This week was kind of a downer, but I decided to take all of the time I had and email some of my friends who are serving missions. It helps me not feel so lonely, I guess.
A few weeks ago, I emailed a friend from high school who is on her mission. She helped me a lot through a hard time. She was such an example to me, and was there for me at a time when I felt like no one else was. I just thanked her for being my friend! She emailed me back and gave me some of the best advice that I could have received at that time. I hadn't told her about my current struggles, but she suggested I read Mountains to Climb, a talk by Elder Eyring. If you haven't read it yet, I suggest you do.
He talks about how each trial we face in our life is to shape us into the person we need to become. It can either strengthen our faith, or destroy it. I have come to find that true in my life. I'm not saying that I have the hardest life, or that I won't go through any other hard trials, but I feel like I have had more time to realize what is truly important in my life, and grow. I realize the importance of spiritual growth in my own life.
These are a few of my favorite quotes from the talk:
"...the ground must be carefully prepared for our foundation of faith to withstand the storms that will come into every life. That solid basis for a foundation of faith is personal integrity."
"Now, I wish to encourage those who are in the midst of hard trials, who feel their faith may be fading under the onslaught of troubles. Trouble itself can be your way to strengthen and finally gain unshakable faith. "
I know that there is a plan for each of us, and tests and trials are given to us so that we will grow and become more like Him. I have come to realize the importance of sharing the gospel, and being an example. I am learning the importance of friendship and service, and know it can be used as a tool to help further Heavenly Fathers work. I know that we can use the atonement to always strive and become better, more loving, and compassionate. I know that if you pray, you will feel of His love for you. I know that He loves ALL of His children. Every. Single. One. We should strive to love them as well. We should strive to forgive everyone who has wronged us, because He will always forgive us. I know it is hard, but it is possible.
These are all things that I am working on...and I have a long way to go. I am grateful for this trial in my life. I know it will help me to become a better person.
I saw this video on Facebook. It is a bullying video that is going around. I thought it was a good reminder to always be considerate of others. You've probably already seen it, but here it is anyway:
I challenge you to reach out to someone who is struggling, or pray to know who is struggling. Everyone is fighting a hard battle of their own. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our own lives, and our own struggles, that we forget that others are having hard times too.
Also, I am starting a 90-day Book of Mormon reading challenge. I know I could probably do it in less time, but I chose 90 days instead. I am starting Monday, and I found this schedule on Pinterest. If you would like to join me, feel free! We can work on becoming better, together!!
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