So, I have been broken now for about 3 weeks. I've been pretty positive about the whole situation, but sometimes it's really hard. I felt like I should finally write something about how I'm really doing not just the positive moments. So here's a list of the worst things about being broken.
1. Not being able to walk. I'm a hiker. I hiked almost every weekend of the summer. I love being outside and walking around in the trees and mountains. I also walk to relieve stress. Now, I can't just get out of my head and go for a walk to clear my mind. I can't even get things for myself, move around freely and go upstairs.
2. Stairs. Let's talk for a bit about how stairs are literally of the devil. I live in a basement. I work in a basement. Not gonna lie, I hate, HATE stairs now. Yes, there are railings, yes you can help me, yes there are elevators and crutches and so many ways to get me places but you have NO idea how much effort it takes just to get up on stair let alone a whole flight of them. I have literally crawled up and down the stairs just as pathetic looking as you can imagine because that's easier than hopping and jumping and working and yeah.
3. Not being able to drive. I love driving. I like getting out and drive to the sore and go shopping and driving through the mountains and just being able to take myself where I need to go. Having that taken away has been one of the hardest things ever.
4. Sympathy. This isn't a bad thing or a bash against people but for reals when you look at me with eyes that say "what a terrible thing, I'm so sorry." And then treat me like I just found out everyone in the world just died and I'm about 5 minutes away from dying myself, that just makes things worse.
5. On the other hand, apathy. I DO have a broken foot. I can't do a lot of things anymore and even some things I can do take so much effort it's easier for me to just ask you for help. I appreciate that you try and help me do things by myself, but if I ask for help, take 10 minutes longer or don't do what you think I can, please step in and help me out. I'm struggling and that's not easy.
6. Loss of independence. I've always been very independent. I don't like asking for help, relying on others, or feeling like I need someone else to survive. It's been really tough actually having to rely on people. Losing the feeling of being able to be independent is really rough.
7. Transportation devices: I mean it's 2016, why can't we teleport yet? Having to lug around my scooter, crutches, etc. is the worst. I want to just be able to get from point A. to point B. quickly and efficiently without pain.
8. Let's talk about the pain. I'm in constant pain. Yep. Constant. And it's not just my foot. Not being able to use one body part means that you have to learn to use the rest of them. Which, in turn, means my whole body aches.
9. Feeling SO lazy all the time because all I want to do is sleep. I'm exhausted. My body is working to repair itself and that's rough. So when I don't want to go out, when I just want to sleep I feel like such a lazy lady. It's the worst.
10. Stress and tears. I cry. A lot. And I'm always stressed. If I go anywhere I have like 20 extra things to think through. I sometimes cry because I feel like burden, because I can't go running and clear my head, because I'm scared. Basically a lot of stress and a lot of tears go into the emotional process of healing.
I've learned a lot since being injured. I've learned to rely on people. I've learned to be served. I've learned that I'm not as strong as I always thought I was. I've learned that it's hard being different than others. I've learned that there is a lot I don't understand. Life isn't always as easy as we wish it was. Sometimes crap happens that makes it really hard. That doesn't mean that we have to be crappy people or have bad attitudes because we can be happy. Let me say that again: throughout the worst times in our lives, WE CAN BE HAPPY. Yes I just listed 10 things I hate about being broken, but guess what, I'm still happy! I smile, I find joy and I keep going. That's because it's not the end of the world, it's a rough patch that I'll get through and become better because of.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Beauty From the Ashes
Today was an amazing day. Like one of those days where I just kind of sigh and think "Man, true happiness exists and it is this." There are many reasons why today was awesome, but the main one has to do with a building that I have personally been obsessed with for months now - The Provo City Center Temple.
In the third session of the dedication Elder Nelson talked about how this temple was an example to all of what happens when God takes something destroyed and makes something beautiful from it. He discussed the scripture in Isaiah that talks about how God will "give unto them beauty from ashes." That to me was absolutely amazing. It came right after a talk by Elder Whitney Clayton where he talked about the patience that went into planning, preparing, building, and readying the temple of the Lord. Elder Clayton related this to our lives.
For me, the reason I love this temple so very much is because it is a symbol of the Savior and his resurrection. I can't imagine what it must have been like for those who followed the Savior to watch his crucification and then resurrection. I love the gospel movies that show Mary and her surprise when she sees him in his resurrected form and her joy at knowing he was made whole again. To me, that is the same story of what has happened with the temple. It was a dark, sad day when the tabernacle burned. 3 and a half years later the temple stands as a symbol of light and love and beauty. For many it holds similar feelings of surprise at just how amazing it looks and how much joy it brings to everyone who sees it. It is am emblem of the Savior. Everything about the story of this temple leads us to the Savior, and in turn to God.
This temple is an example to me how God takes things that are so broken down or imperfect and creates beauty from them. It is an example of how after dark and lonely times, there is light. It is an example of giving all we can to serve the Lord. It is a connection between past and present. This building, now a dedicated house of the Lord, is a sign to me that God exists and that he wants us to understand his plan for our lives.
I am not from Utah Valley. I never even saw it when it was the tabernacle. Shoot - I don't even live in Provo. But, I do know that the Provo City Center Temple is truly the house of the Lord. I know that God can take us in a broken state and make us beautiful. I know that Christ was crucified and that he rose on the third day. I know that he lives.
Happiness truly is being able to feel of God's love and know that he cares. And that, is why today was so awesome. :)
In the third session of the dedication Elder Nelson talked about how this temple was an example to all of what happens when God takes something destroyed and makes something beautiful from it. He discussed the scripture in Isaiah that talks about how God will "give unto them beauty from ashes." That to me was absolutely amazing. It came right after a talk by Elder Whitney Clayton where he talked about the patience that went into planning, preparing, building, and readying the temple of the Lord. Elder Clayton related this to our lives.
For me, the reason I love this temple so very much is because it is a symbol of the Savior and his resurrection. I can't imagine what it must have been like for those who followed the Savior to watch his crucification and then resurrection. I love the gospel movies that show Mary and her surprise when she sees him in his resurrected form and her joy at knowing he was made whole again. To me, that is the same story of what has happened with the temple. It was a dark, sad day when the tabernacle burned. 3 and a half years later the temple stands as a symbol of light and love and beauty. For many it holds similar feelings of surprise at just how amazing it looks and how much joy it brings to everyone who sees it. It is am emblem of the Savior. Everything about the story of this temple leads us to the Savior, and in turn to God.
This temple is an example to me how God takes things that are so broken down or imperfect and creates beauty from them. It is an example of how after dark and lonely times, there is light. It is an example of giving all we can to serve the Lord. It is a connection between past and present. This building, now a dedicated house of the Lord, is a sign to me that God exists and that he wants us to understand his plan for our lives.
I am not from Utah Valley. I never even saw it when it was the tabernacle. Shoot - I don't even live in Provo. But, I do know that the Provo City Center Temple is truly the house of the Lord. I know that God can take us in a broken state and make us beautiful. I know that Christ was crucified and that he rose on the third day. I know that he lives.
Happiness truly is being able to feel of God's love and know that he cares. And that, is why today was so awesome. :)
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
A Little Piece of Heart
Sometimes I feel like I have a lot to say, and no where to say it all. This week has been one of those weeks. So, I thought I would write a blog. It's not really my style, but hey, it's a medium to get on my personal soapbox and share some thoughts, but more importantly I thought I would share a piece of my heart, so here it goes.
I have often heard people describe this time of life as the "decade of decisions." I agree with that. It is a time of life where we meet decisions that need to be made. I would like to add to that and say that it is a decade of change. Change is hard to do. No matter who you are, it takes effort to change. It takes time to change. It takes goals to change. So, the big question is, how do we change? What is it that drives us to become different? To act different? Maybe it's forced - forced from actions of others, forced from circumstances, forced from need.
Recently I have been trying to change a lot. Change my attitude, change my appearance, change my fitness level, change my financial status. I want to make sure my life is worthwhile. I want to make sure I leave a dent on the world. I want to make sure I am the best me I can be.
My change is motivated from a belief that there is something more - or it can be said, a faith that I can grow and become more that what I currently am and this faith, that is what has helped me make a difference.
I have often heard people describe this time of life as the "decade of decisions." I agree with that. It is a time of life where we meet decisions that need to be made. I would like to add to that and say that it is a decade of change. Change is hard to do. No matter who you are, it takes effort to change. It takes time to change. It takes goals to change. So, the big question is, how do we change? What is it that drives us to become different? To act different? Maybe it's forced - forced from actions of others, forced from circumstances, forced from need.
Recently I have been trying to change a lot. Change my attitude, change my appearance, change my fitness level, change my financial status. I want to make sure my life is worthwhile. I want to make sure I leave a dent on the world. I want to make sure I am the best me I can be.
My change is motivated from a belief that there is something more - or it can be said, a faith that I can grow and become more that what I currently am and this faith, that is what has helped me make a difference.
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
A fish out of Water
Well, I recently got home from my mission. And as such is expected, I have many feelings. I often heard in my mission that "home life" would be different. That I would struggle adjusting. People made bets on how fast I would adjust, how quickly I would find "the one," how great my life would be, but what they never told me is exactly how it would be.
As I dream I go back to those wonderful places. I see the faces of those I love there in the mission. It's almost as if I am there again. And yet, I wake to a foreign bed, alone, and not at 6:30 in the morning and I'm confused. Then it hits me. Reality. I am back. This IS my life. So, I say my prayers, explain to God where I have been, where I want to go and beg that during the day I can help someone. I go to exercise, trying to keep up that great mission schedule, make breakfast get ready and study.
Now study time used to be my favorite but now it is hard. I have to turn off all the distractions, my cell phone, my Facebook, and find a quiet place to be. Not only that the topics are hard to find. Instead of focusing on how these scriptures will help me teach my investigators I have to learn to apply them to me. To find out what it is that God would like from me.
As I put myself to this task, I find a marked scripture and the memories come flooding back. A tear falls down my cheek as I look up and see the picture of them, the hardest investigator I had, standing in white. I remember the struggle. The many nights I was on my knees begging for them to understand and feel. I remember how it felt to watch them in white enter into the covenant of baptism. My tears turn into a smile as I look at the clock and see it is time to leave for class.
Walking down the street, I see so many happy faces and I just want to stop and contact and talk to them all. However, I must continue on my way. I get into class and a new person sits down next to me. They ask my name and almost as second nature I reach to show them my name tag. Only, it isn't there so I awkwardly say my first name, explain that I have recently got back from my mission and hear the question "did you like it?" I sit and think for a second. Do I answer short with a simple "yes." Or do I explain to them how deeply profound and sacred each experience is? I opt for the yes and then focus on what the teacher is saying. My mind begins to wander again as I see the clock and imagine what I would be doing if I were still there.
Next thing I know class is over and it is time to do homework. I sit down to read the assignment and I realize this does not interest me at all. That I would rather be learning about Jesus and the doctrine of the church. I try to refocus and get the assignment done in just enough time to go hang out with friends.
As I am with them I feel so strange. I missed them a lot. I told my companions all about the fun times we had together. Somehow it begins to seem as if being with them is a dream. It feels just like before and yet different. Have they changed or have I? The suggestions of "fun" that they have no longer interest me. Every conversation I have with them seems to include a story of a fun moment being chased by dogs, going somewhere cool on Pday or the jokes I played on my companions. There are new people there and I wonder, "Are the members? Active? How can the Gospel help them?" They talk about subjects, movies, songs, and experiences I know nothing about. I try to join the conversation, but don't know what to say without being that returned missionary that always talks about their mission. I opt to go home early and sit down on my bed. I have a Facebook message from someone I taught and begin to chat with them. They explain their gratitude and I feel so blessed to have been apart of their journey.
I sit down to read my scriptures again and imagine life in 5 or 10 years. Only the vision is blurry. Who will I be with? What will I be doing? Where will I be? All of these things are unsure. So, I pull out my patriarchal blessing and begin to cry. The mixed emotions of being home and missing the mission seem to collide. I kneel to pray and explain to God all that I feel. He tells me it will be okay. I remember my testimony. I remember that my mission was a training for my life. I receive hope. And then I fall asleep, peacefully dreaming of the future and the past waiting for a new day to begin where I will be living in the present.
Sound familiar? Maybe you just got back from a mission like me? Maybe you know someone who just got home and are wondering how to help them. Well, to be honest, I am not really sure how you can. It is a struggle. You are happy they are back, they are happy they are back, but they will never be able to forget how they felt to be there. They will never forget the wonderful people. So, how can you help them? Make them feel welcome here. In their new life. Allow them to recognize that you are there for them. That you love and care about them. Help them know that they are normal. That they have changed and that they have a great spirit.
Leaving for a mission is hard, but coming home from a mission may be harder. For 18 months or 2 years their life has been dedicated 100% to other people. They did not think about themselves, their future, or their needs hardly at all. Now, being back in the big old world, they feel like fish who has been taken out of water. Flopping around. Trying to find air. Trying to find some escape. Trying to find somewhere they fit in. If this fish does not get new water it will die. So help them. Love them. That is all they need.
As I dream I go back to those wonderful places. I see the faces of those I love there in the mission. It's almost as if I am there again. And yet, I wake to a foreign bed, alone, and not at 6:30 in the morning and I'm confused. Then it hits me. Reality. I am back. This IS my life. So, I say my prayers, explain to God where I have been, where I want to go and beg that during the day I can help someone. I go to exercise, trying to keep up that great mission schedule, make breakfast get ready and study.
Now study time used to be my favorite but now it is hard. I have to turn off all the distractions, my cell phone, my Facebook, and find a quiet place to be. Not only that the topics are hard to find. Instead of focusing on how these scriptures will help me teach my investigators I have to learn to apply them to me. To find out what it is that God would like from me.
As I put myself to this task, I find a marked scripture and the memories come flooding back. A tear falls down my cheek as I look up and see the picture of them, the hardest investigator I had, standing in white. I remember the struggle. The many nights I was on my knees begging for them to understand and feel. I remember how it felt to watch them in white enter into the covenant of baptism. My tears turn into a smile as I look at the clock and see it is time to leave for class.
Walking down the street, I see so many happy faces and I just want to stop and contact and talk to them all. However, I must continue on my way. I get into class and a new person sits down next to me. They ask my name and almost as second nature I reach to show them my name tag. Only, it isn't there so I awkwardly say my first name, explain that I have recently got back from my mission and hear the question "did you like it?" I sit and think for a second. Do I answer short with a simple "yes." Or do I explain to them how deeply profound and sacred each experience is? I opt for the yes and then focus on what the teacher is saying. My mind begins to wander again as I see the clock and imagine what I would be doing if I were still there.
Next thing I know class is over and it is time to do homework. I sit down to read the assignment and I realize this does not interest me at all. That I would rather be learning about Jesus and the doctrine of the church. I try to refocus and get the assignment done in just enough time to go hang out with friends.
As I am with them I feel so strange. I missed them a lot. I told my companions all about the fun times we had together. Somehow it begins to seem as if being with them is a dream. It feels just like before and yet different. Have they changed or have I? The suggestions of "fun" that they have no longer interest me. Every conversation I have with them seems to include a story of a fun moment being chased by dogs, going somewhere cool on Pday or the jokes I played on my companions. There are new people there and I wonder, "Are the members? Active? How can the Gospel help them?" They talk about subjects, movies, songs, and experiences I know nothing about. I try to join the conversation, but don't know what to say without being that returned missionary that always talks about their mission. I opt to go home early and sit down on my bed. I have a Facebook message from someone I taught and begin to chat with them. They explain their gratitude and I feel so blessed to have been apart of their journey.
I sit down to read my scriptures again and imagine life in 5 or 10 years. Only the vision is blurry. Who will I be with? What will I be doing? Where will I be? All of these things are unsure. So, I pull out my patriarchal blessing and begin to cry. The mixed emotions of being home and missing the mission seem to collide. I kneel to pray and explain to God all that I feel. He tells me it will be okay. I remember my testimony. I remember that my mission was a training for my life. I receive hope. And then I fall asleep, peacefully dreaming of the future and the past waiting for a new day to begin where I will be living in the present.
Sound familiar? Maybe you just got back from a mission like me? Maybe you know someone who just got home and are wondering how to help them. Well, to be honest, I am not really sure how you can. It is a struggle. You are happy they are back, they are happy they are back, but they will never be able to forget how they felt to be there. They will never forget the wonderful people. So, how can you help them? Make them feel welcome here. In their new life. Allow them to recognize that you are there for them. That you love and care about them. Help them know that they are normal. That they have changed and that they have a great spirit.
Leaving for a mission is hard, but coming home from a mission may be harder. For 18 months or 2 years their life has been dedicated 100% to other people. They did not think about themselves, their future, or their needs hardly at all. Now, being back in the big old world, they feel like fish who has been taken out of water. Flopping around. Trying to find air. Trying to find some escape. Trying to find somewhere they fit in. If this fish does not get new water it will die. So help them. Love them. That is all they need.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Thoughts, Hopes, and Prayers for Newtown
I've had a lot to say in regards to the tragedy that happened today, so I decided to put all my thoughts down somewhere. Here seemed like a good spot.
In Moroni chapter 8 verse 17, we learn that little children shall receive salvation in Christ. "And I am filled with acharity, which is everlasting love; wherefore, all children are alike unto me; wherefore, I love little children with a perfect love; and they are all alike and partakers of salvation." I know the children who lost their lives today are in the arms of Jesus.
The lives of children are so precious. I work with elementary schoolers everyday and the thought of anything happening to any of them hurts my heart. I have only sincere empathy for the families affected and the community surrounding the school. In an effort to show that empathy I share my testimony that there is life after death. I know that you will be reunited with your beautiful children again. I know that the time here apart from them can and will be tough, but through prayer and sincere trust in the Lord's plan, you will be able to overcome that sorrow and return to a happy existence.
On Monday, I participated in an active shooter training. I was briefed on what to do and how to react if something were to happen where I work. I find it frightening to think this could have been my work and I could have been the one responsible for the lives of children. Through this fear I find comfort in knowing I'm prepared. I am not saying teachers at this school were not, because I'm positive they were, it just makes me feel better knowing that because I am prepared, I do not have to fear.
My last thought is one many of you might find strange. It is in regards to the man who decided to take the lives of these precious children this morning. I have heard many say they wish he were able to suffer more, or that he rots in hell, or is doomed to a miserable afterlife. They say he's full of evil and they cannot comprehend how he could be so cruel. I don't pretend to know any of those answers. I am not advocating that what he did was right. It was not. I can however, feel sorry for him. A man who so unjustly takes the lives of innocent children, his own mother, and then takes his own life must be tortured in some way. I am not saying he is insane or making up excuses, I'm certainly not justifying his acts, but I'm hoping we, as a nation and world, can remember the principle of forgiveness.
I think President Uchtdorf sums up my feelings towards this man in his talk about Mercy. He says, "Forgiving ourselves and others is not easy. In fact, for most of us it requires a major change in our attitude and way of thinking—even a change of heart. But there is good news. This “mighty change” of heart is exactly what the gospel ofJesus Christ is designed to bring into our lives.
In Moroni chapter 8 verse 17, we learn that little children shall receive salvation in Christ. "And I am filled with acharity, which is everlasting love; wherefore, all children are alike unto me; wherefore, I love little children with a perfect love; and they are all alike and partakers of salvation." I know the children who lost their lives today are in the arms of Jesus.
The lives of children are so precious. I work with elementary schoolers everyday and the thought of anything happening to any of them hurts my heart. I have only sincere empathy for the families affected and the community surrounding the school. In an effort to show that empathy I share my testimony that there is life after death. I know that you will be reunited with your beautiful children again. I know that the time here apart from them can and will be tough, but through prayer and sincere trust in the Lord's plan, you will be able to overcome that sorrow and return to a happy existence.
On Monday, I participated in an active shooter training. I was briefed on what to do and how to react if something were to happen where I work. I find it frightening to think this could have been my work and I could have been the one responsible for the lives of children. Through this fear I find comfort in knowing I'm prepared. I am not saying teachers at this school were not, because I'm positive they were, it just makes me feel better knowing that because I am prepared, I do not have to fear.
My last thought is one many of you might find strange. It is in regards to the man who decided to take the lives of these precious children this morning. I have heard many say they wish he were able to suffer more, or that he rots in hell, or is doomed to a miserable afterlife. They say he's full of evil and they cannot comprehend how he could be so cruel. I don't pretend to know any of those answers. I am not advocating that what he did was right. It was not. I can however, feel sorry for him. A man who so unjustly takes the lives of innocent children, his own mother, and then takes his own life must be tortured in some way. I am not saying he is insane or making up excuses, I'm certainly not justifying his acts, but I'm hoping we, as a nation and world, can remember the principle of forgiveness.
I think President Uchtdorf sums up my feelings towards this man in his talk about Mercy. He says, "Forgiving ourselves and others is not easy. In fact, for most of us it requires a major change in our attitude and way of thinking—even a change of heart. But there is good news. This “mighty change” of heart is exactly what the gospel ofJesus Christ is designed to bring into our lives.
How is it done? Through the love of God.
When our hearts are filled with the love of God, something good and pure happens to us. We “keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world.”
The more we allow the love of God to govern our minds and emotions—the more we allow our love for our Heavenly Father to swell within our hearts—the easier it is to love others with the pure love of Christ. As we open our hearts to the glowing dawn of the love of God, the darkness and cold of animosity and envy will eventually fade.
As always, Christ is our exemplar. In His teachings as in His life, He showed us the way. He forgave the wicked, the vulgar, and those who sought to hurt and to do Him harm.
Jesus said it is easy to love those who love us; even the wicked can do that. But Jesus Christ taught a higher law. His words echo through the centuries and are meant for us today. They are meant for all who desire to be His disciples. They are meant for you and me: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”
When our hearts are filled with the love of God, we become “kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving [each other], even as God for Christ’s sake [forgave us].”
The pure love of Christ can remove the scales of resentment and wrath from our eyes, allowing us to see others the way our Heavenly Father sees us: as flawed and imperfect mortals who have potential and worth far beyond our capacity to imagine. Because God loves us so much, we too must love and forgive each other."
Christ forgave the meanest and most evil seeming of men. He even forgave those who hung him on a cross to die. As I say my prayers before bed tonight, I'm praying not only for the comfort and support for those families, but for the man who took their lives. Through the mercy of Christ I'm forgiven daily and that same mercy can be shown to all. It's my heavenly fathers place to judge and I know the punishment that will be given to this man will be just.
Some may read this and think I'm choosing that mans side. Some may think I don't realize just how terrible the grief these families feel is. Some might even say I'm overly optimistic and blinded by religion. To these comments I say one thing: I know that my Heavenly Father has a plan that makes tragedies like these make sense. I know those sweet children are now in Heaven with Christ. I know that through the Mercy of Christ justice for this man's sins will be met. I know that these families will once again be reunited. I have faith that even though there is bad in the world today and life can be cut short by so many tragedies and in so many ways, faith in Christ will get us through.
This is a time for us to band together. This is a time for America to say "we are ONE nation under God" this is a time to turn to prayer and service and spread the love of God to all. This is a time to mourn and grieve but most importantly it's a time to overcome.
Christ forgave the meanest and most evil seeming of men. He even forgave those who hung him on a cross to die. As I say my prayers before bed tonight, I'm praying not only for the comfort and support for those families, but for the man who took their lives. Through the mercy of Christ I'm forgiven daily and that same mercy can be shown to all. It's my heavenly fathers place to judge and I know the punishment that will be given to this man will be just.
Some may read this and think I'm choosing that mans side. Some may think I don't realize just how terrible the grief these families feel is. Some might even say I'm overly optimistic and blinded by religion. To these comments I say one thing: I know that my Heavenly Father has a plan that makes tragedies like these make sense. I know those sweet children are now in Heaven with Christ. I know that through the Mercy of Christ justice for this man's sins will be met. I know that these families will once again be reunited. I have faith that even though there is bad in the world today and life can be cut short by so many tragedies and in so many ways, faith in Christ will get us through.
This is a time for us to band together. This is a time for America to say "we are ONE nation under God" this is a time to turn to prayer and service and spread the love of God to all. This is a time to mourn and grieve but most importantly it's a time to overcome.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
El Campo Esta Blanco: Mision Peru Lima Este
Title Translation: The field is white, Peru Lima East Mission.
Well, I better crank out my Spanish books and start reviewing because pretty soon Spanish will be all I speak! I'm really really stoked. I will be serving a mission in Lima Peru in the East mission. I leave January 9th for the Provo MTC where I will learn the basics of Spanish and teaching and then go into the CCM which is an abbreviation for Centro Capacitacional Misonal. This is the equivalent of the MTC, but quite a smaller operation and a much more of an immersion into the culture and language.
I am SO excited!
Anyways, A lot has happened in the past month or so of my life. First, my best pal got a mission call. He's going to Russia! Right now he's in the MTC and doing great! Woot! I got my call! [PERU!!!] And I leave in 69 days! My job changed and I now work less hours and more front desk. I've visited Logan twice, the last time being where I said goodbye to Logan... (sorta... I might sneak another visit in...maybe) Then I got in my FIRST car accident. It wasn't a big dealio, but the story is crazy! (this happened back in September) First I had been awake since like 2:30 in the morning. I had to catch an early flight to Vegas (early meaning I got here at 6:30 am.) I had to work at 8:30, so I made sure to get a shower. I skipped breakfast because I felt like I should leave for work early. I left about 20 minutes early. On my way to work I ran into the back of someone. This lady was so sweet. She didn't speak English and I'm not 100% sure she even understood what was happening but she chose to just walk away and we parted ways. I was so relieved. She even told me it would be okay and that I should have a good day. The lord works in mysterious ways.
I also went through the temple. What a neat thing that was! I love that place! It's SO amazing. Those of you who are working on being able to go through the temple, continue that trek. You won't regret it. I also finished teaching the new member lessons to the Gonzalez family! They are SO sweet. Every time one of them gets up to bear their testimony in church I just feel happy inside. I also started teaching another family in my ward. They have a 5 year old girl who is so full of energy! Every lesson she sits on my lap and plays with my scriptures. She is smart too and is learning about Jesus! I just love missionary work. I can't wait to get out there and serve!
I have always loved holidays, but I feel like I like them a bit more this year. Maybe it's because I need a distraction so I don't get too anxious, but I really love them! I am so glad I get to spend this season with my family!
Life is good my friends, life is good! :)
Anyways, A lot has happened in the past month or so of my life. First, my best pal got a mission call. He's going to Russia! Right now he's in the MTC and doing great! Woot! I got my call! [PERU!!!] And I leave in 69 days! My job changed and I now work less hours and more front desk. I've visited Logan twice, the last time being where I said goodbye to Logan... (sorta... I might sneak another visit in...maybe) Then I got in my FIRST car accident. It wasn't a big dealio, but the story is crazy! (this happened back in September) First I had been awake since like 2:30 in the morning. I had to catch an early flight to Vegas (early meaning I got here at 6:30 am.) I had to work at 8:30, so I made sure to get a shower. I skipped breakfast because I felt like I should leave for work early. I left about 20 minutes early. On my way to work I ran into the back of someone. This lady was so sweet. She didn't speak English and I'm not 100% sure she even understood what was happening but she chose to just walk away and we parted ways. I was so relieved. She even told me it would be okay and that I should have a good day. The lord works in mysterious ways.
I also went through the temple. What a neat thing that was! I love that place! It's SO amazing. Those of you who are working on being able to go through the temple, continue that trek. You won't regret it. I also finished teaching the new member lessons to the Gonzalez family! They are SO sweet. Every time one of them gets up to bear their testimony in church I just feel happy inside. I also started teaching another family in my ward. They have a 5 year old girl who is so full of energy! Every lesson she sits on my lap and plays with my scriptures. She is smart too and is learning about Jesus! I just love missionary work. I can't wait to get out there and serve!
I have always loved holidays, but I feel like I like them a bit more this year. Maybe it's because I need a distraction so I don't get too anxious, but I really love them! I am so glad I get to spend this season with my family!
Life is good my friends, life is good! :)
Addie and the Castle
This is a short story I wrote the other night just for the sake of writing. It has some metaphorical meaning to it. If you look hard enough I'm sure you could find them! :)
Once upon a land in a time not so far away a sweet little girl named Addie was talking to her dad. In their conversation the topic of being special came up. Addie asked, "Daddy what makes me special?" Her dad took her in his arms, looked into those bright, beautiful eyes and said, "Addie, you are special because you like to smile, you are adorable, you are determined, but Addie, you are the most special because you are a princess." Addie smiled real big and gave her daddy a hug. Then her daddy looked at her and said, "Addie, I'm going to send you away for a little bit now. It's time you learned some lessons and this is the plan for you to do learn those and be the best person you can be. It might not be the easiest plan and there may be times where you feel as if you are completely alone, but you must always remember you are a princess."
Addie was afraid and excited to follow this plan and learn these lessons. she didn't really know what to expect but as she went away she was optimistic. As her journey progressed and it got a bit harder, she met wonderful people. There were also a lot of bad things that happened. Addie began to forget who she was and the things her father told her. Every once in a while she did remember and the wonderful people helped her a lot too. The thing that helped her remember the most was the building that looked like a castle. She often went to the castle to be reminded of her identity of princess, but before entering the castle she had to meet some requirements and reach a certain point where she was ready. Addie worked hard to be able to enter. Finally the day came.
Some of those wonderful people were there with her. They continued to support and encourage her. She entered the castle and was amazed at the beauty of it. She felt so happy and felt peace about everything that she had questioned. She was also told that she would be able to meet the king. As she continued further into the castle she was filled with excitement a bit of nerves. Finally it was time. She stepped into where the king was and tears filled her eyes. Standing in front of her was her father. She ran to hug him and continued to cry remembering all that he had told her. He softly pushed her back and looked into her eyes and said with love that only a father can, "I knew you could make it. I am so proud of you, my princess."
Addie remained in the castle with her father from then on. She loved being able to always remember the princess that she is and she was SO happy to be in the place where she was meant to be. Even though she was truly happy in the castle, she didn't forget the struggles. The things she learned helped her. They lead her to appreciate the beauty of the castle. Addie spent her time from then on reminding everyone she came in contact with that they too could be a princess. She was often seen helping those around her who were having a hard time, lifting them up knowing that one day, they might have the opportunity to enter into this castle and feel the way she feels. Addie's journey was tough, but the lessons she learned were worth it.
Never forget who you are. Never forget where you come from. Just like Addie you too are royalty. Life is meant to be tough. There are things all around that cause us to forget who we are and what our end goal is, but when we remember- when we truly are able to be reminded of this divine nature, that is when we are happiest.
Always remember who you are. No matter where you are in life right now, someone out there loves you. Remember that and everything else will fall into place. And, as always, keep smiling. :)
Once upon a land in a time not so far away a sweet little girl named Addie was talking to her dad. In their conversation the topic of being special came up. Addie asked, "Daddy what makes me special?" Her dad took her in his arms, looked into those bright, beautiful eyes and said, "Addie, you are special because you like to smile, you are adorable, you are determined, but Addie, you are the most special because you are a princess." Addie smiled real big and gave her daddy a hug. Then her daddy looked at her and said, "Addie, I'm going to send you away for a little bit now. It's time you learned some lessons and this is the plan for you to do learn those and be the best person you can be. It might not be the easiest plan and there may be times where you feel as if you are completely alone, but you must always remember you are a princess."
Addie was afraid and excited to follow this plan and learn these lessons. she didn't really know what to expect but as she went away she was optimistic. As her journey progressed and it got a bit harder, she met wonderful people. There were also a lot of bad things that happened. Addie began to forget who she was and the things her father told her. Every once in a while she did remember and the wonderful people helped her a lot too. The thing that helped her remember the most was the building that looked like a castle. She often went to the castle to be reminded of her identity of princess, but before entering the castle she had to meet some requirements and reach a certain point where she was ready. Addie worked hard to be able to enter. Finally the day came.
Some of those wonderful people were there with her. They continued to support and encourage her. She entered the castle and was amazed at the beauty of it. She felt so happy and felt peace about everything that she had questioned. She was also told that she would be able to meet the king. As she continued further into the castle she was filled with excitement a bit of nerves. Finally it was time. She stepped into where the king was and tears filled her eyes. Standing in front of her was her father. She ran to hug him and continued to cry remembering all that he had told her. He softly pushed her back and looked into her eyes and said with love that only a father can, "I knew you could make it. I am so proud of you, my princess."
Addie remained in the castle with her father from then on. She loved being able to always remember the princess that she is and she was SO happy to be in the place where she was meant to be. Even though she was truly happy in the castle, she didn't forget the struggles. The things she learned helped her. They lead her to appreciate the beauty of the castle. Addie spent her time from then on reminding everyone she came in contact with that they too could be a princess. She was often seen helping those around her who were having a hard time, lifting them up knowing that one day, they might have the opportunity to enter into this castle and feel the way she feels. Addie's journey was tough, but the lessons she learned were worth it.
Never forget who you are. Never forget where you come from. Just like Addie you too are royalty. Life is meant to be tough. There are things all around that cause us to forget who we are and what our end goal is, but when we remember- when we truly are able to be reminded of this divine nature, that is when we are happiest.
Always remember who you are. No matter where you are in life right now, someone out there loves you. Remember that and everything else will fall into place. And, as always, keep smiling. :)
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