MAFIA, KIDNEY STONE, and HE KNEW_ Lessons Not Lost

Time seems to slip away quickly, and although I have had MANY things I would have loved to blog about, other priorities have taken over and writing has been put on the back burner. But today my heart is full and I just need to share some of the things the Lord has given me to see/experience/hear.

MAFIA FOR GOOD
     The other day a sweet woman contacted Mr. Dashing to see if she could get a blessing set up for her daughter who was going into surgery the next day. We both made some calls to find another priesthood holder to help. Mr. Dashing dressed in his suit (as I knew he would) and with me attending and wanting to show respect for the priesthood blessing, dressed in a dress.
     We stopped by the home of another priesthood brother who has a pretty awesome story about his journey/becoming active in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He came to the car--and I worried that he might feel bad because of how we were dressed. After some time in the car he asked Mr. Dashing if he had just gotten off work or just liked to be in a suit. The answer came that Mr. Dashing tried to dress in a white shirt and tie when administrating in the priesthood whenever possible. That was new news to this brother and he said he had never heard of it. But the conversation was left at that.
     We went into the home and after some good conversation, these two priesthood brethren laid their hands on the 30 year old's head and gave her a blessing of strength, peace and comfort for the next day surgery.
     After the blessing was given, this good brother, Ed, placed his hands on the shoulders of the young woman and testified to her about the blessing of receiving a blessing before surgery. He showed his scars on his head from a brain surgery and this good sweet man testified that he knew that no matter what happened the next day--he knew Jesus would be with her.  I was touched by his powerful, simple testifying of what he knew to be true. The words out of this rough and tough pictures up and down the arms, large man--touched me.
     We drove home with the spirit and asked Ed some different questions. He said that he had recently gone through the temple and that there was no turning back now. That He, then he proceeded to jab Mr. Dashing and then pointed back to me-- that we ALL were now solders for God because we had all been through the temple. That no matter what our priesthood holders said/asked, ours was to follow and serve. I smiled as I listened to his love of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I thanked Heavenly Father for a man that was so willing and worthy to use the priesthood of God at a moments notice.
     Moments before arriving at his home Ed said, "I love the gospel! It is like being in the Mafia for GOOD!" He then explained in the mafia (I didn't ask him how he was so attached to the Mafia-- :) maybe a story for another day) you might get a call to do something needed at 2 am--and you just go and do it. In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints-- whenever you get a call to do good (this day it was at 6:30 at night) you just go and do it! I smiled with his die heart conviction to the gospel of Jesus Christ and his commitment to be a solider for God.
     Ed got out of the car and as he went to shut the door he said the next time he would be dressed appropriately and have a shirt and tie on. He said it was the first he had heard of it, but he said he would do the same. We later heard that he chatted with bishop in asking him if one should wear a shirt and tie for administering a blessing. Bishop mentioned that whenever possible--that dressing for the priesthood was best. Ed then told Bishop he would do it. ...:) Oh this man who is in the Mafia for GOOD! ;) Warmed my heart and left me praising God. Great example to both Mr. Dashing and myself.

KIDNEY STONE

Elder and Sister Cloward - Joberg Africa

     I was chatting with my dad and mom the other day over facetime. Amen for the internet FINALLY in their African home! Makes communicating without glitches--so much nicer!
     I asked how their fast Sunday had been to which Dad replied, great and horrible. They had the missionaries over for dinner, but dad had become very uneasy with a sharp pain attacking him. A kidney stone! He did his best to be a host with much pacing. A few times he laid on his stomach and had my mom knee his back to help move the kidney stone along. Sometimes she was successful which resulted in 30 mins of rest/sleep--but followed by intense pain, pacing the floors, mopping and doing anything else to keep his mind distracted. I have had my own kidney stone before so I knew in general what my dad was going through.
     But the miracle of this agonizing moment was an aw-ha given to him through the spirit. See, early that morning as he and my mom were fasting for all of us in the family--my dad had been pondering over the sacrament prayers.
     As Latter-Day Saints, each Sunday we partake of bread that has been broken and blessed which represents Christ's body and also we partake of water that represents the blood he shed for each of us. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints--when we are baptized, we promise to take upon us Jesus Christ's name (that is--try to do as He would do/live/be). We covenant to serve and love others, to keep His commandments, to mourn with those who mourn, comfort/support/care for those in need. We also are baptized because even Christ (our sinless brother) was baptized to fulfill all righteousness/follow what was asked by Heavenly Father.
     Our baptism is a symbol/outward expression of our inner commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. We believe that one must be baptized by someone who holds the priesthood authority (authority to act in God's name) to preform the sacred ordinance. When we are baptized, it is symbolic of putting away our old life, of whatever it was/is, and being "born again"-- to God. That means committing to keep and live His commandments. In doing so, we believe we receive a remission of our sins. That through the atonement of Christ, we are cleansed and clean- without any spot.
     After we are baptized we are confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. And with that confirmation (again only done by those who have authority given them by God to do the ordinance of laying their hands upon our head) we are told to "receive the Holy Ghost".
     We believe by living/striving to repent each day and trying to keep the commandments we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost--the third member of the Godhead--whose job is to testify of truth, of Jesus Christ, and of Heavenly Father. Also he leads us and comforts us. Okay... back to the sacrament.
     If baptism in part is for a remission for our sins--and each of us sin every day because we are not perfect--then logically we should just stay in a baptismal font and NEVER get out because we would need to be baptized all the time! Right?! No, we are not to live in a font. But why it is so important to a Latter-Day Saint to attend church every week-- is that is where we partake of the sacrament, the bread and water representing Christ's body and blood that was shed for us-- and through that partaking of those emblems, we renew our baptismal covenants.
     So IF we partake the bread and water with a repentant heart, and we seek to be better and strive again to live as God would have us live--it is as IF we are being "baptized" each Sunday--we start our week fresh and clean, un spotted-- and ready to "KEEP TRYING/STRIVING" to do what we have promised God we would do.
     That is just a little back ground--- so back to my dad, he was pondering over the broken bread which is in similitude (represents) Christ's body that was broken and bruised for each of us. As my dad pondered about it--he said he just didn't get it. That perhaps there was something more "deep" then the bread physically representing all Christ gave us with his physical life/living. During the administration of the sacrament my dad asked God to help him better understand the broken bread.
    Well--that night, prayer answered! For after he had suffered through the attacks of the kidney stone, he felt that the attack was in direct answer to his pleading to better understand the Savior's physical suffering. That He [Jesus Christ] truly has felt all of our heartache and sorrows as well as our physical agonies.
     My dad believed he was given that brief encounter with a kidney stone as a tender mercy into a request to better understand.

    My father's words got me thinking. He said mom already was "clued" into what the bread meant by what she has had to endure... but it was just coming to me. I pondered it all week and then the Lord gave me the Ryerse's talks...

HE KNEW--SO I HAD PEACE
     This past Sunday brought a talk by Brother and Sister Ryerse. The words have stuck with me--and moved me. Sister Ryerse said that growing up she had pretty bad kidneys and had to go into the hospital often for treatments. Finally at 11 years old they decided to try a surgery to help correct/fix whatever was wrong with her kidneys. It sounds like it was a pretty risky procedure. And even at 11 she could remember feeling great anxiety and fear over the surgery. But she was given a blessing and was reminded that the Savior had already felt all the pain she would be going through/have--He knew exactly what she was facing... and although she didn't know how the outcome would be, she went into the surgery as a 11 year old with peace knowing that the Savior had already felt/knew what she was going through. (*Miracle--the surgery was a great success !! and shortly after her surgery the medical world stopped preforming that type of surgery because what there had been too many fatal outcomes with the procedure. She had been protected and preserved.)
     Brother Ryerse talked about the struggles of dating Melanie (Sister Ryerse) because her mom was so set on that HE was not the right one for HER daughter. Apparently the mother in law caused many tears and heartache as Sister Ryerse had received revelation from God to move forward with brother Ryerse in marriage but her mother was not supporting/would not have it.
     Brother Ryerse then said he had a profound dream while they were dating that he was sitting with Melanie's mom and expressing all the reasons he loved her daughter but she would not have it. And the more questions she asked the more Brother Ryerse tried to answer them but was left short handed by being able to satisfy any of the accusations of the mother in law to be. At the end of the dream, Melanie's mom stated to Brother Ryerse that in time things would be okay. He held to that--- and although it sounds like quite a bit of a "hell" in their dating process and probably a bit into their marriage--over time (several years and 4 kids into the marriage) it has been okay.
     Both talks were BEAUTIFUL examples of faith and perseverance/trusting in God-- even with great odds.

SOOO why is this all touching? My dad's experience and Melanie's-- I have never written on here because there are so many of my friends who's timing for marriage and/or children have not come to fruit yet-- My time for marriage was at age 30, and a time for our first child is apparently at age 31--close to 32. Our little guy is due Sept 28th.
     I can't even express all the feelings and emotions I have gone through, that both Mr. Dashing and I have been through in the last 29 weeks, let alone the almost year of marriage.
      And the next two 1/2 months, no doubt, we will yet experience many more things in regards to being parents and raising our little one to God.
     I have been at times brought to my knees in pure fear for labor and delivery--as well of needing to wear the mother hat.
     After serving a mission in New Jersey, when I came home I found myself weeping every time I was around children. It was sometimes out of control and outright feeling of ridiculous. I longed to teach my own little ones about Jesus Christ and God's plan for them, that God hears and answer's prayers, that we lived with him before we came here to this earth, and this earth life, in big measure is learning to be obedient to the commandments of God so we can yet again, return and live with our Heavenly Father. These thoughts would consume me when I was around little children. Sooo MUCH that I had to prayed to have my heart locked from so many tender emotions. (Yeah, not sure if that was wise or not) but lock my heart He did because I finally STOPPED weeping when I was around children. YEA!
     Yes I wanted to be a mother, but because that did not seem to be in my current life plans--I moved on. I strived to do everything within my power to be God's tool as a single person. I don't say this for bragging or to be "seen" a certain way--I am just writing how I choose to deal with my dreams of wife and family not coming in my time table. I certainly didn't want to just do nothing because what "I thought was best" was not coming to past. So I choose to focus on what I could or what I felt God would have me do when the blessings I had sought for were not on the horizon for nearly 10 years....
    But here, now, with the reality growing inside of me (literally with kicks and jabs-our little man is surely going to be a great swimmer like his dad) and the truth that if it is God's will, we will have a little bundle in our arms in the not too distant future---the thought of labor, delivery, and motherhood IS such an awesome monster, or I should, HAS been a monster.
     I have taken comfort in knowing the world has been populated for thousands of years by women doing what just freaks me out to do, and in a large part they have succeeded. But what my fears were not allowing me to realize--came in my dad's and Mel's experiences... the realization/aw-ha that Jesus Christ has already felt what I have been through and will yet go through. That my situation, no matter how closely related to someone else's, Jesus Christ is the one who will know exactly what I am facing. And although I don't know outcomes or have any clue to the pains to be physically felt and emotional/mental ones that will come with the motherhood package--HE DOES. HE KNOWS! And in HIM knowing, my heart takes great peace in knowing there is no part of this journey He has not already walked/ is ready to re-walk with me...!
     Yes, I know I am slow on the bandwagon and these truths I have already realized in other areas of my life, but like reading a scripture for the 100th time and finding something completely new or just pressed to the mind in a different light--this aw-ha is amazing! And this week I am facing the future with a determined peace of mind and confidence....
     I am so grateful for where I live. For the people who have been placed on my path-- for all those who have already dived into motherhood that have been great examples.
  
     To all those who find that the dreams they have so long dreamed that have not come true--but they still are giving their all to God and trying to trust in His timing, how beautiful their examples are to me.

     I am not sure why Mr. Dashing was saved/prepared for me. Some days he is more celestial than I know what to do with. And I am not sure why we have been given this time to have a family--but I know that whatever path each of us are on, if we will trust in God (who has our best interest at the center of His entire existence) we will never have to face/do what we are asked to do--alone. For our exact path (whatever it is in life) has been walked by the Redeemer of all mankind. And if one chooses to have faith in Him, despite the unknowns, that someone truly can live in/with peace and hope, regardless of what the outcomes/happenings of their individual journeys may bring.

Today I am rejoicing in people who testify about being God's solider, in white shirts and ties with men willing and worthy to serve in/with the priesthood. I rejoice in beautiful examples given to me of the personal lives of others, which move me in the direction of faith--because of them living their faith!

Happiness is God placing a new piece into the puzzles before my eternal soul's journey. 

I am grateful for prayer, and repentance and the chance to become better than I am.

WHO COULD HAVE SUPPOSED...LESSONS NOT LOST... VOL 1

So I LOVE President's Monson's autobiography, "To The Rescue"! Besides just being an amazing book truly through example of the Prophet's life one is taught "how" to become like Christ... there was/is an underlining theme... When God teaches President Monson through life experiences President Monson notices/observes, contemplates, learns, and applies. He talks about how the "lesson" (whatever God had him observe) was not lost on him.

I try to take a picture when God has allowed me to learn something. Not always do I document them, but I sure try to take a picture of why that moment meant so much to me/and what God taught me through it/with it.

These are just random, not in any order, lessons that have not been lost on me.



HABITS
After several years of my dad seeing that I would have a towel on my counter to dry items--he bought me a drying rack for Christmas.

After a good month of using the drying rack I made my breakfast shake, which has been a year long habit, and rinsed out the blender and placed it upside down on the counter top--! (Notice that there is plenty of room in the rack but out of habit, I placed it next to the sink where it could dry out a little.) I laughed that even after a month of faithfully using the rack, out of a quick habit/not thinking I went back to the way I used to dry my blender. How often does God provide me something better in life--insight, direction, friends, tools, drying rack/whatever, and me in my quickness and hurry revert without even thinking to past habits/forget the tool?



DENTURES?!
The other day I was in my mom's bathroom and noticed this box of Denture "stuff". I did a double take because no one in my family has dentures. I pondered why my mom might have the box, and then the thought of her retainers that she wares at night came to my mind. Over time retainers can become crusty white from the saliva in the mouth, and it dawned on me that my mom was using the Denture cleaner to clean her retainers! How brilliant she was/is! God provides unexpected means to accomplish tasks. I know this is a duh-, but truly who would have thought to buy denture cleaner!?!



BREAKFAST
While staying in New Jersey with Sister and Brother Ortiz, on the second morning, I was quite in a hurry to get out the door to meet Marcel. There was a knock at my bedroom door and there was Sister Ortiz with a homemade shake ready for me to drink. I thanked her and she left the room to allow me to get finished getting ready. How thoughtful--I didn't ask, and yet she perceived that I was in a hurry and so made me something that I could eat/drink quickly. What a sweetheart!



CALL ME GEORGE
As I was walking into a hospital, I notice what appeared to be an adult daughter, tenderly helping (who I assume was her dad/relative) to sit on the park bench. She assisted him very carefully and then told him that she would be back. This man was smiling from ear to ear.

I pondered over what it must be like to be older, and have to be cared for--having lived a life of choices and whatever level of independence, and then in the older years and for whatever reason(s) one finds they are depended on the service and kindness of others. This man could have been grumpy. He could have told the girl that he was find to wait and ask her to not treat him as a child, but here he sat--beaming in the crisp, pretty cold air. He had no idea I was watching. When I approached him I thanked him for his smile and asked if I could take his picture. He told me to call him George. I left his presence, only have a 40 sec encounter, determined that when life gets older and my body falls apart, or whatever comes, I will choose to be smiling and strive for kindness for those who serve me. Prime example of Elder Worthlin's "Come what may and love it".




CHERISHED!
This is Davey holding up his Baptismal certificate and his Aronic Priesthood Certificate. His proud, loving and supportive wife Mandi and cute daughter Sammi are standing equaly pleased. This little family has overcome major obstacles, but is remaining focused on Jesus Christ. Since that picture Davey has been ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood and they all are preparing to be sealed in the temple this July!
Satan rages--but they heed him not! How sacred Davey feels about his membership to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He read the Book of Mormon, he prayed to know if it was true, he received his answer from God. This family makes me want to better keep my commitments to God and to better follow Jesus Christ.




AND THE OIL SPLASHED UP!

So Nyk says that this picture isn't even bad--but when I saw her hand I FREAKED OUT. So raw, so yuck. Nykki wrote in her journal what happened to her hand. (The bracketed items I added from what she shared with me.

January 31, 2011

I witnessed a miracle yesterday. It was a Sunday and I was making dinner to put in the crockpot before church. I had put olive oil in a pan to heat up to sear some meat, and I accidentally let the oil get so hot it started smoking up the house. I dropped the meat pieces in one big clump [into the pan] and a big portion of oil shot up and scorched my hand. It literally melted the skin on 4 of my fingers. I have never been in such excruciating pain from a burn. As soon as the ice was off for more than 5 minutes, [the] burn and sting [were] worse than I had ever experienced. I took a frozen gel pack to sacrament with me, but half -way through [the meeting the gel packet] was warm and the [warm plastic from the gel packet made] my skin feel like it was about to rip off when I touched it. All of the sudden the burning sensation came on so strong that I didn't know what to do-- other than to tap my feet and shake my hand. I told Carson [husband] I couldn't handle the stinging and I needed to go to the kitchen to find ice. However, I didn't want to be rude to the missionary who was speaking. The pain was so excruciating that it would rival giving birth for me. The only thing I could do was to pray in my heart in Jesus' name that through the atonement, He could remove the pain. I told the Lord I had faith He could do this and I had been studying regularly to try and keep the spirit with me, and I really believed He could. Then I witnessed a miracle. All of the sudden the pain was numbed and I could tell it was still burning and stinging, but the feeling was numbed so I couldn't feel the pain. I couldn't believe how fast the Lord answered my prayer. The next day I woke up with no pain, not even to the touch. The Lord truly had blessed me and produced a miracle in healing my hand. I believe in the power of the atonement and sincere prayer. I know the Lord still produces miracles, even today.

I was deeply impressed with Nyk's faith! And the fact that she recognized that the atonement is not just for our sins/the sins of others, but that the Savior truly did suffer and bleed for our infirmities, all heartaches, heart breaks. He suffered it all! And tenderly reminded by President Eyring said about the Savior's suffering that: "He [Jesus Christ] could have known how to succor us simply by revelation, but He chose to learn by His own personal experience." They Savior suffered for all that we go through.

Now why would you ask for the pain to be taken?! Was it a life/death situation-no. Was it to help with her eternal salvation? No. But she had faith enough to ask, and it wasn't against God's will--therefore her fingers became numb! What things do I miss out on with the Lord making my burdens light even to "numbing" them, simply because I have not asked!?!

The Savior... is the utlimate healer of mens'/womens' souls!
The Ultimate healer of me!



MUSHROOM Birthday and Date!

"Ding Dong"
"Hello?!"
"Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Aunt Brynni, Happy Birthday to you?"
(GRIN and then a sequel at seeing...) "A Birthday Cake?!"
"Make a wish!!"

So this really happened for my 28th birthday. Jinger, knowing I can't do any dessert--but still wanted me to have a birthday cake for my birthday. My eyes became wet with such a thoughtful action. Yes I know they are mushrooms with the candles placed in them, but my family knows that I am a MUSHROOM FREAK, and Jinger had already been over earlier in the day to wish me a happy birthday. There were several other little gestures like this from others that really touched me. Oh to be remembered is a beautiful and powerful thing.

So Thaynermack and I have been on some awesome dates. And for months whenever I pick him up he always has something to give me. Thayne is a giver. I always thank him and then try to get out of explaining/reminding why I can't have the treat. Well, last month we went to go see the Young Ambassadors. When Thayne called up to verify I was coming when he announced that he had a surprise for him! Not wanting to turn him down yet again, I told him there was no need for that and reminded him that I can't eat most things anyway. To which he said, "I know."

Well I pulled up and he excitedly gave me a grocery sack. Before opening it I told him I was sorry if I could eat it... to which he assured me (like he has previous months) that this was a treat jut for me. I opened up the sack to find a box of mushrooms!!! I was floored!! Thayne doesn't buy mushrooms!! I asked him if mom told him what to get me, but he said that he remembered me saying I loved mushrooms. He went to target just to pick me up some mushrooms as a gift for our date. I know, again it is just mushrooms, but my eyes were wet. What a thoughtful, out of the way, kindness. I told him he trumped on best date surprise ever!

I had better get a move on this post or else I will never get to bed. Don't worry, I will try to only give basic details!




COMMITMENT
This picture is the morning Kristina received her mission call. This girl completely changed her life. Was basically a 4.0 student going into nursing and was not accepted into the program. Before applying she told God if he wanted her on a mission, to not let her get in the program. PRAYER ANSWERED! She changed her whole life. Gave up all her friends, became alone--because she refused to hang out with past crowds, she told God that if he would help her get on a mission, she would give up her music and listen to only good things in her room. She would pray every day, she would study her scriptures, write in her journal and attend church whenever she could. Her list was even more intense. When she shared it with me I just smiled from ear to ear and told her that she had just covenanted/committed to becoming an AMAZING missionary!

This call represents a woman who gave up everything, willingly, for God and has so much joy that she can't be stopped or her testimony quieted. I love her example.



ANSWERED
I can't even express all that I feel at looking at this picture. You can not tell, but I can, that Kat's eyes are moist... something I was not accustomed/privileged to see ever. This picture represents a girl's quest of not giving up on God even after years of not feeling an answer to any prayer. This picture represents months of sincere fasting and praying and pleading and trusting that God would make a way for a friend. After this picture was taken, later that evening as I drove back from Salt Lake City, I cried the whole way thanking Heavenly Father through great sobs for one, letting me drive and not crash as it was difficult to see through my tears and the added rain outside, but for allowing me to witness such a miracle in the life of a friend that I care deeply for. This picture is a reminder that God does grant unto us the desires of our hearts and that we can put our faith and trust in him. I love you Kat... I love you!



"PLEASE COME" A friend's mom passed away yesterday morning. She was only 49 and my friend found her mom laying "asleep" in her bed. In speaking with my dear friend I asked if she had someone to give her a priesthood blessing, or if she would like me to bring someone, to which she responded that it would be best for me to bring someone. I followed the chain of command and tried calling her bishop, no home teachers that she knew of, the EQ president was stuck in the library... so I felt it was okay/right to ask my dad to help. He was living for a 1 AM flight out of the country, but when I called him he said that he would come. I met with my friend and we sat on the porch and cried some together. My Dad had just made soup for my uncle and cousin and I knew he wanted to be with them. After being with my friend, I knew it was important that my dad come right away. I texted him, "Please come". 10 mins later I called him to which he said he was just getting off the exit. He sped through his soup and his sacred time with his brother, whom he loves, and when the text came from me, he did not argue, he did not question, he just came to serve my friend.

The blessing was a great comfort to my friend and she felt that she would be able to sleep. As I drove home tears fell for gratitude that God has a plan for all of us. That families can/do live after this life. Jesus Christ has given us away to live again! As stated in Alma it says "...he [Jesus Christ] breaketh the bands of death, that the grave shall have no victory, and that the sting of death should be swollowed up in the hopes of glory..." The sting of death should be swollowed up in what? The HOPES of glory. Of what Jesus Christ did. He overcame death--! And we will officially celebrate His triumph over the tomb in a few Sundays. ...I was comforted by what was said in the blessings. Surely my friend has a long road ahead of her, one of pain and grief but also one of hopes of glory.

I drove home and pondered as the tears spilled down, how thankful I was/am to have assess to the priesthood of God. To have a father, that would not question/make me justify why I was asking him to give up his cherished time with his brother, again, whom he loves, to come quickly to offer a blessing to my friend who was in need... Oh I must marry such a man. One that is willing to use the priesthood to serve. One who will not make me justify/beg/convince as to why a particular blessing needs to be given.

Recently a friend asked her husband for a blessing. She had had a pretty rotten day and had felt bad with how she reacted to her child. In asking her husband for a blessing he gave her quite a hard time and basically came off with the attitude that what she was asking a blessing for was silly and that she was being too sensitive and that prayer would be just fine for the situation. This is the same friend that another time when feeling impressed to receive a blessing for a business trip, asked her husband for a blessing and he told her she did not need a blessing for such a thing and that she could pray. Rather than go around her husband, she respected him, and took her concerns back to the Lord. She told the Lord that she could not get a blessing and asked him to sustain her through her event--which the Lord did honor.

Regardless of the intent behind why the husband was giving her a hard time about getting a blessing, my friend felt guilty for asking... but again, that night before she went to bed she asked if he was going to give her a blessing. To which he started with the same tone of voice and the looks like she was being ridiculous/not a good enough reason to ask for a blessing. My amazing friend, with kind but firm boldness told her husband that it was not his right to judge whether a stated reason "justified" for getting a blessing, but that as a priesthood holder, it was his duty to serve with the priesthood for and in behalf of others. (I was so proud of her--for when she told me the language she used, the spirit filled me, for she spoke with the tongue of the spirit.) Being so bold, she feared her husband would just become angry and allow his pride to overcome him with hard feelings, but the opposite happened, and this good man did not resist her any more and he agreed to give her the blessing. She was worried how his heart would be, and if anything would flow, but he submitted to the truth that was placed before him, and he was a wonderful mouthpiece for God that night.

My friend was filled with answers that she needed and peace and comfort came through the blessing.

My friend's husband is a good man--and I do not want anyone to point a finger grumpily. Believe me, I already did, :) teasing, but what great lessons learned! We all are learning... we are all on our own paths of progression. And where a truth is learned--conversion can happen.

Oh to the husband who is willing to serve with the priesthood! Last night I wept over such willing men!



PROFOUND THOUGHT
Lloyd bore his testimony a few weeks back. He held up his hand and said compared the talks we hear at General Conference to his hand. He said that from the congregation's view, his hand (palm fasting the congregation) just looked like a hand. But from his view, if he had a smiley face on the back of his hand--his perspective/the angle he was able to view his hand, allowed him to see what was on the back of his hand. He then could testify that he had a smiley face on the back of his hand. He shared that although the congregation could not see the smiley face on the back of the hand, did not change the fact that the smiley face/or whatever was on the back of the hand. Simple principle-but then Lloyd expounded the truth, that at General conference, we might hear the same message over and over, but new speakers have different perspective/insights on the topic they are sharing... and can help us "see" what we cannot see, but yet nonetheless whatever we are taught to see, is really there.

I think I am botching up this amazing thought! Seek out Lloyd and he will share it with you, but I was very impressed with the truth he testified of. Thank you Lloyd!



IMPRESSIONS This picture represents a wedding that was very important that I be at. I was at a funeral all day and could not remember the time I needed to be at the wedding. At the luncheon of the funeral, the spirit whispered that I needed to go to the wedding. In my mind I thought I would be an hour early, but perhaps I could help set up. I drove around for a bit until I found the wedding. As I parked I noticed the bride and groom outside the barn where they were going to be married. I thought that was odd. There were many many cars. I quickly walked over and asked the bride what was up and she said I had just made it. That they were late starting. I literally walked into the barn and 30 secs later the wedding march started. And here I thought that I was an hour early!! It was just a wedding, but it was important to me that I be there-- God made a way.



Okay coming out of the closet--I have a THING for earrings. Confession 101! ;) That being said, I am extremely picky/choosy with earrings. I don't lose earrings. I have several pairs from jr high and high school--still! I do not do gold, and I only do mostly silver and black. Because I am so picky, my family knows better than to pick me out earrings. (Told you I have a "thing" for them! ;))

I have always pondered over how to keep/organize the masses! :) Several years of wondering/never having an ideal set up. Well one day I was in JcPennys and saw this earring stand--that DID hanging earrings! Oh I LOVED it, I wanted it... but could not justify and would not justify the $50's for it. A month later every time I was in JCPenny's I would gawk over a piece of metal that could bring such happiness to my soul. Well around the third month I figured that I had spent enough time thinking about the thing, that I should buy it. I went to buy it--and sadly I found that they were gone. Interestingly enough even after I knew they were gone, I would keep going by the department to reminisce over the earring stand. (This is an amazing story in its self because I HATE to shop, and I don't do a lot of "things".)

One day, with a few coupons/save 15% and 10 bucks off here, I felt impressed that I need to go into JcPennys. I obeyed and went in and literally wondered the store for nearly an hour. Why was I there? I picked up a few items and went to the check out. The sales clerk informed me that I if I bought 8 dollars worth of stuff, I would save 15 dollars and pay less then if I didn't buy an 8 dollar item. So back to the store I went. yes I did go over to the earring section to see if there was something there. NOTHING! I know, for a normal girl, 8 bucks would be used up in mins. It is not that I am indecisive, I just really wasn't in the mood to spend money, but really didn't see anything I wanted. Over and over I looked, until finally I picked up a black bracelet that I felt "ehh" on. I then thought to walk by the jewelry stands area. (I had already passed it several times that night) and as I did so, right there in front of my eye was the sign that read 40% off the earring stands... and there in a slightly damaged box was the stand I LOVED!!! As if a clerk had just put out a returned item. I grabbed the box, filled with a lot of thankful emotion--i put down the bracelet and other garb and went to the check out stand. With the sale price, discounts, and coupon, my 50 dollar Perfect earring stand was about 12 dollars!! Seriously, I bought the stand and went right out to my car almost levitating in pure bliss! (I told you this was a confession.) And yes, I know it is just a piece of metal. But one that suited my wants/needs ( ;) ) PERFECTLY! And did you notice, it came with a bird on the top?!!! And the stand was NOT GOLD! (Told you I strongly dislike gold.) :) It was as if the angels in heaven said, "Let's inspire the perfect earring holder for Bryndi" ... AND THEY DID!!! But not only that--again my eternal salvation is not passed on a bird/earring swirling stand. But God, being my father, knowing the little pleasures I take pleasure in, just decided to spoil me! OH thank you prompting to go into JCPenny's!


I was running late to get everything accomplished for a night out with Micarie and a sister we visit teach, when I felt impressed to go into Shopko. I know better then to ignore impressions although sometimes I am dumb and still do(!) but this time I went in and ended up walking the almost the whole store when I shamefully a little grumpily questioned the Lord as to why I was in Shopko. At that time of making almost a full circle of the store I came to the electronics department. I thought it couldn't hurt looking for an alarm clock that may work with the iphone 4. No luck at TJmax, Ross, Walgreens, or Walmart. What would be the luck shopko would have one. Well... look at that box!!! Notice the sticker! the alarm clock was on sail and I saved 15$!! It was even the look and size I was hoping for in my mind.

Seriously, God loves us, ME!! Again, he is our Father in Heaven. It was just money spent on a piece of plastic--, but he knew my search and that finding the right machine would be a very happy spot for me. Oh to follow whatever I am told to do.




LORD, HOW DO I MORN WITH THOSE THAT MORN? When sweet Becky was in the hospital and we all were trying to support Paul and kids--the longer I was there in the hospital that night, the longer I just simply did not know how to give comfort or to be a support for my cousins and Uncle who were rightfully so grieving. So disturbed and concerned was I that after the first night in the hospital, I went home and pleaded not only for their family and Becky's life, but I asked the Lord to teach me how I was to be.

On Sunday, God's beautiful answer came as I observed two people who are great at morning with those that morn. I watched Connie, Becky's best friend, quietly go and give one on one support to each of my cousins. And then Paul's Bishop who's heart was so tender, and in quite dignity, stayed to support the family. Ask and it shall be given...! I was deeply touched by their quite examples. They didn't know that the Lord had me view them as they quietly went about doing good, to my cousins and Uncle that I love so much. I was grateful for their examples.

And the food provided at the funeral. Not asked, just sweet sisters providing a meal for a HUGE family. These woman made sure the tables were dressed, the food stayed out, and cleaned up all the mess... choice people that serve and love god--always end up serving me.




TO NOTICE THE ONE
I love this picture of my mom and Becky's mom! At the funeral, everyone was busy doing everything, talking with old friends, speaking kind things... and I look over to find my mom, sitting with Becky's mom Jeanette. Here her daughter is gone, and although she is a little forgetful and worried in her older year, she was all alone. But my mother, not saying a word to anyone else, left the acquaintances she knew and went and sat by Jeanette. My mom is not a spotlight seeker, but truly notices, like President Monson, the one. This picture moves me.



TALENTS SHARED
This is the beautiful tribute displayed that Kiss put together for Becky. My sister has an amazing ability to make things come together in order and beauty. A talent I try not to covet. :) My sister lovingly placed each flower and ribbon and put her heart into the display as her gift/contribution to not only Becky's wonderful life, but also to the life of our wonderful uncle Paul. Selfless service. To make beauty, is a gift. To make beauty that is shared... is a gift.

Looks like the system things my post is too long, probably truth... Continue on

ONE MORE DAY TO BECOME MORE LIKE THE SAVIOR...

I really don't know how to start this blog, it has been quite the week.

Have you ever battled something, something that you desired/struggled to overcome? I know, pretty silly question for I am pretty sure everyone has felt the sting of their weaknesses, and longing to become better. I can't speak for everyone, but I do speak for myself... battles are going on.

I am going to be quite personal and this is not a subject I freely discuss with most people and surely not on a blog where who knows who might be reading... but it has been quite an interesting week and I feel I must share my thoughts... (ha, it also looks like this is a night of dot dot dots too (...)!

For those who know me, reading this, probably knows that I have been a 4X girl for as long as I can remember. :) Now surely, one has to say that in order to become a 4X girl, you had to first hit 1X 2X and so up to become 4X. Well let me just say again, that I always remember being a 4X girl. My size has been the cause of much fasting, countless prayers, endless tears and pleading to overcome. I know everyone has a vice and what one vice is for someone, probably wouldn't phase the 10 people you pass in the grocery store. But I have learned that to each his own. I have allowed my size to mask "me" in some ways, ha in a lot of ways...

My dad last year mentioned a diet and gave me a little booklet on it. To which my first response and several responses after wards was, "Not for me". Why you might ask? I guess looking back it was pride, more more than that--I just had a negative thought in my mind of what diets do to people and I did not want to have any part of a diet. Now that being said, through the years I have tried countless things. Going without sugar for a full year... exercise, eating more healthy. Obviously not for consistent periods of time or else something would have happened. But right before coming home from the mission, I was given a blessing in which I was promised that I would be able to lose the weight I desired and to keep it off--and that God would change the very chemical makeup of my body if needs be. Again, a struggle with my weight has been my life long burden it seems. So although I had hope in this blessing, it seemed more like a fleeting thought then a reality.

Back to the specific eating commitment--my Dad knows, that I will pray about things. After turning him down about looking into a particular diet, several times, he requested that I at least pray about it. (!) Oh to the Dad that knows his daughter all to well!

I did pray about it, but I was a stink, for I did not care to know/receive an answer. And for the first time since I was 19, I really didn't pray to know, and just went through the motion of asking Heavenly Father so I could tell my Dad that I had prayed about it. My Dad asked me if I had prayed, and I told him that I had, but then admitted that I had not been sincere about it. For a week or so after, my soul was wracked a little with the fact that I had not sincerely asked--a trait in my prayers that although I am not perfect in--I have made it a point to try to be fully sincere in every prayer.

Well, long story short, I did end up praying about this particular way of eating and within a few days had four strong impressions that I needed to committee to doing it. ...and thus started an amazing journey of hell and heaven.

What was/is the commitment? Just a protein and lots of veggie diet. Day one was doable. Day two was tough... and by day three I discovered a truth about myself that I had never realized before. I was an emotional eater. I discovered and knew before that whenever I cried, whether for being happy/upset/feeling the spirit/angry, whatever it was--I could stop heavy, sobbing/red dots on the forehead crying by just putting something in my mouth. Sounds ridiculous I am sure, to some, but it is true. It could be a carrot stick or a cheese stick--what went in did not matter, I just had to put something in my mouth, and I could immediately stop the emotion. At the time of discovering this, I just knew I could stop my crying by eating but did not know the depths as to what I was really doing.

By day three through the fifth day on the diet, I discovered that when I would eat before (when being emotional), I would not just stop the crying, but I could actually turn off dealing with what was heavy on my mind. In a sense, eating, caused it so that I did not have to "deal" with whatever I was dealing with. Now--I don't want you thinking I ate the world away, because I did not. But I did turn to food.

Recently a woman questioned my sister in how she "dealt" with life, where was her "out" if she did not drink or smoke?! The woman who asked, could not believe that my sister would go through the type of job she did/does, without having an "outlet" at the end of the day. I have never had alcohol before or smoked, but I guess in a way for some people it is a way to numb them from what emotions/stresses they are feeling/going through. The woman asked my sister, "What is our out if you don't drink or smoke?!!" To which my sister chuckling responded, "Food and Chocolate!". Oh the truth found in that statement.

Well, by day five on the diet, I found that the mental emotions I was going through--I now had to deal with because I did not have the option of going to my blanket cover of food. I learned much about myself that first weekend on my new eating style/pattern. I learned how I was NOT involving/turning to God as I should have been.

(Now, for those of you freaking out at this point, breath. I eat, I am healthy, and I am fully aware of what the word of wisdom teaches. I am grateful for the truths found there. Please know that my actions to do this diet are inspired and I feel I have been led by God in this area of my life...:) )

The next two weeks on the diet, left me with no where to turn but on my knees. I know, this is probably a real duh for most people. But I had no idea I was neglecting turning to God by eating away/not having to deal with my emotional stresses, whatever they were.

All this happened back in June.

At the end of Dec, I stopped doing the diet consistently. I still did it, but if I had a little extra whatever, it was fine. At the time, I had been working for months to build up jogging--and that will have to be for another post in sharing the miracles that took place in my life there. But I see God's hand in what changes I made with my eating at that time.

Soo, where does that leave me now and why in the world would I write this so far?!!

Well, in the last month I have been trying to get back on consistently doing the diet as I had been doing it last year... and it seriously has been kicking my bum. Now, what I am about to share, I don't expect anyone to understand the deep dark inside workings of me, but for whatever reason I am to expose my most awesomest (I know that is not a word, but it should be! Has a fun ring to me. ;)) weaknesses.

Wanting to finish my journey with getting my body to become the instrument I hope it to be, physically for my children, my husband, and most importantly a tool for God, I have been trying to get my life back on this specific diet, to finish out a life long pursuit. And for a lot of reasons I could name, I just could not stay consistent as I was trying to get back on. I could not stay committed. I pleaded, again with dedicated fasting and time on my knees asking/crying for help to recommit myself. I want to overcome "my" natural man.

In the temple last Tues, I opened, as I often do when I find I am in a state/area to ponder, to Moroni 7. Knowing and wanting to overcome the natural man--and having discovered that the key to overcoming one's self is Charity, I turned to the wonderful check list Moroni goes through with Charity. And there right there in front of my eyes--was an awesome key to what I was dealing with/lacking! Vs. 45 "And charity suffereth long..." I WAS NOT keeping that "check" in the list of Charity. I went through the other items in Vs. 45, and for the most part was constantly striving to keep them, but for that moment in my life, I was not remembering the "sufferth long" commandment of having charity. I left the chapel and the temple that day, determined to do better in keeping that charge of Charity and in a sense be a little kinder/give a little slack to the battle I was fighting.

On my battle raged... good in the morning, failed sticking with my commitments at night.

My Pblessing directs me to continue in my habit of studying the scriptures for I will find the word of the Lord there, but also, "They will be a great blessing into (my) life especially in times of trial and tribulation."
...

This last week I was reading in Alma 14. Alma and Amulek have had to witness the burning of many righteous women and children. Women and children who would not give up their faith in Jesus Christ. They then, Alma and Amulek, are bound and were hit upon their cheeks and were eventually cask into prison. The Judges, lawyers, and teachers in the land came to question them in prison, but Alma and Amulek did not answer their questions, but in awesome humility/patience remained quite.

Over and over, one by one, the Judges, lawyers, and teachers came and smote Alma and Amuleks' cheeks. These evil men gnashed their teeth and while spitting upon the two held bound said, "How shall we look when we are damned?" For many days they suffered in the prison without food or water. They were bound with strong cords and their clothes were taken from them that they were naked. Beating after beating came, until finally--the Lord's timing became perfect.

25 And it came to pass that they all went forth and smote them, saying the same words, even until the last; and when the last had spoken unto them the power of God was upon Alma and Amulek, and they rose and stood upon their feet.

26 And Alma cried, saying: How long shall we suffer these great afflictions, O Lord? O Lord, give us strength according to our faith which is in Christ, even unto deliverance. And they broke the cords with which they were bound; and when the people saw this, they began to flee, for the fear of destruction had come upon them.

27 And it came to pass that so great was their fear that they fell to the earth, and did not obtain the outer door of the prison; and the earth shook mightily, and the walls of the prison were rent in twain, so that they fell to the earth; and the chief judge, and the lawyers, and priests, and teachers, who smote upon Alma and Amulek, were slain by the fall thereof.

28 And Alma and Amulek came forth out of the prison, and they were not hurt; for the Lord had granted unto them power, according to their faith which was in Christ. And they straightway came forth out of the prison; and they were loosed from their bands; and the prison had fallen to the earth, and every soul within the walls thereof, save it were Alma and Amulek, was slain; and they straightway came forth into the city.

29 Now the people having heard a great noise came running together by multitudes to know the cause of it; and when they saw Alma and Amulek coming forth out of the prison, and the walls thereof had fallen to the earth, they were struck with great fear, and fled from the presence of Alma and Amulek...

This story has always touched me, as I am sure it does every reader. The patience these two men exude is not just inspiring but encouraging.

After reading the account, to my minds eye, I beheld myself-- with walls of crumpled prison around me. All my vices, my natural man, the struggles and afflictions I was currently being haunted with, were like those offensive judges and lawyers-- and those offenses and vices were crushed in the fall of MY prison walls. My bands had been broken and I had been given deliverance/power and strength by/through Jesus Christ's atonement. I was stepping out of MY once prison. I was stepping out, I, through/by Christ had conquered the afflictions and now with peace, determination, and faith, was moving on....

This vision came to my mind and I was moved and desired to see the vision a reality. I left to work stirred with determination. I received a blessing from my brother... I was reminded that God has placed people in my life to help me and that I should confide in them... so I called in the troops. I prayerfully sent out texts of requests asking for prayers in my behalf. So stirring was the vision that I also felt to ask a friend at work who is an artist, if she wouldn't mind drawing up a stick version of my vision. I told her not to spend much time on it, but that I wanted a girl, surrounded by a fallen prison, walking/moving forward with confidence, determination, peace. This morning, the lovely Savanna Rodriguez had this beauitful (WAY MORE THEN MY EXPECTED STICK FIGURE REQUEST) sitting on my desk with a sincere note attached. I was overwhelmed and deeply touched. I loved that she added light rays! I love that the girl although warn from the bonds that held her captive, she did not let affliction overcome her... There are so many reasons while I love this picture! It is hanging in my cube. Thank you, THANK YOU Savanna!

Why do I share any of this?! Like President Eyring stated a few years ago in conference that his experiences where not just for him, but that he was to write them down. Most people know me to be incredibly private when it comes to my personal inside items. Sharing the gospel and insights given--NO PROBLEM, as long as they don't involve my personal struggles and weaknesses! ;) I know, I am a little messed up.

But this story and chapter of my life, although not finished, has had a sweet plot thicken. I have been sustained by amazing prayers. And I am fully committed back to my commitments. I am feeling the bands and shackles of my natural man start to melt away, and slowly for this particular prison, I am seeing the walls start to crumble. And like the girl Savanna so graciously and beautifully drew, I am moving forward with confidence, determination, peace, and an extra measure of faith.

At the beginning of the year, Jan first, I knelt in prayer and sought heaven to know what goals I should be working on this year. One of the two was to "overcome the natural man". Oh the wisdom of God. For at that moment, I did not feel like the natural man was a battle I was dealing with. ... Oh the wisdom of my God!

I know that Satan would have me stay as I was, turning to any source but Jesus Christ to deal with my emotions/stresses/afflictions of the day. But oh the healing rescue of the Savior's atonement! Oh to be able to turn to Him. He is a great carrier of the things of the heart, of the things of the soul, of the things mentally and emotional and physically that we go through. "Oh Jesus, Pilot me!" "Oh Jesus, lover of [MY] soul...let me to thy bosom fly."

On Sunday a Brother Wing from the high council came and spoke and reminded everyone there that we should thank Heavenly Father every day for the Sabbath day and thank him every day that we get/have "one more day to become like the Savior."

Where will this journey take me?! Your guess is as good as mine! But coming from an always used to be size 28 to now almost a size 16--I testify that God will can help us full fill our deepest desires. That prayers really do strengthen and can support/sustain others, Jesus overcame all prisons built, all bands that bind, all afflictions/struggles of the mind, body, spirit, and heart... He gives us strength to stand and go froth. Charity suffereth long, and is Kind... Christ suffereth long, is kind, envieth not, is not puffed up, seeketh not his own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no eveil, rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth. Christ beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things! Someday I hope to be able to put my name in front of such a scripture.

Jesus is the Christ!! He came to not only rescue/make a way for the world to repent and get back to the father, but He came to make away for me to repent and overcome my natural man!

Thank you Savanna for your picture!! Thank you for all those who have offered prayers up for me. Thank you to my parents and my family, who have been patient/loving and supportive as I have strived for personal commitment. And thank you LUKE for your brilliant drawing of my "priesthood hunk"! :)
Last night at FHE Luke showed me some pretty amazing sketches of these guys in full armor holding swords. One even had blood all over it. Quite gruesome.

I asked Luke if he could draw me a "priesthood hunk!" I told him he could even have a sword, because I love the symbolism of what a sword stands for in the scriptures. At the end of FHE, this is what his interpretation of a "priesthood hunk" was. Mind you, I think he is 10, and I am pretty sure he doesn't know what "hunk" means... so this is what he envisioned "priesthood" to mean. Suit, tie, sunglasses, and The Book of Mormon! !!! Seriously Luke, I could not have more perfectly drawn an interpretation of the things that mean the most to me in searching for my priesthood hunk!!!

Needless to say, I LOVED the picture! It hangs on my front door!

Well, I think that is as about as personal as one should get for a whole year! :) ha ha, just kidding.

The Church is True!

Thanks to an awesome plan from a loving Heavenly Father, and His mercy through His Son, I am committed! And I feel I have been given power to stand.

Onward and upward! I rejoice in My God! My Rock--my Salvation--MY literal REDEEMER...!

AND SHE WAS MADE WHOLE

Phone call came, "Bryndi, I am in my car, I can't move." My friend for whatever reason became completely ill when she got to her car after work this morning. I hurried over while calling her fearless home teacher.

I found her, in her car, with literally pools of sweat, beaded upon her face. She had her coat on and although she needed to take it off, she didn't have strength to move. I pulled her up and I am pretty sure I could have rung out her coat. She had a fever and things didn't look that good.

I had an instant flash back to last year when my dad insisted that he go sit in his car in the parking lot. He was cold and could not get warm. He had just finished a round of Chemo and his levels were not doing good. I went and sat with him in his car. The windows were down and thank goodness for the slight breeze that could be felt ever so often--if I held really still. (I was sweating like a pig!) But my Dad seemed to be enjoying the heat and feeling warm.

After 20 mins of sitting in the car, I decided I needed to take my Dad home. He was not doing well. I went over to his side door and as I tried to help him get up, the beads of sweat from his new found fever penetrated his shirt and garments. With a glazed look my Dad struggled to get out of the car. I had to help him figure where to put his feet. He got out of the car, and I had not clued in to how "out of it" he was. I started to walk him around to the passenger door. I was holding him like we were dancing because he just didn't have the strength to walk by himself. He started to shake and wobble. In an instant I knew he was going to fall. I knew his legs were going to give out but I also knew I didn't have the strength to keep him from hitting his head on the assault. As I felt his legs start to give way, I cried vocally to God pleading for help in setting him down. One foot, one leg, the next thing I knew was I had my dad sitting on the assault at this point he completely passed out--my arms could only lean him so far back--I would have to have him fall to the ground. I held his limp arms as long as I could. I cried as I finally just had to let him fall.

I had seen Marshyl in the building helping Debbi at the top of the elevator. Leaving my Dad in the parking lot I ran in the building and yelled for my brother to come. He did come, and he came quick. Friends called the ambulance while my brothers gave him a blessing that immediately brought him back to being coherent. It was several long nights in the hospital after that, but he was going to be okay.

Seeing my friend in the car made me have a flash back of of this experience.

Based on my dads short walk around the car before he passed out, I knew I had to pull up my car close to shorten the steps she would have to take.

The home teacher came and helped my friend into her house. He then ran to the store getting some items she didn't have, but needed. As she lay on her bed with her crazy physical illness I pondered what to do. I find that one of my greatest weaknesses is being a logical thinker. Sure when it comes to the gospel--no problem! Scriptures, even better... but knowing what to do in a crisis/heavy needs situation--it is just not in me to be brilliant with what to do on the spot.

Her conditions seemed to worsen, and yet I remained at peace. I prayed telling the Lord that I was scared and didn't really know what I should do. The answer came, "move forward". I figured that the Lord knows I only know how to do a few things in a crisis - seek for priesthood brethren and pray - so I moved forward with that.

After a handful of calls and texts I found a brother who could help. This brother joined the church a few years ago and I know that he has amazing faith. He went right to work on finding a companion to help with the blessing.

Mean while my friend's home teacher and I went out to get the things done that she had to accomplish that day. While we were out, I received a text from my friend's visiting teacher. She was asking for my friend's address. I smiled as I wondered if the Lord had inspired the visiting teacher to think about my friend. When we came back, the visiting teacher had dropped off a note! Even in the very moment of my friends battle! (God is amazing!)

We left my friend for only a little over an hour... but when we came back, her conditions had worsened.

While laying in her bed because she physically didn't have the strength to get up, a priesthood blessing was given. I felt the spirit fill the room. She was commanded to become whole and that through her faith her body would come into order.

After the blessing, we moved her off her bed and over to her chair. Her dry clothes that we had changed when we first got there were now soaked through like her first set. The brothers and I walked outside to discuss some items that still needed to be taken care of.--Here I was, surrounded by three amazing brothers in the gospel. Who swooped in to give aid, when THEY received the call! I walked back into my friend's house, only to find a completely different friend! Her fever had broken. She was ready to eat. She even had strength to sit herself up!! She was no longer sweating, but her body for the most part felt normal to the touch! Complete 180!! MIRACLE!

God put 20 little miracles together to make my friend whole!

*Friend was able to make a phone call asking for help.
*Home teacher JUST finished class.
*Although I had many projects at work, my most pressing one was turned in at 11 AM.
*Friend stayed coherent while sweating in her car.
*Was able to get her into my car without having her pass out.
*I NEVER EAT/BUY CHERRIES, and for the first time, I had a bag of cherries on me which helped give my friend a quick energy source.
*Home teacher went shopping for groceries
*In the middle of the day--two young adult--busy kids were able to give a blessing!
*My friend's car had to get a lot of stuff done to it today to pass the emissions test, and the fearless/faithful home teacher knowing what questions to ask to find the best deal for my friend--my friend who is limited on funds and had she gone to fix the car herself, she would have spent 70$ (which money she didn't have) for a job that her home teacher got finished for 35$!
*Visiting teacher left a note at the peak of my friend's "hell".
*within 10 she was completely whole after a blessing.
*I didn't have horrible anxiety.
*The Lord helped me move forward even when I could come up with no game plan--he had the play figured out and wanted me to trust and to "move forward" even when I didn't know how to move forward.

!!!!

To my priesthood brethren who responded to the "call"--and not only the call to give a blessing, but the call for help...I am deeply touched and stand all amazed.

I have no idea why I am writing this other then to testify that I know that God lives. And I echo the words of Moroni and claim them as my own:

...behold, I will show unto you a God of miracles, even the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and it is that same God who created the heavens and the earth, and all things that in them are. (Morm. 9) 11

I know that Jesus is the Christ. I know that the priesthood power is given to men for the benefit of all mankind. I know that God can and does preform miracles in our every day lives. Great and small.

I believe in miracles, for I have seen too many to number.

To anyone reading--what miracles have you seen today? And if you feel like you have seen none, take off your eyes of the world and look with your spirit eyes. Do you see them!? Because they are there!

I took this picture when I was in CA.

Just a fun beach shot--nothing special right?! Look again--


Did you notice those words the first time? You can click on this picture and pull up a larger image--a photoshop tweak you say--well for this photograph yes... but this picture is true to our every day lives. The miracles are all around us. God does not leave our lives up to chance. THERE ARE NO COINCIDENCES IN LIFE! Our merciful Heavenly Father is into the details. And through his details, come miracles great and small! Bet if you look at this picture again, your eyes NOW spot the "Miracles". What a lesson for us! We just need to train our eyes/heart to "spot" the miracles--because they are there: regardless of our inability to see/notice them.