“ACTING in FAITH to keep our covenants, sometimes directly in the face of FEAR, is the very transformation of our souls that the ATONEMENT promises.”
Recently, I read a very good BYU devotional address by Gregory Clark entitled “Lessons on Faith and Fear”, and I would recommend it to anyone! He compares the relationship of FAITH and FEAR to that of good and evil. When we live in FAITH, we don’t FEAR change or changing ourselves… which is the very foundation of HF’s plan for us (changing for the better).
FEAR pulls us from the Lord. It weakens us. He explains his thoughts that the source of FEAR comes from the assumption that he must solve all of his problems and face all challenges on his own, using his own resources. When he’s FEARFUL, he’s HOPELESS. WOW. Reading it in that way puts fear in a whole new light for me. HOPE is what I cling to. Hope gets me up in the morning and moving throughout the day. Hope keeps me going! What am I without HOPE?
FEAR comes on slowly just like little sins can creep up on us. The more FEAR sets in, the more FAITH moves out. The more sins creep in, the more the Spirit moves out.
FAITH is a choice. A choice! We choose to believe and act on it. I feel very blessed in my life to have felt the Spirit witness to me that the restored gospel is true. And, I could NEVER deny that. But, yet, I find myself very uncertain when challenges come my way. I’m NOT uncertain about the truthfulness of the gospel, but I’m uncertain the Lord is going to help me this time. I’m uncertain He’s aware of me THIS time. But, why??? Has HE failed me before? Left me along? NO. Why do I let that doubt creep in? Why can’t I be more consistent in choosing FAITH? I make many choices throughout the day. The wisest choice I could make is to have more FAITH!
Brother Clark gives a fabulous example of the Bible story when the disciples are wondering if they’re going to perish in the storm at sea. The Savior was IN the boat with them and yet, they still doubted. He remarks that the reason he thinks they doubted is because they could only see the PRESENT furry of the storm. They couldn’t remember the past witnesses of truth they had learned or their hope for the future. Their current experience contradicted their past and future knowledge… so they doubted.
The Bible dictionary says that FAITH is to “have confidence in something or someone…The Lord has revealed himself and his perfect character…. So as to enable the mind of man to place confidence in him without reservation.” SO WHY AM I NOT DOING THIS ON A DAILY BASIS??
“FAITH might well be the path that the power of the ATONEMENT must travel if it to transform our lives.” Only when we’re filled with FAITH can the healing power of the atonement enter and help us CHANGE for the better. “ACTING in FAITH to keep our covenants, sometimes directly in the face of FEAR, is the very transformation of our souls that the ATONEMENT promises.”
“EVERY time I find myself FEARFUL, sooner of later I realize that I am not particularly humble. I realize I have been trying to live my life and solve my own problems on my own terms with my own capacities – my own intellect, usually – and have forgotten instead the power and plan of the Lord.”
Now, I need to find a good talk on humility ☺ FEAR is the prompting to turn, and return, to the LORD – a process that begins with humility.
“IN HUMILITY WE CHOOSE FAITH, AND FAITH BECOMES THE CHANNEL THROUGH WHICH THE LORD BLESSES US WITH HOPE AND MIRACLES AND PERFECT LOVE.”
This is what I need in my life. … HOPE, A MIRACLE, and PERFECT LOVE.
Wow – what a GREAT talk!!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
Cold enough fer ya?
A friend of mine sent this to me at work. Now, while I know the temps are colder in New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine... and many other states, I still feel like I get to joke about it as well because MA is so close to their borders (if not touching them!) And, this winter has not been fun --- temperature wise. (It still bewilders me why anyone would consider living north of NH during the winter. What are the Canadians thinking?!!)
Anyway, I thought it was funny and had to post it. I think it's true... except for the last stanza. Fortunately, we've had two hour delays more often than for 50 degrees below! Can I just add that this weekend it hit 45 degrees and I walked to church because it felt like SPRING!!! :)
Cold is relative
65 above zero:
Floridians turn on the heat.
People in Massachusetts plant gardens.
60 above zero
Californians shiver uncontrollably.
People in Massachusetts sunbathe.
50 above zero:
Italian & English cars won't start.
People in Massachusetts drive with the windows down.
40 above zero:
Georgians don coats, thermal underwear, gloves, wool hats.
People in Massachusetts throw on a flannel shirt.
35 above zero:
New York landlords finally turn up the heat.
People in Massachusettshave the last cookout before it gets cold.
20 above Zero
People in Miami all die.
Massachusetts close the windows.
Zero:
Californians fly away to Mexico.
People in Massachusetts get out their winter coats.
10 below zero:
Hollywood disintegrates.
The Girl Scouts in Massachusetts are selling cookies door to door..
20 below zero:
Washington DC runs out of hot air.
People in Massachusetts let the dogs sleep indoors.
30 below zero:
Santa Claus abandons the North Pole.
People in Massachusetts get upset because they can't start the snowmobile.
40 below zero:
ALL atomic motion stops
People in Massachusetts start saying...'Cold enough fer ya?'
50 below zero:
Hell freezes over.
Massachusetts public schools will open 2 hours late.
Anyway, I thought it was funny and had to post it. I think it's true... except for the last stanza. Fortunately, we've had two hour delays more often than for 50 degrees below! Can I just add that this weekend it hit 45 degrees and I walked to church because it felt like SPRING!!! :)
Cold is relative
65 above zero:
Floridians turn on the heat.
People in Massachusetts plant gardens.
60 above zero
Californians shiver uncontrollably.
People in Massachusetts sunbathe.
50 above zero:
Italian & English cars won't start.
People in Massachusetts drive with the windows down.
40 above zero:
Georgians don coats, thermal underwear, gloves, wool hats.
People in Massachusetts throw on a flannel shirt.
35 above zero:
New York landlords finally turn up the heat.
People in Massachusettshave the last cookout before it gets cold.
20 above Zero
People in Miami all die.
Massachusetts close the windows.
Zero:
Californians fly away to Mexico.
People in Massachusetts get out their winter coats.
10 below zero:
Hollywood disintegrates.
The Girl Scouts in Massachusetts are selling cookies door to door..
20 below zero:
Washington DC runs out of hot air.
People in Massachusetts let the dogs sleep indoors.
30 below zero:
Santa Claus abandons the North Pole.
People in Massachusetts get upset because they can't start the snowmobile.
40 below zero:
ALL atomic motion stops
People in Massachusetts start saying...'Cold enough fer ya?'
50 below zero:
Hell freezes over.
Massachusetts public schools will open 2 hours late.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Changing it up a bit
I'm getting old. The font size I've been using is too small for me to even enjoy reading... so here's to a new look on my blog. And, given the previous post, I am only going to think positive thoughts about getting older! Hmmm.... any ideas on what those should be?!!!
Secrets of a happy life
During the holidays I make my annual "outing" to the Deseret Book website! I tell myself that I am looking for gift ideas for others, but reality is that I usually buy more for me than for anyone else. This year's trip resulted in many great finds... but the one that really caught my eye was a book written a while ago by President David O. McKay, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1951-1970. The book is called "Secrets of a Happy Life" and is a compilation of his thoughts and talks. I don't think I am alone in the pursuit of living a happy life. And, gosh, if there's a secret to doing so, I need to know! So, I bought it. It's short. Only 174 pages, but filled with great wisdom! I'll summarize my thoughts... basically for my benefit!
"Happiness should be viewed as the purpose and design of our existence.... There is no one "good thing" which brings happiness. Life is made up, not of great sacrifices or duties, but of the little things in which smiles and kindness... are what win and preserve the heart and secure comfort. " "Man is the creator of his own happiness."
"Each one of us is the architect of his own fate, and he is unfortunate indeed who will try to build himself without realizing he grows from within, not from without. What a man continually thinks about determines his actions in times of opportunity and stress." This quote was in a chapter on free agency. It talks about service and not giving into our appetites and impulses which can lead us down the wrong path. I however, reflected on the power of positive thinking. It was actually a major part of my lesson this week with the kids at school. If we "think we can", we're sure going to do a whole lot better than if we don't even try or if we start out by saying "this is too hard for me." Remember the story about the little blue engine that had to go up the big hill? How far do you think he would have gotten if he started at the bottom and said "This is way too hard for me. There's no way I am going to make it up there." I doubt he would have moved more than an inch! I've recently noticed the power of positive thinking in a close friend of mine. she chooses to take life as it comes and see all the good things that happen despite the very difficult circumstances that have come her way in the past few weeks. She's always looking on the bright side and moving forward and I find that so refreshing!
I tried a personal experiment with myself this past week. At times when I might have usually complained, or even during my runs when I start to want to quit, I've turned my thinking into only positive thoughts and LIFE has been a LOT better! We are the architect of our fate... it will be a whole lot better for us to think positively along the way!
"Happiness is not an external condition; it is a state of the spirit and attitude of the mind"... we can nurture happiness by 1: Trust in God "To have faith that God is our Father is the safest anchorage of the soul and brings peace and solace under any condition" (I LOVE THAT QUOTE!); 2: Confidence in our fellow man; 3. Proper evaluation of blessings
"We get out of life just what we put into it, just wat we see. Some sources of happiness are 1. A sense of being free; 2. sense of self-mastery; 3. priviledge of work; 4. possession of health; 5. ability to see God's beauty around us; 6. harboring of upbuilding thoughts; 7. Being true to those who trust you; 8. making friends; 9. doing your best this hour, and you will do better the next; 10. developing faith. Faith is the foundation of all things - including happiness.
"THE SECRET OF HAPPINESS LIES WITHIN EACH OF US... AND THE TRUE SOURCE - THE SECRET- OF HAPPINESS CONSISTS IN MAKING OTHERS HAPPY."
Wow. I loved reading this book. At times I know I have looked for outside things or events to make me happier. And, yes, while they might add to the "brightness" I have within me, nothin on the outside is as reliable or consistent as what is inside of me and where my heart is. That is where true happiness comes from and I, only I, can determine my own happiness. It's like I tell the kids almost everyday (!!) "No one makes you do or say something. YOU CHOOSE your words and actions." Now, I'll turn the tables on me: "I choose my thoughts and actions... I choose the degree of my happiness!"
Here's to a HAPPY 2009!!!
"Happiness should be viewed as the purpose and design of our existence.... There is no one "good thing" which brings happiness. Life is made up, not of great sacrifices or duties, but of the little things in which smiles and kindness... are what win and preserve the heart and secure comfort. " "Man is the creator of his own happiness."
"Each one of us is the architect of his own fate, and he is unfortunate indeed who will try to build himself without realizing he grows from within, not from without. What a man continually thinks about determines his actions in times of opportunity and stress." This quote was in a chapter on free agency. It talks about service and not giving into our appetites and impulses which can lead us down the wrong path. I however, reflected on the power of positive thinking. It was actually a major part of my lesson this week with the kids at school. If we "think we can", we're sure going to do a whole lot better than if we don't even try or if we start out by saying "this is too hard for me." Remember the story about the little blue engine that had to go up the big hill? How far do you think he would have gotten if he started at the bottom and said "This is way too hard for me. There's no way I am going to make it up there." I doubt he would have moved more than an inch! I've recently noticed the power of positive thinking in a close friend of mine. she chooses to take life as it comes and see all the good things that happen despite the very difficult circumstances that have come her way in the past few weeks. She's always looking on the bright side and moving forward and I find that so refreshing!
I tried a personal experiment with myself this past week. At times when I might have usually complained, or even during my runs when I start to want to quit, I've turned my thinking into only positive thoughts and LIFE has been a LOT better! We are the architect of our fate... it will be a whole lot better for us to think positively along the way!
"Happiness is not an external condition; it is a state of the spirit and attitude of the mind"... we can nurture happiness by 1: Trust in God "To have faith that God is our Father is the safest anchorage of the soul and brings peace and solace under any condition" (I LOVE THAT QUOTE!); 2: Confidence in our fellow man; 3. Proper evaluation of blessings
"We get out of life just what we put into it, just wat we see. Some sources of happiness are 1. A sense of being free; 2. sense of self-mastery; 3. priviledge of work; 4. possession of health; 5. ability to see God's beauty around us; 6. harboring of upbuilding thoughts; 7. Being true to those who trust you; 8. making friends; 9. doing your best this hour, and you will do better the next; 10. developing faith. Faith is the foundation of all things - including happiness.
"THE SECRET OF HAPPINESS LIES WITHIN EACH OF US... AND THE TRUE SOURCE - THE SECRET- OF HAPPINESS CONSISTS IN MAKING OTHERS HAPPY."
Wow. I loved reading this book. At times I know I have looked for outside things or events to make me happier. And, yes, while they might add to the "brightness" I have within me, nothin on the outside is as reliable or consistent as what is inside of me and where my heart is. That is where true happiness comes from and I, only I, can determine my own happiness. It's like I tell the kids almost everyday (!!) "No one makes you do or say something. YOU CHOOSE your words and actions." Now, I'll turn the tables on me: "I choose my thoughts and actions... I choose the degree of my happiness!"
Here's to a HAPPY 2009!!!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Finding enduring PEACE, HAPPINESS and JOY
Recently I've watched a good friend struggle through a trial in her life that required a lot of patience and a great deal of uncertainty. She's tried to remain positive, but it has been a struggle to feel enduring peace and happiness. She's not a member of my religious faith, and doesn't have any real belief system, but as I struggled to find things to say to her to help, I found myself searching through talks and scriptures on FAITH.
I started reading a book by one of my church leaders, Elder Richard G. Scott, entitled 'Finding Peace, Happiness, and Joy'. In it he talks a lot about FAITH, specifically that the first key to enduring peace and happiness is to be full of FAITH. "Life is what we choose to see in it... For many, FAITH is not adequately understood and consequently is not used to full advantage. Some feel that religion and the guidance one can receive through robust FAITH have no rational basis. However, FAITH is NOT an illusion or magic, but a power rooted in eternal principles....Exercise FAITH and you will confirm its power."
He goes on to say that we will gain a better understanding of FAITH as we: 1. "Trust in God and in HIS willingness to provide help; 2. Obey His commandments and live to demonstrate that He can trust you; 3. Be sensitive to the quiet prompting of the Spirit and ACT courageously on that prompting; 4. Be patient and understanding when God lets you struggle to grow and when answers come a piece at a time over an extended period of time."
"Motivating faith is centered in TRUST in the LORD and in HIS willingness to answer your needs. ... The consistent, willing exercise of faith increases your confidence and ability to employ the power of faith."
For me, the unwavering TRUST is difficult? And WHY??? If I can't TRUST the Lord... who can I TRUST? (answer: no one!) The patience part is also a little (or very) difficult for me. I'm the type that likes to have problems solved immediately and answers all at once. It's SOOO HARD TO WAIT!!
Elder Scott goes on:
"God uses your faith to mold your character.... In James we read: "The trying of your faith worketh patience" : For me... it's that word "patience" that always gets me. I have a limited supply :)
But, the following summary was eye-opening and enlightening for me to read and ponder:
"Your exercise of faith builds character. Fortified character expands your capacity to exercise greater faith. Thus, your confidence in conquering the trials of life is enhanced. And the strengthening cycle continue. The more your character is fortified, the more enabled you are to exercise the power of faith for yet stronger character."
Watching my friend go through this experience the past few months has been difficult, but it has taught me a lesson on FAITH and what I need to do in my own life to increase my FAITH. I've wished that I could have these conversations with her and to share what I have read, but a conversation is a two way street and the receiver needs to be willing to listen. As I've watched her struggle, but yet continue to resist religious thoughts, I wondered how many times I have behaved similarly by relying on my own abilities and knowledge to get through... and not exercising more FAITH. I'm quite sure I've stumbled and been less happy at times because of this. It's sad and painful to watch someone else go through it. I can only imagine how sad the LORD is in watching me go through it! In the end I do truly know that if I apply the principles mentioned above I really will find enduring peace, happiness and joy... which is my ultimate goal! I just need to apply them more often!!!!
I started reading a book by one of my church leaders, Elder Richard G. Scott, entitled 'Finding Peace, Happiness, and Joy'. In it he talks a lot about FAITH, specifically that the first key to enduring peace and happiness is to be full of FAITH. "Life is what we choose to see in it... For many, FAITH is not adequately understood and consequently is not used to full advantage. Some feel that religion and the guidance one can receive through robust FAITH have no rational basis. However, FAITH is NOT an illusion or magic, but a power rooted in eternal principles....Exercise FAITH and you will confirm its power."
He goes on to say that we will gain a better understanding of FAITH as we: 1. "Trust in God and in HIS willingness to provide help; 2. Obey His commandments and live to demonstrate that He can trust you; 3. Be sensitive to the quiet prompting of the Spirit and ACT courageously on that prompting; 4. Be patient and understanding when God lets you struggle to grow and when answers come a piece at a time over an extended period of time."
"Motivating faith is centered in TRUST in the LORD and in HIS willingness to answer your needs. ... The consistent, willing exercise of faith increases your confidence and ability to employ the power of faith."
For me, the unwavering TRUST is difficult? And WHY??? If I can't TRUST the Lord... who can I TRUST? (answer: no one!) The patience part is also a little (or very) difficult for me. I'm the type that likes to have problems solved immediately and answers all at once. It's SOOO HARD TO WAIT!!
Elder Scott goes on:
"God uses your faith to mold your character.... In James we read: "The trying of your faith worketh patience" : For me... it's that word "patience" that always gets me. I have a limited supply :)
But, the following summary was eye-opening and enlightening for me to read and ponder:
"Your exercise of faith builds character. Fortified character expands your capacity to exercise greater faith. Thus, your confidence in conquering the trials of life is enhanced. And the strengthening cycle continue. The more your character is fortified, the more enabled you are to exercise the power of faith for yet stronger character."
Watching my friend go through this experience the past few months has been difficult, but it has taught me a lesson on FAITH and what I need to do in my own life to increase my FAITH. I've wished that I could have these conversations with her and to share what I have read, but a conversation is a two way street and the receiver needs to be willing to listen. As I've watched her struggle, but yet continue to resist religious thoughts, I wondered how many times I have behaved similarly by relying on my own abilities and knowledge to get through... and not exercising more FAITH. I'm quite sure I've stumbled and been less happy at times because of this. It's sad and painful to watch someone else go through it. I can only imagine how sad the LORD is in watching me go through it! In the end I do truly know that if I apply the principles mentioned above I really will find enduring peace, happiness and joy... which is my ultimate goal! I just need to apply them more often!!!!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
My third strike?? I'm swinging the bat... and it doesn't look like a hit!
I moved to Boston just over 5 years ago and days before this city entered the worst winter on record (in my humble opinion). I was not a happy camper... as my mother would say. I stuck it out, but in accord with Boston's worship of their baseball team, I decided that three strikes and I am out. Meaning three winters that are bad... and I am outta here! Strike one was my first winter here. Strike two was two years later... and now it's not looking promising :) Last week we were in the single digits for "HIGH" temps and we've had more snow on record thus far than totals for the whole season last year.
There are many things I love about Boston... or should I say things that make this city unique. Things that make me smile when I think of them cause you can only "live it" in this wonderful city! I could create numerous posts on Boston driving, street design, Red Sox worship... and on and on. But, the top of my list right now is Boston's parking and traffic rules - and SNOW (which, let me repeat... we've had more than our fair share of this year.
One of my biggest stresses in this city is parking. I've gotten crazy tickets for not parking 20 feet from an intersection, not moving my car for random street cleaning, parking too close to a fire hydrant, missing a meter running out by two minutes.... the list goes on and on. I have become very familiar with the court system and appealing tickets/going to hearings. (not something I will write on my resume anytime soon!!) I've come to loathe the ticket officers who roam the streets ready to hand out tickets to any unsuspecting car owner. Is it wrong of me that I have wanted to run one of them over??! :) I realize I am judging the position and not the person, but I loathe them!
Anyway, when snow hits, my blood pressure rises because of the panic of not finding a spot on the right side of the street... and then getting a whopping $100 ticket and a towed car. As a child I loved the snow. That meant sledding, hot chocolate, snowboarding down our tiny hill, and just FUN. Here in Boston, "snow emergencies" (which are declared for any snow amount over two inches... and means you can't park on the street) parking can become a true nightmare and a fight till the finish. Once your car is parked safely - you DON'T move it till the ban has been lifted.
Then, sadly, No - the headache doesn't let up when the snow has all fallen as the headache for avail. spots still continues. It has become such a problem in Boston that the mayor will send trash collectors around to pick up things like this... (all photos courtesy of Boston.com)
"space savers"! Yep, people will place all kind of things to save the place they dug out. Now, I have been so tempted to remove some of these place savers over the years, but I actually did this year when someone had the NERVE to put a space saver in a spot I, (NOTE "I") had shoveled out!!! Normally, I would be worried that doing this would cause the person to put damage on my car, but I wasn't letting this guy off the hook!
Here are some famous pictures of space savers here...
Wishful thinking...
The backyard comes to the front yard. You can keep a watch on the kids and your precious parking spot!
My all-time favorite is this. Who would move this??!
One of my favorite Boston commercials is one where someone is shoveling out a spot and another person drives by looking for one. The guy shoveling says "You lookin' for a spot? Here have this one!!" Then he proceeds to back away and let the other driver in. The commercial ends by saying "This isn't Boston"... and goes on to advertise for the Red Sox or something. It's hilarious to me... only because I've lived it!
When can I go back to enjoying the snow because I know my car is safe and has a spot? And, is this my next strike??!
There are many things I love about Boston... or should I say things that make this city unique. Things that make me smile when I think of them cause you can only "live it" in this wonderful city! I could create numerous posts on Boston driving, street design, Red Sox worship... and on and on. But, the top of my list right now is Boston's parking and traffic rules - and SNOW (which, let me repeat... we've had more than our fair share of this year.
One of my biggest stresses in this city is parking. I've gotten crazy tickets for not parking 20 feet from an intersection, not moving my car for random street cleaning, parking too close to a fire hydrant, missing a meter running out by two minutes.... the list goes on and on. I have become very familiar with the court system and appealing tickets/going to hearings. (not something I will write on my resume anytime soon!!) I've come to loathe the ticket officers who roam the streets ready to hand out tickets to any unsuspecting car owner. Is it wrong of me that I have wanted to run one of them over??! :) I realize I am judging the position and not the person, but I loathe them!
Anyway, when snow hits, my blood pressure rises because of the panic of not finding a spot on the right side of the street... and then getting a whopping $100 ticket and a towed car. As a child I loved the snow. That meant sledding, hot chocolate, snowboarding down our tiny hill, and just FUN. Here in Boston, "snow emergencies" (which are declared for any snow amount over two inches... and means you can't park on the street) parking can become a true nightmare and a fight till the finish. Once your car is parked safely - you DON'T move it till the ban has been lifted.
Then, sadly, No - the headache doesn't let up when the snow has all fallen as the headache for avail. spots still continues. It has become such a problem in Boston that the mayor will send trash collectors around to pick up things like this... (all photos courtesy of Boston.com)
"space savers"! Yep, people will place all kind of things to save the place they dug out. Now, I have been so tempted to remove some of these place savers over the years, but I actually did this year when someone had the NERVE to put a space saver in a spot I, (NOTE "I") had shoveled out!!! Normally, I would be worried that doing this would cause the person to put damage on my car, but I wasn't letting this guy off the hook!Here are some famous pictures of space savers here...
Wishful thinking...The backyard comes to the front yard. You can keep a watch on the kids and your precious parking spot!My all-time favorite is this. Who would move this??!One of my favorite Boston commercials is one where someone is shoveling out a spot and another person drives by looking for one. The guy shoveling says "You lookin' for a spot? Here have this one!!" Then he proceeds to back away and let the other driver in. The commercial ends by saying "This isn't Boston"... and goes on to advertise for the Red Sox or something. It's hilarious to me... only because I've lived it!
When can I go back to enjoying the snow because I know my car is safe and has a spot? And, is this my next strike??!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Are you going to finish strong?
You have to watch this short video. Wow. Inspirational!
http://www.maniacworld.com/are-you-going-to-finish-strong.html
http://www.maniacworld.com/are-you-going-to-finish-strong.html
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