The joys, the laughter and all the jokes
The boys and girls and older folks
Come together this time each year
To share in all the Christmas cheer
The music, the singing and all that eggnog
Gives way for that someone to give you a snog
They will catch you off guard and so you will go
Off kissing right under the mistletoe
The lights are all dimmed and the tree set a glow
The fire is crackling as it gets very low
We stare out the window at the bright starry night
And dream of the big man and his big Christmas flight
the gifts are all great, there is no doubt
But do not forget what it's really about
The Christ child came down to save you and me
He gave us his life so that we all may be free
He was not born in a palace so warm
but in small stable, like that of a farm
He is our Redeemer, our Savior, our friend
He will be with us all the way to the end
So let us sing praises and give a loud shout
Of Hosanna, hosanna, our joy will ring out
The gift to be be given, is one that of love
And peace will reside like the sun up above
So find love and find peace through is great Christmas season
And soon you will find the true Christmas reason
Of peace to the earth and good will to all men
Merry Christmas to all and to all an Amen
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
NEw LiFe
I have two new baby Nephews and I am soooo happy!!! I don't have any pictures so sorry, get them from their mothers.
Friday, November 11, 2011
11/11/11
Despite the coolness date, this day has much more to offer. Two things actually. First today is the birthday of a dear brother of mine and I would like to wish him a very Happy Birthday. Deek you are such an incredible person and a wonderful brother. I have already written you a more personal letter so this is just to wish you publicly the best of days and to say thank you and that I love you.
Second today is a day to honor the men and women who have so selflessly laid down their lives to protect this country and give us the freedoms that we enjoy everyday. A scripture that goes so well with this day is John 15:13 "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." How many of us are noble and selfless enough to sacrifice so much for not only loved ones but for strangers and some who are unappreciative. With the nature of war today, those back home are not always as involved as they were in say WWII. It is more of something we hear on the news instead of something that surrounds us in every aspect of our lives. Our support doesn't come for giving up material goods so that the soldiers can eat or can have good clothing but we still can and must support the troops in other ways. Giving them the respect they deserve, not blaming them for wars that have been fought and the destruction that wars bring. There are so many things we can do. And so today I salute you incredible people and have feeling of gratitude in my heart because I have been blessed to live here in this beautiful country. Thank you, may God bless you and be with you.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
GoOD QuOtE
I just liked these quotes....
"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen." -Elizabeth Ros
"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." ~ Dr. Seuss
"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen." -Elizabeth Ros
"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." ~ Dr. Seuss
Sunday, October 30, 2011
My LIttLe BuTterCuP
Well Halloween is here and what is it without the classic Harbertson's Halloween party at Kristen's and Scott's house. This year we went all out with Sean's brilliant idea of being the Three Amigos and made our own customs-DI clothes, pirate hats, elmer's glue and a ton of glitter. Unfortunately we didn't have a camera so I only have a few pictures to post and you should all feel bad you don't get to see our lovely dance and Three Amigo chant or whatever it is called.
If I ever get more pictures or videos I will update it but no promises
OK also no judging on some of the pictures, they are what they are:)
If I ever get more pictures or videos I will update it but no promises
OK also no judging on some of the pictures, they are what they are:)
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Red Rover
So I heard I really cool analogy today and I wanted to share it but in my own way
Think back to grade school and all the fun times at recess you had playing sports, tag, hopscotch, jump rope etc.
Now do you remember playing red rover and wishing with all your might that you would be picked to run across the void and smash through the other lines gripping arms?
Or maybe the times when you thought your hands would fall off because of how tight you were gripping someone else hand, hoping that if they chose you to run through that you would be strong enough to stop them and in turn have them join your team...
Ok now think of all the times you have thought to yourself that you are fighting a loosing battle, that there are too many forces working against you and that your side is too small to withstand the pressures of the world.
Have you got those in your mind?
Now over lap the memories of the red rover game and all those doubtful times and see where things line up.
Just like in the game of red rover, it doesn't matter what side is longer or shorter. What matters is which side is stronger and can hold the line.
Are we strong enough to break through the opposing line's gripping hands
Are we strong enough to withhold the opposing line's offensive attacks
We must stand firm with those who share our beliefs, our values and our faith
We must hold the line, grasping firm to one another, sharing strength, power, giving all we can and then some
We must stand up to the longer opposing line, trusting that our strength will be sufficient enough to help protect us and to help add to our own line as we show those who may attack us, who we are, what we are made of and what we believe in.
Though the world's line may be longer, it is growing weaker as its people have less to stand for, to fight for, to live for
Join the shorter, but stronger side. Hold firm to your values, your morals, your faith
And though you may be weaker in some areas, just know that the savior is right there, holding your hand, making up the difference
We will continue to be strengthen as all as we Stand firm, Hold firm and Remain firm....continue to....
Hold the Line
Think back to grade school and all the fun times at recess you had playing sports, tag, hopscotch, jump rope etc.
Now do you remember playing red rover and wishing with all your might that you would be picked to run across the void and smash through the other lines gripping arms?
Or maybe the times when you thought your hands would fall off because of how tight you were gripping someone else hand, hoping that if they chose you to run through that you would be strong enough to stop them and in turn have them join your team...
Ok now think of all the times you have thought to yourself that you are fighting a loosing battle, that there are too many forces working against you and that your side is too small to withstand the pressures of the world.
Have you got those in your mind?
Now over lap the memories of the red rover game and all those doubtful times and see where things line up.
Just like in the game of red rover, it doesn't matter what side is longer or shorter. What matters is which side is stronger and can hold the line.
Are we strong enough to break through the opposing line's gripping hands
Are we strong enough to withhold the opposing line's offensive attacks
We must stand firm with those who share our beliefs, our values and our faith
We must hold the line, grasping firm to one another, sharing strength, power, giving all we can and then some
We must stand up to the longer opposing line, trusting that our strength will be sufficient enough to help protect us and to help add to our own line as we show those who may attack us, who we are, what we are made of and what we believe in.
Though the world's line may be longer, it is growing weaker as its people have less to stand for, to fight for, to live for
Join the shorter, but stronger side. Hold firm to your values, your morals, your faith
And though you may be weaker in some areas, just know that the savior is right there, holding your hand, making up the difference
We will continue to be strengthen as all as we Stand firm, Hold firm and Remain firm....continue to....
Hold the Line
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
"Waiting on the Road to Damascus"
Have you every found yourself waiting too long on the road to Damascus
Or that a miraculous event would make all the doubt go away and bring a brighter future
What we forget when these thoughts and feelings arise is that the Lord has a plan for each of us
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
When we lose our way, we feel like just sitting down and waiting for the mighty miracle to happen
We forget that faith usually comes by the things that we do
We come to know Christ and the truths he teaches by "small and simple things"
We "personally receive a divine portrait of the Master, although it most often comes in the form of a puzzle--one piece at a time."
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
The Miracle that Paul witnessed would not have meant anything if he hadn't replied "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
It is what we do with the life and trials that are given to us that defines who we are
It is the actions words that give this life meaning- reading, obeying, praying, learning, teaching and serving...
And as we act we come to recognize the answers and blessing that the Lord gives to us
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
By acting we become the example to the world that the Lord would have us be
"The most effective way to preach the gospel is through example"
By acting we learn and become stronger
We answer prayers and receive answers to prayers
Life will become full of thanksgiving and not missed opportunities
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
"Let us strive to be among those whom the Lord can rely on..."
"Brothers and sisters, dear friends, let us not wait too long on our road to Damascus.
Instead, let us courageously move forward in faith, hope and Charity,
And we will be blessed with the light we are all seeking upon the path of true discipleship..."
Act and believe upon the road to Damascus
-"Waiting on the Road to Damascus" by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, April 2011 Conference
Have you ever found yourself lost in the rush of the world
Full of questions and doubts, wondering what the future holds and whether or not you can handle it
Have you ever thought that answers should come the instant you asked the questionOr that a miraculous event would make all the doubt go away and bring a brighter future
What we forget when these thoughts and feelings arise is that the Lord has a plan for each of us
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
When we lose our way, we feel like just sitting down and waiting for the mighty miracle to happen
We forget that faith usually comes by the things that we do
We come to know Christ and the truths he teaches by "small and simple things"
We "personally receive a divine portrait of the Master, although it most often comes in the form of a puzzle--one piece at a time."
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
The Miracle that Paul witnessed would not have meant anything if he hadn't replied "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
It is what we do with the life and trials that are given to us that defines who we are
It is the actions words that give this life meaning- reading, obeying, praying, learning, teaching and serving...
And as we act we come to recognize the answers and blessing that the Lord gives to us
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
By acting we become the example to the world that the Lord would have us be
"The most effective way to preach the gospel is through example"
By acting we learn and become stronger
We answer prayers and receive answers to prayers
Life will become full of thanksgiving and not missed opportunities
Do not wait too long on the road to Damascus
"Let us strive to be among those whom the Lord can rely on..."
"Brothers and sisters, dear friends, let us not wait too long on our road to Damascus.
Instead, let us courageously move forward in faith, hope and Charity,
And we will be blessed with the light we are all seeking upon the path of true discipleship..."
Act and believe upon the road to Damascus
-"Waiting on the Road to Damascus" by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, April 2011 Conference
Sunday, August 7, 2011
The Many Questions Of Life
Today's post will probably seem more serious than normal but it is a serious question that has been on my mind
So forgive me as I share some of my thoughts and concerns.
My question is why do so many, who have grown up knowing what is right, when presented with one little lie are so quick to throw away all their experiences, feelings, miracles and their faith.
Why do they feel like they have to drag down as many as they can with them?
I know the answer is that the adversary is working within them, trying to drag them down to where he is
But is it more complicated than that?
Everyone is faced with challenges throughout their life and have those times when satan has more power over them than usual, but many have been able to overcome those challenges, coming out with stronger faith and hope.
It makes me sick with sadness when I hear of those who were so strong at one time, just turn away and leave everything they know to be right.
But it also gives me a reaffirming feeling that what I believe and know, is true. It makes me want to be better at the little things, that in the end are the life lines that save you when rough waters throw you out of the boat of a firm testimony.
It gives me a desire and a burning in my heart to want to share the gospel even more and just to shake those who have turned away until they come back to their senses.
Life is a funny thing that can be turned completely upside down at any given moment. We cannot get too comfortable where we are. If we do, we find that we are not standing still but actually heading backwards. We must press forward, trying to be a little taller, a little better and a little stronger.
I love the comparison of faith, hope and our testimonies being like an hour glass where the sands are ever running out and that we must be continually filling it up so that we never lose the conviction that we have.
We must be able to forget about ourselves and learn to serve others with an open heart and loving arms
I pray that I will and those I know and love will strive to do those little things that can save us during our darkest times of life. That we will continue to fill our hour glasses and not let a little lie lead us from everything we know to be true. That we follow the spirit's guidance and act on his promptings.
This life is too important to just throw away the truths that we have learned. The truths will bring happiness that cannot be found anywhere else. A happiness full of peace and comfort. A happiness that last the eternities, not just for a minute, an hour or a day. A happiness only found when we are surrounded by love and family, when we are at peace with ourselves and others, when we have faith, hope and charity and when we put our trust in the lord and come unto him with a broken heart and a contrite spirit.
I want you all to know that I know and have a testimony that our Heavenly Father is there and that he loves us and wants the best for us. I know that I have a Savior who suffered for me and has given me a second chance whenever I make a mistake in this life through his Atoning sacrifice. I know that there is a plan for me and that I will be able to see them and live with them again. I know it is the little and simple things like reading the scripture, prayer, service and obedience that keep us going through the struggles of life. I believe it with all my heart and I hope that those who are struggling will look to God for strength and power. Pray to him unceasingly, trusting him and using the beautiful gift of the Atonement to find your faith and testimony and continue to strengthen them everyday of your life. It will be a continuous battle everyday of your life but I promise that it will be worth it and you will be blessed for your diligence.
I know this to be true and I am grateful that I know it and I hope that you know it too. Life is too short and too important to turn our backs on our faith and our Father in Heaven. So keep the faith and be believing and come unto him and he will wrap you in his arms of love.
So forgive me as I share some of my thoughts and concerns.
My question is why do so many, who have grown up knowing what is right, when presented with one little lie are so quick to throw away all their experiences, feelings, miracles and their faith.
Why do they feel like they have to drag down as many as they can with them?
I know the answer is that the adversary is working within them, trying to drag them down to where he is
But is it more complicated than that?
Everyone is faced with challenges throughout their life and have those times when satan has more power over them than usual, but many have been able to overcome those challenges, coming out with stronger faith and hope.
It makes me sick with sadness when I hear of those who were so strong at one time, just turn away and leave everything they know to be right.
But it also gives me a reaffirming feeling that what I believe and know, is true. It makes me want to be better at the little things, that in the end are the life lines that save you when rough waters throw you out of the boat of a firm testimony.
It gives me a desire and a burning in my heart to want to share the gospel even more and just to shake those who have turned away until they come back to their senses.
Life is a funny thing that can be turned completely upside down at any given moment. We cannot get too comfortable where we are. If we do, we find that we are not standing still but actually heading backwards. We must press forward, trying to be a little taller, a little better and a little stronger.
I love the comparison of faith, hope and our testimonies being like an hour glass where the sands are ever running out and that we must be continually filling it up so that we never lose the conviction that we have.
We must be able to forget about ourselves and learn to serve others with an open heart and loving arms
I pray that I will and those I know and love will strive to do those little things that can save us during our darkest times of life. That we will continue to fill our hour glasses and not let a little lie lead us from everything we know to be true. That we follow the spirit's guidance and act on his promptings.
This life is too important to just throw away the truths that we have learned. The truths will bring happiness that cannot be found anywhere else. A happiness full of peace and comfort. A happiness that last the eternities, not just for a minute, an hour or a day. A happiness only found when we are surrounded by love and family, when we are at peace with ourselves and others, when we have faith, hope and charity and when we put our trust in the lord and come unto him with a broken heart and a contrite spirit.
I want you all to know that I know and have a testimony that our Heavenly Father is there and that he loves us and wants the best for us. I know that I have a Savior who suffered for me and has given me a second chance whenever I make a mistake in this life through his Atoning sacrifice. I know that there is a plan for me and that I will be able to see them and live with them again. I know it is the little and simple things like reading the scripture, prayer, service and obedience that keep us going through the struggles of life. I believe it with all my heart and I hope that those who are struggling will look to God for strength and power. Pray to him unceasingly, trusting him and using the beautiful gift of the Atonement to find your faith and testimony and continue to strengthen them everyday of your life. It will be a continuous battle everyday of your life but I promise that it will be worth it and you will be blessed for your diligence.
I know this to be true and I am grateful that I know it and I hope that you know it too. Life is too short and too important to turn our backs on our faith and our Father in Heaven. So keep the faith and be believing and come unto him and he will wrap you in his arms of love.
Monday, July 25, 2011
"Adventure Is Out There!"
I have always been one who wants to look back on her life and say "Wow what an adventure."
I want to see the world, eat new food, experience different cultures and learn new things.
But everything has its place in life and all will come in do time.
But while some of my bigger adventures are going to have to wait, due to a small thing called money,
I have a chance to do something that I have wanted to do for awhile now.
So I am taking that chance and running with it, hoping beyond hope that it will be a dream come true.
What is this big adventure you may ask, well it is one that I definitely will be learning much
Seeing much, experiencing much, but I am not too sure about the food...umm should be interesting.
It will not be all fun in games, there will be a lot of studying, listening, reading and feeling the spirit
But it will definitely be worth every minute and every penny spent
Are you ready to finally to know?
are ya
are ya
are ya
Well here you go........
This week I am applying for the Jerusalem study abroad!! WWWHHHAAATTT!
Thought it was a mission didn't you :)
Well I am completely stoked and hoping everything will work out and that I get in.
If I get in I will leave at the beginning of January and be back at the end of April....ish.
If I don't get in I will apply again this coming november, Because I Am Going to Get There!
"Adventure Is Out There" and gosh darn-it I am going to have me some before I die.
I want to see the world, eat new food, experience different cultures and learn new things.
But everything has its place in life and all will come in do time.
But while some of my bigger adventures are going to have to wait, due to a small thing called money,
I have a chance to do something that I have wanted to do for awhile now.
So I am taking that chance and running with it, hoping beyond hope that it will be a dream come true.
What is this big adventure you may ask, well it is one that I definitely will be learning much
Seeing much, experiencing much, but I am not too sure about the food...umm should be interesting.
It will not be all fun in games, there will be a lot of studying, listening, reading and feeling the spirit
But it will definitely be worth every minute and every penny spent
Are you ready to finally to know?
are ya
are ya
are ya
Well here you go........
This week I am applying for the Jerusalem study abroad!! WWWHHHAAATTT!
Thought it was a mission didn't you :)
Well I am completely stoked and hoping everything will work out and that I get in.
If I get in I will leave at the beginning of January and be back at the end of April....ish.
If I don't get in I will apply again this coming november, Because I Am Going to Get There!
"Adventure Is Out There" and gosh darn-it I am going to have me some before I die.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Change Is Good
Change is good
It keeps you on your toes
It keeps life interesting
And it breaks a sometimes tedious routine
So I decided to have a change
Not a super big one
But one that required six inches of my hair
Which is now the shortest it has ever been
It may not seem super short to some
But hey this isn't your hair
And it is short to me
So just agree with me for right now that it is short
Thanks :)
So I didn't have a picture that shows how long my hair was before I cut it, so use your imaginations...it was like six or seven inches longer.
PS photo booth is way too much fun....
Monday, June 13, 2011
Weird...
Everyone has their quirks rights
Everyone has their moments of insanity and craziness
But what would the world be like without them
Pretty much a bore I would think
So because everyone is weird in their own little way
Here is a quote that pretty much sums it all up
"We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love." -Unknown
So because everyone is weird in their own little way
Here is a quote that pretty much sums it all up
"We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love." -Unknown
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Moments and Memories
Life sometimes is bitter sweet
No one tells you how difficult times can be
No one can prepare you for the surprises, for the trials, for joys, for the sadness
All we can do is believe in the future
Having hope and faith that everything will work out in the end
Enjoying the moments and the people we share them with
Having no regrets when we look back at the kind of life we led
And forgiving ourselves for missed opportunities and chances
Life sometimes cannot be explained
Time cannot be made up
Hours, minutes and seconds pass with no way in recovering them
But the memories and the moments live on forever
The ability to recall is a blessing that is sometimes taken for granted
People who have come and gone from our lives are never really gone
Our memories keep them alive in our hearts
And following their great example keeps them a part of our lives
Words cannot express the peace and happiness felt, knowing that we will see those who have gone before us again
Knowing that we will have a second chance of getting to know and appreciating them better
No one knows how long they have on this earth
No one can really know where life is going to lead them in the next five years, in the next day or even in the next hour
But we do know where we will be when our time is done
That there is a life and home waiting for us after we die
I am so grateful to have that knowledge
I am so grateful that I have the support from my Father in Heaven and Savior
I am so grateful for the peace of mind and heart that I have felt today
I am so grateful that I have such an amazing grandpa who supported me in everything I did
I am so grateful for the memories and moments I have/had with him
I am so grateful that I will be able to see him again and be able to tell him how much I love him
I am so grateful that I will have another angel looking out for me and
I am so grateful that I have the truth of the gospel in my life and have the knowledge of the plan of salvation
I do not know where life will take me in a year or five years from now
Or what I will experience as I go through this life
But I do know that I will cherish every moment, every memory and every person that is in or will come into my life and enjoy it.
No one tells you how difficult times can be
No one can prepare you for the surprises, for the trials, for joys, for the sadness
All we can do is believe in the future
Having hope and faith that everything will work out in the end
Enjoying the moments and the people we share them with
Having no regrets when we look back at the kind of life we led
And forgiving ourselves for missed opportunities and chances
Life sometimes cannot be explained
Time cannot be made up
Hours, minutes and seconds pass with no way in recovering them
But the memories and the moments live on forever
The ability to recall is a blessing that is sometimes taken for granted
People who have come and gone from our lives are never really gone
Our memories keep them alive in our hearts
And following their great example keeps them a part of our lives
Words cannot express the peace and happiness felt, knowing that we will see those who have gone before us again
Knowing that we will have a second chance of getting to know and appreciating them better
No one knows how long they have on this earth
No one can really know where life is going to lead them in the next five years, in the next day or even in the next hour
But we do know where we will be when our time is done
That there is a life and home waiting for us after we die
I am so grateful to have that knowledge
I am so grateful that I have the support from my Father in Heaven and Savior
I am so grateful for the peace of mind and heart that I have felt today
I am so grateful that I have such an amazing grandpa who supported me in everything I did
I am so grateful for the memories and moments I have/had with him
I am so grateful that I will be able to see him again and be able to tell him how much I love him
I am so grateful that I will have another angel looking out for me and
I am so grateful that I have the truth of the gospel in my life and have the knowledge of the plan of salvation
I do not know where life will take me in a year or five years from now
Or what I will experience as I go through this life
But I do know that I will cherish every moment, every memory and every person that is in or will come into my life and enjoy it.
Monday, May 9, 2011
WOOOOOOHOOOOOOO
Well lads and gents you can now call me an aunt to the fourth degree!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yep two more babes are on the way and get this, they are both due thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!! CRAZY!!!!
Yeah it's a big deal
That is all.
Yep two more babes are on the way and get this, they are both due thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!! CRAZY!!!!
Yeah it's a big deal
That is all.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Just Ask
It is amazing how you think you have everything for the most part worked out and how you feel that everything you do is now a habit that usually works out for the best...and then life throws you a curve ball...you swing and you miss and end up not knowing which way is up and which way is down.
Finals will do that to you...or at least it does for me
No matter how hard you study during the year, it always seems like you forget everything and have to relearn everything within a two day span...ridiculous
But with trials comes lessons to be learned and learning is definitely what I have experienced in the last couple of days.
I have always been one who enjoys studying by myself, figuring things out by myself, not wanting to ask for help and studying in ways that most would call cramming. But hey it worked...or at least it did last year...or was it high school...
Studying in college is definitely different than it was in high school, when life was easy...cramming, while it works in the short run, does nothing for the long run...a lesson hard learned by this individual.
Sure it took me well into college to figure out that studying in college is much more than cramming but better late then never, right?
But mostly what I have learned in the past couple of days it that it is ok to put your pride aside and to ask for help when you don't understand, both from a Father in Heaven and friends who may know a little more than you. Asking shows that you are ready and willing to learn, to understand and to grow. Plus it doesn't hurt your test score either :)
I still like learning things by myself but I now truly know that not everything can be learned by oneself and that you must be willing to ask and who knows what you might learn...or get on a stats final
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Hello World
Well Ladies and Gents
I am proud to say that after months of strain, emotions with a range that could rival those on a soap opera and long hours of observation, I am officially on my way to my future.
In other words I finally have aStinking Major!
It is Athletic Training (With the Ultimate goal of Physical Therapy)
I was accepted today and I am Super Excited.
Well there you have it.
I am proud to say that after months of strain, emotions with a range that could rival those on a soap opera and long hours of observation, I am officially on my way to my future.
In other words I finally have a
It is Athletic Training (With the Ultimate goal of Physical Therapy)
I was accepted today and I am Super Excited.
Well there you have it.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Cleaning...Really?
Not having classes on Fridays can either be a time to be very productive....or not so much.
That is what I had to choose between today, to either be productive or not to be productive.
At first I thought it was going to be the latter since I accidentally turned my alarm off when trying to hit the snooze button and didn't get up until around 10:30 (which hasn't happened for I don't know how long).
Funny thing about sleeping in for me, is that it tends to make me lazy and want to do nothing for the rest of day.
So as I was being lazy and doing nothing, surprisingly enough I started to get bored...wow imagine that.
I walked into my apartments kitchen/living room area and saw that it wasn't in the greatest shape...just a little dirtier than I would like....actually it looked like a tornado had blown through our apartment, no joke
After thinking to myself "wow, I want to cry," I decided to take on the challenge of tackling this lovely mess and making our place shine and twinkle...I honestly should have done before and after shots, it was that bad.
And so I prepared for the daunting task--put up my hair, stayed in my pajamas, ate a couple of Flipz (chocolate covered pretzels and actually I finished the bag) and put on my ipod to rock out to some music (being alone to dance and sing to music how you want is always an enjoyment).
Aaannndddd I was off, on one of the biggest cleaning jobs that I have ever been presented with, dirty dishes in the sink, on the table, on the couches, on the floor; overflowing trash can, crumbs everywhere, stuff that I had no idea what it was everywhere; papers everywhere, tissues everywhere, stains on the counter, on the chairs, on the floor. I could go on but I think you get the gist.
Anyways, while I was making my way through this maze of messiness, I found that I was really enjoying myself. I have, for the most part, enjoyed doing work and then seeing the results of my work, but for some reason I was enjoying this more than usual. I thought to myself 'people would think me crazy if they could see how much I am enjoying this.' There is just something that is so satisfying about seeing a mess slowly being devoured and things starting to shine and twinkle :)
Work, especially the hands on kind, I have really learned to enjoy and for reasons that I really don't understand. Mostly, I think I enjoy the time just to be by myself with my thoughts. Having time to really ponder about life is hard to come by, so when I find the time to do it, I really do it. Plus being able to dance like an idiot and singing at the top of your lungs is also another reason to enjoy it.
I guess I really want to say is that I enjoy cleaning.....really.
It is a good time to reflect, to dance, to sing, and just to enjoy the slower, simpler times in life. Work, it's a good thing....there you have it. amen
That is what I had to choose between today, to either be productive or not to be productive.
At first I thought it was going to be the latter since I accidentally turned my alarm off when trying to hit the snooze button and didn't get up until around 10:30 (which hasn't happened for I don't know how long).
Funny thing about sleeping in for me, is that it tends to make me lazy and want to do nothing for the rest of day.
So as I was being lazy and doing nothing, surprisingly enough I started to get bored...wow imagine that.
I walked into my apartments kitchen/living room area and saw that it wasn't in the greatest shape...just a little dirtier than I would like....actually it looked like a tornado had blown through our apartment, no joke
After thinking to myself "wow, I want to cry," I decided to take on the challenge of tackling this lovely mess and making our place shine and twinkle...I honestly should have done before and after shots, it was that bad.
And so I prepared for the daunting task--put up my hair, stayed in my pajamas, ate a couple of Flipz (chocolate covered pretzels and actually I finished the bag) and put on my ipod to rock out to some music (being alone to dance and sing to music how you want is always an enjoyment).
Aaannndddd I was off, on one of the biggest cleaning jobs that I have ever been presented with, dirty dishes in the sink, on the table, on the couches, on the floor; overflowing trash can, crumbs everywhere, stuff that I had no idea what it was everywhere; papers everywhere, tissues everywhere, stains on the counter, on the chairs, on the floor. I could go on but I think you get the gist.
Anyways, while I was making my way through this maze of messiness, I found that I was really enjoying myself. I have, for the most part, enjoyed doing work and then seeing the results of my work, but for some reason I was enjoying this more than usual. I thought to myself 'people would think me crazy if they could see how much I am enjoying this.' There is just something that is so satisfying about seeing a mess slowly being devoured and things starting to shine and twinkle :)
Work, especially the hands on kind, I have really learned to enjoy and for reasons that I really don't understand. Mostly, I think I enjoy the time just to be by myself with my thoughts. Having time to really ponder about life is hard to come by, so when I find the time to do it, I really do it. Plus being able to dance like an idiot and singing at the top of your lungs is also another reason to enjoy it.
I guess I really want to say is that I enjoy cleaning.....really.
It is a good time to reflect, to dance, to sing, and just to enjoy the slower, simpler times in life. Work, it's a good thing....there you have it. amen
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Peace Be Unto You
The following a poem is for my Doctrine and Covenants class. It is a creative project that is based on sections 121 and 122 of D&C. I did it on these sections because they have some of the sweetest words of comfort. Words that have been something that I have been able to draw strength from during hard times.
Please bare with me since I am not the most brilliant poem writer.
O God, Where Art Thou?
Trials, hardship, betrayals, doubt, pity, fear, sorrow, despair
How much am I to go through
How much am I to endure
Lord canst thou deliver me from these bonds
Canst thou come from thy hiding place and lay a blanket of comfort over me
Use thy anger against those who have done me wrong
Remember me, please O God, remember me
Peace, peace, peace I feel
Words I hear saying "peace be unto thy soul"
Could this really be just a small moment
Will I able to endure it well
Will I able to sustain this feeling
Has God remembered me after all
How can I know for sure
But I do know, I have known all along
The Savior, my Lord, my God
He who has descended below them all
He who knows and has Atoned for me
He who has a perfect knowledge of things
The one and only Begotten of the Father
He is there, he knows, he remembers
Peace, joy, jubilation, love, gratitude, charity, strength, faith
What more could I feel
What more could I say
Though I may be cast into the deep
Though the jaws of hell may gape open its mouth wide after me
I shall be free
O God, Thou Art Here
Please bare with me since I am not the most brilliant poem writer.
O God, Where Art Thou?
Trials, hardship, betrayals, doubt, pity, fear, sorrow, despair
How much am I to go through
How much am I to endure
Lord canst thou deliver me from these bonds
Canst thou come from thy hiding place and lay a blanket of comfort over me
Use thy anger against those who have done me wrong
Remember me, please O God, remember me
Peace, peace, peace I feel
Words I hear saying "peace be unto thy soul"
Could this really be just a small moment
Will I able to endure it well
Will I able to sustain this feeling
Has God remembered me after all
How can I know for sure
But I do know, I have known all along
The Savior, my Lord, my God
He who has descended below them all
He who knows and has Atoned for me
He who has a perfect knowledge of things
The one and only Begotten of the Father
He is there, he knows, he remembers
Peace, joy, jubilation, love, gratitude, charity, strength, faith
What more could I feel
What more could I say
Though I may be cast into the deep
Though the jaws of hell may gape open its mouth wide after me
I shall be free
O God, Thou Art Here
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Stand Up And Use Your Voice
How many times in our lives do we have the opportunity to share our beliefs, our thoughts, our feelings, our opinions? Many right?
Now let me ask you this, do we take those opportunities and if we do how often?
This is a question that has been on my mind for awhile and was brought to the forefront of my thoughts today as I was sitting in Sacrament Meeting. With me, my personality is not one to voice my opinions to every person that I meet, not to try and force my beliefs on someone or to try even to persuade them to believe that my way is the right way. In some instances this as been a blessing that has kept me out of trouble and help to sustain some friendships and other relationships. However, in other instances it has been my biggest weakness. I have missed so many opportunities to share what I believe and have failed to act on thoughts and impressions that may have had an impact on someone else's life. I have missed opportunities to make relationships grow stronger and friendships to run deeper. I have missed learning from others opinions because I am so set in my own. By not sharing my thoughts or feelings, I have had times when disappointment and disgust were always present in my mind. By not sharing my beliefs I have missed moment to make my own testimony grow stronger. I have missed moments when maybe I could have been the influence in someone's life to help them back on the right path. I have missed opportunities for service, for bringing a smile to someone and to myself, for bringing laughter into a situation that needed it. I have missed so many other opportunities and chances that I cannot even count them.
It makes me sad to know I didn't have the confidence or will power to overcome moments of weakness. It makes me sad to know I haven't trusted the Lord or the Spirit enough to let them guide my actions and words. It makes me sad to know that I have had all these opportunities and have only acted upon a very small percent of them.
I guess pondering and then writing has allowed me to see where I need to improve in my life and using my voice is a part of that improvement. So I would like to make this promise to everyone within my writing voice, that I will no longer be afraid, I will no longer lack the confidence, I will no longer ignore the promptings that I receive to do the things that need to be done. I will strive to share the gospel whenever I am given the opportunity. I will add my opinion and share my insight during a conversation. I will defend my believes in the way that the Savior does all throughout the scriptures. I will have the confidence to voice concerns and try to fix problems that need to be fix. I will not be pushed to a corner to stand awkwardly, afraid of what other people might think.
Just as President Hickley said, "Believe in yourself. Believe in your capacity to do great and good things. Believe that no mountain is so high that you cannot climb it. Believe that no storm is so great that you cannot weather it. You are not destined to be a scrub. You are a child of God, of infinite capacity. Believe that you can do it-whatever it is that you set your heart on. Opportunities will unfold and open before you. The skies will clear when they have been dark with portent."
As long as I got the Lord on my side, guiding and protecting me, I know that I will be able to do many great and wonderful things.
I am Me, I must love Me and I must believe in Me.
I must Stand Up and Use My Voice.
Now let me ask you this, do we take those opportunities and if we do how often?
This is a question that has been on my mind for awhile and was brought to the forefront of my thoughts today as I was sitting in Sacrament Meeting. With me, my personality is not one to voice my opinions to every person that I meet, not to try and force my beliefs on someone or to try even to persuade them to believe that my way is the right way. In some instances this as been a blessing that has kept me out of trouble and help to sustain some friendships and other relationships. However, in other instances it has been my biggest weakness. I have missed so many opportunities to share what I believe and have failed to act on thoughts and impressions that may have had an impact on someone else's life. I have missed opportunities to make relationships grow stronger and friendships to run deeper. I have missed learning from others opinions because I am so set in my own. By not sharing my thoughts or feelings, I have had times when disappointment and disgust were always present in my mind. By not sharing my beliefs I have missed moment to make my own testimony grow stronger. I have missed moments when maybe I could have been the influence in someone's life to help them back on the right path. I have missed opportunities for service, for bringing a smile to someone and to myself, for bringing laughter into a situation that needed it. I have missed so many other opportunities and chances that I cannot even count them.
It makes me sad to know I didn't have the confidence or will power to overcome moments of weakness. It makes me sad to know I haven't trusted the Lord or the Spirit enough to let them guide my actions and words. It makes me sad to know that I have had all these opportunities and have only acted upon a very small percent of them.
I guess pondering and then writing has allowed me to see where I need to improve in my life and using my voice is a part of that improvement. So I would like to make this promise to everyone within my writing voice, that I will no longer be afraid, I will no longer lack the confidence, I will no longer ignore the promptings that I receive to do the things that need to be done. I will strive to share the gospel whenever I am given the opportunity. I will add my opinion and share my insight during a conversation. I will defend my believes in the way that the Savior does all throughout the scriptures. I will have the confidence to voice concerns and try to fix problems that need to be fix. I will not be pushed to a corner to stand awkwardly, afraid of what other people might think.
Just as President Hickley said, "Believe in yourself. Believe in your capacity to do great and good things. Believe that no mountain is so high that you cannot climb it. Believe that no storm is so great that you cannot weather it. You are not destined to be a scrub. You are a child of God, of infinite capacity. Believe that you can do it-whatever it is that you set your heart on. Opportunities will unfold and open before you. The skies will clear when they have been dark with portent."
As long as I got the Lord on my side, guiding and protecting me, I know that I will be able to do many great and wonderful things.
I am Me, I must love Me and I must believe in Me.
I must Stand Up and Use My Voice.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Heroes In Our Lives
When you think of heroes, who do you usually think about? Do you think of characters in a book who do something courageous? Do you think of people like Superman have have all these awesome powers and makes sure they use them only for good? Do you think of political leaders who have led this country through hard times and stood up for their beliefs? Do you think of celebrities who have millions of dollars, with fake pretty faces and all their wonderful input on life and its troubles *ahem*
We all have those people in our lives that have made a huge impact in what we do, what we say and how we act. They are those people who we may model ourselves after and follow their every move. They seem almost to be able to do no wrong and they seem almost perfect in our eyes.
Now I want to ask you, how many of those people have you met in person? How many would drop everything to either come to your rescue or just to talk? How many of them would give their lives to save yours? How many care enough about you to tell you when you are doing wrong? How many.... How many....
The list gets smaller and smaller doesn't it
Growing up I had all those kinds of Heroes, book characters, superheroes, world leaders and yes even celebrities. But as I have grown and have become somewhat wiser and more mature (at least I hope I have), I have come to realize that while those people are great, they should not be the ones that matter the most to me. I will most likely never meet them (with half of them being fake and all) and they probably couldn't care less about me and what I think.
I have come to look up more to those around me, namely my family and in particular my Mom. A person who is so selfless, caring, strong willed and so Amazing that it wouldn't surprise me if she was Wonder Woman in another life.
How many people can you say have put their very difficult trials aside to makes sure their friends and their family are taken care of. How many people can you say believe so passionately about their beliefs that they are not afraid to bring them up in any conversation. How many people can you say love their family so much that they would drop everything to make sure they feel welcome when they walk through the front door. How many people can you say goes to almost every single game, performance or activity that their children are participating in. How many people can you say are so devoted and so in love with their spouse that they make sure that dinner is on the table, the house is clean and nothing can come between them and their time together. How many people can you say are able to cook, sew, paint, create, teach, laugh, cry, direct, instruct, discern, joke and love.
No, my Mom is not perfect but that is what makes me love her so much. She works so hard to overcome her flaws and become stronger. She wants to continue to learn and continue to grow everyday. She teaches me everyday how to become a better person and I am so grateful.
I have learned how to sew, how to cook and how important it is to keep a clean and orderly house. I have learn what it means to be in love with someone after 30 years and what I want out of my own marriage. I have learned that trials do not stop after a certain age but I have learned how to overcome them. I have learned what it means to believe in yourself. I have learned what it means putting others first and I have learned how to be selfless. Though I cannot honestly say that I have mastered all of these traits, I have been taught by someone who is on their way to doing so.
True, we have had our disagreements in the past but I have come to respect and see my mom as one of the truest friends that I have ever had. I cannot express my gratitude for all that she has done for me. She has gotten me out of some pretty nasty times just by listening and saying maybe two or three words.She is so close and in tuned with the Spirit that she has that power to know exactly what you need to hear. She lights up every time she wants to teach me something about the Gospel, usually something she has learned or discovered and through this she has given me the desire to learn and to study the scriptures and principles of the gospel and that has been one of the greatest gifts she could have ever given to me.
I just want to say I love you Mom. Thank you for believing in me, for giving me hope, for giving me love, for showing that I am special, for teaching me skills, for being there when I need you, for listening to worries and complaints, for listening anytime I just want to talk, for the little text messages you send telling me you love me, for showing me how to love my future family and spouse, for showing me to stand up for what I believe in, for showing me you are never to old to learn new tricks, for being an example to me on how to follow the councils of the leaders of the church, for teaching me the important things of life, for teaching me how to enjoy, for teaching me how to laugh. Thank you Mom for everything.
You Are My Hero
I Love You So Much
Happy Birthday
Love Lise
We all have those people in our lives that have made a huge impact in what we do, what we say and how we act. They are those people who we may model ourselves after and follow their every move. They seem almost to be able to do no wrong and they seem almost perfect in our eyes.
Now I want to ask you, how many of those people have you met in person? How many would drop everything to either come to your rescue or just to talk? How many of them would give their lives to save yours? How many care enough about you to tell you when you are doing wrong? How many.... How many....
The list gets smaller and smaller doesn't it
Growing up I had all those kinds of Heroes, book characters, superheroes, world leaders and yes even celebrities. But as I have grown and have become somewhat wiser and more mature (at least I hope I have), I have come to realize that while those people are great, they should not be the ones that matter the most to me. I will most likely never meet them (with half of them being fake and all) and they probably couldn't care less about me and what I think.
I have come to look up more to those around me, namely my family and in particular my Mom. A person who is so selfless, caring, strong willed and so Amazing that it wouldn't surprise me if she was Wonder Woman in another life.
How many people can you say have put their very difficult trials aside to makes sure their friends and their family are taken care of. How many people can you say believe so passionately about their beliefs that they are not afraid to bring them up in any conversation. How many people can you say love their family so much that they would drop everything to make sure they feel welcome when they walk through the front door. How many people can you say goes to almost every single game, performance or activity that their children are participating in. How many people can you say are so devoted and so in love with their spouse that they make sure that dinner is on the table, the house is clean and nothing can come between them and their time together. How many people can you say are able to cook, sew, paint, create, teach, laugh, cry, direct, instruct, discern, joke and love.
No, my Mom is not perfect but that is what makes me love her so much. She works so hard to overcome her flaws and become stronger. She wants to continue to learn and continue to grow everyday. She teaches me everyday how to become a better person and I am so grateful.
I have learned how to sew, how to cook and how important it is to keep a clean and orderly house. I have learn what it means to be in love with someone after 30 years and what I want out of my own marriage. I have learned that trials do not stop after a certain age but I have learned how to overcome them. I have learned what it means to believe in yourself. I have learned what it means putting others first and I have learned how to be selfless. Though I cannot honestly say that I have mastered all of these traits, I have been taught by someone who is on their way to doing so.
True, we have had our disagreements in the past but I have come to respect and see my mom as one of the truest friends that I have ever had. I cannot express my gratitude for all that she has done for me. She has gotten me out of some pretty nasty times just by listening and saying maybe two or three words.She is so close and in tuned with the Spirit that she has that power to know exactly what you need to hear. She lights up every time she wants to teach me something about the Gospel, usually something she has learned or discovered and through this she has given me the desire to learn and to study the scriptures and principles of the gospel and that has been one of the greatest gifts she could have ever given to me.
I just want to say I love you Mom. Thank you for believing in me, for giving me hope, for giving me love, for showing that I am special, for teaching me skills, for being there when I need you, for listening to worries and complaints, for listening anytime I just want to talk, for the little text messages you send telling me you love me, for showing me how to love my future family and spouse, for showing me to stand up for what I believe in, for showing me you are never to old to learn new tricks, for being an example to me on how to follow the councils of the leaders of the church, for teaching me the important things of life, for teaching me how to enjoy, for teaching me how to laugh. Thank you Mom for everything.
You Are My Hero
I Love You So Much
Happy Birthday
Love Lise
Monday, March 14, 2011
Pics of The Crazies
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Viva Las Vegas
Trip to Vegas=Epic
Boys Basketball Championship=Not so much
Though the game didn't turn out like we were hoping, the good definitely out weighed the bad for the trip as a whole.
Some key moments of the trip are as follows
1. singing the whole way down to Vegas
2. Listening to the last couple minutes of the BYU game on Friday, pulling off to a rest stop because we were losing reception and then celebrating at the rest stop with a bunch of old people staring at us -GO JIMMMER 52 Points!!
3. Partying with the crazies of Las Vegas (I will leave that up to your imagination)
4. Taking crazy pictures
5. I am sure getting a little high by all the crap everyone was smoking-bleh
6. Trying to look anywhere but at the ground and at the lovely billboards--I felt like I needed to take a shower afterwards-double bleh
7. Going to breakfast and then locking the keys in the car
8. The dollar store trying to find a wire hanger
9. Breaking into our car with the wire hanger
10. More pictures...and enjoying the lovely, beautiful, warm weather
11. Back to the strip to visit all the places we missed the night before--Bellagio Fountains (new favorite), M&M store (wish I had more money to spend), a cool indoor mall that tries to make it seem like you are outside, etc
12. The boys basketball game (a very bitter sweet experience)
13. Driving and getting home at like 3:30 and enjoying the bright lights and craziness of good old Provo
Some things to clear up
1. Don't look down while you are on the strip at night- or really anywhere for that matter
2. Mormons do not have horns
3. Yes mormons can be engaged and get married
4. Some Ute fans are really annoying
5. Some people are made for multi-tasking, some definitely are not
6. I am sick of oranges and cheese its
7. Don't drink a whole liter of water between fillmore and Beaver--let's just say it becomes a very, very long and uncomfortable car ride.
8. staying up until 3:00 for two nights in a row after a whole day of just go go go does wonders to your body--sorry to whoever is speaking today at church, I might be sawing logs in back
9. Wear good shoes for walking...blisters+heals=no fun
10. Pictures to come!
It was definitely a weekend to remember...
Boys Basketball Championship=Not so much
Though the game didn't turn out like we were hoping, the good definitely out weighed the bad for the trip as a whole.
Some key moments of the trip are as follows
1. singing the whole way down to Vegas
2. Listening to the last couple minutes of the BYU game on Friday, pulling off to a rest stop because we were losing reception and then celebrating at the rest stop with a bunch of old people staring at us -GO JIMMMER 52 Points!!
3. Partying with the crazies of Las Vegas (I will leave that up to your imagination)
4. Taking crazy pictures
5. I am sure getting a little high by all the crap everyone was smoking-bleh
6. Trying to look anywhere but at the ground and at the lovely billboards--I felt like I needed to take a shower afterwards-double bleh
7. Going to breakfast and then locking the keys in the car
8. The dollar store trying to find a wire hanger
9. Breaking into our car with the wire hanger
10. More pictures...and enjoying the lovely, beautiful, warm weather
11. Back to the strip to visit all the places we missed the night before--Bellagio Fountains (new favorite), M&M store (wish I had more money to spend), a cool indoor mall that tries to make it seem like you are outside, etc
12. The boys basketball game (a very bitter sweet experience)
13. Driving and getting home at like 3:30 and enjoying the bright lights and craziness of good old Provo
Some things to clear up
1. Don't look down while you are on the strip at night- or really anywhere for that matter
2. Mormons do not have horns
3. Yes mormons can be engaged and get married
4. Some Ute fans are really annoying
5. Some people are made for multi-tasking, some definitely are not
6. I am sick of oranges and cheese its
7. Don't drink a whole liter of water between fillmore and Beaver--let's just say it becomes a very, very long and uncomfortable car ride.
8. staying up until 3:00 for two nights in a row after a whole day of just go go go does wonders to your body--sorry to whoever is speaking today at church, I might be sawing logs in back
9. Wear good shoes for walking...blisters+heals=no fun
10. Pictures to come!
It was definitely a weekend to remember...
Friday, March 4, 2011
"If Only I Had A Brain" and the Lumps and Bumps of Life
I am sure that everyone in this world has days where they can fully relate to the scarecrow on the famous movie, The Wizard of Oz. Days where we say to ourselves "what in the world was I thinking" or "If only I had a Brain."
Lately I have found that I am thinking this a bit more often than I use to. Take this week for example, I seemed to have gotten it in my head that things are more exciting when you do them all last minute. NOT SO!!!!! Having 30 hours of observation to do for you major...a test in statistics...a test in first aid (two classes who like to load the work on you)...homework for all my other classes...a lesson to plan for sunday...ETC should not be left to the last minute, especially when they need to be done in the same week.
Upon looking back on the week I just thought "Aliseea, what were you thinking."
Needless to say I got most everything done...one test I think went ok...the other not so much...homework complete...and about 10 hours out of the 30 complete (luckily that isn't due for a while or I might have to kick something)
What really brought me to write this post was that test that didn't go the way I was hoping...Statistics...For all I care it can go jump off a cliff and die! Anyways after I got out of the test and saw my lovely score, I was kind of put out...in my head I thought to myself "I studied, I prayed for help and I went in there with my head held high, so what happened," but as I thought back over the week I came to the realization that I had not put all the effort into studying like I could have. Thinking about that I then realized that my prayer was a quick and a pitiful one that basically went like this "Heavenly Father please bring all the answers to my head." Not those exact words but you get the gist.
Heavenly Father knows that we aren't going to be perfect during our mortal life and he doesn't expect us to always be the smartest or the prettiest or the bravest (but those things are always nice). What he does expect of us is that we do the very best we can do; whether it is planning ahead a bit more, studying a bit harder, praying a bit longer with more meaning. If we put the effort in, he will put his effort in and together we will be able to accomplish more then we ever thought we could, for with God nothing is impossible.
Of course there will be hard times, mistakes, sorrow, all those lumps and bumps along the way but as a song I like (Little Miss by Sugarland) says "It's alright, sometimes you got to lose until you win. It's alright, it's alright it's alright, it will be alright again, I'm ok."
Though trials seem to take up every bit of life while they are happening, when we step back and look at the whole eternal perspective we can see that they are just small times in our life that are learning experiences which in turn make us stronger. If we let them teach us and draw us closer to Heavenly Father, the lumps and bumps can be some of the most memorable moments of our lives. Moments that help us to appreciate loved ones, homes, nature, health, laughter and all the little things in life that we take for granted.
I can honestly say I am grateful for the Lumps and Bumps of life. They may not be my favorite times of life but they are the times when I grow closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior and also find out a little bit more about myself and how strong I really am.
So my goals for the next little while are first to find my brain, turn it on and use it and second to take on the lumps and bumps and enjoy them, knowing it will be alright again and that I will be ok.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
"You Are Special"
Have you ever had the days when something that you have heard over and over again suddenly clicks and you say to yourself "I finally get it."
I have found that those ah ha moments are some of the best teaching moments. Moments when I can look back and reflect on my life and finally understand the answers to questions and why things had to happen the way they did.
There is a story called "You Are Special" which had this kind of impact on me today. It is a story that I loved growing up and haven't heard for many years until today. Hearing it today I caught the meaning of the book in a whole new light. It is a story that parallels the teaching of the gospel that we are all children of God and he knows and loves us each individually. If you don't know the story it is about a young Wemmick named Punchinello who was made by the wood carver Eli. The wemmicks give dots or stars to each other depending on how they see each other. Stars are for the pretty, athletic, charming (etc.) people, while the dots or for those looked down upon. Punchinello was one who had many dots and he felt like he had no worth. Then one day, while walking, he meets a woman without any dots or stars and asked her how she managed that. She told him it was because she took the time to talked to Eli everyday. He asks her why she did that and she then told him to talk to Eli to see for himself. I will quote the rest because I cannot do the beauty of the text justice.
"Punchinello walked up the narrow path and stepped into Eli's shop. His eyes grew big. The stool was as tall as he was. He had to stretch on tiptoe to see the top of the workbench.
Punchinello swallowed hard. "I'm not staying here!" Then he heard his name. "Punchinello?" The voice was deep and strong. "How good to see you. Come - let me have a look at you."
Punchinello looked up. "You know my name?"
"Of course. I made you."
Eli picked him up and set him on the bench. "Looks like you've been given some bad marks," said the maker.
"I didn't mean to, Eli. I really tried hard."
"Punchinello, I don't care what the other Wemmicks think."
"You don't?"
"No. You shouldn't either. What they think doesn't matter. All that matters is what I think. And I think you are pretty special."
Punchinello laughed. "Me, special? Why? I'm not very talented and my paint is peeling. Why do I matter to you?"
Eli spoke very slowly. "Because you're mine. That's why you matter to me."
Punchinello didn't know what to say.
"Every day I've been hoping you'd come," Eli explained.
"I came because I met Lucia," said Punchinello. "Why don't the stickers stay on her?"
The maker spoke softly. "Because she has decided that what I think is more important than what others think. The stickers only stick if you let them.
"What?"
"The stickers only stick if they matter to you. The more you trust my love, the less you care about their stickers."
"Remember, you are special because I made you. And I don't make mistakes."
I have found that those ah ha moments are some of the best teaching moments. Moments when I can look back and reflect on my life and finally understand the answers to questions and why things had to happen the way they did.
There is a story called "You Are Special" which had this kind of impact on me today. It is a story that I loved growing up and haven't heard for many years until today. Hearing it today I caught the meaning of the book in a whole new light. It is a story that parallels the teaching of the gospel that we are all children of God and he knows and loves us each individually. If you don't know the story it is about a young Wemmick named Punchinello who was made by the wood carver Eli. The wemmicks give dots or stars to each other depending on how they see each other. Stars are for the pretty, athletic, charming (etc.) people, while the dots or for those looked down upon. Punchinello was one who had many dots and he felt like he had no worth. Then one day, while walking, he meets a woman without any dots or stars and asked her how she managed that. She told him it was because she took the time to talked to Eli everyday. He asks her why she did that and she then told him to talk to Eli to see for himself. I will quote the rest because I cannot do the beauty of the text justice.
"Punchinello walked up the narrow path and stepped into Eli's shop. His eyes grew big. The stool was as tall as he was. He had to stretch on tiptoe to see the top of the workbench.
Punchinello swallowed hard. "I'm not staying here!" Then he heard his name. "Punchinello?" The voice was deep and strong. "How good to see you. Come - let me have a look at you."
Punchinello looked up. "You know my name?"
"Of course. I made you."
Eli picked him up and set him on the bench. "Looks like you've been given some bad marks," said the maker.
"I didn't mean to, Eli. I really tried hard."
"Punchinello, I don't care what the other Wemmicks think."
"You don't?"
"No. You shouldn't either. What they think doesn't matter. All that matters is what I think. And I think you are pretty special."
Punchinello laughed. "Me, special? Why? I'm not very talented and my paint is peeling. Why do I matter to you?"
Eli spoke very slowly. "Because you're mine. That's why you matter to me."
Punchinello didn't know what to say.
"Every day I've been hoping you'd come," Eli explained.
"I came because I met Lucia," said Punchinello. "Why don't the stickers stay on her?"
The maker spoke softly. "Because she has decided that what I think is more important than what others think. The stickers only stick if you let them.
"What?"
"The stickers only stick if they matter to you. The more you trust my love, the less you care about their stickers."
"I'm not sure I understand."
Eli smiled. "You will, but it will take time. For now, come to see me every day and let me remind you how much I care."
Eli lifted Punchinello off the bench and set him on the ground.
"Remember," Eli said as Punchinello was leaving, "you are special because I made you. And I don't make mistakes."
Punchinello didn't stop, but in his heart he thought, I think he really means it.
And when he did, a dot fell to the ground."
("You Are Special" by Max Lucado)
There is a beautiful message in these lines that I had never seen before today. It made me think of my Heavenly Father and how much he loves each of us individually. I can just hear him say "Of course I know you, I made you." Punchinello made a choice to go talk to Eli just like we should make the choice to pray to our Father in Heaven. When we truly turn to him in prayer and scripture study we will find that he sees all of our flaws and mistakes just like Eli saw the dots on Punchinello. However, just like the wood carver, the Lord does not care about the dots and the view of others, all he cares about is that we remember to repent and turn to him for help. He is waiting for us to come to him. He is saying "Every day I've been hoping you'd come." The lord is ready and willing to come to our aid and bless us, but we must seek him first to show him that we know that he will help us and also to show that we are willing to accept his help. We shouldn't care what others think about us, all we should be concerned about is what Heavenly Father thinks of us and how we can make Him the most important thing in our lives. The Lord wants us to be confident in ourselves but also wants us to have humility and charity in our hearts. We need to shed both the stars and the dots to become truly like him. The more we trust in the lord, the less we have to fear.
We are special, just as Punchinello. We may not see it at first but as long as we continue to turn to the Lord and talk to him everyday, we will see ourselves in the way that the Lords see us...as his special child...as someone who has potential and purpose on this earth...as someone who can make a difference to those around them...as someone who has worth..."Because you're mine. That's why you matter to me."
I know I am not perfect and I know I will continue to see difficult times, but also I know that as long as I keep the perspective that I am special, then I know I will find light at that end of the tunnel and will be able to shed myself of all the dots that I have collected over the years...dots not just given by others but dots that I have given to myself...dots of self doubt, pity and self put downs.
I know that I am a daughter of God. I also know that I will see my Heavenly Father again and I hope and pray that when I do that I will be able to stand in his presence with confidence and say 'here I am lord, I have made it, and I know that I am special because you made me. And you don't make mistakes.'
"Remember, you are special because I made you. And I don't make mistakes."
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Well Andi Here you Go!
I just have to say this is weird for me...to share my thoughts and life for people to see openly is still something I have to get used to but I will give it a shot and try to write something worth reading.
But if by chance there are large gaps between posts just go with it...
Maybe this will turn better than my journal writes because heaven knows those are almost non-existent.
But if by chance there are large gaps between posts just go with it...
Maybe this will turn better than my journal writes because heaven knows those are almost non-existent.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)