A Letter to My Sister I've Never Met

Oceana,

Today is your 16th Birthday! Its the beginning of your teenage "freedom" so to speak. It's the beginning of dating and driving and preparing for bigger decisions in a few short years. My Advice: enjoy it! Don't let it slip away with regrets of things you could or should have done. You don't get those times back.

I remember the time when you where born and leading up to your birth. Mom spent many hours with tear-filled eyes and days when it was the "swelling" heart moments and yet other days were breaking moments. Mom faced moments of harsh judgement  and lots of questioning. When you were born mom would hold you and you would cry and cry but in the moment when she placed you in your mommy's arms the crying faded and peace filled the room. Your daddy watched as tears streamed down his face.

Mom didn't give you to strangers, she helped Heavenly Father bring you home to your mommy and daddy who had been waiting for your arrival. Sometimes prayers aren't answered in the way we want or even expect for ourselves and sometimes prayers are answered by our Heavenly Father through the earthly angels in each of our lives. Your mommy and daddy might say that mom is the earthly angel and mom would say your mommy and daddy are her earthly angel. I want you to know Heavenly Father loves you and is aware of you and your needs. He has a special purpose for you and has given you a mother and father and siblings who love you without end. He has given you a birth mom and birth sisters who love you without end. He had given you family and friends who love you without end.

I think about you often and wonder what you might be thinking. I wonder about your likes and dislikes. I wonder about your interests and hobbies. I wonder about your personality and quirks. I wonder about your achievements and heartbreaks. I wonder if somewhere there is a little bit of me in you. I think about you each time we gather as a family to snap a photo (which is A LOT) and wonder what it might be like if you were here with me. But never for a single moment l have I thought that maybe mom made a mistake and you were supposed to be with me right now celebrating your 16th Birthday.

I know without a doubt in my mind that there was no mistake made. You are NOT a mistake. You are exactly where God knew you would and needed to be. You are loved. You are loved beyond mortal comprehension. You are beautiful.  I love you and look forward to the possibility of meeting you one day. Until then, I will treasure the little things I do know of you.

Find joy in your journey. Allow God to be your guide. Hold fast to the Iron Rod and never lose hope. Always remember who you are and more importantly who's you are. You are His. He loves you perfectly. Always look up and don't look back. You are fit to be a queen. Stand Tall. Never give up.

Happy Birthday ❤️

Love,
Shan

#blessed

I want to begin this journal entry by testifying that God knows each of us individually and is mindful of each one of us. We have a way prepared by our Savior, Jesus Christ to grow and become more like Him. I testify that as we follow Him and keep the commandments that God will give us opportunities to bless and be blessed beyond mortal measure.

I had a tender experience while attending institute at the Orem LDS Institute of Religion this week. I had entered the classroom and began my normal routine for Wednesday night when I felt prompted to sit next to a girl sitting alone. I asked her if it would be alright if I sat by her and she replied, "sure, I don't know anyone here anyways". I then took the opportunity to set my things out and introduce myself to her.

What I was then about to find out about her would then change me. I asked her where she was from and she replied that she had just moved here a week ago from South Carolina. She moved here to go to Utah Valley University and begin her study in nursing. Knowing that she was here for school, I asked her if she would be returning home for the holidays. She said that she didn't really have a home back home and no family. She explained that her Father died when she was 15 years old and her mom left her to go to Mexico. She hadn't heard from her mother since her father's death. She had two brothers that she had no emotional connection to. When she told them she would be moving to Utah they didn't care and said , "see ya later". She had moved out of her house at 16 and saved to move to Utah. The only things that kept her in South Carolina were her ward and her best friend whom she lived with.

My heart sunk as I looked at her and the heartache she must have felt losing her family. Humility began to sink in and I just wanted to embrace her (I resisted due to the fact that I was a complete stranger to her) and instead I assured her that it's amazing that she had accomplished getting here and was on her way to accomplish her dream of being a nurse. I knew that she had a passion for helping people and I shared that same passion with her. It was then that I realized how blessed I have been to live in this beautiful place my whole life with a family who loves me and has stayed by me. We all have had our fair share of trials but what stood out to me is what she did with those trials. She was going to make something of herself and offer those around her what she hadn't been given herself. Our trials can be building blocks to higher ground as we tred through those deep spots with faith and trust in a loving Heavenly Father.

President Monson has said, " Decisions determine destiny." I believe that her decision to live, even through difficult trials, had led her here where she could accomplish the things the Lord has in store for her. Attitude is key. President Dieter F. Uchtodorf said, "Our destiny is not determined by the number of times we stumble but by the number of times we stand up, dust ourselves off, and stride forward." My friend from South Carolina was a living testimony of these profound words. She had many reasons to stay down but she has continued to brush herself off and stride forward.

I had promised myself that I wouldn't forget that experience I had. Throughout the rest of the night I was distracted by Satan's subtle darts. I had felt like the lesson that night was mediocre considering all of the off-the-wall comments that led the class away from the prepared lesson. I began to be annoyed and forgot why I was there.

Later that night, I got a phone call from a friend of mine. She had asked me how my class was that night and I had immediately responded with the answer "boring". She expressed that she was sorry that I didn't enjoy class and we began talking about other things. After getting off the phone I surprised myself with such an awful answer. I sat on my bed pondering my time at institute and immediately felt sadness for being so inconsiderate of the amazing experience I had experienced that night. I immediately texted my friend back and explained that I forgotten the most important thing of my night. She reminded me of the importance of pondering. It was important for me that my friend had asked me about my night and that I was able to ponder my thoughts and feelings. I gained a greater understanding of the meaning of the word ponder. It is important that we take the time to ponder daily and that we write down our thoughts and impressions so that they become imprinted in our hearts.

I have thought about this experience many times throughout the week and it's amazing to me that as we follow the prompting of the Spirit we are able to bless and be blessed beyond mortal measure. If I had not followed the prompting to sit by my friend from South Carolina I wouldn't have experienced that humility and had the opportunity to ponder like I did. I think about Tim McGraw's song "Humble and Kind" and the message is a beautiful principle. Always stay humble and kind. As we reach out to our brothers and sisters with kindness we are able to experience a greater sense of humility. Each of our brothers and sisters are fighting a different battle but we can be united in kindness, love, and humility toward one another.

I challenge each of you to make correct decisions today that will lead you to your destiny. When you stumble and fall (which you will) get back up and stride forward knowing that God will have your back and He will not leave you comfortless. I challenge you to be kind and loving and God will bless you. Don't allow yourself to become distracted from the blessings that God has given and will give to you. Keep His commandments and you will have the opportunities to bless and be blessed. Take time to ponder and write down your thoughts and impressions so that they may be imprinted upon your hearts and so God and give you more.

Be a little better today than you were yesterday. Follow those promptings and I promise you the blessings will be unfolded as you do so. 

Prayer: It's Natural

Bible Dictionary pg. 752-753 "Prayer"

Do you ever struggle with Prayer? 

I don't know that this statement could be any more straight forward and direct. At an early age we are taught that song "I Am a Child of God" but has it ever really sunk in? Do you understand who you are? 

Reality is: God is our Father and we (all of us) are His children. As soon as we understand that, kneeling in prayer becomes our very nature. 

Developing and nourishing a relationship with our Father is essential in our lives. We need Him. As we draw near, we will find safety, peace, hope, relief and happiness. In this day and age there is no room for occasional discipleship. Now is the time to learn of Him, know Him, and strive to become like Him. And most important, testify of Him. 

My challenge to you: If prayer is a struggle look at your relationship with Him and mend it. Allow prayer to become a piece of you. You don't have to do it alone.

In the words of President Dieter F. Uchtodorf, "As we draw near to Heavenly Father, we become more holy. And as we become more holy, we will overcome disbelief and our souls will be filled with His blessed light. As we align our lives with this supernal light, it leads us out of darkness and toward greater light. This greater light leads to the unspeakable ministerings of the Holy Spirit, and the veil between heaven and earth can become thin."

The blessings are without number as we allow ourselves to draw Near to our Father in Heaven. Allow yourself to know Him and He will draw you to your knees. Remember who you are.

Behold, My Mother!

Meet Heidi Jo Giles, the woman I call Mom. Born 41 years ago TODAY! She stands about 5 Foot and 2 inches tall and is full of life. Mom is a friend to SO many people and let me tell you what, people prefer to keep it that way because you wouldn't ever survive as her enemy. She is known for her blunt, fun, and giving personality. If she knows that there is someone in need, she is always there to lend a helping hand. One of the things I love most about her is the love she has for little children. I believe she is the best preschool teacher out there (I am definitely not biased or anything). My mom spends countless hours each day teaching children. She knows their names and loves them each individually. 

I have found no woman who loves and adores her family like my mother does. If you were to ask her, she would tell you that we are her world and nothing else matters. There isn't a moment in time where she isn't 100% devoted to our needs, wants, and dreams. 

Mom has always been my biggest fan and has encouraged me to believe that I am capable of anything I put my heart to. Mom and I have been through a whole heap of trails, but we have overcome each one together. I wouldn't trade the relationship I cherish with my mother for anything this world has to offer me. It was those trying times that brought us to where we are now. Mom and I have always shared the desire for an eternal family and our dreams came true in September of 2009. As I gathered with my family in the temple, I looked first at my mother and we both began to weep as we knew what this meant for eternity. I will never forget that tender moment.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said, "No love in mortality comes closer to approximating the pure love of Jesus Christ than the selfless love a devoted mother has for her child." I know that Elder Holland was inspired to give a tribute to mothers in such a way by our Heavenly Father. I know that my mother is everything God knows she is. Elder Holland continued, "You see, it is not only that they bear us, but they continue bearing with us. It is not only the prenatal carrying but the lifelong carrying that makes mothering such a staggering feat." I owe it all to my wonderful mother for bearing my burdens and continuing to carry me through. I am so blessed to call this woman MY mother and my very best friend.

Mom,

Thank you for being my mom. Thank you for loving me just as I am and making me always feel like I matter most. Thank you for raising me to work hard and be smart about my decisions. I am grateful for your guiding influence and encouragement along the way. Thank you for giving me the confidence to walk with with my head held high, remembering that the Savior is always near. I love you! Happy Birthday!

Love,

Shan

Was That All...?

The reward is far greater than the trails we face.

With conference right around the corner I can hardly contain my excitement! It almost is unfair to tease us with Women's Conference only to wait an entire week for more to come. There are no words to describe my experience from this last weekend except a big fat WOW! As I sat listening with my dear sweet mother, my heart was opened and I was forever changed. How blessed we are to have so many incredible leaders to enlighten, encourage, and provide warning for us.

Over the course of the last several months I have experienced some difficult times and I have had to redirect my path so that it is in line with our Heavenly Father's will. Sister Linda S. Reeves' talk hit home and changed my perspective about the trials we face.

"Sisters, I do not know why we have the many trials that we have, but it is my personal feeling that the reward is so great, so eternal and everlasting, so joyful and beyond our understanding that in that day of reward, we may feel to say to our merciful, loving Father, “Was that all that was required?” I believe that if we could daily remember and recognize the depth of that love our Heavenly Father and our Savior have for us, we would be willing to do anything to be back in Their presence again, surrounded by Their love eternally. What will it matter, dear sisters, what we suffered here if, in the end, those trials are the very things which qualify us for eternal life and exaltation in the kingdom of God with our Father and Savior?"

Does this not strike a chord deep within your heart and bring you to real heart-felt tears? Sister Reeves, a member of the general relief society presidency just said so herself that she doesn't know why we have the trials we do, but points out beautifully that at some point we will be saying, "was that all?" In mortality it is hard to gain that perspective that in the end it will all be worth it, right? As I have read this message over and over again the Spirit sings to my hear of its truthfulness. I know that what Sister Reeves is calling her personal feeling is a beautiful new perspective that we all can learn from.

I believe that as we strive to follow God's plan no matter the trials that come our way, if we endure them well, we shall have eternal life with our Father in Heaven. Speaking of Enduring, Elder Kevin W. Pearson said, "Enduring to the end is a hallmark of true discipleship and is ESSENTIAL to eternal life." (emphasis added) He goes on to say. "But when trials and challenges come our way, we are often told to simply "hang in there." Let me be clear: to "hang in there" is NOT a principle of the gospel. Enduring to the end means CONSTANTLY coming unto Christ and being perfected in Him." (emphasis added) We can't hang around and wait for trials to pass because I promise you they won't. Endure to the end clinging to rod which leads to the fruit bearing tree, our Savior Jesus Christ.

My message to you is simple. When your trials seem like more than you can handle, don't you quit, the reward is far greater than we truly comprehend. They are the very things that may qualify us to meet at the Savior's feet and soak them with our tears. Enduring to the End is the only way to true discipleship and simply "hanging in there" is not the way to Christ.

God is speaking to His children in just two short days and He has a message for you specifically. Are you ready? Have you done all you can do to prepare? Have you cleared your schedule? If you have not done all you can do to make conference a priority for your weekend, its not too late to do so. Show God you are serious about what He has to say. 

<3

Scripture...The Power of the Word

Recently I have been attending a class at The Orem Institute of Religion. The class I chose to take this semester is called The Power of the Word focused specifically on scripture study within the Standard Works of the church. I have been richly blessed by faithfully attending institute each week and I never leave that classroom without being edified and uplifted by the Spirit. I have a testimony of the programs that have been organized for our day. We are blessed to have resources at our feet each and every day.

As part of institute we are instructed to complete a set of reading assignments each week and without fail, every time I am increasingly blessed as I fulfill those assignments. A couple of weeks ago it was our assignment to read a talk given by Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. His talk entitled, "The Blessing of Scripture" was given in April 2010 Conference. It speaks of the sacrifices that were made for us to have the precious gift of scripture that we now enjoy. He spoke of several blessing we receive as we read in the scriptures each day. One portion of his talk really hit home for me and has not left my mind. I would like to share a small piece of that as it touched my heart deeply.

He said, "The scriptures enlarge our memory by helping us always to remember the Lord and our relationship to Him and the Father. They remind us of what we knew in our premortal life. And they expand our memory in another sense by teaching us about epochs, people, and events that we did not experience personally. None of us was present to see the Red Sea part and cross with Moses between walls of water to the other side. We were not there to hear the Sermon on the Mount, to see Lazarus raised from the dead, to see the suffering Savior in Gethsemane and on the cross, and we did not, with Mary, hear the two angels testify at the empty tomb that Jesus was risen from the dead. You and I did not go forward one by one with the multitude in the land Bountiful at the resurrected Savior’s invitation to feel the prints of the nails and bathe His feet with our tears. We did not kneel beside Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove and gaze there upon the Father and the Son. Yet we know all these things and much, much more because we have the scriptural record to enlarge our memory, to teach us what we did not know. And as these things penetrate our minds and hearts, our faith in God and His Beloved Son takes root." (emphasis added)

I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the sacrifice made by countless individuals to bring to each of us such a precious gift. All those who sacrificed, sacrificed with you and I in mind. In the event that we search the scriptures each day we have the opportunity to be reminded of the things we once knew before our life began here in mortality. My eyes well up with tears as I contemplate the words of Elder Christofferson reminding me of all that I have not experienced personally, but hold dear to my heart as precious truths. I am not an expert in the scriptures, but it is my heart felt prayer that as I diligently study His word, that they will penetrate my heart and mind and become a part of me. I often pray and ask for God to teach me something I don't know as I open the scriptures and it amazes me the things that stand out in my mind and fill my heart. Scriptures are just books upon a shelf until we open them and let God teach us. A sweet man we all know and love, Richard G. Scott said, " If you want to talk to God, pray . If you want Him to talk to you, read your scriptures." I testify that as we faithfully open the scriptures and let the Spirit guide the floodgates of revelation will open and we will see all things as they really are. We are never lost as we read and live the teachings found in the scriptures.

In just a short week, Jesus Christ will have a message for each of us through Our beloved Prophet and Apostles. It is my hope that each of us are preparing for this coming Conference by faithful prayer and scripture study. Be prepared with questions and when revelation comes write it down, It is my testimony that revelation comes individually to each of us.

Just some thoughts that have come to me recently:

To think that for you and me, Our Savior was sent to bleed and die at Calvary. We think of Him, oh precious one, the resurrected Son. His life freely gave, a lasting saving grace. I think of the prints He now bears as a symbol of the one who truly cares. In debt we owe a place where His name may lay, upon our hearts, and forever stay. Walk forward now... with faith stand tall, He is the Master of us all.

I'm not a poetic individual and I don't have an explanation for this added revelation but I wanted it to be written for my children who will someday be a part of my future. The purpose of this blog is to have written record of my life, thoughts, and feelings for those that will come after me. Take it or leave it but please don't criticize or belittle.

Well, well, well look who's back?

photo credit: Greg Olsen

Fellow Blog Readers,

Its a miracle that I am back here writing again. It has been years since I have shared my thoughts over social media. Honestly, I am ashamed of myself for not taking the opportunity to share what the gospel has so graciously led me to believe and understand.

I am not here to reach a million views or become a "blogging phenomenon". I am an imperfect member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints trying a little harder to be a little better. Too often, we find ourselves wrapped up in some idea that perfection comes in in a single moment's time. The truth of the matter is that we aren't going to reach perfection in a blink of an eye. Each and everyday we ought to be striving to be more like our Savior Jesus Christ and thankfully the Savior will be there to lead the way. YES we are going to stumble and fall and scrape our knees along the way, but the Savior is there stretching forth His hand picking us up and brushing us off. How blessed we are to have the Savior and a loving Heavenly Father who know each of us individually. They know where I will fall, but more importantly they know of my potential and will not give up on me.

Friends and family, I know that God lives. I know that Jesus is the Christ. Jesus, a perfect being, once lived in an imperfect world. Beaten, persecuted, spit upon, and nailed to the cross for the sake of you and me. His grace is sufficient for all of mankind. We are all God's children. Let us try a little harder to be a little better. Line upon line, precept upon precept. The gospel is true.

Thank you for your continued love and support.

The Infinite Power of Hope

by: Krzyho

"The things we hope in SUSTAIN us during our daily walk. They UPHOLD us through trials, temptations, and sorrow. Everyone has experienced discouragement and difficulty. Indeed, there are times when the darkness may seem unbearable. It is in these times that the divine principles of the restored gospel we hope in can UPHOLD us and CARRY us until, once again, we walk in the light.

"We hope in Jesus THE Christ, in THE GOODNESS of God, in the MANIFESTATIONS of the Holy Spirit, in the KNOWLEDGE that prayers ARE heard AND answered. Because God has been faithful and kept His promises in the past, we CAN hope WITH confidence that God WILL keep His promises to us in the present and in the future. In times of distress, we CAN HOLD TIGHTLY to the hope that things will 'work together for [our] good' (D&C 90:24) as we follow the counsel of God's prophets. This type of hope in God, His goodness, and His power REFRESHES US WITH COURAGE during difficult challenges and gives STRENGTH to those who feel threatened by enclosing walls of fear, doubt, and despair." - President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (emphasis added)

"The word Hope is sure, unwavering, and active." I love the word sure and unwavering, Isn't that one of the greatest descriptions of our Savior Jesus Christ? Christ and His relationship with us is sure and unwavering as is His gospel. It is through this surety or hope that we can be sustained and upheld through the walks of life each and everyday. It is through hope that we are able to walk in the light. It is through hope in things that are sure that will lead us back home. I have hope in the Savior Jesus Christ. I have hope in the goodness of God. I have hope in the things manifested by the Holy Spirit. I have hope in the knowledge that prayers are heard and answered. I have hope that God will keep His promises. I have hope that I will never be forgotten or left alone. I have hope that we will be led to the Savior and our Heavenly Father with open arms again if we will follow His plan.

As I have shared this quote with a few others I was SO grateful for the thought given by a dear friend. Read closely. I love the power and spirit that comes through this simple yet profound testimony.... "Strength is gained through prayer....... and prayers are answered on a daily basis. I testify that He does sustain and uphold us continually...... otherwise we couldn't endure!" She is an incredible woman and I can testify that I know she really does know this to be true. He does sustain and uphold us.... otherwise we COULD NOT endure! I also know this to be true and I am so grateful for that knowledge that we are never left alone and we do have reason to find hope and joy in this life. He is sure and unwavering. He is the very Hope in which we are given life and power over death. He is on our side. Trust in Him.

The Peace and Joy of Knowing The Savior Lives

I'm back! It has been crazy the last couple of months but I am filled with so much joy and gratitude that I can't help but share a few thoughts. Christmas time is my favorite time in the whole world! I love giving gifts and enjoy time with family and friends! I especially love at this time to share music and praises unto our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am grateful that we publicly set time to remember His birth and to remember what the birth really means to each one of us. I hope that we can ALWAYS remember Him and that this Christmas season can spark something new and something extraordinary that you can emulate from the Savior Jesus Christ. I love Him with all of my heart, might, mind, and soul. I hope to get to know Him even better....

The ensign printed for this month is remarkable and I have been able to feel the true spirit of Christmas this season and I am overwhelmed with the feeling of love for others and gratitude for all we have because of Him who died for us. If we were wise we would still seek Him.... Christmas brings joy and happiness to all but, there is still room for joy and happiness throughout our entire lives even in the hardest of times.

Elder Russell M. Nelson put it plainly,"Difficult days are ahead. Sin is on the increase. Paul forsaw that members of the Church would endure persecution. Peter counseled,"If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf". As Jesus descended below all things in order to rise above all things, He expects us to follow His example. Yoked with Him, each of us can rise above all of our challenges, no matter how difficult they may be." (emphasis added)

Yes, difficult days are ahead. It is clear that we will be persecuted for choosing to do as the Savior has done, BUT let us NOT be ashamed...we will rise above all things because Christ has risen and because He is aware of us individually and collectively. He knows with perfect understanding how to help us rise above and conquer. We can ONLY rise above what is set within our course if we CHOOSE to be "Yoked with Him". We must let Him in.

Elder Nelson goes on to say," Considering all that the Savior has done--and still does--for us, what can we do for Him? The greatest gift we could give to the Lord at Christmas, or at any other time, is to keep ourselves unspotted from the world, worthy to attend His holy temple. And His gift to us will be the peace of knowing that we are prepared to meet Him, whenever that time comes." (emphasis added)

I am hit with "WOW!" as I read this over and over again. We aren't asked to give much...except what He has already given us. It was by Him and ONLY through Him that we were given gift to choose for ourselves, and the greatest gift we could give to Lord is to choose to be unspotted from the world and worthy to enter His house? Isn't it interesting that Christ would bleed from every pour and die on the cross for each of us and all He asks of us it to keep His commandments in being unspotted from the world and be worthy of His house? Think about the temple alone and the privileged blessings we have from attending. He asks us to be worthy to partake of his Sacred and Holy blessings and covenants when in reality we should already have the desire to go and to be there all the time because the blessings are SURE. He expects us to be unspotted from the world... to live in the world but not be of  the world. Does the world offer everlasting life, happiness, peace, and joy? Does it offer to sacrifice itself for you and then love you with a capacity that you cannot even fathom? Then why do we worship and idolize the world? We have to remember that THIS IS NOT our home. We have a Heavenly Father and a Savior Jesus Christ who deserve our praises. We owe it to our Heavenly Father and our Savior to worship them and to stand as witnesses of them at ALL times, in ALL things, and in ALL places. They offer all that the world cannot. The world is a counterfeit of true happiness. The "worldly" is Satan's temporary happiness. We are not here to sell ourselves short. If we could just give Christ those two things then we will, in return, be blessed with an even greater gift of peace in knowing that we are prepared to meet Him! What a profound thought! We aren't asked to give much... and return we are blessed with more than we can comprehend. I love the Savior and this Gospel more than I could ever express. He lives and I am amazed at the love He offers to me everyday of my life. I am SO grateful for Him. I am grateful for this season and for the true meaning of it! We are a blessed people and we owe all that we have to Him who gave us life. May you all have a very merry Christmas and may you remember THE greatest gift you could ever give. Work for that and never give up until you have reached the Savior's loving arms again. He is coming. He loves us. Remember Him.

I leave you with Elder Nelson's Testimony,"As a special Witness of His holy name, I testify that Jesus the Christ is the divine Son of the Living God. He will love you, lift you, and manifest Himself unto you if you will love Him and keep His commandments. Indeed, wise men still adore Him."

The Word Is Commitment

"A truly committed person does not falter in the face of adversity. Until one is committed, there is a chance to hesitate, to go off in another direction, or to be ineffective. Members within our ranks who are committed to living the gospel of Jesus Christ will not be affected by the rationale of hecklers.

Our enemies are becoming more hostile with each passing week. They seem intent on not only deceiving the uncommitted among us but on leading astray even the elect. They criticize our leaders. They scoff at what we consider to be sacred. They mock ordinances and covenants we know to be true and holy. They delight in discovering and sharing human flaws and frailties among our leaders past and present rather than acknowledging and benefiting from the truths they taught. They go to the tree, and instead of enjoying the fruit thereof, they point out the scars discovered on the tree trunk.

Do not be deceived. God will not be mocked. (See Gal. 6:7.) We have no intention of quarreling or demanding equal time to refute. We invite the dissenters as well as all others to open their eyes and see the beauties and thrills available to those who walk in His path looking for the good.

We all have eyes, ears, and minds to lift, lead, and love. Total commitment to God and His ways will not permit us to engage in destructive criticism, retaliation, or undue disgust. We should commit ourselves to marching shoulder to shoulder in the battle to save souls—without destroying, condemning, or belittling." -Marvin J. Ashton

I was so impressed to share these profound words of wisdom spoken from a man with great love for this gospel. Brothers and Sisters all around the world, we MUST be committed to this gospel! We must not falter in the face of adversity! Every week our enemies are combining against us! Even the elect are in danger. As we become committed to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we will be protected and we shall not be deceived. Let us march shoulder to shoulder in the battle to save souls! We are here for a righteous cause and we are not here to condemn or belittle each other! I hope and pray that we can all be a little kinder and stand a little taller as we commit ourselves to this gospel and to His children. This life is hard but it is through our brothers and sisters that we are able to endure... marching shoulder to shoulder in the same cause. The word is commitment.

In closing I wish to share Elder Marvin J. Aston's testimony,"The word is commitment. To be something, we must be committed. God is our Father. Jesus is our Savior, and this is His Church. May we commit ourselves to living Christlike lives regardless of the environment or opposition I pray, in the worthy name of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, amen."

Waiting upon the Lord: Thy Will Be Done

Be not afraid by Greg Olsen

"As we endure physical suffering, we are increasingly aware of how many wait upon each of us. To all the Marys and Marthas, to all of the good Samaritans who minister to the sick, succor the weak, and care for the mentally and physically infirm, I feel the gratitude of a loving Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son. In your daily Christlike ministry, you are waiting upon the Lord and doing your Heavenly Father’s will. His assurance to you is clear: “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” He knows your sacrifices and your sorrows. He hears your prayers. His peace and rest will be yours as you continue to wait upon Him in faith." (emphasis added)

"Every one of us is more beloved to the Lord than we can possibly understand or imagine. Let us therefore be kinder to one another and kinder toward ourselves. Let us remember that as we wait upon the Lord, we are becoming “saint[s] through [His] atonement, … submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon [us], even as a child doth submit to his father.”" (emphasis added)

"...I express gratitude that “in my Gethsemane” and yours, we are not alone. He that watches over us “shall neither slumber nor sleep.” His angels here and beyond the veil are “round about [us], to bear [us] up.” I bear my special witness that our Savior’s promise is true, for he says, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” May we wait upon Him by pressing forward in faith, that we may say in our prayers, “Thy will be done,” and return to Him with honor. In the holy name of our Savior and Redeemer, even Jesus Christ, amen." (emphasis added)

This talk was given by Elder Hales on Sunday morning of this last conference. I have no words to describe the great impact this talk has had on my heart! I remember how I felt listening to him speak and the feeling gets greater and greater as I review it. I feel as though the urge to stand on top of a mountain and shout, testifying of the truths Elder Hales has spoken! We must wait upon the Lord! Sometimes this concept is harder for us grasp and we become so bitter and unwilling to submit ourselves to Him who has trodden the wine press! We must press forward with faith in Him who knows us better than we will ever know ourselves. The promises are sure and everlasting as we wait upon the Lord. His angels are here and we are not alone. We shall mount up with wings as eagles. Let us be kinder to each other and more importantly kinder to ourselves! We are royal sons and daughters! Wait upon Him in faith.... The blessings of this Gospel are so sweet and beautiful! :)

Each Life That Touches Ours for Good

Each Life That Touches Ours for Good, Hymn 293

Each life that touches ours for good
Reflects thine own great mercy, Lord;
Thou sendest blessings from above
Thru words and deeds of those who love.

What greater gift dost thou bestow,
What greater goodness can we know
Than Christlike friends, whose gentle ways
Strengthen our faith, enrich our days.

When such a friend from us departs,
We hold forever in our hearts
A sweet and hallowed memory
Bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee

For worthy friends whose lives proclaim
Devotion to the Savior's name,
Who bless our days with peace and love,
We praise thy goodness, Lord, above.

I don't know about you but this song from me is one of great meaning and it touches my heart so strongly. When I read the words to this song I am immediately brought to the faces of those in my life that has touched me for good. The Lord has blessed me with so many great influences and examples. He has blessed me with, "Christlike friends, whose gentle ways Strengthen our faith, enrich our days." They truly do strengthen my faith and enrich my days.

"For worthy friends whose lives proclaim devotion to the Savior's name, Who bless our days with peace and love, We praise thy goodness, Lord above." Do you have friends like that? I look at this and think of one specifically that has had such a great impact on my life. No matter how hard her life has been or how hard it might be right now, her life still proclaims devotion to the Savior's name. She could give up and fall away but she wont because of her love for the Savior Jesus Christ and what His name means to her. I want to be like her one day. She blesses the lives around her with peace and love. I do praise the goodness of the Lord above for bringing her into my life. I know that she is a woman of God and that angels are sent to us to bless our lives and help us grow along the way. She is a Christlike friend who strengthens my faith and enriches my days.

I love at verse 3 and I am brought to tears. " When such a friend from us departs, We hold forever in our hearts a sweet and hallowed memory bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee." One of my greatest friends now resides in Heaven where she watches over me and those she loves. I know that the work she is doing there is far greater than anything we could EVER accomplish here on earth. She is my greatest example of devotion and love for friends. When she left this mortal experience it was one of the hardest things I had experienced. But, because of the sweet memory of her in my heart I have been brought nearer to the Lord who loves me above all. I am so grateful for that understanding and knowledge. I know that I will see her again but in the process I have come to know the Savior more.

The point is that God is SO good to each of us. We can all think of those special people in our lives and it is because of Heavenly Father's love for us that those people exist in our lives. We need to understand that we are never alone. Heavenly Father has not only blessed us with the presence of angels in each one of our lives but He has also blessed us with His friendship and the friendship of our Brother Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for the Savior, Jesus Christ as my best friend. I hope that I might be able to continue being His friend and in turn become your friends as well. I know He lives and loves us. Have a great week!

God Speaks.

I don't know about you....but, I am loving EVERY moment of conference! Through God's chosen servants we have heard the voice of the Lord and felt of His infinite love for us. Conference is but a small moment but has eternal importance and changes the course of our lives forever if we let it. I am grateful for the truth that has been spoken and for the peace I have felt in my heart as I have listened and allowed my heart to be filled with the message for me.

If there is one thing I wish to echo it is the message from President Dieter F. Uchtdorf that we matter to Him. "It may be true that man is nothing in comparison to the universe.... but we are everything to God." No matter how invisible we may feel we are NOT invisible to God. Our Heavenly Father sees us as the beings that we are capable and designed to become. He sees us as His children.

When thinking about what President Uchtdorf has taught us I am reminded of the Christus statue at temple square. Look at this image.... What do you see?

Christus Statue at Temple Square

In the background I see worlds without number and all the wonders of the world. I see the beautiful and miraculous creations of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I see the awe that the naked eye captures. As astounding as these things may be to us... look at Christ. Where are His eyes? He is looking down. He is not turned around to view all of these so called beautiful and miraculous creations. For those of you who have had the opportunity to go to temple square and stand in front of this statue know what I am getting at with this. As you stand in front of Christ... He is only looking at you. You are the only thing He cares about. Yes, those things behind Him are amazing and we are at loss for words for those things but in Christ's eyes we are more than those things. We are worth His sacrifice. We are worth saving. We are worth the price of death, persecution, and betrayal. "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God." Our souls. God wants us to know that we DO matter to Him! Now... THAT is miraculous and beautiful. His love is matchless. I love Him. I live for Him.

Now to close these are the words from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, " As our conference comes to a close, I ask you to reflect in the days ahead not only on the messages you have heard but also on the unique phenomenon that general conference itself is--what we as Latter-day Saints believe such conferences to be and what we invite the world to hear and observe about them. We testify to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people that God not only lives but also that He speaks,that for our time in our day the counsel you have heard is, under the direction of the Holy Spirit,"the will of the Lord,... the word of the Lord,... the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation.""

Conference will come to a close tomorrow. I hope that we can reflect on the messages that have been taught to us by our Heavenly Father and that we can understand what we testify and believe to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. We do testify that God lives and that He does speak to us today. Enjoy every last second of this Conference! Listen to what God has for you! I love you all! May God Bless you! :)

Finding Joy through Loving Service

Mormons Serving Worldwide

" It is only when we love God and Christ with all of our hearts, souls, and minds that we are able to share this love with our neighbors through acts of kindness and service--the way that the Savior would love and serve all of us if He were among us today.

" When this pure love of Christ--or charity--envelops us, we think, feel, and act more like Heavenly Father and Jesus would think, feel, and act. Our motivation and heartfelt desire are like unto that of the Savior. He shared this desire with His Apostles on the eve of His Crucifixion. He said:

" A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you....
" By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another" (John 13:34-35).

" The love the Savior described is an active love. It is not manifested through large and heroic deeds but rather through simple acts of kindness and service" -Elder M. Russell Ballard, Finding Joy through Loving Service 


We are a very blessed people with many opportunities to serve and love our neighbors. It is through those selfless acts of kindness and service that we are filled with the pure love of Christ. Charity is a gift that we should so earnestly strive for and desire within our hearts. It is through charity--or the pure love of Christ-- that we can think, act, and feel more like our Savior, Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. Through the pure love of Christ we are able to serve and love as the Savior did. I can't think of a better way to Become like Him than to serve and love as He did. We are all trying to be like Jesus in all that we do and say. Our life has little purpose if we remain selfish and unwilling to give of ourselves in the service of our God and King. Let us actively love one another by small and simple acts of kindness and service everyday. There is no need for the "large and heroic" deeds but rather there is a need for the small and simple ones. I hope to be better at giving my heart to the service of God's Children. I know that when we are truly serving our brothers and sisters that we are becoming more like Our Father in Heaven and Our Savior.

As Elder Ballard has said," May we show our love and appreciation for the Savior's atoning sacrifice through our simple, compassionate acts of service." It is my prayer that we all may do so with a happy heart.

Faith---the Choice is Yours

Richard C. Edgley once said, "But, while I don't know everything, I know the important. I know the plain and simple gospel truths that lead to salvation and exaltation. I know that the Savior did suffer the pain of all men and that all repentant people can be cleansed from sin. And what I don't know and don't completely understand, with the powerful aid of my faith, I bridge the gap and move on, partaking of the promises and blessings of the gospel. And then as Alma teaches, our faith brings us to a perfect knowledge (see Alma 32:34). By moving forward into the unknown, armed only with hope and desire, we show evidence of our faith and our devotion to the Lord."

I love this so much! I feel like I could do better at demonstrating my faith in Heavenly Father and the Savior. I often find myself asking why and I hope to rather be moving forward into the unknown with hope and desire. I don't know everything but I too know the important. The important is enough to move forward with faith into the unknown. Sometimes the unknown can be scary and very overwhelming, but it is with the powerful aid of faith that we can bridge the gap and move on! In the process of replacing fear with faith we are able to access the promises and blessings of the gospel. Let us show evidence of our faith and our devotion to the Lord. God has a plan for each of us and it is through faith that we keep walking even when our course may be uncertain.

"Choose faith over doubt, choose faith over fear, choose faith over the unknown and the unseen, and choose faith over pessimism."

The Touch of the Master's Hand

I found this while cleaning out my Grandmother's house and It hit home pretty hard. I just wanted to share it with you today in hopes that it may touch you as well. Many of you have probably heard it and others not.

The Touch of the Master's Hand:
'Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer
Thought it scarcely worth his while
To waste much time on the old violin
but held it up with a smile:

"What am I bidden, good folks," he cried,
"Who'll start the bidding for me?"
"A dollar, a dollar"; then, "Two!" "Only two?
Three dollars, once; three dollars, twice;
Going for three--" But no,
From the Room, far back, a gray-haired man
came forward and picked up the bow;
Then, wiping the dust from the old violin,
and tightening the loose strings,
He played a melody pure and sweet
as a caroling angel sings.

The music ceased, and the auctioneer,
with a voice that was quiet and low,
said: "What am I bid for the old violin?"
and he held it up with the bow.
A thousand dollars, and who'll make it two?
Two thousand! And who'll make it three?
Three thousand once, three thousand, twice,
and going, and gone." said he.

The people cheered, but some of them cried.
"We don't quite understand
What changed its worth, "Swift came the reply:
"The touch of the master's hand."

And many a man with life out of tune.
and battered and scarred with sin.
Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd,
much like the old violin.
A "mess of pottage." a glass of wine:
a game--and he travels on.
He is "going" once, and "going" twice,
He's "going" and almost "gone."

But the Master come, and the foolish crowd
never can quite understand
The worth of a soul and the change that's wrought
By the touch of the Master's hand

- Myra B. Welch

I love this so much! I know it to be so true! I hope that you all can gain something from this and use it to help someone else!

Cheerfulness Brings Others

One of my favorite scriptures of all time is D&C 68:6 "Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, that I am, and that I am to come."

I love this scripture for so many different reasons but I want to focus on two phrases "be of good cheer" and "ye shall bear record of me". Finding Joy in the journey that lies before us is very important in carrying out God's ways. We are always counseled to be of good cheer and to be optimistic. The plan of salvation is also referred to as the plan of Happiness. We are a church of happy living and good cheer. When we are full of happiness we have the desire share our testimonies with others of what we know and feel. We have a desire to help others to feel of the joy that we also feel in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Missionary work is carried out in such a different way when we are living a happy and loving life.

Elder Holland profoundly said, "Surely there is no more powerful missionary message we can send to this world than the example of a loving and happy Latter-day Saint life. The manner and bearing, the smile and kindness of a faithful member of the Church brings a warmth and an outreach which no missionary tract or videotape can convey. People do not join the Church because of what they know. They join because of what they feel, what they see, and want spiritually. Our spirit of testimony and happiness in that regard will come through to others if we let it."

We are all missionaries and by living happy and loving lives we can bring so many to the fold! Just by a smile or an act of kindness we can "bring an warmth and an outreach which no missionary tract or videotape can convey"! How powerful our optimism in our everyday lives really is! How powerful our words and testimony can be! How powerful our smile can be to someone else. We are to be examples of the believers in all that we do and say. I pray that we each can share our testimonies, talents, and smiles a little more. I hope that we can reach out to others in kind acts of service! We are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and let us represent well!

The Finished Story

"With the Lord, nothing is impossible, but we each have to finish our story. He sends His Spirit, we call our encouragement to each other, but we have to keep writing, keep walking, keep serving and accepting new challenges to the end of our own story. "Still walking" is the fundamental requirement in the journey of life. He wants us to finish well. He wants us to come back to Him. I pray that each of our stories will end in the presence of our Heavenly Father and His Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, the authors and finishers of our faith. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen." - Gayle M. Clegg

I wish to echo the words uttered by Sister Clegg that with the Lord, nothing is impossible. Our stories must be finished. Christ has promised as declared in D&C 84:88, "... I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my spirit shall be in your hearts, and my angels round about you, to bear you up." I can't think of a better promise. How could any of us afford to keep Christ out of the details of our story? As Sister Clegg states,""Still walking" is the fundamental requirement in the journey of life." All that Christ requires of us is to keep walking and He will be on our right hand and on our left. As we keep moving He will send angels to be round about us to bear us up. As we keep writing our story and keep trekking along His spirit shall be in our hearts. Nothing is impossible with the Lord! Our stories began with our loving Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ... It is our Heavenly Father's and Savior's plea that we might end mortality and begin Eternity with them. I know this to be true with all of my heart. Keep writing, Keep walking, Keep Serving and remember Christ in the details. Our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ love us. They want us to succeed. They want us to return! So keep moving and find joy in the journey!

Heavenly Help

Mark Mabry Photography: Reflections of Christ -Angels

Elder Holland profoundly said," I have spoken here of Heavenly help, of angels dispatched to bless us in time of need. But when we speak of those who are instruments int he hand of God, we are reminded that not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some of them we walk and talk with- - here, now, everyday. Some of them reside in our neighborhoods. Some of them gave birth to us, and in my case, one of them consented to marry me. Indeed heaven never seems closer than when we see the love of God manifested in the kindness and devotion of people so good and so pure that angelic is the only word that comes to mind."

I believe in this with all of my heart and soul. I have no doubt in my mind that everyone has someone in their lives that is truly angelic! I am lost for words when it comes to the gratitude I feel for the people in my life who are like this. One person I know who really emulates this profound concept of angelic is always so close to God and so pure and so good that is scares me. Sometimes I think this person could just move to the other side of the veil at any given moment. I am so grateful for that person and the example that has been shown to me. I hope that all of us have people like this in our lives. I hope that there are angels around each one of you to bless and help you in times of need. I hope you walk and talk with many of them. I know that there are SO many of you out there that are purely angelic! I love you! I am grateful for you! (Thanks for the amazing quote! You know who you are and I love you!). May God bless each one of you!

Loneliest Walk

 heavenlyfathersplan.blogspot.com/2010/07/do-y...

He pushes up the board they've tied onto His shoulders

He bears, with dignity, disgrace

He hears the jeering and the wind is getting colder

Tastes the blood upon His face

His body bruised and back still open from the scourges

The consequence of wicked men

He knows no man on earth has ever deserved this

But still He bears it all for them

And He keeps moving up the hill to do His father's will

With each step He takes there's another to follow

and one more ache, one more tear to swallow

We all stand by and watch as the price is paid

Through the loneliest walk of His life

So we don't feel alone in the night

We can have His hand holding the light

Through the loneliest walks of our lives

Keep pushing through this lonely walk you're going through

Cause someones walked this way before

This song is one that I have loved for awhile. Life is hard for everyone and there is devastation, heartache, and loss all around us. We knew when we came here that it wasn't going to easy but that it would be worth it. The greatest thing about life is that Christ can be the center if we will let Him. Christ brings me hope and faith to keep going even when it is hard. I love Him with all of my mind, heart, and soul. Christ is my brother and my best friend. For me and for you, He suffered and died. "He knows no man on earth has ever deserved this, but still He bears it all of them." He did that for me and for you so that we don't have to feel alone. He loves us and I know that without a doubt in my mind. Someday I will be able to thank Him and kiss the hands and feet that were driven with nails for me. I hope that each of you will take 4 minutes and 34 seconds to listen to this song. I hope that through it we can remember that life is hard but it is worth it because of Christ. He loves us.

If you would like to listen you can find the song here.