Saturday, June 9, 2018

Walk the Walk

I was chatting with my SIL at a party and the topic was about finding those little opportunities to reach out in love to those around us. They are everywhere, but we get so focused on what we are doing, that we often miss them. As we were in the middle of this conversation, I realized that a lovely lady at the end of our table was alone at the time.

Now, social situations are my biggest failing ... I could have gone on chatting with my SIL in our little bubble about all sorts of things for hours. But it was funny that right as we were talking about noticing those little opportunities to reach out to others, I was made aware of this lady sitting alone at the end of our table. So, I called her into our conversation and we had the most delightful time getting to know a new person.

I am grateful that Heavenly Father helped me know that she was there and that I could bring her into our conversation. Social things really are my biggest hurdles and I am grateful for the confidence that was given to me to make a situation right.

Wednesday, June 6, 2018

When we are Needed

In a meeting with the YW leaders tonight, we were joined by a new secretary. We had been without one for some time. When it was finally settled who would be taking on that role, she let the bishopric know that she would be out of town for the next few weeks. The bishopric suggested just keeping her where she was until she returned. however the YW president thought it was better to get her involved as soon as possible, even if she would be gone for the next few weeks.

That feeling to have her involved as soon as she was available was validated in our meeting. We made our introductions and got to know her better and then dove right into the meat of the meeting. As we were discussing a particular topic of concern, many different thoughts and ideas were being put on the table, but nothing seemed to be what it would take to have a united approach to tackling this issue. And then, our new secretary brought up a scripture that connected our problem perfectly to the teachings of Christ.

As soon as she brought it up, we were all in agreement and at peace with how to approach the issue and work with the young women to improve the classroom environment. It was beautiful to see all the dots connect in just the blink of an eye. So, even if she could only be there for the one meeting before leaving on a long vacation, her contribution was of great benefit to all of us. It was important that she joined us and l could see the Lord's hand in arranging the timing so perfectly.

Monday, June 4, 2018

Some Good Worries Resolved

I have often said that I think God has a great sense of humor and I am very appreciative of that. Of course, all "jokes" are good and beautiful and come as a blessing. My favorite joke deals with Brady, but we can save that for another day.

Today's joke is what I would like to share. We have recently started down the path of financial responsibility - we have set up a budget and we are sticking to it. It has been a great comfort to find something that works for us and is bringing a new feeling of peace to our lives. But, there is also the frustration of how do I do this and pay for that for all of the little extra things. In particular, graduates. There are so many in my life right now and more coming in the next few years.

This morning I was preoccupied trying to think of a fun thing I could do to send a gift of congratulations. Due to the number of kids I know graduating, anything elaborate just isn't possible. I wanted to do something that would let them know I am so happy for them and excited for their futures and so very happy they are a part of my life. And how do you do that for a few bucks a piece? Thankfully, I had other things to think about and was able to put that worry on a shelf as I drove my daughter to Logan this morning.

On the drive home I received a phone call that went to voicemail. When I got to the point that I could listen to the message, I was pleased to find out that it was news that I had won a prize from a Teacher Appreciation Giveaway that I had entered back in April. I couldn't remember what the prizes were, so I was expecting anything from a $20 gift card to Chick-fil-a to a $10,000 grand prize!

When I arrived home, I called the lady back and she informed me that my prize was a case of books for helping graduates financially prepare for their future!!! How funny is that?!?!?! I won FORTY copies of a book (with a CD included) full of great advice from the daughter of a very popular financial guru that I have listened to over the years.

So ... problem of getting meaningful gifts to all the many, MANY graduates in my life SOLVED! Just like that!!! You never know what the day will bring and how Heavenly Father will bring a smile to your face or ease a concern, no matter how insignificant it might seem.

Sunday, June 3, 2018

Have I seen any good ...

Of course I have.

And I need to recognize and acknowledge that at all times.

Life has been on warp speed for so long - I keep hanging on to all of the experiences that have shaped my life so far, but there is so much more for me to have in my life. I don't mean that in a selfish way, more that my lamp is far from full, and it is my work for this time to be filling that lamp. Acknowledging God's hand in my life will be instrumental in helping me fill my lamp.

So, let me start my renewed commitment to acknowledging the Lord's hand in my everyday life by sharing what happened when I put a big question to the Lord through prayer and fasting. We have been wanting to list our home and move. We tried last summer and it didn't happen. We worked really hard, put it out there and it just wasn't to be.

We are revisiting the topic again now, a year later and now that school is out my brain has some time to bring this about. Saturday we started a fast, asking the Lord to grant us the confidence we needed to move forward in whatever direction is best for us at this time. We prayed, we started fasting and we went on with our day. One of the activities in my day was to stop in at the wedding reception for a dear friend's son. As I visited with her, her husband and parents, I was filled with positive conversation and energy about selling the house. I asked for an increased feeling of confidence and was blessed with that almost immediately.

I am so grateful that everyday can show me a connection to heaven, the connection is strong, and real. I need to work to make it stronger and to live closer to the spirit so that I can do more good in this world.