Howdy, folks!
It has been well over a year since I last put my fingers to keys and wrote a blog entry here. And can I just say, a LOT has happened over that time. I have a new baby girl who is the world to me! Before she came, I didn't know that this kind of happiness existed! She has brought so much joy and light into my life at a time when I desperately needed it.
Lately, I have been feeling rather crummy. I am about to embark on a new adventure with my wonderful husband, but I still have to wait a little over a month before that adventure can officially begin. As I sit here waiting for it to start, I have begun to think about all the things I will be missing. Our adventure is moving to somewhere different. My husband got offered a wonderful job opportunity in Provo, Utah, and we took it! As excited as we are, I know that I will miss all my friends and memories here in Rexburg. I mean, this small town has been my home for the last 6-ish years, and I can't believe that it is coming to an end so soon! On the other hand, my dear hubster and I are SO ready for change. We are excited for the opportunity to live somewhere slightly bigger (okay, WAY bigger) than Rexburg. We are excited to be close to members of both our families, and we are excited to start living how WE want to live, instead of him having to spend all his time working on school and making sure not to screw things up. It will be a welcome change to not have to worry about school, I can tell you that.
Things are a-changing, my friends. But for the better, I know it.
Anyways, I graduated April of 2013, and had my daughter in October. I have been able to be a stay-at-home mom since that time, which is something I have ALWAYS wanted to be! When I graduated, I left with a degree in Elementary Education. Every day, I do miss being in the classroom, surrounded by eager minds just waiting to be filled with what I have to teach them. I also miss the sassiness that came with working with young children (they tell it like it is, and I LOVED that). But, I also LOVE LOVE LOVE being able to be home and watch my daughter grow and develop. Over the last 8 months, I have watched as she discovers more of her world, and it is a joy to see! She is showing me how exciting and wonderful and interesting life really is, and I seem to have lost that joy along the way. I am glad having a young child helps to bring that perspective back.
Also, this next month is going to be MONDO busy! July is full of missionaries departing, weddings, graduation, and moving! If you could spare some prayers and good thoughts, that would be wonderful! And I decided to start running/working out on a more general basis. I feel like, if I do some movement and get my body slightly back in shape, I will start to feel better. I will be doing the Couch to 5K, while also doing a 30 day yoga challenge. If you want to join me, or just want more information, don't hesitate to ask! I am more than willing to do this with others!
Well, I just wanted to get you guys caught up slightly. I feel like I need to get blogging back into my life. I need an outlet where I can share my thoughts and feelings, and I feel this can be it. Hope you don't mind my being back! I will be better at this. I promise!
Love ya!
Symone
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Sunday, March 31, 2013
He is Risen!
Today is Easter Sunday, a day to celebrate the resurrection of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Did you know that I consider Him to be one of the greatest people I have ever known?
Did you know that He has helped me through more pain and sorrow than anyone else?
Did you know that I feel His love, patience, and consideration in my every day life?
Jesus Christ is my Lord, my Savior, my Redeemer. He is also my Brother, my Friend, and my Comforter.
He was risen on a day much like today, three days after being crucified. The scriptures share the story of what occurred, and I think that all should take the time to read it today, if any day (Matthew 26-28).
My beliefs tell me that Jesus Christ is alive today, that He is risen, and that He went through all He did in order to save everyone. Everyone includes me, individually.
I love my Savior and Redeemer, and am SO grateful and humbled for all that He has done, not only for me but for everyone who has walked this Earth, is walking this Earth, and WILL walk this Earth.
The Savior's love is infinite, it is eternal, and it is something that helps me get through every day that may seem difficult.
Don't feel the same way? That's okay. This is my belief, my testimony, and I wished to share it with you.
Also, if reading isn't your thing, here are some videos you can watch to remind yourself of the story.
https://www.lds.org/youth/video/none-were-with-him?lang=eng
http://www.lds.org/bible-videos/videos/he-is-risen?lang=eng
Christ the Lord is Risen Today! Happy Easter, everyone.
Did you know that I consider Him to be one of the greatest people I have ever known?
Did you know that He has helped me through more pain and sorrow than anyone else?
Did you know that I feel His love, patience, and consideration in my every day life?
Jesus Christ is my Lord, my Savior, my Redeemer. He is also my Brother, my Friend, and my Comforter.
He was risen on a day much like today, three days after being crucified. The scriptures share the story of what occurred, and I think that all should take the time to read it today, if any day (Matthew 26-28).
My beliefs tell me that Jesus Christ is alive today, that He is risen, and that He went through all He did in order to save everyone. Everyone includes me, individually.
I love my Savior and Redeemer, and am SO grateful and humbled for all that He has done, not only for me but for everyone who has walked this Earth, is walking this Earth, and WILL walk this Earth.
The Savior's love is infinite, it is eternal, and it is something that helps me get through every day that may seem difficult.
Don't feel the same way? That's okay. This is my belief, my testimony, and I wished to share it with you.
Also, if reading isn't your thing, here are some videos you can watch to remind yourself of the story.
https://www.lds.org/youth/video/none-were-with-him?lang=eng
http://www.lds.org/bible-videos/videos/he-is-risen?lang=eng
Christ the Lord is Risen Today! Happy Easter, everyone.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Yesterday...
Yesterday was a rather interesting day for me. I had a lot of thoughts come into my mind, that really helped me to see that what I was doing... just wasn't working.
I read the book The Missing Piece Meets The Big O yesterday with my darling husband. He'd never read it before (I was shocked, I tell ya!), so I decided to read it aloud like I would in an elementary classroom. Student Teaching is taking over my life, but I wouldn't have it any other way. :] Anyways, as we were reading it, I had a lot of things go through my mind. This whole book is about being happy with yourself before finding someone else. Now, it could be placed in many situations, but it spoke loud and clear to me yesterday for one specific situation.
Then, this morning, I read my scriptures. I read 2 Nephi 4 today, and verses 15-35 REALLY opened my eyes.
Lately, I have been feeling rather alone. Whether it is my doing or not, it doesn't matter. Now, not everything is going bad. My marriage is amazing, I love my family and friends, and Student Teaching is one of the all-time GREATEST experiences of my life so far, but I still feel like I am being left behind, for some strange reason. But today, as I read my scriptures and thought about the things that I read yesterday, somethings were made absolutely clear.
1) I need to grow spiritually. Here is something I read yesterday that points that out to me. "Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained that God provides us with challenges that are designed to help us grow spiritually: 'Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more (see Proverbs 3:11–12). He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that generally entails discomfort and pain'." I feel, at this point in my life, that I need to increase my spiritual self, and find out the things that I may not be doing correctly, or where I can improve, in order to be a better wife, friend, sister, helper, and Daughter of God.
2) I need to place my trust in the Lord. 2 Nephi 4:34 states, "O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm." I need to place my trust in the Lord, and really, truly believe that His plan is greater than mine, and that the things that are occurring are to HELP me, not HURT me.
3) I need to learn to be okay with myself. Just as The Missing Piece needed to find out how to be okay with itself, I, too, need to do that. I need to learn that it really is okay to not hear from friends every day, or to not have plans with people every day. I need to learn how to be okay, productive, and loving to myself before pushing for others to come into play.
Maybe this blog post makes no sense, and maybe this won't affect anyone else, but I am grateful for the inspirations that I have received, and I plan on trying my best to get better.
I read the book The Missing Piece Meets The Big O yesterday with my darling husband. He'd never read it before (I was shocked, I tell ya!), so I decided to read it aloud like I would in an elementary classroom. Student Teaching is taking over my life, but I wouldn't have it any other way. :] Anyways, as we were reading it, I had a lot of things go through my mind. This whole book is about being happy with yourself before finding someone else. Now, it could be placed in many situations, but it spoke loud and clear to me yesterday for one specific situation.
Then, this morning, I read my scriptures. I read 2 Nephi 4 today, and verses 15-35 REALLY opened my eyes.
Lately, I have been feeling rather alone. Whether it is my doing or not, it doesn't matter. Now, not everything is going bad. My marriage is amazing, I love my family and friends, and Student Teaching is one of the all-time GREATEST experiences of my life so far, but I still feel like I am being left behind, for some strange reason. But today, as I read my scriptures and thought about the things that I read yesterday, somethings were made absolutely clear.
1) I need to grow spiritually. Here is something I read yesterday that points that out to me. "Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained that God provides us with challenges that are designed to help us grow spiritually: 'Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more (see Proverbs 3:11–12). He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that generally entails discomfort and pain'." I feel, at this point in my life, that I need to increase my spiritual self, and find out the things that I may not be doing correctly, or where I can improve, in order to be a better wife, friend, sister, helper, and Daughter of God.
2) I need to place my trust in the Lord. 2 Nephi 4:34 states, "O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm." I need to place my trust in the Lord, and really, truly believe that His plan is greater than mine, and that the things that are occurring are to HELP me, not HURT me.
3) I need to learn to be okay with myself. Just as The Missing Piece needed to find out how to be okay with itself, I, too, need to do that. I need to learn that it really is okay to not hear from friends every day, or to not have plans with people every day. I need to learn how to be okay, productive, and loving to myself before pushing for others to come into play.
Maybe this blog post makes no sense, and maybe this won't affect anyone else, but I am grateful for the inspirations that I have received, and I plan on trying my best to get better.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Sandy Hook Elementary School
You know, I have been trying to find the way to adequately express the feelings that I have felt about this tragedy... and I don't know what to say.
Shock. Disbelief. Tears. Sobs. Love. Sadness. Fear. Hope. Strength.
If I am half the teacher as those in that school, I will feel successful.
This shouldn't have happened. It shouldn't have... But it did.
We can't dwell too much on it. There is a time to mourn, and it is now that time. Everyone should mourn what has occurred, because most of those who died were babies. Young, innocent, precious children who didn't deserve this. But I know that they are in a much safer, happier place. And that gives me comfort.
I pray for all those who have been affected by this tragedy, whether personally or otherwise. America, it's time to become one. It's time to find out why these events keep occurring, and what we can do to stop it. It's time for people to not be scared to go to the movies, the mall, a restaurant, or school.
What can we do about it?
To those 27 souls who passed away on Friday, and to the families and friends of them, I hope that you are able to feel comfort and peace. I hope you know that the Lord's arms are surrounding you with His love, and that He is mindful of you. Me, and the rest of this nation, are praying for you. We hope that you can find peace, comfort, strength, and light during this dark and terrible time. Evil was there on Friday, but Good will reign supreme.
Shock. Disbelief. Tears. Sobs. Love. Sadness. Fear. Hope. Strength.
If I am half the teacher as those in that school, I will feel successful.
This shouldn't have happened. It shouldn't have... But it did.
We can't dwell too much on it. There is a time to mourn, and it is now that time. Everyone should mourn what has occurred, because most of those who died were babies. Young, innocent, precious children who didn't deserve this. But I know that they are in a much safer, happier place. And that gives me comfort.
I pray for all those who have been affected by this tragedy, whether personally or otherwise. America, it's time to become one. It's time to find out why these events keep occurring, and what we can do to stop it. It's time for people to not be scared to go to the movies, the mall, a restaurant, or school.
What can we do about it?
To those 27 souls who passed away on Friday, and to the families and friends of them, I hope that you are able to feel comfort and peace. I hope you know that the Lord's arms are surrounding you with His love, and that He is mindful of you. Me, and the rest of this nation, are praying for you. We hope that you can find peace, comfort, strength, and light during this dark and terrible time. Evil was there on Friday, but Good will reign supreme.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
One thing I dislike about school...
How the teachers ask you to write about what YOU think is important, and then you get docked down because you didn't put what THEY thought was important...
HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE? It doesn't.
The end.
HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE? It doesn't.
The end.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
A Good Name: William Shakespeare
“Good name in man and woman, dear my lord,
Is the immediate jewel of their souls:
Who steals my purse steals trash; ’tis something, nothing;
’twas mine, ’tis his, and has been slave to thousands;
But he that filches from me my good name
Robs me of that which not enriches him, And makes me poor indeed.”
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
"Be as gracious as you were passionate."
Election day has come and gone. And it's actually amazing to see what people have to say about the outcomes.
Right now, I know that everything happens for a reason. Obama is president again, and I just hope that things will get better.
The topics I was most concerned about this Election season included Propositions 1, 2, and 3 here in Idaho. I was worried that they were going to pass, and they didn't. So, that made me pretty darn happy.
Election day is over. Nothing can be undone, nothing can be changed. Obama is president. As American citizens, we need to support our President.
Am I disappointed by some of the outcomes? Of course. Especially some in my home state of Washington. But, we gotta keep moving forward. Keep our heads high. Keep working hard.
America can be great, as long as we strive to come together and work together. Last night showed just how divided the USA can become. That is NOT what we need to be. We need to be strong together, we need to work together and fight together.
Changes are coming, I can feel it. Major, unknown changes. Do we really want to be a divided nation and face those changes apart? Or do we want to be together, facing this changes head-on, no regrets?
Personally, I'd rather be together. But that is just my opinion.
Congratulations to Obama for winning a second term. Romney, you did good.
And for all you out there who keep complaining, or see no good... Remember this...
"Be as gracious as you were passionate."
Also, there may be some of my followers who are wondering what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Or Mormon Church) has to say about this election. Read it here:
http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/statement-on-election-result
Right now, I know that everything happens for a reason. Obama is president again, and I just hope that things will get better.
The topics I was most concerned about this Election season included Propositions 1, 2, and 3 here in Idaho. I was worried that they were going to pass, and they didn't. So, that made me pretty darn happy.
Election day is over. Nothing can be undone, nothing can be changed. Obama is president. As American citizens, we need to support our President.
Am I disappointed by some of the outcomes? Of course. Especially some in my home state of Washington. But, we gotta keep moving forward. Keep our heads high. Keep working hard.
America can be great, as long as we strive to come together and work together. Last night showed just how divided the USA can become. That is NOT what we need to be. We need to be strong together, we need to work together and fight together.
Changes are coming, I can feel it. Major, unknown changes. Do we really want to be a divided nation and face those changes apart? Or do we want to be together, facing this changes head-on, no regrets?
Personally, I'd rather be together. But that is just my opinion.
Congratulations to Obama for winning a second term. Romney, you did good.
And for all you out there who keep complaining, or see no good... Remember this...
"Be as gracious as you were passionate."
Also, there may be some of my followers who are wondering what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Or Mormon Church) has to say about this election. Read it here:
http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/statement-on-election-result
Sunday, October 7, 2012
182nd Semiannual General Conference, October 2012
For the last two days, I have had the wonderful opportunity to listen to prophets, seers, and revelators that are on this earth today. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and two times a year (the first weekend of April and the first weekend of October) we gather together as a Church to listen to messages created with us in mind. We are able to feel the Spirit, and learn new things that we can apply in our lives.
This weekend, I have learned so much, felt the Spirit so strongly, and been inspired to make changes in my life. With this blog post, I decided to write one thing that stood out from every talk that was given. I want to share the things that I found important, and hopefully see what you felt was important.
For those of you who aren't member of my Church, if you want to find out more about it, then go to www.lds.org, and click on the General Conference link. :]
So, Saturday Morning went like this.
President Thomas S. Monson: Major thing? 18-year-old male and 19-year-old female missionaries!!! AHH!! What a HUGE announcement!
Elder Quentin L. Cook: "If ye have experienced a change of heart... can ye feel so now?" "It is never too late to make the Atonement the foundation of your faith and your life."
Sister Ann M. Dibb: "I'm a Mormon. I know it. I live it. I love it."
Elder Craig C. Christensen: ""Be inspired by what you feel, not what you see." "The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice you feel, rather than hear."
Elder Shayne M. Bowen: "You haven't been robbed. There is a great blessing waiting for you, if you are worthy and faithful." (This talk was really emotional for me.)
Elder Russell M. Nelson: "Don't fear the missionaries, but learn from them." "ASK THE MISSIONARIES! THEY CAN HELP YOU!"
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: "Make resolutions today. Spend time with those you love, become who God wants you to become, and take the time to just be happy!"
Trust me, there were a LOT more things that stood out. You can always ask me for more. :] We can have a pretty sweet discussion! :]
Anyways, moving on. Saturday Afternoon:
Elder L. Tom Perry: "Create a strong family culture NOW!" A strengthened family equals protection. Begin by the cradle side, teaching by example and precepts.
Elder M. Russell Ballard: "Great things are brought about, and burdens are lightened, through many hands focused on good."
Elder Larry Echo Hawk: Don't hesitate to exclaim that you are Mormon, and that you know the Book of Mormon is true! The message in the Book of Mormon is for ALL people.
Elder Robert C. Gay: It is so easy to get caught up in the world, despite our good intentions. "I will give away all my sins to know Thee." Let go of ALL sins, big or small. "My testimony is my most precious treasure."
Elder Scott D. Whiting: You are a temple. Live to the standards that keep you strong, clean, and pure. "The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Elder Neil L. Andersen: "Fiery trials are there to make you stronger!" With faith comes trials of faith that bring increased faith. (Did you get that? :] Took me a few times to get it down.) "Hold on. Fear not. For God shall be with you forever and ever."
Elder Dallin H. Oaks: We have the duty to care for children. We need to protect children from harm/injury of ANY form. Children are role models of teachability and humbleness.
Sunday Morning:
President Henry B. Eyring: God is never hidden, though sometimes we are. We do not need to see Christ to know He cares for us. The Lord's delays are always calculated to bless.
Elder Boyd K. Packer: "If you haven't made mistakes, you don't need the Atonement." Since we've all made mistakes, big or small, we have an immense need for the Atonement.
Sister Linda K. Burton: "First observe, then serve."
Elder Walter F. Gonzalez: "Come unto me, that ye may feel and see." Be still and follow promptings. Build your foundation on Christ so the Devil will have no power over you.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: "Do you love me more than you love all this?" Crowning characteristic of love is ALWAYS loyalty. We have wrongs to make right, truths to share, and love to give. We can't quit, and we can't go back! God expects our love and loyalty at every stage of our life.
President Thomas S. Monson: Instead of focusing on the negative, step back and recognize all the blessings (big or small), and you will be happier. Heavenly Father is aware of our needs, and will help when we come to Him. The Lord will, indeed, make up the difference.
Sunday Afternoon:
Elder Robert D. Hales: How are we doing in our quest to follow Christ? As we are made new in Christ, our very natures change. We won't want to go back to our old ways.
Elder Richard G. Scott: Any work in the temple is time well spent, but doing family's work makes it better. Do something that will have eternal worth. This work is a spiritual work done on both sides of the veil. Begin now.
Elder Russell T. Osguthorpe: We follow Christ one step at a time. Each step leads to change and us being closer to God. Learn, teach, and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ every day.
Elder Marcus B. Nash: Faith brings us the power of the Lord. "Look unto me in every thought. Doubt not. Fear not." Press forward.
Elder Daniel L. Johnson: Do your duty, no matter what happens. Total submission to the Lord needs to happen.
Elder Don R. Clarke: Sacrament meeting is the most important meeting. Communicate with heaven, and heaven will communicate with you. Come prepared, be willing to listen, and don't be distracted. Comfort and happiness comes to the soul that takes the sacrament worthily.
Elder David A. Bednar: Testimony is a personal knowledge of spiritual truth. Conversion- offering of self, love, and loyalty. Have a mighty change of heart, and a determination to do better! Testimony alone will not protect us, we must be converted. Do I still possess weapons of rebellion? If yes, repent NOW!
President Thomas S. Monson: Watch over one another. Be of good cheer. The purpose of mortality is to learn to grow. Christ lived for us, and Christ died for us.
Those were the parts that stuck out to me from each talk! I can't wait until the Ensign comes out, so I can reread these talks, put my thoughts into the margins, and just recall the thoughts and feelings that I had while watching this wonderful General Conference.
This weekend, I have learned so much, felt the Spirit so strongly, and been inspired to make changes in my life. With this blog post, I decided to write one thing that stood out from every talk that was given. I want to share the things that I found important, and hopefully see what you felt was important.
For those of you who aren't member of my Church, if you want to find out more about it, then go to www.lds.org, and click on the General Conference link. :]
So, Saturday Morning went like this.
President Thomas S. Monson: Major thing? 18-year-old male and 19-year-old female missionaries!!! AHH!! What a HUGE announcement!
Elder Quentin L. Cook: "If ye have experienced a change of heart... can ye feel so now?" "It is never too late to make the Atonement the foundation of your faith and your life."
Sister Ann M. Dibb: "I'm a Mormon. I know it. I live it. I love it."
Elder Craig C. Christensen: ""Be inspired by what you feel, not what you see." "The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice you feel, rather than hear."
Elder Shayne M. Bowen: "You haven't been robbed. There is a great blessing waiting for you, if you are worthy and faithful." (This talk was really emotional for me.)
Elder Russell M. Nelson: "Don't fear the missionaries, but learn from them." "ASK THE MISSIONARIES! THEY CAN HELP YOU!"
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: "Make resolutions today. Spend time with those you love, become who God wants you to become, and take the time to just be happy!"
Trust me, there were a LOT more things that stood out. You can always ask me for more. :] We can have a pretty sweet discussion! :]
Anyways, moving on. Saturday Afternoon:
Elder L. Tom Perry: "Create a strong family culture NOW!" A strengthened family equals protection. Begin by the cradle side, teaching by example and precepts.
Elder M. Russell Ballard: "Great things are brought about, and burdens are lightened, through many hands focused on good."
Elder Larry Echo Hawk: Don't hesitate to exclaim that you are Mormon, and that you know the Book of Mormon is true! The message in the Book of Mormon is for ALL people.
Elder Robert C. Gay: It is so easy to get caught up in the world, despite our good intentions. "I will give away all my sins to know Thee." Let go of ALL sins, big or small. "My testimony is my most precious treasure."
Elder Scott D. Whiting: You are a temple. Live to the standards that keep you strong, clean, and pure. "The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Elder Neil L. Andersen: "Fiery trials are there to make you stronger!" With faith comes trials of faith that bring increased faith. (Did you get that? :] Took me a few times to get it down.) "Hold on. Fear not. For God shall be with you forever and ever."
Elder Dallin H. Oaks: We have the duty to care for children. We need to protect children from harm/injury of ANY form. Children are role models of teachability and humbleness.
Sunday Morning:
President Henry B. Eyring: God is never hidden, though sometimes we are. We do not need to see Christ to know He cares for us. The Lord's delays are always calculated to bless.
Elder Boyd K. Packer: "If you haven't made mistakes, you don't need the Atonement." Since we've all made mistakes, big or small, we have an immense need for the Atonement.
Sister Linda K. Burton: "First observe, then serve."
Elder Walter F. Gonzalez: "Come unto me, that ye may feel and see." Be still and follow promptings. Build your foundation on Christ so the Devil will have no power over you.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: "Do you love me more than you love all this?" Crowning characteristic of love is ALWAYS loyalty. We have wrongs to make right, truths to share, and love to give. We can't quit, and we can't go back! God expects our love and loyalty at every stage of our life.
President Thomas S. Monson: Instead of focusing on the negative, step back and recognize all the blessings (big or small), and you will be happier. Heavenly Father is aware of our needs, and will help when we come to Him. The Lord will, indeed, make up the difference.
Sunday Afternoon:
Elder Robert D. Hales: How are we doing in our quest to follow Christ? As we are made new in Christ, our very natures change. We won't want to go back to our old ways.
Elder Richard G. Scott: Any work in the temple is time well spent, but doing family's work makes it better. Do something that will have eternal worth. This work is a spiritual work done on both sides of the veil. Begin now.
Elder Russell T. Osguthorpe: We follow Christ one step at a time. Each step leads to change and us being closer to God. Learn, teach, and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ every day.
Elder Marcus B. Nash: Faith brings us the power of the Lord. "Look unto me in every thought. Doubt not. Fear not." Press forward.
Elder Daniel L. Johnson: Do your duty, no matter what happens. Total submission to the Lord needs to happen.
Elder Don R. Clarke: Sacrament meeting is the most important meeting. Communicate with heaven, and heaven will communicate with you. Come prepared, be willing to listen, and don't be distracted. Comfort and happiness comes to the soul that takes the sacrament worthily.
Elder David A. Bednar: Testimony is a personal knowledge of spiritual truth. Conversion- offering of self, love, and loyalty. Have a mighty change of heart, and a determination to do better! Testimony alone will not protect us, we must be converted. Do I still possess weapons of rebellion? If yes, repent NOW!
President Thomas S. Monson: Watch over one another. Be of good cheer. The purpose of mortality is to learn to grow. Christ lived for us, and Christ died for us.
Those were the parts that stuck out to me from each talk! I can't wait until the Ensign comes out, so I can reread these talks, put my thoughts into the margins, and just recall the thoughts and feelings that I had while watching this wonderful General Conference.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Whatever it is, pitying yourself won't solve it.
Did I ever need to hear that today.
I have been struggling a lot lately. There will be times where I will be sitting at home, the room silent, and I will just start thinking about things.
Thinking isn't a bad thing... except for when you start thinking about all the things that, supposedly, are going wrong.
That seems to be my problem, lately. I mean, don't get me wrong, I have seen good in everything that I have done over the last few weeks, but my heart has been hurting over some things that I look at and see as if they are going all wrong.
The more I think about those things, though, the less amount of options I see in fixing the "problem."
Yes, I know, this blog post is extremely vague. But that's okay, because I just need to get this out in the open.
So, I have decided to just let go. Let go of all that is bothering me, all that is hurting me, all that is causing me to feel as if I have all the problems in the world on my shoulders.
Good bye, worry. If I can't fix it, then I am just letting go.
I have been struggling a lot lately. There will be times where I will be sitting at home, the room silent, and I will just start thinking about things.
Thinking isn't a bad thing... except for when you start thinking about all the things that, supposedly, are going wrong.
That seems to be my problem, lately. I mean, don't get me wrong, I have seen good in everything that I have done over the last few weeks, but my heart has been hurting over some things that I look at and see as if they are going all wrong.
The more I think about those things, though, the less amount of options I see in fixing the "problem."
Yes, I know, this blog post is extremely vague. But that's okay, because I just need to get this out in the open.
So, I have decided to just let go. Let go of all that is bothering me, all that is hurting me, all that is causing me to feel as if I have all the problems in the world on my shoulders.
Good bye, worry. If I can't fix it, then I am just letting go.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
I am a Daughter of God
“I won’t flirt with the darkness that I am here to fight. I’m a Daughter of God, and I’m holding on to
virtue. I am confident in my
divinity. You’ll find me on my Father’s
side, no matter what the world may do.”
You know, there are days when I am sitting in my apartment, gazing at my wonderful husband, and thinking about all the things that happened in my life to get me to where I am today. Let me tell you, there were many events and people that helped me bring my life to where it is today. But through everything I have gone through, there is always one thing that has never changed. One truth that I always held on to. One item that was always a part of my dreams, no matter the good nor the bad that I went through. I knew that I was a Daughter of God, and I knew that one piece of knowledge would never change or go away. And because I was a Daughter of God, I would always be able to find my way back to Him. I love that knowledge.
Now, I am starting my final semester in college before doing Student Teaching, and I felt really alone and worried before it started. I am only two days into it, but that feeling has gone away. Why? Because I know that I have a Father in Heaven who loves me, and wouldn't ever leave me alone. And, if I remain faithful, He will help me through everything, and He will guide me on the path that I am meant to go on.
And for that, I am so grateful and humbled.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Sacred and Divine
"There has come to you as your birthright something beautiful and sacred and divine. Never forget that. Your Eternal Father is the great Master of the universe. He rules over all, but He also will listen to your prayers as His daughter and hear you as you speak with Him. He will answer your prayers. He will not leave you alone."
President Gordon B. Hinckley
President Gordon B. Hinckley
Monday, August 27, 2012
Wow... This really struck me.
The Bridge
There once was a big turntable bridge which spanned a large river. During most of the day the bridge sat with its length running up and down the river parallel with the banks, allowing ships to pass through freely on both sides of the bridge. But at certain times each day, a train would come along, and the bridge would be turned sideways across the river allowing the train to cross. The bridge was just wide enough for a train to cross it.
A switchman sat in a small shack on one side of the river where he operated the controls to turn the bridge and lock it into place as the train passed. One evening as the switchman was waiting for the last train of the day to come, he looked off into the distance through the dimming twilight, and caught sight of the train's light. He stepped to the controls and waited until the train was within a prescribed distance when he was to turn the bridge. He turned the bridge into position for the train to cross, and moved the lever to lock the bridge into position, but to his horror, he found the locking control didn't work. If the bridge was not locked securely into position it would wobble back and forth at the ends when the train came onto it, causing the train to jump the track and go crashing into the river. This would be a passenger train with many people aboard.
He left the bridge turned across the river, and hurried across the bridge to the other side of the river where there was a lever which he could use to operate the lock manually. He would have to hold the lever back firmly as the train passed. He could hear the rumble of the train now, and he took hold of the lever and leaned backward to apply his weight to it, locking the bridge. He kept applying the pressure to keep the mechanism locked. Many lives depended on this man's strength.
Then, coming across the bridge from the direction of his control shack, he heard a sound that made his blood run cold!-----"Daddy, where are you?" His four-year-old son was crossing the bridge to look for him. His first impulse was to cry out to the child, "Run! Run!" but the train was too close; the tiny legs would never make it across the bridge in time. The man almost left the lever to run and snatch up his son and carry him to safety, but he realized he could not get back to the lever. Either the people on the train or his little son must die.
He took just a moment to make his decision. The train sped swiftly and safely on its way, and no one aboard was even aware of the tiny, broken body thrown mercilessly into the river by the onrushing train. Nor were they aware of the pitiful figure of a sobbing man, still clinging tightly to the locked lever long after the train had passed. They didn't see him walking home more slowly than he has ever walked----to tell his wife how he had sacrificed their son.
Now if you can comprehend the emotions which went through this man's heart, you can begin to understand the feelings of our Heavenly Father when he sacrificed His son to bridge the gap between us and eternal life. Can there be any wonder that he caused the earth to tremble and the skies to darken when His Son died? And how does He feel when we speed along through life without giving a thought to what was done for us through Jesus? When was the last time you thanked Him for the sacrifice of His Son?
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Forgiveness
"I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men."
You know, before this last Sunday, I had believed that I had forgiven those who had trespassed against me. That I had forgiven all those who may have hurt me, or offended me, or made me feel insignificant. I had believed that I had forgiven myself. But, that was not the case.
I learned a lot about forgiveness this last Sunday. I learned that when it comes to forgiveness, it is not just "forgive and forget." Heavenly Father forgives and forgets, but we don't always forget. Sure, over time, we may forget the main details, or really forget what even happened that made us feel the way that we did. But we won't ever forget the lessons that we learned. We won't forget how that experience made us feel, and how we never want to feel that way again.
I have learned, while going through this process of forgiveness, that I don't need to forget the lessons that I learned. What I do need to do is forgive without reserve, completely, wholeheartedly, and let go of the barrier that I have placed between myself and the person. I need to realize that, with that barrier, nothing will get better. I need to let go of the pain, but I don't need to forget th lesson I learned.
So, to those who I may not have forgiven yet, be patient. It will take time, but trust me. You will be forgiven.
You know, before this last Sunday, I had believed that I had forgiven those who had trespassed against me. That I had forgiven all those who may have hurt me, or offended me, or made me feel insignificant. I had believed that I had forgiven myself. But, that was not the case.
I learned a lot about forgiveness this last Sunday. I learned that when it comes to forgiveness, it is not just "forgive and forget." Heavenly Father forgives and forgets, but we don't always forget. Sure, over time, we may forget the main details, or really forget what even happened that made us feel the way that we did. But we won't ever forget the lessons that we learned. We won't forget how that experience made us feel, and how we never want to feel that way again.
I have learned, while going through this process of forgiveness, that I don't need to forget the lessons that I learned. What I do need to do is forgive without reserve, completely, wholeheartedly, and let go of the barrier that I have placed between myself and the person. I need to realize that, with that barrier, nothing will get better. I need to let go of the pain, but I don't need to forget th lesson I learned.
So, to those who I may not have forgiven yet, be patient. It will take time, but trust me. You will be forgiven.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
What was I thinking?
I HATE SCARY MOVIES! HATE THEM!
And, for some reason, I seem to always try to watch them. Then I get freaked out. And then I can't sleep.
So, here I am. Trying various ways to fall asleep.
The most recent attempt? Watching Harry Potter until I fall asleep.
Thankfully, my husband loves me enough to let me watch it.
I love him. <3 and="and" be="be" best="best" e="e" friend="friend" have="have" him.="him." i="i" idea="idea" is="is" my="my" nbsp="nbsp" no="no" p="p" really="really" where="where" without="without" would="would">
And, for some reason, I seem to always try to watch them. Then I get freaked out. And then I can't sleep.
So, here I am. Trying various ways to fall asleep.
The most recent attempt? Watching Harry Potter until I fall asleep.
Thankfully, my husband loves me enough to let me watch it.
I love him. <3 and="and" be="be" best="best" e="e" friend="friend" have="have" him.="him." i="i" idea="idea" is="is" my="my" nbsp="nbsp" no="no" p="p" really="really" where="where" without="without" would="would">
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
I decided that I was going to start a new goal.
I have been putting it off for about a week now, but no more.
I am actually going to do it.
Friends...
I am going to read all the books of scripture in one year.
Yep, you heard me. The Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price in one year!
Crazy? Maybe.
Excited? Heck yes!
I am ready to say that I have read all the books of scripture cover to cover. It's been a long time since I read the Bible (Old and New Testament), the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price cover to cover, so it will be nice to do that along with the Book of Mormon.
I already read the few pages I needed to today, and already I feel a change in my attitude. It's amazing how much joy and peace the scriptures can bring into your life, even by just reading a few pages.
Anyone want to join me? Just let me know!
Loves!
Symone
I am actually going to do it.
Friends...
I am going to read all the books of scripture in one year.
Yep, you heard me. The Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price in one year!
Crazy? Maybe.
Excited? Heck yes!
I am ready to say that I have read all the books of scripture cover to cover. It's been a long time since I read the Bible (Old and New Testament), the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price cover to cover, so it will be nice to do that along with the Book of Mormon.
I already read the few pages I needed to today, and already I feel a change in my attitude. It's amazing how much joy and peace the scriptures can bring into your life, even by just reading a few pages.
Anyone want to join me? Just let me know!
Loves!
Symone
Sunday, August 12, 2012
I am feeling a creativity itch.
I want to improve my photography skills. I want to see if I can create a business of some sort with it. My sister took the leap that I have been too afraid to take, and I am kinda jealous. I want to do that, too. The problem is that I don't know who would be interested. That is something that happens with Mary Kay, or really anything else I am interested in. I am not 100% sure if there is anyone who is actually interested, and therefore I do nothing about it.
Well, I am wanting to make a change. I want to do more photography. Now I just need to get out there and do it.
Creativity itch... You will be scratched.
Well, I am wanting to make a change. I want to do more photography. Now I just need to get out there and do it.
Creativity itch... You will be scratched.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
So...
I am married now! And I love it.
Also, I went through my second to last semester before student teaching last week!
AND I never have to take a state test ever again! WHOO HOO!
Life is fairly good right now. Just thinking about two years ago.
Also, I went through my second to last semester before student teaching last week!
AND I never have to take a state test ever again! WHOO HOO!
Life is fairly good right now. Just thinking about two years ago.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
"The greater the struggle, the more glorious the triumph."
Today, I should have been studying.
Today, I should have been preparing for my last two finals.
Today should have been different, in regards to my attitude towards schoolwork.
Instead, I spent some time with some wonderful friends, watching various videos on YouTube. They ranged from funny to emotional to inspiring. There was one video that we watched that had all three.
Have you watched "The Butterfly Circus" yet? It's a short film made a few years ago.
Here, here's a link to it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_MCwlY6zzg
If you have 20 minutes to spare, watch it. You will laugh, cry, and feel empowered to continue on with whatever you are facing. I have watched it twice now, and feel so much better about life.
The title of this blog is a line from that short film, coming at a crucial part.
Honestly, just watch it. You will not regret it.
Today, I should have been preparing for my last two finals.
Today should have been different, in regards to my attitude towards schoolwork.
Instead, I spent some time with some wonderful friends, watching various videos on YouTube. They ranged from funny to emotional to inspiring. There was one video that we watched that had all three.
Have you watched "The Butterfly Circus" yet? It's a short film made a few years ago.
Here, here's a link to it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_MCwlY6zzg
If you have 20 minutes to spare, watch it. You will laugh, cry, and feel empowered to continue on with whatever you are facing. I have watched it twice now, and feel so much better about life.
The title of this blog is a line from that short film, coming at a crucial part.
Honestly, just watch it. You will not regret it.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
If I have learned anything over this last week...
It's that I need to not doubt myself, my abilities, and my potential to become great. I have started to doubt all those things over the course of this last semester. My question now, though, is why?
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