed many hidden blessings of ridding their school of competition, or at least the football program. I guess anyone, everyone can make their own conclusions. Is it good or bad?
Even in the mission field, I remember our Mission President having competition between districts. He seemed to think it was good and produced more baptisms. ...and it did.
At least in my mind, the jury is out. (But it was a fun game to watch tonight.)
Do I look at something like the score in a footbll game with Spiritual Glasses? Can I do so? Competition is a strange thing. It can be good and often it is bad. It totally depends upon the winners and the losers. I don't know if Christ would endorse competition. In one of my wards of the past, we had a Stake President who cancelled all competition. There was to be no more. We played basketball with no winner. We had no referees, and it was just to have fun.
It destroyed the desire anyone had to play. So is competition good or bad, or a combination of both? Sadly too many Utah and BYU fans take it entirely too far and see what damage they can do, how many people they can argue with, or fight with. Is that good?
I know too often I may take it too far and I need to repent. But competition I believe is good, as long as it doesn't create a monster out of someone who otherwise wasn't a monster. It can, and has done that.
Of late, the Church cancelled the football program in BYU Ricks. After it was cancelled, more than double those who played intramural ball signed up to play sports. Was that because of the football program being eliminated? Ricks has enjoyed many hidden blessings of ridding their school of competition, or at least the football program. I guess anyone, everyone can make their own conclusions. Is it good or bad?
Even in the mission field, I remember our Mission President having competition between districts. He seemed to think it was good and produced more baptisms. ...and it did.
At least in my mind, the jury is out. (But it was a fun game to watch tonight.)
Friday, September 16, 2011
DAY 267 -- Spiritual Glasses
As I read Alma 5 this morning, I again was struck with the importance of reading scriptures. As I read through Alma's many questions, I tried to learn principles from the words, but more I felt the Spirit of the book. Now don't turn me off, since I said that yesterday, I just felt I needed to enlarge that lesson learned. Perhaps if I analyze the experience I had a bit more, then I won't forget it the next time, (if there is one.)
In those "down" days, I remember thinking on the influences I had at work. I remember feeling those frustrations with others, my boss, fellow employees, and even other drivers on the freeway. I remember going home to my little room and picking apart the conditions I live in. I just remember thinking about things as they are, and how I didn't like them. Things were OK, and I really wasn't depressed, I was just looking at things with a lack of Spiritual Glasses.
As I read the scriptures, my focus on things changed. Those same people at work who frustrate me, or who did, are doing the same thing, but it is how I react to those actions that changes. Driving on the freeway, those crazy drivers are still present, but I realize that they are fellow brothers and sisters living their own trials and problems and their own life. I am not so quick to judge them for their driving habits.
When I walk into my little room where Bon and I live, I smile because the Spirit reminds me of the teaching that my Eternal Father is totally aware of where I am, how I feel, my desires, my goals, and He is in control of where I live, how long we live with our children, the granting of our desire to serve a mission, etc. His timing is perfect, and not mine. Do I have faith in His timing?
Reading my scriptures help me see exactly the same things with a "spiritual" tint or coloring on everything. Life doesn't change, it is just how I perceive it. Challenges don't go away, but my acceptance and desire to learn from each one is strengthened.
I am a better person, react with love and understanding, and compassion. I am who I believe I really am when touched by Scriptures. The challenge I have is to put on Spiritual Glasses to greet the day, others, problems, and even opportunities of growth.
In those "down" days, I remember thinking on the influences I had at work. I remember feeling those frustrations with others, my boss, fellow employees, and even other drivers on the freeway. I remember going home to my little room and picking apart the conditions I live in. I just remember thinking about things as they are, and how I didn't like them. Things were OK, and I really wasn't depressed, I was just looking at things with a lack of Spiritual Glasses.
As I read the scriptures, my focus on things changed. Those same people at work who frustrate me, or who did, are doing the same thing, but it is how I react to those actions that changes. Driving on the freeway, those crazy drivers are still present, but I realize that they are fellow brothers and sisters living their own trials and problems and their own life. I am not so quick to judge them for their driving habits.
When I walk into my little room where Bon and I live, I smile because the Spirit reminds me of the teaching that my Eternal Father is totally aware of where I am, how I feel, my desires, my goals, and He is in control of where I live, how long we live with our children, the granting of our desire to serve a mission, etc. His timing is perfect, and not mine. Do I have faith in His timing?
Reading my scriptures help me see exactly the same things with a "spiritual" tint or coloring on everything. Life doesn't change, it is just how I perceive it. Challenges don't go away, but my acceptance and desire to learn from each one is strengthened.
I am a better person, react with love and understanding, and compassion. I am who I believe I really am when touched by Scriptures. The challenge I have is to put on Spiritual Glasses to greet the day, others, problems, and even opportunities of growth.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
DAY 268 -- SCRIPTURES
I have been too busy to read my scriptures lately. (What an excuse...) I found myself not feeling positive. I found myself not singing songs of joy. I found myself doubting the circumstances I live in with my son and his family. I found myself lamenting that things were not going as "I" thought they should. I was not as outgoing as I usually like to be.
I didn't tell anyone, I just lived my lonely life, my frustration with things not showing to anyone, but I was not happy, or as happy as I usually am around anyone else.
Then I realized that I needed to get back into my scriptures. Bonnie has us both on a schedule to read the Book of Mormon twice each year, so we are now entering Alma, to finish in December. So this morning and the last morning I read trying to catch up to where I should have been all along.
As I read those wonderful words in the Book of Mormon, I started to realized how much I missed reading those words every morning. I started to reclaim my faith in Father's loving care and knowledge of where I am and what is going on in my life. My patience increased and I started to feel good, positive and compassionate once again. I was more outgoing, happier than I was when I missed a few days of my reading scriptures.
I know why the brethren counsel us to read scriptures each day. It isn't necessarily for the counsel we will receive, the lessons we can learn reading them. But one reason we have been counseled to read, at least for me, is to feel that Spirit of the book, of the scriptures. With feeling that sweet Spirit of the scriptures, I could see what I was missing without reading them.
I am just expressing what I experienced. Everyone else may not experience what I did, but I sure learned how important it is to touch bases with the infinite daily. I need it. I can feel Father's love when I read His words. When I don't, I regress. And especially when we are preparing to go on a mission, I better learn that lesson very well. I hope I never find another time when I "don't have time" for the scriptures.
I didn't tell anyone, I just lived my lonely life, my frustration with things not showing to anyone, but I was not happy, or as happy as I usually am around anyone else.
Then I realized that I needed to get back into my scriptures. Bonnie has us both on a schedule to read the Book of Mormon twice each year, so we are now entering Alma, to finish in December. So this morning and the last morning I read trying to catch up to where I should have been all along.
As I read those wonderful words in the Book of Mormon, I started to realized how much I missed reading those words every morning. I started to reclaim my faith in Father's loving care and knowledge of where I am and what is going on in my life. My patience increased and I started to feel good, positive and compassionate once again. I was more outgoing, happier than I was when I missed a few days of my reading scriptures.
I know why the brethren counsel us to read scriptures each day. It isn't necessarily for the counsel we will receive, the lessons we can learn reading them. But one reason we have been counseled to read, at least for me, is to feel that Spirit of the book, of the scriptures. With feeling that sweet Spirit of the scriptures, I could see what I was missing without reading them.
I am just expressing what I experienced. Everyone else may not experience what I did, but I sure learned how important it is to touch bases with the infinite daily. I need it. I can feel Father's love when I read His words. When I don't, I regress. And especially when we are preparing to go on a mission, I better learn that lesson very well. I hope I never find another time when I "don't have time" for the scriptures.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
DAY 269 -- Still on our Way
Elder Pace a few years ago, (I believe it was Elder Pace) gave a conference talk about the Church being a fast moving train. He said if we decided to get off of the train, it would keep going on and we would find ourselves way behind it. We would find out our importance, or lack of it, in the Church to be insignificant and everything else would move right along well enough without us. We would be lost, and things would continue just as they did before, but we would have to rush to catch up and find our place once again on the train.
I know that if Bonnie and I do not go on that mission we are planning for, that the train will continue without us. The Church doesn't "need" us to serve as missionaries. When the bishop is released, the ward proceeds along it's way without him, often better. When we quit our job and think that the office, they will suffer, we are often surprised that they can get along without us, possibly even better.
It is interesting that Satan influences us to inflate our value in many different avenues. We know we are doing something valuable and needed. We often feel so irreplaceable. But soon we are taught that no one is irreplaceable.
We want to serve a mission. Our path has been planned, organized, and thought about. We have set goals to serve in 269 days. That is the correct path to be on right now. What we will learn, what will happen to us, where we will be taken while on that road, how we will change our destination is unknown. The train will proceed quite well without us if we do not serve.
Father doesn't need us to serve a mission. He can manage without us. In fact he often does... The purpose of this blog, the reason behind our desire to serve is we would love to wear out our bodies in His service, giving our time, talents, all things we have been blessed with to the Kingdom, the train. Our living conditions and circumstances dictate that we will not serve in any major callings. That is good, onward goes the train. Many assume (correctly?) that our service in the kingdom is past and we are no good, except for missions. Yes, we can, and will home and visit teach. But any abilities, any experiences to be shared will be by the younger kids on the train.
The prophet has asked for more Senior Missionaries. We are planning, preparing, and heading that way, until Father directs to a different goal or dream. He knows our hearts and our willingness and our ability, and our availability. We await his further input.
I know that if Bonnie and I do not go on that mission we are planning for, that the train will continue without us. The Church doesn't "need" us to serve as missionaries. When the bishop is released, the ward proceeds along it's way without him, often better. When we quit our job and think that the office, they will suffer, we are often surprised that they can get along without us, possibly even better.
It is interesting that Satan influences us to inflate our value in many different avenues. We know we are doing something valuable and needed. We often feel so irreplaceable. But soon we are taught that no one is irreplaceable.
We want to serve a mission. Our path has been planned, organized, and thought about. We have set goals to serve in 269 days. That is the correct path to be on right now. What we will learn, what will happen to us, where we will be taken while on that road, how we will change our destination is unknown. The train will proceed quite well without us if we do not serve.
Father doesn't need us to serve a mission. He can manage without us. In fact he often does... The purpose of this blog, the reason behind our desire to serve is we would love to wear out our bodies in His service, giving our time, talents, all things we have been blessed with to the Kingdom, the train. Our living conditions and circumstances dictate that we will not serve in any major callings. That is good, onward goes the train. Many assume (correctly?) that our service in the kingdom is past and we are no good, except for missions. Yes, we can, and will home and visit teach. But any abilities, any experiences to be shared will be by the younger kids on the train.
The prophet has asked for more Senior Missionaries. We are planning, preparing, and heading that way, until Father directs to a different goal or dream. He knows our hearts and our willingness and our ability, and our availability. We await his further input.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
DAY 270 -- Four Missions
Mom and dad served four missions. The kids and grand kids prayed for and supported mom and dad. Their grand kids, or my children were so impressed that Grandpa and Grandma were out in the world serving missions. They went to Palmyra, Martha's Vineyard, Marshall Island, and France. Most were overseeing family history sites and organizing them into functioning operations.
As I remember my mother and father during this week of remembering 9/11, I can't help but also remember the service they performed for the Lord in their old age. I really don't know if they were older than I am now when they left on their mission, but that doesn't matter. It does matter that they served four missions.
I guess you can say they set the example for us. That is one, but only one, of the reasons we desire to serve a mission in about nine months. If mom and dad served, why can't we? Mom's health was not great, she had lung problems, but left all those things in the hands of the Lord.
They both had great faith in Father that He would take care of their children, and even their grand children. I quietly watched them and promised one day I would go on another mission with my beloved companion. Well, if things go right, we can realize our dream, our time table, then within the year, we hope to be following in their footsteps and serving a mission somewhere in the world.
Another miracle to assist us in our dream was accomplished when the Church changed the couple price of serving to nothing more than $1400 per month. Mom and dad''s missions cost so much more than that, and with this new change, we will be able to tell the Lord through our bishop, that we will serve anywhere in the world. I am excited. Only 270 more days.
As I remember my mother and father during this week of remembering 9/11, I can't help but also remember the service they performed for the Lord in their old age. I really don't know if they were older than I am now when they left on their mission, but that doesn't matter. It does matter that they served four missions.
I guess you can say they set the example for us. That is one, but only one, of the reasons we desire to serve a mission in about nine months. If mom and dad served, why can't we? Mom's health was not great, she had lung problems, but left all those things in the hands of the Lord.
They both had great faith in Father that He would take care of their children, and even their grand children. I quietly watched them and promised one day I would go on another mission with my beloved companion. Well, if things go right, we can realize our dream, our time table, then within the year, we hope to be following in their footsteps and serving a mission somewhere in the world.
Another miracle to assist us in our dream was accomplished when the Church changed the couple price of serving to nothing more than $1400 per month. Mom and dad''s missions cost so much more than that, and with this new change, we will be able to tell the Lord through our bishop, that we will serve anywhere in the world. I am excited. Only 270 more days.
Monday, September 12, 2011
DAY 271 -- One Tender Mercy
Ten years ago, I was visiting with my mother. A few days after our dinner together, she passed. She was 77 years old and was so happy. You see, it was a Thursday when we visited. Every Thursday after I served in the temple she made me dinner and we enjoyed each other. Well, it was five days after the terror the world witnesses (9-11) that mom laid down and never got up. I was the one who found my dear mother.
I remember that day like it was today finding her and saying, "Oh mom, don't do this to me." I called the rest of the family and told them of mom's passing. Soon many were there as the "men" took her body away. I felt I was in shock. Dad had died a few years before and all of a sudden, I was an orphan, with no mother and no father.
She died the 16th of September. I was still getting over the death of my mother when the mailman came and gave me a birthday card from my mother. She always did that. She was always on time with each of us on our birthdays. Even two days after she died, I received birthday wishes from my mother. You can imagine how special, sweet, and tearful it was to read words from mom, and see her scratchy handwriting signing the card.
As I bore witness a few weeks ago, I know that mother is still my mother though she is done with her mortality. My earthly father is still my father and the patriarch of my sisters and I. I know they look in on us once in a while.
The rest of the world commemorates the happenings of 9-11, an awful day in the history of our beloved country when many died. I pause to remember my mother who sent me birthday wishes and I received them on my very birthday, even two days after she had passed. I would call that a tender mercy from my Eternal Father, wouldn't you?
I remember that day like it was today finding her and saying, "Oh mom, don't do this to me." I called the rest of the family and told them of mom's passing. Soon many were there as the "men" took her body away. I felt I was in shock. Dad had died a few years before and all of a sudden, I was an orphan, with no mother and no father.
She died the 16th of September. I was still getting over the death of my mother when the mailman came and gave me a birthday card from my mother. She always did that. She was always on time with each of us on our birthdays. Even two days after she died, I received birthday wishes from my mother. You can imagine how special, sweet, and tearful it was to read words from mom, and see her scratchy handwriting signing the card.
As I bore witness a few weeks ago, I know that mother is still my mother though she is done with her mortality. My earthly father is still my father and the patriarch of my sisters and I. I know they look in on us once in a while.
The rest of the world commemorates the happenings of 9-11, an awful day in the history of our beloved country when many died. I pause to remember my mother who sent me birthday wishes and I received them on my very birthday, even two days after she had passed. I would call that a tender mercy from my Eternal Father, wouldn't you?
Sunday, September 11, 2011
DAY 272 -- SMILE, FOR WE HAVE MUCH TO SMILE ABOUT
I went to the Sunday portion of Conference and heard counsel from our authority, Elder Brimhall. He told many stories and encouraged us to be happy. He said that all of us had so many reasons to be happy, and asked why most of us felt it easy not to be happy. We should be smiling constantly.
Sure, he said that trials come into our lives constantly, but they are for our benefit and we have a Father that would not permit us to experience any challenge or trial ONE SECOND beyond what was absolutely necessary for our benefit and our salvation. If we all believed that, if we live believing that concept, then we would not be depressed with the challenges, afflictions nor trials we had, knowing that our beloved Father knew of them, and would STOP them as soon as their purposes were achieved.
He said he was with the General Authorities one meeting when Elder Scott, who was sitting in front of them with all the Twelve, and Elder Scott in the middle of the meeting put his fingers in the sides of his mouth, and made a big smile at him, voicing, "SMILE" at him.
He almost burst out laughing in the middle of his meeting. He said that he has taken that example from one of the Apostles and uses that in many places where he goes. There is so much to smile about in the lives of saints, in our lives, in the lives of members that we should be smiling all the time.
Even if we decide to frown, or let frustration show on our faces for a short period, we should remember our blessings and all the reasons we all have to smile throughout each day. Besides, if we are smiling, someone will undoubtedly ask us what we have done and why we are smiling.
I am happy, will strive to smile, and be cheerful no matter the things that are trying to get me not to smile.
Sure, he said that trials come into our lives constantly, but they are for our benefit and we have a Father that would not permit us to experience any challenge or trial ONE SECOND beyond what was absolutely necessary for our benefit and our salvation. If we all believed that, if we live believing that concept, then we would not be depressed with the challenges, afflictions nor trials we had, knowing that our beloved Father knew of them, and would STOP them as soon as their purposes were achieved.
He said he was with the General Authorities one meeting when Elder Scott, who was sitting in front of them with all the Twelve, and Elder Scott in the middle of the meeting put his fingers in the sides of his mouth, and made a big smile at him, voicing, "SMILE" at him.
He almost burst out laughing in the middle of his meeting. He said that he has taken that example from one of the Apostles and uses that in many places where he goes. There is so much to smile about in the lives of saints, in our lives, in the lives of members that we should be smiling all the time.
Even if we decide to frown, or let frustration show on our faces for a short period, we should remember our blessings and all the reasons we all have to smile throughout each day. Besides, if we are smiling, someone will undoubtedly ask us what we have done and why we are smiling.
I am happy, will strive to smile, and be cheerful no matter the things that are trying to get me not to smile.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
DAY 273 --- The Blessings of Disappointment
It sure is interesting that there are so many different challenges, or opportunities of growth that we have to learn from, grow from. I get another chance to learn. I seemed to have collected an ugly bug called some kind of intestinal disease. It has been playing with me for over two months and finally Bonnie convinced me to go to a doctor today.
So I went and found out that this disease has taken two to three months to find it's way into my body. So, I now get to see what I can do to learn from this "blessing." The doctor said that since it took so long to take a hold of my body, it is going to take about the same time to run away from me, even with tricky antibiotics.
Bonnie and I were planning on singing tonight in Stake Conference in a great big choir. She went, I stayed home trying to nurse my aches and such. I feel sad that I wasn't able to be there, for we were singing great songs and we have such a wonderful Stake President. I was hoping to attend those meetings to get inspiration, rededication, and recommitment to our mission. Well, the greatest plans of mice and men often fall apart.
I look to my Father in Heaven to know my heart, know my desires, know my dreams, and compensate for the inability of going to stake conference.
This life is full of disappointments, failed plans, and frustrations. But during those, I need to look to God and live, exercise my faith and honor Father for His manner of running things. I am OK.
So I went and found out that this disease has taken two to three months to find it's way into my body. So, I now get to see what I can do to learn from this "blessing." The doctor said that since it took so long to take a hold of my body, it is going to take about the same time to run away from me, even with tricky antibiotics.
Bonnie and I were planning on singing tonight in Stake Conference in a great big choir. She went, I stayed home trying to nurse my aches and such. I feel sad that I wasn't able to be there, for we were singing great songs and we have such a wonderful Stake President. I was hoping to attend those meetings to get inspiration, rededication, and recommitment to our mission. Well, the greatest plans of mice and men often fall apart.
I look to my Father in Heaven to know my heart, know my desires, know my dreams, and compensate for the inability of going to stake conference.
This life is full of disappointments, failed plans, and frustrations. But during those, I need to look to God and live, exercise my faith and honor Father for His manner of running things. I am OK.
Friday, September 9, 2011
DAY 274 -- Dearly Departed Beloved Ones - Visit us
It is sure interesting to me that when I pause to listen to the Spirit, when I pause to ponder on the words I read in the scriptures, when I pause and glance upward figuratively, when I put into my mind one of those favorite hymns, (Like Come Thou Fount..) I seem to communicate with the Holy Ghost, my Father in Heaven, or perhaps even a few dearly departed family members.
I remember speaking at a funeral when I was bishop. The attorney lived in my ward and had a young wife with three small kids. He died of that ugly plague, cancer. He knew it was coming and prepared his children and wife as best he could. He was a great man and loved his Father in Heaven.
As I was giving my remarks, I remember as if it was yesterday, repeating the inspiration I felt as I was speaking. I promised Susan that Doug was still the patriarch of her family. He was still the father of her children. Being the father and husband of those special people, I promised that though he was going to be busy in the afterlife, he would find the time to watch over them, touch their minds, direct them and be with them throughout their lives. After I said it, I was touched by the Spirit confirming the doctrine I had just shared.
Recalling that experience long ago, I feel that often my father and mother are looking in on me and mine. I often wish they would give me direction, answers, and support in trials and challenges. They don't often do that, but I do feel the love from my own earthly father and mother. I know they are aware of what is going on, and what we need. Such a wonderful blessing, knowing those things. Then, on top of that I also often feel my Heavenly Father's love and concern. What a wonderful gospel we share.
I remember speaking at a funeral when I was bishop. The attorney lived in my ward and had a young wife with three small kids. He died of that ugly plague, cancer. He knew it was coming and prepared his children and wife as best he could. He was a great man and loved his Father in Heaven.
As I was giving my remarks, I remember as if it was yesterday, repeating the inspiration I felt as I was speaking. I promised Susan that Doug was still the patriarch of her family. He was still the father of her children. Being the father and husband of those special people, I promised that though he was going to be busy in the afterlife, he would find the time to watch over them, touch their minds, direct them and be with them throughout their lives. After I said it, I was touched by the Spirit confirming the doctrine I had just shared.
Recalling that experience long ago, I feel that often my father and mother are looking in on me and mine. I often wish they would give me direction, answers, and support in trials and challenges. They don't often do that, but I do feel the love from my own earthly father and mother. I know they are aware of what is going on, and what we need. Such a wonderful blessing, knowing those things. Then, on top of that I also often feel my Heavenly Father's love and concern. What a wonderful gospel we share.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
DAY 275 -- Where Is Your Heart
In reading the Book of Mormon this morning, I read where the people of Limhi placed their hearts on riches. If I can remember correctly, the mind is where the reasoning power is, and the heart is where the feeling part is. So to place one's heart on riches or money, that means that the feeling part of us is always thinking about money? But our heart doesn't think, it feels. So which is it?
As a man thinketh, so is he. But as a man feeleth, so is he. Maybe we are just splitting hairs and both mean the same thing. When someone puts their heart on riches, or money, I guess it isn't a good thing for that is when the Lamanites came upon them and they were massacred, they were put into bondage. So I guess that putting one's mind on money, he will be always thinking about it, working toward it, having money dictate decisions based upon the monetary aspect of the decision.
If one places his heart on money, then I would assume that love, compassion, charity, caring for another would take a back seat for those are heart felt traits, and if someone is feeling money, they have no place for compassion, service, nor Spirituality.
So I would suggest that where we put our heart will dictate whether we are God's children and becoming like Him, loving service, enjoying our calling, and dedicated to the work. If our heart is somewhere else, then our whole soul is concerned with monetary decisions, thoughts, advancing, and enter that ugly thing we have been counselled against, pride.
My mind and heart needs to be set upon our mission, our goals, our dreams, working toward that end, and if it is, then money cannot get in the way, or at least shouldn't, right? Tis a good lesson to write in my heart.
As a man thinketh, so is he. But as a man feeleth, so is he. Maybe we are just splitting hairs and both mean the same thing. When someone puts their heart on riches, or money, I guess it isn't a good thing for that is when the Lamanites came upon them and they were massacred, they were put into bondage. So I guess that putting one's mind on money, he will be always thinking about it, working toward it, having money dictate decisions based upon the monetary aspect of the decision.
If one places his heart on money, then I would assume that love, compassion, charity, caring for another would take a back seat for those are heart felt traits, and if someone is feeling money, they have no place for compassion, service, nor Spirituality.
So I would suggest that where we put our heart will dictate whether we are God's children and becoming like Him, loving service, enjoying our calling, and dedicated to the work. If our heart is somewhere else, then our whole soul is concerned with monetary decisions, thoughts, advancing, and enter that ugly thing we have been counselled against, pride.
My mind and heart needs to be set upon our mission, our goals, our dreams, working toward that end, and if it is, then money cannot get in the way, or at least shouldn't, right? Tis a good lesson to write in my heart.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
DAY 276 -- The Wonder of Music
Bonnie and I sing in a group. We are starting our practice tomorrow night. Tonight I was practicing for a choir which is singing this Sunday for Stake Conference. What a joy it is to sing the praises of Zion. We sang "Come Thou Fount..." and "The Spirit of God..." and "Ere You Left Your Room This Morning..."
The Spirit of God is the one where soloist sing the first verse, male soloists. What a joy it is to hear that sung as the Tab Choir does it. As I was singing these songs tonight, I felt the spirit of them, wondered about those who wrote them, the circumstances surrounding the creation of those hymns.
I can't help but recall to mind the history of William Clayton as he wrote Come Come Ye Saints. Therefore, I am sure there are special stories surrounding these and other hymns we sing all the time. Music can change a soul. It can influence one, and it can spread the Spirit of God into people's lives.
Songs can lift the soul, can cheer one up, and give one hope, and can inspire one. I love music. Since Bonnie started singing in a group about twenty years ago, I have not missed a yearly concert where hymns were sung and offered as praise to our Father.
I often think of the angels singing at the time of Christ. I wonder if you or I was involved in those Heavenly choirs. It would have been fun to sing of Christ's birth, the event that all had been waiting for throughout our lives in the Pre-earth life.
Bonnie writes music, and that is one talent I do not have. I praise her for the heart felt music she has written. It is sad to me that not many have heard such wonderful renditions of her testimony, yet ther music touches each one who hears her music. Oh well, some dreams must wait, life isn't long enough. Maybe in another time, I will enjoy the talent, privilege of sharing feelings of music. Who knows?
The Spirit of God is the one where soloist sing the first verse, male soloists. What a joy it is to hear that sung as the Tab Choir does it. As I was singing these songs tonight, I felt the spirit of them, wondered about those who wrote them, the circumstances surrounding the creation of those hymns.
I can't help but recall to mind the history of William Clayton as he wrote Come Come Ye Saints. Therefore, I am sure there are special stories surrounding these and other hymns we sing all the time. Music can change a soul. It can influence one, and it can spread the Spirit of God into people's lives.
Songs can lift the soul, can cheer one up, and give one hope, and can inspire one. I love music. Since Bonnie started singing in a group about twenty years ago, I have not missed a yearly concert where hymns were sung and offered as praise to our Father.
I often think of the angels singing at the time of Christ. I wonder if you or I was involved in those Heavenly choirs. It would have been fun to sing of Christ's birth, the event that all had been waiting for throughout our lives in the Pre-earth life.
Bonnie writes music, and that is one talent I do not have. I praise her for the heart felt music she has written. It is sad to me that not many have heard such wonderful renditions of her testimony, yet ther music touches each one who hears her music. Oh well, some dreams must wait, life isn't long enough. Maybe in another time, I will enjoy the talent, privilege of sharing feelings of music. Who knows?
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
DAY 277 -- Pregnant
In nine months, we are hoping we will be ready to go on a mission. It is sort of like being pregnant I guess. In nine months, we will be delivered from our financial goals, our challenge of being too overweight, etc. So in nine months, the time for a little sperm to grow to be ready to be delivered, we are going to be ready to pack our bags and leave on a mission.
I wonder if that is why my grand children think I am pregnant. I wonder if it is a sign. So many people are always looking for a sign to confirm a decision, or a sign to eliminate a decision. One movie actor said, "Perhaps the absence of a sign is a sign."
I don't know much about it, other than my daughter just went through it, but perhaps come June we will have a "C" section to deliver our mission call. Would that mean an easy mission or a hard mission? What would that sign mean? Some people have babies right at home and do not bother with going to the hospital. I don't think that we should consider that, for that is not what is usually accept as the norm. Besides, that would probably mean we would go to some place where there wasn't any people and we would be teaching the animals or cannibals.
Well, in truth, if women can go through discomfort, morning sickness, not being able to sleep, feeling "not attractive" and such, or just plain aching all the time, then perhaps Bonnie and I can endure the coming nine months and deliver a mission call. Whether we have a C-section, or natural delivery of this call, we will endure, learn, go without sleep, feel unattractive, and live through nine months of waiting. Anything is worth a mission call.
I wonder if that is why my grand children think I am pregnant. I wonder if it is a sign. So many people are always looking for a sign to confirm a decision, or a sign to eliminate a decision. One movie actor said, "Perhaps the absence of a sign is a sign."
I don't know much about it, other than my daughter just went through it, but perhaps come June we will have a "C" section to deliver our mission call. Would that mean an easy mission or a hard mission? What would that sign mean? Some people have babies right at home and do not bother with going to the hospital. I don't think that we should consider that, for that is not what is usually accept as the norm. Besides, that would probably mean we would go to some place where there wasn't any people and we would be teaching the animals or cannibals.
Well, in truth, if women can go through discomfort, morning sickness, not being able to sleep, feeling "not attractive" and such, or just plain aching all the time, then perhaps Bonnie and I can endure the coming nine months and deliver a mission call. Whether we have a C-section, or natural delivery of this call, we will endure, learn, go without sleep, feel unattractive, and live through nine months of waiting. Anything is worth a mission call.
Monday, September 5, 2011
DAY 278 -- Reinforcement
I talked to a sister who had recently returned from her mission, served with her husband in Malaysia. I missed their homecoming, though I am not supposed to call it a home coming any more. Nonetheless, I was unable to be at the Sacrament meeting when they reported their mission. (Don't know exactly what "nonetheless" means, but it seemed appropriate here...)
So I asked her how it was, did she enjoy it, and all those appropriate questions. I could see the missionary spirit in her eyes and her vision as she shared some experiences she had in the mission field. I could feel of the love she had for the saints in their mission. I could sense a longing to be with them again.
As I listened to her comments as she shared a tiny portion of her experiences, I felt the longing, the ache Bon and I feel for experiencing the same thing somewhere in the world. I mentioned to her the glorious experience it would be to serve the Lord 24/7 for eighteen months. I felt the inner vision of serving full time with my red head as my companion.
With telling so many in my old ward about our desires to serve a mission, and then feeling the missionary spirit from one who just returned from their second mission, I have this ache again to serve, to go now, and not wait.
I know that is impossible and is not as it should be, but I get this vision in my head about serving my Father and His Son as missionaries. Time must pass, lessons must be learned, patience must be adopted, and I need to learn what Elder Holland says about fighting, pursuing and working toward these dreams. I know that often "the working toward" a dream is filled with lessons that must be learned and concepts that Fathers feels needs to be mastered by me, at least. So I wait, enjoy the new vision, and enforce the vibrancy of it in my mind. Only about nine months. About the time to have a baby? ...and I hope I can learn the lessons being taught to be ready in nine months.
So I asked her how it was, did she enjoy it, and all those appropriate questions. I could see the missionary spirit in her eyes and her vision as she shared some experiences she had in the mission field. I could feel of the love she had for the saints in their mission. I could sense a longing to be with them again.
As I listened to her comments as she shared a tiny portion of her experiences, I felt the longing, the ache Bon and I feel for experiencing the same thing somewhere in the world. I mentioned to her the glorious experience it would be to serve the Lord 24/7 for eighteen months. I felt the inner vision of serving full time with my red head as my companion.
With telling so many in my old ward about our desires to serve a mission, and then feeling the missionary spirit from one who just returned from their second mission, I have this ache again to serve, to go now, and not wait.
I know that is impossible and is not as it should be, but I get this vision in my head about serving my Father and His Son as missionaries. Time must pass, lessons must be learned, patience must be adopted, and I need to learn what Elder Holland says about fighting, pursuing and working toward these dreams. I know that often "the working toward" a dream is filled with lessons that must be learned and concepts that Fathers feels needs to be mastered by me, at least. So I wait, enjoy the new vision, and enforce the vibrancy of it in my mind. Only about nine months. About the time to have a baby? ...and I hope I can learn the lessons being taught to be ready in nine months.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Day 279 - Repetition
We visited an old ward today. It was fun seeing old friends and loved ones. We lived there for about five years where Bonnie directed the Choir and also was in the RS Presidency. I served in the High Council and taught Gospel Doctrine.
Everyone asked how we were doing and what we were doing. We shared that we were living with one of my sons and had a goal to have a mission call next June. I must have said that ten to fifteen times. As I said that, my soul was so very excited to renew our desires to serve a mission. That mission call is so much more real to me today since I told many people of it.
That taught me a lesson. The more I recall to my mind, the more I tell others of my mission the more real it is. So the lesson I learned is that when we have a goal or a dream, the more we keep it in front of us, the more real it is, the more we remember it, and the more we will work toward it.
So, if I started to share with others about my goal to lose weight, pay off debt, the more "REAL" that goal would be. It would be alive and vibrant in my mind. So, no matter what the goal is, we must keep it in front of us to remember how important it is to us, and to rededicate ourselves to realize it.
So, please be aware that I am working on the goal to go on a mission. I am trying to lose some weight. I am working on destroying my debt. I am trying to study the gospel more. I am preparing myself to be a missionary within the next. Now by even writing this goal down on this crazy blog, it is more real, and I will work on it more constantly. We must remember by repetition our goals, share with others, and be reminded of what we are trying to do.
If I do not pass this goal through my mind, it is still there, but not nearly as vibrant as it needs to be...
Everyone asked how we were doing and what we were doing. We shared that we were living with one of my sons and had a goal to have a mission call next June. I must have said that ten to fifteen times. As I said that, my soul was so very excited to renew our desires to serve a mission. That mission call is so much more real to me today since I told many people of it.
That taught me a lesson. The more I recall to my mind, the more I tell others of my mission the more real it is. So the lesson I learned is that when we have a goal or a dream, the more we keep it in front of us, the more real it is, the more we remember it, and the more we will work toward it.
So, if I started to share with others about my goal to lose weight, pay off debt, the more "REAL" that goal would be. It would be alive and vibrant in my mind. So, no matter what the goal is, we must keep it in front of us to remember how important it is to us, and to rededicate ourselves to realize it.
So, please be aware that I am working on the goal to go on a mission. I am trying to lose some weight. I am working on destroying my debt. I am trying to study the gospel more. I am preparing myself to be a missionary within the next. Now by even writing this goal down on this crazy blog, it is more real, and I will work on it more constantly. We must remember by repetition our goals, share with others, and be reminded of what we are trying to do.
If I do not pass this goal through my mind, it is still there, but not nearly as vibrant as it needs to be...
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Day 280 -- Attitude, What do you want?
We went to Brigham for the holiday weekend to visit our second daughter who just had her second daughter. We felt we could help her heal from her C section and enjoy our grandchild number 17. Sort of goes to show you that we are truly old. The body tells me that every day, but I choose not to listen. ;)
As we arrived in BrighamPerry, we drove by our old house, since before moving to Utah Valley, we lived in Perry, UT. As we sold our home, we absorbed some debt so we could sell it. As we drove by our home, we met and talked with our neighbor, at least neighbor while we lived in Perry. We asked about their neighbors who bought our home. She told us that the sister does not like the area.
We have heard from many that they are selling our old home because the wife wants to move back to where she used to live. As we talked to previous ward members, it sound like she never gave it a chance. We loved our ward. The people were wonderful, our neighbors were wonderful, and it was a joyful place to live.
However, she just never got involved with the ward, with the neighbors, nor with the area. I feel sorry for her, for it is a great place to live. But the old addage come back, you have to put into it to get out of it. She must not have put into it, or she would have loved the ward as we did.
Of course I am assuming without any proof, but it reminds me that I must put into something before I would ever get anything out of it. I must put into my work, my ward, my life before I get anything out of it. In the last two years, we have been in five different wards. Did we put into those wards? Did we hate leaving them? Attitude can and most often does make the difference in wards, areas, jobs, challenges, or even blessings. I just figure I need to evaluate what I am putting out before I ever have the privilege of judging anything.
As we arrived in BrighamPerry, we drove by our old house, since before moving to Utah Valley, we lived in Perry, UT. As we sold our home, we absorbed some debt so we could sell it. As we drove by our home, we met and talked with our neighbor, at least neighbor while we lived in Perry. We asked about their neighbors who bought our home. She told us that the sister does not like the area.
We have heard from many that they are selling our old home because the wife wants to move back to where she used to live. As we talked to previous ward members, it sound like she never gave it a chance. We loved our ward. The people were wonderful, our neighbors were wonderful, and it was a joyful place to live.
However, she just never got involved with the ward, with the neighbors, nor with the area. I feel sorry for her, for it is a great place to live. But the old addage come back, you have to put into it to get out of it. She must not have put into it, or she would have loved the ward as we did.
Of course I am assuming without any proof, but it reminds me that I must put into something before I would ever get anything out of it. I must put into my work, my ward, my life before I get anything out of it. In the last two years, we have been in five different wards. Did we put into those wards? Did we hate leaving them? Attitude can and most often does make the difference in wards, areas, jobs, challenges, or even blessings. I just figure I need to evaluate what I am putting out before I ever have the privilege of judging anything.
Friday, September 2, 2011
DAY 281 --- In The Strength of the Lord
I probably have blogged about that statement before. It is amazing to me that when the armies went against the Lamanites, or any of their enemies, when they went "in the strength of the Lord," they always won. It doesn't mean there were not causalities, but they did win.
If we had battles against other armies, what would it mean to go against them "in the strength of the Lord?"
When we tackle angry customers, or crazy drivers, or ignorant phone people who we have to deal with, or people who are always on the war path, do we consider going against them in the strength of the Lord?
Now comes the question, are our enemies always people? What if we are "blessed" with the challenge of living our lives without medical insurance and that gave us great concern and worrisome times. Could we go against that trial in the strength of the Lord? What if our debt was choking us? Would going against that trial in the strength of the Lord mean anything to us? What if we were trying to find another job. Could we tackle that in the strength of the Lord? If we don't like our boss, if we have a co-worker who is totally difficult to work with, if we can't make it on what we are being paid, if we don't like the calling we have been given by the bishop, if we never seem to have the time to home teach, and if we just never take the time to pray with our wife, could we tackle all of these things in the strength of the Lord?
If we answer positively positively, if we desire to endure, or even overcome some of these enemies of our soul in the strength of the Lord, then how do we do it? What does it mean to tackle challenges in the strength of the Lord. Elder Maxwell once promised that if our eyes were opened, we would see legions of angels rapidly coming towards us to relieve us of our trials. Does that enter into facing anything, everything in the strength of the Lord? Good question, right? If we face life in the strength of the Lord, then perhaps we should keep in mind the statement of Elder Maxwell and know that we are indeed being helped, protected, and given strength to overcome, endure, learn and grow.
If we had battles against other armies, what would it mean to go against them "in the strength of the Lord?"
When we tackle angry customers, or crazy drivers, or ignorant phone people who we have to deal with, or people who are always on the war path, do we consider going against them in the strength of the Lord?
Now comes the question, are our enemies always people? What if we are "blessed" with the challenge of living our lives without medical insurance and that gave us great concern and worrisome times. Could we go against that trial in the strength of the Lord? What if our debt was choking us? Would going against that trial in the strength of the Lord mean anything to us? What if we were trying to find another job. Could we tackle that in the strength of the Lord? If we don't like our boss, if we have a co-worker who is totally difficult to work with, if we can't make it on what we are being paid, if we don't like the calling we have been given by the bishop, if we never seem to have the time to home teach, and if we just never take the time to pray with our wife, could we tackle all of these things in the strength of the Lord?
If we answer positively positively, if we desire to endure, or even overcome some of these enemies of our soul in the strength of the Lord, then how do we do it? What does it mean to tackle challenges in the strength of the Lord. Elder Maxwell once promised that if our eyes were opened, we would see legions of angels rapidly coming towards us to relieve us of our trials. Does that enter into facing anything, everything in the strength of the Lord? Good question, right? If we face life in the strength of the Lord, then perhaps we should keep in mind the statement of Elder Maxwell and know that we are indeed being helped, protected, and given strength to overcome, endure, learn and grow.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
DAY 282 -- Your, My Effectual Struggle
In my reading in the Book of Mormon, the King Limhi said to Ammon as he asked him to help them get released from bondage to the Lamanites that there was yet to be an "effectual struggle." I have often wondered what he meant. Of course it was not an easy thing to get free from the Lamanites, but I am impressed with King Limhi.as he knew there was yet to be a struggle, even though he had faith in Ammon.
As I consider the last 80 days or so, I have had a few effectual struggles over our goals to be ready and worthy for a mission call. I just blogged about the effectual struggle I just had about money. I also know that the weight challenge I have is giving me an effectual struggle. I know that there are countless areas where Satan throws effectual struggles in my mind and in front of me to prevent me from seeing with Eternal Perspective.
In my opinion, Satan is the cause of, the creator of effectual struggles. Whenever I have had a witness of something I need to do, I can also see reasons why I should not, can not, and won't do what the Spirit tells me to do. An effectual struggle in my mind and heart all of a sudden appears. I question whether I really had the inspiration and through Satan's influence, an effectual struggle is put in my mindand it either totally stops me, or slows me down.
I know I may be interpreting this effectual struggle in a different way than it was meant, but it touched my mind about these words of Limhi. Knowing that Father is in charge, and knowing that His will, will be done, why should anyone, why should I struggle with any of that? Probably because I am not perfect yet and I struggle like so many, but in struggling, do we not grow, learn, and come out better for it?
Did the people of Limhi struggle and learn something from their upcoming struggle? What did they learn? I will find out tomorrow as I read my daily chapter of the BOM.
As I consider the last 80 days or so, I have had a few effectual struggles over our goals to be ready and worthy for a mission call. I just blogged about the effectual struggle I just had about money. I also know that the weight challenge I have is giving me an effectual struggle. I know that there are countless areas where Satan throws effectual struggles in my mind and in front of me to prevent me from seeing with Eternal Perspective.
In my opinion, Satan is the cause of, the creator of effectual struggles. Whenever I have had a witness of something I need to do, I can also see reasons why I should not, can not, and won't do what the Spirit tells me to do. An effectual struggle in my mind and heart all of a sudden appears. I question whether I really had the inspiration and through Satan's influence, an effectual struggle is put in my mindand it either totally stops me, or slows me down.
I know I may be interpreting this effectual struggle in a different way than it was meant, but it touched my mind about these words of Limhi. Knowing that Father is in charge, and knowing that His will, will be done, why should anyone, why should I struggle with any of that? Probably because I am not perfect yet and I struggle like so many, but in struggling, do we not grow, learn, and come out better for it?
Did the people of Limhi struggle and learn something from their upcoming struggle? What did they learn? I will find out tomorrow as I read my daily chapter of the BOM.
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