Oh man. Lemme tell ya. Yesterday was an emotional day! It started Thursday night and just rolled it's emotional back on over to Friday for me to enjoy. I think my "Perfectly Lonely" bug got lost and thought it was the "You're going to be alone forever and everyone important in your life leaves you anyways...." bug. Okay, fine. Yes. I'm a tad overdramatic sometimes; however, it was a valid thought so I can justify my behavior. I'm just glad it didn't tidal wave out to where I talked to too many people because mostly, it was just silly. However, I would like to share some of what I experienced yesterday, because I know I can't be completely alone in this endeavor. I'm sure someone out there has had the same feelings.
Going along with this, I think it is safe to acknowledge that I have a hard time losing people (and to psychoanalyze myself, I'm pretty sure it has something to do with losing a parent as a child.) All of my closest friends (okay let's say 95%) that I talk(ed) to on a regular basis in the last 3 years are married or engaged or in serious relationships now. And several of them are moms or dads as well. Guess what happens when that happens? They slowly disappear from my life. I call, I get a voicemail. I call, they are busy. I text, no response back. I call again, they are still busy and I leave another voicemail (sometimes I want to get married just to see what the heck everyone gets so busy with....other that the obvious pun that can be taken from that sentence. You can't have sex all day every day...). Don't get me wrong, I LOVE that they are married and have cute little babies because I get to be the world's coolest aunt to all of them. BUT the selfish side of me kind of resents what it does to my friendships. I keep having to find new friends. I liked my old friends just fine! (Err, no offense new friends...) And here at BYU-"I-DO", dating and getting married are in the everyday jargon of the 18 year old girls and the 21 year old fresh-off-the-mish boys. It makes it difficult to ignore. Not to mention, being 25, overweight and not your traditional LDS girl here at BYU-I doesn't exactly make the dating scene any better. I remember now why I had problems last year....my self esteem kinda takes a hit here.
So, what do I do about it (the obvious answer would be to age backwards and starve myself....wait, no? Wrong answer?)? Well yesterday, I'll admit, I cried and whined about it for half of the day. I was annoyed with life in general. I'll also mention that I am terrible at not being good at something (i.e. playing the piano, sightsinging, and reading syncopated rhythms....) and I had to deal with ALL of those factors yesterday morning. Being a music major is a skilled major, and yes, I know I possess the skills to be a music major, but I have to stretch beyond my capacity to gain more skills and knowledge. I've never been one to stretch myself. I'll try it. Although a word of caution: I might whine and cry more. :) But by the end of the day, I had showered, plopped myself down on the Lovesak in our living room and started doing homework. Fortunately, and unfortunately for my homework, I got invited to hang out with one of those "new friends" I mentioned before...and I ended up having a great night, and my patience kind of paid off in a way.
So that was that. It was emotional, ridiculous, but valid. I can't help the way I feel...but I can learn to cope with it. I can't change my life. It is what it is. I can learn to be happy with it though. I don't really care that I'm not married or don't have kids of my own. That doesn't make me unhappy. I do care about the relationships with my close friends and wish those relationships didn't have to take such a low spot on the todem pole because they have someone else in their No. 1 slot. As I get older, and continue to live a life different from most of my friends (not being married, etc) I will have to find my peace with it. I don't mean to sound bitter. I have a great life. I just miss my friends sometimes.
Has anyone else had to deal with this? How do you cope with it? When a best friend gets married or "moves on" to a different part of their life, where does that leave the friendship? They have a husband, wife or kids to occupy their time. The unmarried best friend, although busy with life, still has flexibility and time to contribute...but it's hard to maintain a relationship with a voicemail. What do we do to adapt to the new situation? Do we email more and talk less? Or do we live in a world where our best friends are just fillers until we find a spouse? Once the spouse is there, what's the need for a best friend? Is that how it works? Does it become burdensome to try and hold on to that old friend? Hm....so many questions.
Let's all let that one marinate and see what we come up with. (Vandi, sidenote, You're probably the busiest woman I know but you are pretty amazing at keeping up with things....and I know you'll be the first one to read and comment on this. I love you for that. And sidenote to anyone else who might be reading this....don't be mad that I gave Vandi props. haha.)
Do I sound like a complaining camel? (Oh yeah, came up with that one all by myself...kind of like quiet coyote, only different.)
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Worth Sharing....
The following is the most recent devotional at BYU-Idaho given by Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. For LDS and non-LDS alike, I encourage you to read and ponder these words. I found some of the facts and data particularly interesting. Just goes to show, God has always been and will always be in control.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Brigham Young University-Idaho Devotional
January 26, 2010
Education: A Religious Responsibility
Elder Russell M. Nelson
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Thank you President Clark. Sister Wendy Nelson and I are grateful for the privilege of participating with you today at this devotional assembly. President Thomas S. Monson and his counselors as well as my associates in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles extend our love and greetings to each of you. We and all members of the Board of Trustees express our gratitude to members of the faculty and the staff of this institution. You are dedicated and devoted leaders. And to the students, we express our deep affection and best wishes. We love you! The youth of this Church are part of a chosen generation. You have been foreordained to be leaders in the Church of God. We are honored to be with you.
Tonight Wendy will speak at the Women’s Meeting and I will get to listen to her message. The assignment for me to speak to you this afternoon has come from the First Presidency. If I had my preference, I would hear from each of you. I would like to get to know every one of you. I would like to learn of your faith, of your goals in life, and of your challenges. Not knowing how I could make that happen, I had better be obedient to my leaders and do as they have asked. Please accept my virtual handshake as a sign of my love for each of you.
I am still thinking about your opening hymn. Thank you for your meaningful musical prayer: “As I Searched the Holy Scriptures, loving Father of mankind, may my heart be blessed with wisdom, and may knowledge fill my mind.” [1]
From my heart and mind to yours, I address you on this occasion. Please be true to yourself. Honor—yes, even demand—highest expectations from yourself. Pursue your education as a priority of the highest order. Gain all the education you can. With us as Latter-day Saints, education is a religious responsibility. “The glory of God is intelligence” (D&C 93:36).
Your personal intelligence—your personal identity—is everlasting and divine (see D&C 93:29). I believe that Thomas Jefferson must have felt that dignity and divine nature of the human spirit when he wrote, “I have sworn upon the Altar of God, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man.” [2]
Seek Education
Your mind is precious! It is sacred. Therefore, the education of one’s mind is also sacred. Indeed, education is a religious responsibility. Of course, our opportunities and abilities will vary a great deal. But, in the pursuit of one’s education, individual desire is more important than is the institution you choose; personal drive is more significant than is the faculty.
Our Creator expects His children everywhere to gain an education as a personal endeavor. He issued this commandment: “Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118; emphasis added). When you leave this frail existence, your material possessions will remain here, but the Lord has declared that the knowledge you acquire here will rise with you in the resurrection (see D&C 130:18–19). In light of this celestial perspective, if you impulsively drop out or otherwise cut short your education, you would not only disregard a divine decree but also abbreviate your own eternal potential.
Each one of you may have had or will yet have your own day of personal commitment—your own scholastic Sacred Grove equivalent. I still remember my moment of resolution. Many years ago, as an untrained teenager, I secured temporary employment at Christmastime. The work was dull, repetitive, and monotonous. Each hour of the day passed slowly. I resolved then and there that I would obtain an education that would qualify me for more meaningful work in my life. I determined that I would become a doctor of medicine.
Many years later, when I was serving both as a medical doctor and a stake president, I chatted with many young people about their personal educational pursuits. Some asked me how long it took to become a doctor of medicine. I replied, “The general pattern would be four years at a university, followed by four years in medical school. And, should you choose to specialize, that could add another five years or more.
My words would often evoke a response like, “You mean . . . ? Why, that adds up to 13 years—and maybe more? That’s too long for me!”
“That all depends,” I would respond. “Preparation for your career is not too long if you know what you want to do with your life. How old will you be 13 years from now if you don’t pursue your education? Just as old, whether or not you become what you want to be!”
So my counsel then—and now—is to continue your education, wherever you are, whatever your interest and opportunity may be. Determine how you can best serve your family and society and prepare well.
Regardless of your personal choice of career, your education is the key. In the process, try to gain wisdom too. Long ago, an important question was asked by Job: “Where shall wisdom be found?” (Job 28:12) Just for a moment, let us focus on his profound question.
Education is a vital component of wisdom. Not long after the pioneers began the construction of their magnificent temple in Illinois, they established the University of the City of Nauvoo. The First Presidency then proclaimed that this university “will enable us to teach our children wisdom, to instruct them in all the knowledge and learning, in the arts, sciences, and learned professions.” [3]
They listed wisdom as a priority and ranked it even before knowledge and learning. Less than three years after the pioneers entered the valley of the Great Salt Lake, they inaugurated the University of the State of Deseret on February 28, 1850. [4] Later, several academies of learning were established with the hope that wisdom could be instilled among their youth.
Beware of Unbalance
While you search for education and wisdom, I need to offer a serious word of caution. Choose carefully what you will learn, whose teachings you will follow, and whose purposes you will serve. And don’t place all of your intellectual eggs in the solitary basket of secular learning. Remember this warning from the Book of Mormon:
“O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish.
“But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God” (2 Nephi 9:28–29).
That scriptural counsel was not heeded by a rich friend of mine who once proudly boasted that his climb toward wealth had come from tireless work and lessons learned in the “school of hard knocks.” But his financial fortune had come at the expense of his spiritual development. Only when it was too late did he discover, to his regret, that his ladder of success had been leaning against the wrong wall. He had never heeded the following instruction from his Maker:
“Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich” (D&C 6:7; see also 11:7).
In retrospect, I can now see that mankind’s general and pervasive lack of knowledge of the scriptures has handicapped great numbers of people for long periods of time. The suffering that has resulted from such ignorance is truly tragic. I will illustrate that point with excerpts from history that pertain to the spread of infection from one person to another. [5]
Back in the 19th century, very little was known about the transmission of infectious disease. Health officials and others ascribed infection simply to “air pollution.” They were not concerned about pollution of the air by the visible, smoggy, hydrocarbons of today, but by what they called an invisible miasma. That miasma was blamed for almost every infection. In 1867, for example, the famous surgeon, Lord Joseph Lister, indicted bad air as the chief cause of infection. Because of that notion, in 1869, Dr. J. Y. Simpson of Edinburgh urged a policy that hospitals be taken down and rebuilt every few years. [6] Such a costly practice was also advocated by other experts. [7]
Even Florence Nightingale, a living legend following her heroic efforts in the Crimean War, was unaware of the transmission of infection from one patient to another—this despite her careful notations that wound infection accounted for 40 percent of postoperative mortality. [8] Many others missed the connection, too. For centuries, innumerable mothers and babies died from “childbirth fever”—serious infections unknowingly transmitted among innocent people by the unwashed hands of attendants. [9]
It was only in the latter part of the 19th Century that the great health heroes Robert Koch, Louis Pasteur, and others proved that infection could be caused by bacteria. Infectious organisms in contaminated body fluids were transmitted from one individual to another by attendants who had not washed their hands.
With these painful recollections of history in mind, may I quote the word of the Lord, as recorded long ago in the Old Testament’s book of Leviticus, chapter 15:
“The Lord spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying,
“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When any man hath a running issue [or as we would say, pus draining] out of his flesh, because of his issue he is unclean.
“And this shall be his uncleanness in his issue . . . .
“Every bed, whereon he lieth that hath the issue, is unclean: and every thing, whereon he sitteth, shall be unclean.
“And whosoever toucheth his bed shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water . . . .
“And he that toucheth the flesh of him that hath the issue shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water” (Leviticus 15:1–7; emphasis added).
Several verses follow that reemphasize those important instructions. Then we read this conclusion:
“And when he that hath an issue is cleansed of his issue; then he shall . . . wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in running water, and shall be clean” (v. 13).
Thus, our loving Heavenly Father clearly revealed, and His prophet faithfully recorded, the principles of clean technique in the handling of infected patients more than 3,000 years ago!
These scriptures are in complete harmony with modern medical guidelines. [10] But during those many millennia, how many mothers needlessly perished? How many children suffered because man’s quest for knowledge had failed to incorporate the word of the Lord in that quest?
Contemporary Challenges
In our day, many challenges face us. Some are new, some are old—simply clothed in modern attire. The epistles of Paul include prophecies pertaining to our day. Do these descriptions sound familiar?
“In the last days perilous times shall come.
“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, [and the list of insidious qualities goes on] . . .
“Without natural affection, . . .
“Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; . . .
“Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:1–7).
Paul’s warnings describe these and other dangers of our day. You and I know that many of these threats to happiness are wrong because they are contrary to God’s will. Yet they are championed by persuasive people possessing more ability than morality, more knowledge than wisdom. Their convenient rationalization provides self-consoling justification. But the Bible warns us that “the way of a fool is right in his own eyes” (Proverbs 12:15). Indeed, individuals with ignorance of doctrine, or people with malignity of purpose, often wear the mask of honesty. So we must constantly be on guard.
Presently, many influential people attribute problems of our day to overpopulation. That concept of overpopulation has become broadly believed, and efforts have been made to control birthrates—with regrettable results. For any society to survive, its birth rate must average at least 2.16 births per woman. In the past 50 years, the birthrate has dropped in nearly every nation of the world. In the nations of Europe, the birthrate has dropped from the replacement rate of 2.16 children per woman to the present rate of 1.45. [11] Data from the United States show similar worrisome trends. In 1960, minor children constituted half of the population; now they are only 30 percent. [12] Predictions are that by the year 2025, single-person households in the United States will outnumber families with children. [13]
Meanwhile, the Lord’s command to “be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it” (see Genesis 1:28; 9:1; Moses 2:28; Abraham 4:28) has never been rescinded.
Now, let me ask you a question. Is the world truly overpopulated? Consider the facts. The latest data indicate that the world’s population is 6.8 billion people. If every one of those 6.8 billion people were allocated one quarter of an acre (for example, under that formula a family with a father and a mother with two children would be given one acre), I repeat, if a quarter of an acre were allocated to each man, woman, and child now living on the earth today, they would all fit in the country of Brazil, with 20 percent of Brazil still left unoccupied!
So the real question is, do we have faith in the word of the Lord? He said, “For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare” (D&C 104:17). God’s work and His glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man, and He has provided this earthly opportunity for us to prepare for that glorious goal.
My young brothers and sisters, to build a house straight and strong, you do not choose crooked boards. So to build your eternal destiny, you cannot—you must not—limit your lessons only to those lessons that are warped by the world to exclude the truth from God. The Book of Mormon underlines this note of caution and hope:
“Seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works” (Jacob 4:10).
Avoidable deaths and mounting financial burdens are also being incurred worldwide because of indifference to or ignorance of God’s declaration that tobacco “is not good for man” (D&C 89:8). Many other societal problems could be listed, such as alcohol and drug abuse, gambling, pornography, immorality, infidelity, and erosion of family stability. We may know much, and still remain unwise. Where is the knowledge we have lost in obtaining information? And where is the wisdom we have lost in gaining knowledge? [14]
Wisdom Found
Wisdom is to be found in pure intelligence—in that divine light of the gospel which can guide people in all countries, all climes, and all continents. The Lord has promised that “a light shall break forth among them that sit in darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel” (D&C 45:28). Then the Lord lamented:
“But they receive it not; for they perceive not the light, and they turn their hearts from me because of the precepts of men. . . .
“And there shall be men standing in that generation, that shall not pass until they shall see an overflowing scourge; for a desolating sickness shall cover the land.
“But my disciples shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved; but among the wicked, men shall lift up their voices and curse God and die.
“And there shall be earthquakes also in divers places, and many desolations; yet men will harden their hearts against me” (D&C 45:29–33; see also 87:6).
In contrast to the darkness of such bitter chaos, the bright light of the gospel of Jesus Christ beams as the hope of the world. Missionaries and members courageously proclaim its brilliance. Wise students throughout the world heed its light and enrich their education by adding the curriculum of Church seminaries and institutes. The Lord hides His wisdom from no one. His disciple, James, wrote, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally” (James 1:5).
Again we consider the question once asked by Job: “Where shall wisdom be found?” (Job 28:12.) The answer: it emanates from the Lord. He declared, “I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more” (2 Nephi 28:30).
Divine light and wisdom continue to increase when love for Deity grows: “That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day” (D&C 50:24; see also 88:67).
Here is the Lord’s promise to you and to me: “He that keepeth [God’s] commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things” (D&C 93:28).
Where is wisdom? It pulses and surges in the Lord’s light of truth! With that light, He lifts us toward His glorious goal of eternal life, when we may dwell with Him forever.
Be we again reminded that in our opening hymn we prayed for wisdom and knowledge. Each of us sang, “As I Searched the Holy Scriptures, loving Father of mankind, may my heart be blessed with wisdom, and may knowledge fill my mind.” These blessings granted will provide undergirding and everlasting hope in our hearts.
I know that God lives. Jesus is the Christ. This is His Church. We are His disciples. I leave my testimony, love and blessing with you, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
[1] “As I Search the Holy Scriptures,” Hymns, no. 277.
[2] Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Rush, September 23, 1800, in Elbert D. Thomas, Thomas Jefferson, World Citizen, 1942), 251.
[3] History of the Church, 4:269.
[4] See Journal History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 28 Feb. 1850, 1–2.
[5] See J. Lister, “ On a New Method of Treating Compound Fracture, Abscess, Etc., with Observations on the Conditions of Suppuration,” Lancet, 1
(1867):326.
[6] See J. Y. Simpson, “Our Existing System of Hospitalism and Its Effects,” Edinburgh Med. Journal, 14 (1869):817.
[7] See L. A. Stimson, “Bacteria and Their Influence upon the Origin and Development of Septic Complications of Wounds,” New York Med. Journal, 22
(1875):144.
[8] See Edward Cook, The Life of Florence Nightingale, 2 vols. (1913), 1:352–438.
[9] See Ignaz Philipp Semmelweiss, Die Aetiologie, der Begriff und die Prophylaxis des Kindbettfiebers, reprinted from 1861 ed. (1966), 102–13.
[10] See Isolation Techniques for use in Hospitals (National Communicable Disease Center, 1970), 9.
[11] See United Nations World Population Prospects: 2006 revision—Table II.1,p.9.
[12] See David P. Goldman, “Demographics & Depression,” First Things (May 2009), 24.
[13] Ibid.
[14] See T. S. Eliot, “Choruses from ‘The Rock,’” The Complete Poems and Plays (1971), 96.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Brigham Young University-Idaho Devotional
January 26, 2010
Education: A Religious Responsibility
Elder Russell M. Nelson
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Thank you President Clark. Sister Wendy Nelson and I are grateful for the privilege of participating with you today at this devotional assembly. President Thomas S. Monson and his counselors as well as my associates in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles extend our love and greetings to each of you. We and all members of the Board of Trustees express our gratitude to members of the faculty and the staff of this institution. You are dedicated and devoted leaders. And to the students, we express our deep affection and best wishes. We love you! The youth of this Church are part of a chosen generation. You have been foreordained to be leaders in the Church of God. We are honored to be with you.
Tonight Wendy will speak at the Women’s Meeting and I will get to listen to her message. The assignment for me to speak to you this afternoon has come from the First Presidency. If I had my preference, I would hear from each of you. I would like to get to know every one of you. I would like to learn of your faith, of your goals in life, and of your challenges. Not knowing how I could make that happen, I had better be obedient to my leaders and do as they have asked. Please accept my virtual handshake as a sign of my love for each of you.
I am still thinking about your opening hymn. Thank you for your meaningful musical prayer: “As I Searched the Holy Scriptures, loving Father of mankind, may my heart be blessed with wisdom, and may knowledge fill my mind.” [1]
From my heart and mind to yours, I address you on this occasion. Please be true to yourself. Honor—yes, even demand—highest expectations from yourself. Pursue your education as a priority of the highest order. Gain all the education you can. With us as Latter-day Saints, education is a religious responsibility. “The glory of God is intelligence” (D&C 93:36).
Your personal intelligence—your personal identity—is everlasting and divine (see D&C 93:29). I believe that Thomas Jefferson must have felt that dignity and divine nature of the human spirit when he wrote, “I have sworn upon the Altar of God, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man.” [2]
Seek Education
Your mind is precious! It is sacred. Therefore, the education of one’s mind is also sacred. Indeed, education is a religious responsibility. Of course, our opportunities and abilities will vary a great deal. But, in the pursuit of one’s education, individual desire is more important than is the institution you choose; personal drive is more significant than is the faculty.
Our Creator expects His children everywhere to gain an education as a personal endeavor. He issued this commandment: “Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118; emphasis added). When you leave this frail existence, your material possessions will remain here, but the Lord has declared that the knowledge you acquire here will rise with you in the resurrection (see D&C 130:18–19). In light of this celestial perspective, if you impulsively drop out or otherwise cut short your education, you would not only disregard a divine decree but also abbreviate your own eternal potential.
Each one of you may have had or will yet have your own day of personal commitment—your own scholastic Sacred Grove equivalent. I still remember my moment of resolution. Many years ago, as an untrained teenager, I secured temporary employment at Christmastime. The work was dull, repetitive, and monotonous. Each hour of the day passed slowly. I resolved then and there that I would obtain an education that would qualify me for more meaningful work in my life. I determined that I would become a doctor of medicine.
Many years later, when I was serving both as a medical doctor and a stake president, I chatted with many young people about their personal educational pursuits. Some asked me how long it took to become a doctor of medicine. I replied, “The general pattern would be four years at a university, followed by four years in medical school. And, should you choose to specialize, that could add another five years or more.
My words would often evoke a response like, “You mean . . . ? Why, that adds up to 13 years—and maybe more? That’s too long for me!”
“That all depends,” I would respond. “Preparation for your career is not too long if you know what you want to do with your life. How old will you be 13 years from now if you don’t pursue your education? Just as old, whether or not you become what you want to be!”
So my counsel then—and now—is to continue your education, wherever you are, whatever your interest and opportunity may be. Determine how you can best serve your family and society and prepare well.
Regardless of your personal choice of career, your education is the key. In the process, try to gain wisdom too. Long ago, an important question was asked by Job: “Where shall wisdom be found?” (Job 28:12) Just for a moment, let us focus on his profound question.
Education is a vital component of wisdom. Not long after the pioneers began the construction of their magnificent temple in Illinois, they established the University of the City of Nauvoo. The First Presidency then proclaimed that this university “will enable us to teach our children wisdom, to instruct them in all the knowledge and learning, in the arts, sciences, and learned professions.” [3]
They listed wisdom as a priority and ranked it even before knowledge and learning. Less than three years after the pioneers entered the valley of the Great Salt Lake, they inaugurated the University of the State of Deseret on February 28, 1850. [4] Later, several academies of learning were established with the hope that wisdom could be instilled among their youth.
Beware of Unbalance
While you search for education and wisdom, I need to offer a serious word of caution. Choose carefully what you will learn, whose teachings you will follow, and whose purposes you will serve. And don’t place all of your intellectual eggs in the solitary basket of secular learning. Remember this warning from the Book of Mormon:
“O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish.
“But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God” (2 Nephi 9:28–29).
That scriptural counsel was not heeded by a rich friend of mine who once proudly boasted that his climb toward wealth had come from tireless work and lessons learned in the “school of hard knocks.” But his financial fortune had come at the expense of his spiritual development. Only when it was too late did he discover, to his regret, that his ladder of success had been leaning against the wrong wall. He had never heeded the following instruction from his Maker:
“Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich” (D&C 6:7; see also 11:7).
In retrospect, I can now see that mankind’s general and pervasive lack of knowledge of the scriptures has handicapped great numbers of people for long periods of time. The suffering that has resulted from such ignorance is truly tragic. I will illustrate that point with excerpts from history that pertain to the spread of infection from one person to another. [5]
Back in the 19th century, very little was known about the transmission of infectious disease. Health officials and others ascribed infection simply to “air pollution.” They were not concerned about pollution of the air by the visible, smoggy, hydrocarbons of today, but by what they called an invisible miasma. That miasma was blamed for almost every infection. In 1867, for example, the famous surgeon, Lord Joseph Lister, indicted bad air as the chief cause of infection. Because of that notion, in 1869, Dr. J. Y. Simpson of Edinburgh urged a policy that hospitals be taken down and rebuilt every few years. [6] Such a costly practice was also advocated by other experts. [7]
Even Florence Nightingale, a living legend following her heroic efforts in the Crimean War, was unaware of the transmission of infection from one patient to another—this despite her careful notations that wound infection accounted for 40 percent of postoperative mortality. [8] Many others missed the connection, too. For centuries, innumerable mothers and babies died from “childbirth fever”—serious infections unknowingly transmitted among innocent people by the unwashed hands of attendants. [9]
It was only in the latter part of the 19th Century that the great health heroes Robert Koch, Louis Pasteur, and others proved that infection could be caused by bacteria. Infectious organisms in contaminated body fluids were transmitted from one individual to another by attendants who had not washed their hands.
With these painful recollections of history in mind, may I quote the word of the Lord, as recorded long ago in the Old Testament’s book of Leviticus, chapter 15:
“The Lord spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying,
“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When any man hath a running issue [or as we would say, pus draining] out of his flesh, because of his issue he is unclean.
“And this shall be his uncleanness in his issue . . . .
“Every bed, whereon he lieth that hath the issue, is unclean: and every thing, whereon he sitteth, shall be unclean.
“And whosoever toucheth his bed shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water . . . .
“And he that toucheth the flesh of him that hath the issue shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water” (Leviticus 15:1–7; emphasis added).
Several verses follow that reemphasize those important instructions. Then we read this conclusion:
“And when he that hath an issue is cleansed of his issue; then he shall . . . wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in running water, and shall be clean” (v. 13).
Thus, our loving Heavenly Father clearly revealed, and His prophet faithfully recorded, the principles of clean technique in the handling of infected patients more than 3,000 years ago!
These scriptures are in complete harmony with modern medical guidelines. [10] But during those many millennia, how many mothers needlessly perished? How many children suffered because man’s quest for knowledge had failed to incorporate the word of the Lord in that quest?
Contemporary Challenges
In our day, many challenges face us. Some are new, some are old—simply clothed in modern attire. The epistles of Paul include prophecies pertaining to our day. Do these descriptions sound familiar?
“In the last days perilous times shall come.
“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, [and the list of insidious qualities goes on] . . .
“Without natural affection, . . .
“Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; . . .
“Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:1–7).
Paul’s warnings describe these and other dangers of our day. You and I know that many of these threats to happiness are wrong because they are contrary to God’s will. Yet they are championed by persuasive people possessing more ability than morality, more knowledge than wisdom. Their convenient rationalization provides self-consoling justification. But the Bible warns us that “the way of a fool is right in his own eyes” (Proverbs 12:15). Indeed, individuals with ignorance of doctrine, or people with malignity of purpose, often wear the mask of honesty. So we must constantly be on guard.
Presently, many influential people attribute problems of our day to overpopulation. That concept of overpopulation has become broadly believed, and efforts have been made to control birthrates—with regrettable results. For any society to survive, its birth rate must average at least 2.16 births per woman. In the past 50 years, the birthrate has dropped in nearly every nation of the world. In the nations of Europe, the birthrate has dropped from the replacement rate of 2.16 children per woman to the present rate of 1.45. [11] Data from the United States show similar worrisome trends. In 1960, minor children constituted half of the population; now they are only 30 percent. [12] Predictions are that by the year 2025, single-person households in the United States will outnumber families with children. [13]
Meanwhile, the Lord’s command to “be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it” (see Genesis 1:28; 9:1; Moses 2:28; Abraham 4:28) has never been rescinded.
Now, let me ask you a question. Is the world truly overpopulated? Consider the facts. The latest data indicate that the world’s population is 6.8 billion people. If every one of those 6.8 billion people were allocated one quarter of an acre (for example, under that formula a family with a father and a mother with two children would be given one acre), I repeat, if a quarter of an acre were allocated to each man, woman, and child now living on the earth today, they would all fit in the country of Brazil, with 20 percent of Brazil still left unoccupied!
So the real question is, do we have faith in the word of the Lord? He said, “For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare” (D&C 104:17). God’s work and His glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man, and He has provided this earthly opportunity for us to prepare for that glorious goal.
My young brothers and sisters, to build a house straight and strong, you do not choose crooked boards. So to build your eternal destiny, you cannot—you must not—limit your lessons only to those lessons that are warped by the world to exclude the truth from God. The Book of Mormon underlines this note of caution and hope:
“Seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works” (Jacob 4:10).
Avoidable deaths and mounting financial burdens are also being incurred worldwide because of indifference to or ignorance of God’s declaration that tobacco “is not good for man” (D&C 89:8). Many other societal problems could be listed, such as alcohol and drug abuse, gambling, pornography, immorality, infidelity, and erosion of family stability. We may know much, and still remain unwise. Where is the knowledge we have lost in obtaining information? And where is the wisdom we have lost in gaining knowledge? [14]
Wisdom Found
Wisdom is to be found in pure intelligence—in that divine light of the gospel which can guide people in all countries, all climes, and all continents. The Lord has promised that “a light shall break forth among them that sit in darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel” (D&C 45:28). Then the Lord lamented:
“But they receive it not; for they perceive not the light, and they turn their hearts from me because of the precepts of men. . . .
“And there shall be men standing in that generation, that shall not pass until they shall see an overflowing scourge; for a desolating sickness shall cover the land.
“But my disciples shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved; but among the wicked, men shall lift up their voices and curse God and die.
“And there shall be earthquakes also in divers places, and many desolations; yet men will harden their hearts against me” (D&C 45:29–33; see also 87:6).
In contrast to the darkness of such bitter chaos, the bright light of the gospel of Jesus Christ beams as the hope of the world. Missionaries and members courageously proclaim its brilliance. Wise students throughout the world heed its light and enrich their education by adding the curriculum of Church seminaries and institutes. The Lord hides His wisdom from no one. His disciple, James, wrote, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally” (James 1:5).
Again we consider the question once asked by Job: “Where shall wisdom be found?” (Job 28:12.) The answer: it emanates from the Lord. He declared, “I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more” (2 Nephi 28:30).
Divine light and wisdom continue to increase when love for Deity grows: “That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day” (D&C 50:24; see also 88:67).
Here is the Lord’s promise to you and to me: “He that keepeth [God’s] commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things” (D&C 93:28).
Where is wisdom? It pulses and surges in the Lord’s light of truth! With that light, He lifts us toward His glorious goal of eternal life, when we may dwell with Him forever.
Be we again reminded that in our opening hymn we prayed for wisdom and knowledge. Each of us sang, “As I Searched the Holy Scriptures, loving Father of mankind, may my heart be blessed with wisdom, and may knowledge fill my mind.” These blessings granted will provide undergirding and everlasting hope in our hearts.
I know that God lives. Jesus is the Christ. This is His Church. We are His disciples. I leave my testimony, love and blessing with you, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
[1] “As I Search the Holy Scriptures,” Hymns, no. 277.
[2] Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Rush, September 23, 1800, in Elbert D. Thomas, Thomas Jefferson, World Citizen, 1942), 251.
[3] History of the Church, 4:269.
[4] See Journal History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 28 Feb. 1850, 1–2.
[5] See J. Lister, “ On a New Method of Treating Compound Fracture, Abscess, Etc., with Observations on the Conditions of Suppuration,” Lancet, 1
(1867):326.
[6] See J. Y. Simpson, “Our Existing System of Hospitalism and Its Effects,” Edinburgh Med. Journal, 14 (1869):817.
[7] See L. A. Stimson, “Bacteria and Their Influence upon the Origin and Development of Septic Complications of Wounds,” New York Med. Journal, 22
(1875):144.
[8] See Edward Cook, The Life of Florence Nightingale, 2 vols. (1913), 1:352–438.
[9] See Ignaz Philipp Semmelweiss, Die Aetiologie, der Begriff und die Prophylaxis des Kindbettfiebers, reprinted from 1861 ed. (1966), 102–13.
[10] See Isolation Techniques for use in Hospitals (National Communicable Disease Center, 1970), 9.
[11] See United Nations World Population Prospects: 2006 revision—Table II.1,p.9.
[12] See David P. Goldman, “Demographics & Depression,” First Things (May 2009), 24.
[13] Ibid.
[14] See T. S. Eliot, “Choruses from ‘The Rock,’” The Complete Poems and Plays (1971), 96.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Taking time.
I miss you, friend.
And to those who don't know what I'm referring to, that's okay. I just wanted to put it out there that I miss you.
And to those who don't know what I'm referring to, that's okay. I just wanted to put it out there that I miss you.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
AFC CHAMPS!!!
Our Colts pulled out the win (and I'll be honest, that first half made me nervous!) so it's Superbowl time!!!!!
I wish I was in Indianapolis today. I bet it's NUTS.
♥ Peyton Manning and the boys. And shout out to Garcon and Collie who showed those Jets that ALL of our receivers are good, not just Dallas Clark and Reggie Wayne.
I wish I was in Indianapolis today. I bet it's NUTS.
♥ Peyton Manning and the boys. And shout out to Garcon and Collie who showed those Jets that ALL of our receivers are good, not just Dallas Clark and Reggie Wayne.
Pink and Purple
According to fashion magazines, purple is the new pink. Good thing I love both!
And I've started to really enjoy having my fingernails painted. Normally, not my style. Lately, very much enjoyable. It makes me feel girly and pretty.
Oh, and the Colts play the Jets tomorrow. I CAN'T WAIT! And I'm being a good girl and missing part of the game to do church stuff (God first, then football) but I'm not kidding when I say that if the Jets even come CLOSE to beating us tomorrow, I will have words. I have faith in my team though. I don't think they're going to let us down. There aren't a lot of NFL watchers here at school. It's really quite sad. Not to mention I'm a girl and I talk about Colts football like I would talk about shoes or clothes. Meh. Such is life. :)
I just thought you'd enjoy that randomness for the day.
xoxo. Court
And I've started to really enjoy having my fingernails painted. Normally, not my style. Lately, very much enjoyable. It makes me feel girly and pretty.
Oh, and the Colts play the Jets tomorrow. I CAN'T WAIT! And I'm being a good girl and missing part of the game to do church stuff (God first, then football) but I'm not kidding when I say that if the Jets even come CLOSE to beating us tomorrow, I will have words. I have faith in my team though. I don't think they're going to let us down. There aren't a lot of NFL watchers here at school. It's really quite sad. Not to mention I'm a girl and I talk about Colts football like I would talk about shoes or clothes. Meh. Such is life. :)
I just thought you'd enjoy that randomness for the day.
xoxo. Court
Friday, January 22, 2010
Homework Machine
Okay, so my last post was about homework as well, but it just feels so good to get so much done! I can't believe I got everything done today that I needed to and it's not even midnight!! I even got in an hour of working out (well, to be honest, I went to a hip hop dance class, and I barely broke a sweat-- a tad disappointed). Tomorrow it's over to Idaho Falls to hopefully (PLEASE PRAY!) find a j.o.b! I am in desperate need of one...my savings account is dwindling....and this is the first time in a long time I've actually HAD a savings account, so I really don't wanna ruin that.
Okay lovies, I'm off to dreamland :)
♥ Court
Okay lovies, I'm off to dreamland :)
♥ Court
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Ugh.
Homework consumes my LIFE.
On the flip side, I am back into the groove of my fitness routine. :) Ah...I feel better already!
And I have revamped and started keeping up my nutrition and recipe blog. Please stop by and tell your friends about it!! www.naturallygoodbycourtney.blogspot.com/
Let's all make 2010 a year we improve our bodies physically, mentally and spiritually!
MWAH. ♥
On the flip side, I am back into the groove of my fitness routine. :) Ah...I feel better already!
And I have revamped and started keeping up my nutrition and recipe blog. Please stop by and tell your friends about it!! www.naturallygoodbycourtney.blogspot.com/
Let's all make 2010 a year we improve our bodies physically, mentally and spiritually!
MWAH. ♥
Monday, January 18, 2010
Yes, I was burned but I call it a lesson learned.
Oh Alicia Keys, how you have a way with words.
Yes, it's a new decade and year, but moreso I can tell you that I have entered into a new phase of my life. It kind of sneaks up you over time. You start to notice things and make small changes and then WHAM, you realize that it is time to move on and make a change (I seriously have a buffet of song lyrics for the emotions and experiences in my life).
For as long as I can remember, I have been a people pleaser. Now, for my fellow people pleasers, you can attest to the effort and heartache that often follows when you spend so much time and energy on making everyone else happy, only at the end of the day you feel empty inside and often a bit cheated because most of the people in your life are ones who rarely put as much effort into their relationships with you as you do with them. I don't always enjoy, well actually I rarely enjoy, putting my heart out there for the world to see but as I was reading some old journal entries today, I saw something happen. I saw a change.
I would like to share a couple of excerpts from past journal entries:
Aug 13, 2009
"If there is something I can pass on it's that life is hard, but in the end, life is beautiful. I don't always remember that myself, but there is so much beauty in this world. Never take it for granted. Flaws and experiences are what make us...and I believe that is why we are allowed to experience them. We do a great injustice to ourselves if we feel that life should be perfect or that we can be perfect. We must learn to rely on the Lord each and every day. I'm still learning this concept. And I still have so much more to learn. But it is through endurance that we find the strength to get through it all. The Lord will never leave us alone. I am so grateful for that."
Aug 24, 2009
I keep having this vision....and I've been having it for quite some time now. I live in a one story house, and I can see myself working out in the yard. It's a nice house and it has dark cherry cabinets and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. I'm independently wealthy and I am making food for myself. My house is very well decorated and quiet. I have a private voice studio in the front room and a grand piano. I am a successful performer and live in a quiet neighborhood in a valley somewhere...or maybe even back in Indianapolis. But I feel like it's out west somewhere. Maybe California even? I'm in very good shape, and very happy. But alone. I am very involved in volunteering with kids and other programs and have dinner parties and such at my house for my close friends often. Is it weird that this is what I see? I honestly feel like I am at a point where I don't think I'm going to find someone. I know I'm only 25...and that's not really old at all....but for me, I need to find contentment on my own. Maybe that's what this vision is all about. I need to find happiness through service and doing what I love. It gets harder and harder to be rejected and ignored. So maybe I'll just stop putting myself in those positions. The hardest part of that will be the fact that I have lived my life at someone else's sake, if that makes sense. My actions are often dictated by other's plans. So as I work on this aspect of myself, hopefully I can find joy in doing some of my own things."
And I do feel that this song sums up some of how I felt about life....
I wanted to share that with you because I am really excited about what life has to offer me. I am finally starting to see life just as it is each day and I don't make assumptions about the future or feel that it is my responsibility to always give my two cents about every situation. We are who we are, and we will do what we do. I'm still working on this new phase, and I'm sure it will move on and evolve into another new phase eventually, but I guess what it boils down to is this. This is my time. It's not about someone else anymore.
I have always had someone, namely some guy, who I was ready to give my heart to on a moment's notice without even really thinking if it was best for either of us. I was too concerned with that to be concerned with myself and to really just put my head up and focus on what I can do to better myself and be happy. I no longer think that I need someone else to complete me. I simply want someone to share myself with, but what is even more important is I finally figured out that I am valuable and worth a little bit of a effort. Heck, I'm worth more than a little bit of effort. I am so blessed with a loving family and a handful of friends who lift me up and I only hope I do the same for them. I want to be self sufficient so that I can help others.
Being back at school can certainly present its share of challenges. Everyone on this campus, although we are all here for our education, seems to be concerned with dating and marriage. Over 30% of the student body is married (mind you, this university is all undergraduates and the average age of males is 22 and the average age of females is 20-21). Being 25, single, and not really an active dater isn't the ideal situation. However, if I can be happy here, despite that, I can be happy anywhere!
John Mayer is my music soulmate if I ever had one. He writes the most amazing songs...and this one right now could sum up how I feel...
Enjoy :)
I ♥ you all. May you find love and the things in life that make you truly happy!
Yes, it's a new decade and year, but moreso I can tell you that I have entered into a new phase of my life. It kind of sneaks up you over time. You start to notice things and make small changes and then WHAM, you realize that it is time to move on and make a change (I seriously have a buffet of song lyrics for the emotions and experiences in my life).
For as long as I can remember, I have been a people pleaser. Now, for my fellow people pleasers, you can attest to the effort and heartache that often follows when you spend so much time and energy on making everyone else happy, only at the end of the day you feel empty inside and often a bit cheated because most of the people in your life are ones who rarely put as much effort into their relationships with you as you do with them. I don't always enjoy, well actually I rarely enjoy, putting my heart out there for the world to see but as I was reading some old journal entries today, I saw something happen. I saw a change.
I would like to share a couple of excerpts from past journal entries:
Aug 13, 2009
"If there is something I can pass on it's that life is hard, but in the end, life is beautiful. I don't always remember that myself, but there is so much beauty in this world. Never take it for granted. Flaws and experiences are what make us...and I believe that is why we are allowed to experience them. We do a great injustice to ourselves if we feel that life should be perfect or that we can be perfect. We must learn to rely on the Lord each and every day. I'm still learning this concept. And I still have so much more to learn. But it is through endurance that we find the strength to get through it all. The Lord will never leave us alone. I am so grateful for that."
Aug 24, 2009
I keep having this vision....and I've been having it for quite some time now. I live in a one story house, and I can see myself working out in the yard. It's a nice house and it has dark cherry cabinets and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. I'm independently wealthy and I am making food for myself. My house is very well decorated and quiet. I have a private voice studio in the front room and a grand piano. I am a successful performer and live in a quiet neighborhood in a valley somewhere...or maybe even back in Indianapolis. But I feel like it's out west somewhere. Maybe California even? I'm in very good shape, and very happy. But alone. I am very involved in volunteering with kids and other programs and have dinner parties and such at my house for my close friends often. Is it weird that this is what I see? I honestly feel like I am at a point where I don't think I'm going to find someone. I know I'm only 25...and that's not really old at all....but for me, I need to find contentment on my own. Maybe that's what this vision is all about. I need to find happiness through service and doing what I love. It gets harder and harder to be rejected and ignored. So maybe I'll just stop putting myself in those positions. The hardest part of that will be the fact that I have lived my life at someone else's sake, if that makes sense. My actions are often dictated by other's plans. So as I work on this aspect of myself, hopefully I can find joy in doing some of my own things."
And I do feel that this song sums up some of how I felt about life....
I wanted to share that with you because I am really excited about what life has to offer me. I am finally starting to see life just as it is each day and I don't make assumptions about the future or feel that it is my responsibility to always give my two cents about every situation. We are who we are, and we will do what we do. I'm still working on this new phase, and I'm sure it will move on and evolve into another new phase eventually, but I guess what it boils down to is this. This is my time. It's not about someone else anymore.
I have always had someone, namely some guy, who I was ready to give my heart to on a moment's notice without even really thinking if it was best for either of us. I was too concerned with that to be concerned with myself and to really just put my head up and focus on what I can do to better myself and be happy. I no longer think that I need someone else to complete me. I simply want someone to share myself with, but what is even more important is I finally figured out that I am valuable and worth a little bit of a effort. Heck, I'm worth more than a little bit of effort. I am so blessed with a loving family and a handful of friends who lift me up and I only hope I do the same for them. I want to be self sufficient so that I can help others.
Being back at school can certainly present its share of challenges. Everyone on this campus, although we are all here for our education, seems to be concerned with dating and marriage. Over 30% of the student body is married (mind you, this university is all undergraduates and the average age of males is 22 and the average age of females is 20-21). Being 25, single, and not really an active dater isn't the ideal situation. However, if I can be happy here, despite that, I can be happy anywhere!
John Mayer is my music soulmate if I ever had one. He writes the most amazing songs...and this one right now could sum up how I feel...
Enjoy :)
I ♥ you all. May you find love and the things in life that make you truly happy!
Friday, January 1, 2010
2010 -- A new decade!
Ten years ago, my life revolved around choir, music, boys and learning. Now? Ten years later? Would you believe me if I told you it's still about the same? I guess anytime we're single, in school, and still pursuing the same things in life, consistency will exist.
What a decade is has been. What a YEAR 2009 was and I only hope 2010 will bring laughter, love and hope.
Let's recap some exciting things in the last decade:
2002 - Joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
2002 - Graduated Ben Davis High School
2003 - Studied at Indiana University as a vocal performance major
2004 - Got my own place and a DOG! :)
2004 - Auditioned for American Idol
2005 - Got my first promotion
2006 - Managed my first property
2008 - Was accepted to Brigham Young University - Idaho
For some reason, I can't think of anything major in 2007. Maybe that was an off year? haha
2009 has been a great year for me. So many things have happened -- good and bad. I started off the year at BYUI in Rexburg, Idaho. Who would have ever thought I'd be attending a Mormon University in Idaho? It was the first time away from Indiana and friends and family I have had all of my life. It had ups and downs, but I finished out the year with a 3.3 GPA and some of the most amazing friends a girl could ask for.
I also turned 25 in 2009. What an age. Twenty-five is that age where you decide who you're really going to be and become more comfortable in your own skin, I think. At least that is how it has been for me. I have learned to accept my flaws (while still working on them, of course) and loving myself more each day. I'm officially on the downward slope to 30. EW. I'll be 15 in my heart forever if I have anything to do with it.
2009 also brought some challenges with failed relationships and some bitter tastes in my mouth but I have learned and progressed past them. I am stronger and more aware now.
Two very important spiritual milestones happened in 2009 as well. I received my temple endowments, and then was able to perform, by proxy, the temple endowment for my mother as well. I cannot begin to describe the peace that came over me from this experience. I know that families are eternal. That's all I can say.
The last half of my year was spent in Logan, Utah. Logan has proved to be a place where I have learned a lot about myself...and also a place where patience has become my friend and no longer an enemy. I feel that one of my greatest accomplishments this year was beginning to develop a greater sense of patience with life. I have learned to take each day as it comes. I've stopped planning my life years in advance. I've started looking a little bit inward to ensure that I am able to take care of myself first, so that I can better care for others when they are in need. I have stepped back and allowed myself to feel lonliness and sorrow in a way that has helped me grow. I have learned that you can only worry about what you have control over. The rest, or whatever is out of your control, is up to God....and your faith in Him should make up for any worries you might have about what is out of your control.
And over the past week, upon my return home to Indiana, I learned that my family is and always be the most important part of my life. Friends come and go, but family stands the test of time. They take you in whatever part of life you're in. Going home made me remember who I am and where I came from...which although I learned a lot about myself being away from home, it was going home where I was able to feel complete in the learning process. I saw the people who I loved the most, and who loved me. I had such a wonderful time. I have such a fantastic support group and I am so grateful for that.
It goes without saying that I have some goals for 2010. One major goal is to finish and hit my goal weight. Over the last 2 years I have slowly lost about 50 lbs. Well now, it's time to shed the rest. I return to Rexburg tomorrow and my goal for school is to simply do my best. I, unfortuantely, have always been someone who "got by" in school because I never really put forth 100% of what I could. So this year, I want to do my best and see if I can acheive greater results because of it. If I can get all A's and B's with minimal effort....why can't I get straight A's with a little more effort? Other goals include maintaining a savings account and being more financially prepared for emergencies. I also would like to put a large dent in my geneology and temple work.
I would like to visit Yellowstone National Park, and I would like to teach my own fitness class. I would also like to sing the National Anthem at a professional sporting event this year. Anybody know how I could do that for the Colts!? haha.
So, here is to a new year. A new decade. I'll be in my mid-thirties the next time a new decade rolls around. In ten years, I hope to have my education completed, have a house to call my own somewhere, be healthy and living the life God wants me to live.
Happy New Year!
What a decade is has been. What a YEAR 2009 was and I only hope 2010 will bring laughter, love and hope.
Let's recap some exciting things in the last decade:
2002 - Joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
2002 - Graduated Ben Davis High School
2003 - Studied at Indiana University as a vocal performance major
2004 - Got my own place and a DOG! :)
2004 - Auditioned for American Idol
2005 - Got my first promotion
2006 - Managed my first property
2008 - Was accepted to Brigham Young University - Idaho
For some reason, I can't think of anything major in 2007. Maybe that was an off year? haha
2009 has been a great year for me. So many things have happened -- good and bad. I started off the year at BYUI in Rexburg, Idaho. Who would have ever thought I'd be attending a Mormon University in Idaho? It was the first time away from Indiana and friends and family I have had all of my life. It had ups and downs, but I finished out the year with a 3.3 GPA and some of the most amazing friends a girl could ask for.
I also turned 25 in 2009. What an age. Twenty-five is that age where you decide who you're really going to be and become more comfortable in your own skin, I think. At least that is how it has been for me. I have learned to accept my flaws (while still working on them, of course) and loving myself more each day. I'm officially on the downward slope to 30. EW. I'll be 15 in my heart forever if I have anything to do with it.
2009 also brought some challenges with failed relationships and some bitter tastes in my mouth but I have learned and progressed past them. I am stronger and more aware now.
Two very important spiritual milestones happened in 2009 as well. I received my temple endowments, and then was able to perform, by proxy, the temple endowment for my mother as well. I cannot begin to describe the peace that came over me from this experience. I know that families are eternal. That's all I can say.
The last half of my year was spent in Logan, Utah. Logan has proved to be a place where I have learned a lot about myself...and also a place where patience has become my friend and no longer an enemy. I feel that one of my greatest accomplishments this year was beginning to develop a greater sense of patience with life. I have learned to take each day as it comes. I've stopped planning my life years in advance. I've started looking a little bit inward to ensure that I am able to take care of myself first, so that I can better care for others when they are in need. I have stepped back and allowed myself to feel lonliness and sorrow in a way that has helped me grow. I have learned that you can only worry about what you have control over. The rest, or whatever is out of your control, is up to God....and your faith in Him should make up for any worries you might have about what is out of your control.
And over the past week, upon my return home to Indiana, I learned that my family is and always be the most important part of my life. Friends come and go, but family stands the test of time. They take you in whatever part of life you're in. Going home made me remember who I am and where I came from...which although I learned a lot about myself being away from home, it was going home where I was able to feel complete in the learning process. I saw the people who I loved the most, and who loved me. I had such a wonderful time. I have such a fantastic support group and I am so grateful for that.
It goes without saying that I have some goals for 2010. One major goal is to finish and hit my goal weight. Over the last 2 years I have slowly lost about 50 lbs. Well now, it's time to shed the rest. I return to Rexburg tomorrow and my goal for school is to simply do my best. I, unfortuantely, have always been someone who "got by" in school because I never really put forth 100% of what I could. So this year, I want to do my best and see if I can acheive greater results because of it. If I can get all A's and B's with minimal effort....why can't I get straight A's with a little more effort? Other goals include maintaining a savings account and being more financially prepared for emergencies. I also would like to put a large dent in my geneology and temple work.
I would like to visit Yellowstone National Park, and I would like to teach my own fitness class. I would also like to sing the National Anthem at a professional sporting event this year. Anybody know how I could do that for the Colts!? haha.
So, here is to a new year. A new decade. I'll be in my mid-thirties the next time a new decade rolls around. In ten years, I hope to have my education completed, have a house to call my own somewhere, be healthy and living the life God wants me to live.
Happy New Year!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)