MEET MY BROTHER

So this isn't really fair, I have three AMAZING blood brothers and Marshyl already got his own post a while back, but I am in need of writing down what he has taught me.

Marsh is recently without work, and he and his wonderful wife, whom I happily claim as blood by marriage, have had their share of challenges. Just a few weeks ago their little Garrett became very ill. They took him in to the docs, and the docs, not seeing a case this bad in the valley--had him immediately life-flighted to Primary Children's Hospital. His stats were not good and there he stayed for almost a week with Jen by his side. The first night when Marsh and Jen found out just how bad their little guy really was, they wept together knowing that had they waited another day to take Garrett in, he probably would have passed away. There was some intense feelings for sure.

Many prayers went up. A nurse had some oil on him and helped Marsh give Garrett a blessing. Miracles!

In all the mist of their awesome challenges, I started to worry a bit about mouths to feed, no job, helicopter bills--and in family prayers our concerns for/in behalf have of Marsh and the need for a job, and for Garrett to get better, were ever present. With a somewhat heavy heart for my amazing brother--he sure put me in my place!

On the day they came home with Garrett from the hospital he stopped by my place. THERE IS NO WAY ONE CAN WORRY after talking to such a man filled with complete faith and trust in God. I am the sister, who should be good and encouraging and building up, and yet every time I leave my brother's presence I am uplifted by his complete surrender and confidence in God's plan for him and his family. Have you ever been around someone that could infuse faith into your soul, simply because you were in their optimistic presence?! Well that is Marshyl. His faith is steadfast in Christ. And as a result, he has caused my faith to be strengthened.

These set of pictures perfectly display Marshyl's nature! Brytt and Thayne are just as much a ham as Marshyl is, but they need a little prompting to make it come out. Marshyl is just this way by nature! ;)





My heart is filled with gratitude to Hillary, my good friend at work, who recently told me that she came to the conclusion that she knows that God is aware of her body and the pain that she is in constantly. And that if it [a body that functions nicely] was somehow part of the plan, she would surely not be suffering and would be healed. But with awesome faith she trusts and knows that God knows she is suffering. He knows she is in pain, and He will help her deal with/through the pain. And by him not taking it away at this time/not in the plan--proves that He has a plan for her, because she knows she would be healed if it was not part of the plan. Oh the wisdom and the faith of this girl. She has taught me lots.

NEW JERSEY
I recently had the impression that I needed to fly to New Jersey for the weekend. The timing was incredible because the weekend suggested to my mind/heart was not great timing. Plus not to mention that I haven't been back to New jersey since the mission. But I felt impressed to go and I know better than to fight.

It was great to see Marcel! What a kid! He got more than he bargained for getting to hang out with me for four straight days. We had quite a few happy miracles. We ate at this little dinner joint three different times and we all fell in love with our waitress Samary. She loves her family. And I was very impressed with the love she expressed for them. In the very way she spoke she reminded me of how a Christlike mother is and I hope to be.

Friday night Marcel had the impression we needed to go into New York for a young single adult conference. By the time the impression came--we were looking at getting to New York at almost 10. But on our train ride over, I met this amazing girl, Allison (the one on the Left), who had just finished several months backpacking all over. We only chatted for 10 mins, but I found a friend! I was impressed with her. Since coming back we have chatted a little and she stated something so profound, "The only thing is...what happens if you know (or think you know) what you should be doing, but are holding yourself back- because of fear of failure or even fear of success? The 3 month journey I was on was meant to help me figure things out.... I guess it did, but now that it's time to take action, I'm not sure I'm ready... It'll all out, but man, sometimes it's hard to have such patience, not to mention faith." I don't know what Allison's views are on God, but surely this girl has got some deep reservoirs. I think she has more faith than she knows. If Marcel would have not taken the step of faith and gone into New York for the brief moment we stayed at the conference--my 10 mins/new friend with Allison would have not happened. WINDOWS of time! God's hand can be seen everywhere! Thank you Marcel!! And THANK YOU Allison!

Sunday brought about the crazy of all days. Marcel and I left early to get to New York to help make the 900+ sandwiches needed for the Young Single Adult conference. For the evening, we were going to head over to Sister Ortiz's home to teach family night and eat her amazing Dominican food! She said she would invite a few families over from mission times.

After our WONDERFUL sacrament was over (I heard four different stake president's speak and it was amazing) we left to make the trek back to New Jersey so we could make the dinner appointment I had set up. When we walked outside, Marcel felt uneasy and said we needed to go back to the Testimony Meeting which would be starting in mins. After some battling/figuring out impressions we went up and I texted Sister Ortiz that I would be 30 mins late or so to dinner.

Testimony meeting was great and Marcel and I were both curious as to why he had been prompted to stay. The meeting went an 1 1/2 and after it was over we hurried to get to pen station. Marcel and his long legs and me trotting in heals and a skirt to keep up! :) Looks like I was going to be an hour late to the dinner appointment. Gulp. But all along knowing/trusting God had a plan.

While on the train back to New Jersey, I had the impression I need to open my mouth and talk. Okay--so most people know I don't really have a problem opening my mouth, but this particular time I told the Lord that if I did, on the subject I was being prompted to talk about--the subject matter would make Marcel quite passionate about not to mention I didn't feel like I had any grounds to speak on the subject I was going to bring up. But again, "open your mouth". What will I say, "Open your mouth". So I did just that, and sure enough Marcel became very passionate about the subject. So passionate in fact that we missed our train stop to Newark. When he realized we had missed the stop, he jumped up and we both started hurrying through the train to make the next stop at a little window opening of time. Marcel was quite bothered about missing our stop and could not believe that he had missed it. This was the first time, of a life time traveling on the trains that he had ever missed a stop.

We were in Elizabeth now, which although closer to our already an hour late dinner appointment but still, by waiting for another train we were 45 mins away from getting back to my car- and then another 30 mins after that driving to the appointment. Marcel asked me if we should wait for a train and backtrack, or if he should have his friend Blaine (this is Blaine) come get us. We opted for Blaine. Marcel called him and told him to come pick us up at the Elizabeth chapel. He told me he didn't think Blaine would be there for 30 mins.

I could not figure out all the impressions. And I kicked myself for setting up a dinner appointment with the Ortiz's. I pondered over why I had not been warned/prompted not to set it up, but it felt okay when I did. I called the Ortiz and told them our situation. They already had eaten dinner by this time and were just waiting for us to come. Again, to the dinner appointment/party I had set up.

Marcel and I had time to kill to walk to the Elizabeth Chapel. So I took his arm and we strolled down the allies together. Being in heals and a skirt-in the hood, in the dark may have made normal girls scared, but being with Marcel I felt totally protected. I was not worried at all. We walked through some pretty dark areas, and finally came into a parking lot where these two kids were Skateboarding. Marcel asked them if they would like to hear a message about Christ. I was surprised when they said they would listen. Then--all the craziness of the evening and all the promptings we followed but didn't understand why--all added up! Domingo and Jose had been prepared by God to have that discussion. At first Jose (the one on the left,) wasn't interested and was just politely listening but that changed towards the end of the conversation. Domingo (on the Right) is a very deep kid. He had done a ton of thinking on his own. I don't think I have ever met more respectable 16/17 year-olds in my life. I surely wasn't like that when I was 17. We talked for a good 15 mins and then all walked over to the church to meet up with Blaine. It wasn't until we were mins away from the church when I realized what God had given me. Here I was back at the Chapel that Jean after he had joined the church, brought Adele, and through his mighty prayer brought Marcel to the chapel to be baptized.
!!!!

Yes I felt like crying, and that night in my room I did my fair share of it. I told Domingo and Jose that it was not just chance that we had met. Domingo has had the missionaries over to his home before to meet with his mom. It was such a crazy thing, I had a name tag on and was blessed to meet Marcel. Marcel later had a name tag on and now both finished missionaries, were teaching the gospel together to Domingo and Jose... in the city/the very Chapel that Marcel made his first covenants with God! The chapel I had come to love for 7 1/2 months. But had not been back to in over six years. God truly is amazing!

Well, the miracles still go on. Blaine had been in Roselle Park at Marcel's house. He could not get a hold of us all day and figured he would keep his appointment with Marcel, but was rather ticked that Marcel had not answered his phone. When he left Marcel's place, he had the impression to go to the Elizabeth Chapped. He thought the idea was completely random. He doesn't go to that chapel, the city had nothing to do with anything we had done all weekend. He pushed the thought from his mind. 2 mins later Marcel called him and told him we were stranded and needed him to pick us up at the Elizabeth chapel. :) Coincidence? I think not!

Because Domingo and Jose had stopped skateboarding to chat with us, they were pretty cold. Blaine and I gave them a ride to their house. Domingo recounted for Blaine how we had met and made the comment he felt like we were sent from God with a message. He also commented a few different times that he was impressed with how optimistic Marcel and I were. I have never had a comment quite like that before.

We challenged Domingo and Jose to pray and ask God if he really lives. We promised them that if they would pray and ask, we know that they would receive an answer. We also asked them to pray about meeting us and what we shared with them, to ask God if it was true. They said they would pray. They got out of the car, and I asked Blaine if we could have a quick prayer. My heart was overwhelmed with deep gratitude.

Then it was a rush to the 2 hour late dinner appointment! What a blessing it was to find the Ortiz's had the missionaries over. And because they were over, they went through with the dinner. OH my heart thanked God for taking care of the situation. I felt so bad, but all things worked out. Sister Ortiz invited over two of my favorite member families from that area--the Massey and the Curry families. My heart was ready to burst. Six years will do a lot to families. The Curry's who could not have children have now been blessed miraculously with two of their own children! Miho Massey and her little family--are so grown up. It was so late, and they all needed to go home because they had already been there for several hours, but our moments together were tender.

Brother Curry was curious to see that I was "still" cheery. He made a sincere comment about how he wondered if that was just how I was before because the mission did that to me, but seeing me six years later and almost 30 years old he now knows that, nope, the mission probably helped magnified those feelings, but cheery is part of who I am. (Now don't be thinking this is all a great thing! My poor husband has to deal with a wife that can smile and be very pleasant at any waking hour in the morning. If he is a grumbler in the morning and takes time to shake sleep from his mood--he and I are going to have our work cut out! I will allow him a cloud cover attitude with hopes that he will let me keep the sunshine. ;) )


Monday came and I spent the morning with my perfect hosts! We just sat around and chatted. I thanked Sister Ortiz for her patience in the night before. She admitted that she couldn't figure why I would set up a dinner party and then wouldn't even show up. But she understood how God sent Marcel and I to meet with Domingo and Jose. A meeting, that has impacted my life in many ways. She was kind.

I said good bye to my choice friends and drove to go be with Marcel and Blaine before I had to fly out. The whole weekend was filled with impressions on how I need to "be" with Marcel and where he was. I have never felt so intrusive to someones personal space. Especially when it was me to set up being there and took over his weekend plans. Thankfully Marcel was happy to have me there, but it was still hard and all weekend I battled trying not to ask the Lord why he had sent me. Even on Monday, again the impressions came to be with Marcel. 15 mins before I had to drive to the airport, 4:45 pm, Marcel was doing some things on line and I was getting my personal study in. I opened up to Alma 8 and received an answer from God that whatever the reason was, he was pleased and I accomplished what he sent me to New Jersey for. My cheeks were wet and I hoped Marcel would not see my tears.

Oh and I won't even go into the miracles getting me home. Truly god is aware of us.

Citlalli picked me up from the airport and took me home. By 2 am I was back home and I was saying my prayer for the night. I sang a hymnn first, and came to a verse of scripture that I looked up to see if I could find the statement in the hymn supported by the scripture. Instead, I found yet another scripture that had basically said what Alma 8 told me. I wept again.

My Trip to New Jersey taught me that I murmur and show an awesome lack of faith. Yes, I still went to New Jersey you can say, and we followed impressions, but if you give a gift and don't give it with your whole heart--it profits you nothing. My murmuring inside myself was as good as just killing my faith. Lesson learned.

Marcel surprised me this Sunday when I woke up to this text..."Hey i decided to get rid of all my rap music because the way i been using it hasn't help me draw closer to Christ not that I feel it is wrong But I do not think it will do much good to help me anyway i figured it might make you happy to know." We had listened to Rap music all weekend. I did not feel it was my place to say anything. I could not understand how it could do "good" for his soul, when I felt mine was being weighed down. But here he was telling me that he didn't think it brings him closer to Christ--so he is giving it up. :) You could not have found a more tearfilled smiling while kneeling in gratitude girl than me that morning! Marcel is becoming "soft" again! I love that kid!

Well how about them apples for a really late post! Moral--follow your impressions, even if they wipe out a savings account, cause you to miss your best friend's BYU performance and your favorite earthly dad's 60th birthday bash--even if you are told to open your mouth or stay for a meeting...don't let doubt and fear squash your faith. God has a plan! The question comes down to for me, Do I trust God and his plan or don't I? And if I don't trust the plan, why not? It is tried and true and God defiantly sees the bigger picture.

To everyone I met in New Jersey, it was amazing! Thank you for adding to the trip.

NOTHING CAN

My heart is truly happy today! It is all the time, but even more as I ponder over what God has done for me and what He IS doing with me. This morning I kept thinking over and over how nothing can separate us from HIS love! I may turn my back I may hide my face, I may scream or shout or ignore, but like the stepping out into the sunshine--I will be hit by it's rays.

And like the Son's love, I am hit by HIS rays!

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
...
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." --Romans 8:35,37-39

Yesterday as I was in RS I noticed someone sitting alone. My heart wanted to cry out. I had just invited someone else to come sit with me. There was NO physical way for me to sit in two different chairs. I seriously had this awesome little turmoil inside. It was like being in the EB3 rs all over again and seeing girls sitting by themselves and praying that God would inspire someone/anyone to be sensitive to the new gal's or alone gal's needs. God always pinned the angel wings on someone and someone would no doubt rush to the side of the very gal I was concerned for. Well yesterday those feelings arose as I noticed someone that I felt would not be good to sit alone. Stuck, and silently/inwardly praying for a miracle... angel wings were pinned to Micarie! I never turned to her to let her know my thoughts and HAD I shared my desires, she would have rushed over, but there was no need to share!! Micarie saw the same gal sitting alone and went to sit by her side. I seriously almost started to cry. Deep gratitude! Micarie, I love you! And no that is not a pile of snow behind Micarie! Told you she had wings! ;) (Yes I know I could use some skills in the drawing area! Anyone volunteer?!)

It is such a great time to be alive! To know that God lives! That Jesus is the Christ! Nothing can separate us from their love. We can try to remove ourselves from it, but His love is unconditional and has no boundaries!

And amen to you Elder Holland! For anyone one who didn't get to hear the world wide training on Sat. He shared his thoughts along with Elder Bednar and Elder D. Todd Christoffersen about what/how the priesthood looks like in the home. I felt it was totally random and out of the blue--but Elder Holland brought up that he thinks there should be more blessings given in the home. He acknowledged that blessings are given for the beginning of the school and for illnesses/healing but he thought/thinks that God would be pleased to see more blessings given--even for just spiritual strength. I don't think there could have been a more smiley girl than I was at hearing this counsel. A truth I have felt and taught, but sure does feel good to have support with a stamp of approval by an apostle of the Lord on having more blessings given in the home! And for those us that don't have priesthood in the home--God has blessed us with home teachers and bishoprics!

God sure does want to bless us! And give us strength to meet our challenges. He will help us conquer! (And don't you worry--when Holland's official quote comes out and I have more than just what I wrote down/what I was hearing, I WILL SHARE IT!)

This morning I listened to Mark and I was impressed when the Savior road upon the donkey and came into town. People cast their garments on Him and others spread their garments in the way. Some cut down branches of trees. Some went before him and others followed him... So many applications! My heart was filled with what garments [works] am I setting in place to make a path for the Savior? A garment is something cherished/beloved. And surely to have an animal walk on it--you just wouldn't place it to be stepped on because it is something respected. However, if my works and what I promise to give to God--can be placed down and make a way for him to come into the hearts of others--LET ME place garment after garment! Let me place work after work! Let me work to remove obstacles in my own life and in the lives of others. May we be so worthy to have our garments/works placed that the Lord uses them to enter into the hearts of those we love. May we shout praises of Hosannas for the Christ who is our Lord!... whom I know will come again.

Deep are the thoughts on my heart. Overwhelmed with Love and gratitude!

Happy Valentines Day! May you feel HIS great love for you today! Promise! You can't escape HIS rays!

Nothing can separate us...! Nothing can separate YOU! Nothing can separate ME!

DESKTOP DOWNLOAD

I told you I was obsessed with Richard G. Scott's quote! This picture (something from the Caribbean) is my laptop background. If you want it, you are welcome to download it.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson just gave a masterful talk on "Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread". If you haven't read it/listened to it--I promise it is WELL WORTH your time. He brings about the principle of praying for our daily bread. Well this morning, knowing I was going to get up and jog, but also knowing I have been cheating and can't seem to go the distance I have set, I knelt down before exercising and pleaded that God would make a way for me to accomplish the task before me. I walked out my door, and found a THICK fog ground cover. So thick that I could barely see down the street. But as I looked up, the fog was thin enough to see the moon and couple of stars. I smiled quite big and sent praises up! God is soo good!

By covering my end goal/blocking my sight I wasn't tempted to tell myself it was too far. I had to keep going, because I couldn't see the end. I could look up, and know I was still connected with the moon and stars (HEAVEN), but to see forward--my view was covered with thick fog. He does this in my life too. Sometimes we think if we see the end goal, it will make us work all the more harder. And sometimes it does. But for a goal that seems unreachable, I am so thankful a loving Heavenly Father gives me my paces/steps in small doses. So that when I finally reach my target, I will be amazed/am amazed at how far He got me to go. Just a portion to see in front of me, that portion becomes the amount of "Daily" bread = enough to get through that moment.

Finished my jog in deep gratitude. Lots of prayer went up in thanks.

Oh Lord, My God...when I IN awesome wonder...

The Church is true!

NOT SLOW TO REMEMBER THE LORD

There is much I would like to write about but something specific for this morning. Last night as I was dumping my phone, I found this picture. Seriously, this picture has not been touched at all--straight from a parking lot in Provo. How can you have moments like that and not know there is a God? Everyone must do his/her own searching/discovering. I found that out on the cruise last week. (Yes I will have to post some pictures later of the cruise because I took some fun shots.)

MEET ELLIOT URIAH ENGLISH!!
My awesome roommate was so kind to let me wake up at the crack of dawn without any complaining from her on how I was awesomely interrupting her sleep. Love you Wendy! About 5:30 I would get up, get dressed and head down to the jogging track. Most mornings were so windy that the doors were closed and the ship wouldn't let us out. But after much asking of the staff members, someone told me I could get to the track by going through the gym section of the ship. THANK YOU NICE PERSON for the information. After my attempt to keep my jogging program going, I would sneak back into my room, grab my scriptures and head up to the 15th floor where I found a little quite nook to study in. This was my habit every day. The nook was a more closed deck outside. I would move the chair and a table away from watching who was walking by and turn myself so that I wouldn't be distracted by people walking by.

Well, here it was Friday morning--just one day left on the Oasis and Uriah catches my attention. I looked up from studying to find this bright smiling 22 year old from Guyana. He told me that he came to move my chair and table for me because he had seen me studying there every day--but that I had beaten him to the job by coming up to study a little earlier than in past days. I was very impressed and touched that he noticed a passenger's morning habit and came to set it up for me. Who was this kid!?! :) We had a good chat about the Savior and I was impressed by his kind heart and big smile. Uriah didn't claim the singer card but some how I convinced him to sing me a song. He said that he would come back before I was done studying to sing to me. Sure enough, true to his word he came back. And of all the songs he could have chosen to sing to me--he sang one about God!! My heart was touched. What a way to share his testimony of loving God. Thank you Uriah for the song! Keep up the singing! You have a great voice! (Before the end of the month is up I am going to Google the song and see if I can find the words. It is a song I would like to teach to my kids some day.) (BUMMER--I can't get the movie to upload. I will try again later. But the song says, ""Lord you are more beautiful than diamonds. And Lord you are more constant than gold. And Lord you are more precious than silver. And nothing I desire compares with you…"-- I will try to upload it and see if I can get Uriah's awesome singing uploaded by tonight.)

I left my study that morning, praising Heavenly Father for allowing to meet Uriah.

Later that day I was at the pizza parlor and before I said a word about what to do with my pizza, the sweet Jamaican girl behind the counter, with a HUGE grin on her face told me about her morning dream. She dreamed that Satan was chasing her--and she was running away and trying to get out of his grasp. She finally found a window and jumped out of it just in time to escape his power/grasp. I asked her why she was smiling and she she said that when she woke up, she immediately called her sister and asked her sister to pray for her soul. She was happy because her sister prayed for her and she felt a peace come into her soul after having such an intense and ugly dream. That peace, she told me, was why she was smiling so much.

Seriously, this girl and I had only exchanged a smile before she just shared her morning with me. Again, I could not help but smile at her openness to tell someone why she was so happy/smiling.

Then Sat morning, about 6 AM--as I was waiting to get off the ship, I was sitting in central park at a little cafe. Seriously, I indulged a little in their raisin, bran muffins. AMAZING! As I was looking up into the dark/fog filled sky, an employee came walking by. He was from India. I smiled and we had a great conversation. Now... by the end of this trip, I was already in awh with all the people who where serving me. 2,000 employees are on the Oasis. Many of them don't get my tips, and the ones that do, don't get anything until the end of the week anyway... But here, their constant focus was MY and all the other cruisers, happiness/satisfaction/enjoyment. I was amazed at their humanity. I pondered over and thought "Well done!"--to Royal Caribbean for building up 2,000 employees to be better neighbors, kinder citizens wherever the next journey in their lives take them. --The last two days of the trip, these thoughts were heavy on my mind, and my own need to become better in my humanity. Well this kid from India starts chatting with me. And before he left, he thanked me for being friendly--! He was kidding right?! For that is how I felt everyone one that worked on that ship was. Just good good people!! I was reminded again and again, how each of us is a Son or Daughter of God. Our Heavenly Father's qualities can be found in everyone.

I surely did not want to go on this business trip, but both Patti and I prayed and we felt I was to go. And walking away from it, yes quite exhausted, like the mission, going to the temple, institute, studying, I am more in debt! I am so thankful God allowed me to view so many different nationalities of people. I saw their kindness and constant goodness. Wow--I learned a lot. I want to be better as a result of being around Uriah, the Jamaican gal who's name is too pretty for me to remember how to spell and this guy from India. I stand all amazed. Every single person has something to offer. Everyone has something to give. We are here not to just by pass earth life and "get through it" but to truly work and serve, love and support our brothers and sisters. ALL we come in contact with. I am not here for my own journey alone. If I were, what a sad and selfishly lonely life earth life would be.

LED TO A VERSE
Felt to share this personal revelation to me. Not for anything more other than I felt to write it down and share it.

Seems like all those that I deeply love are going through their own little times of trial and hardship. Yesterday and the last few days have been filled with deep emotions. Some anxieties. I have fasted, I have prayed many times throughout the day on my knees requesting God's assistance to all those that I love. No one is dieing! Don't take alarm. :) But everyone in their own way have awesome Goliaths and Labans they are facing. And yesterday the overwhelming thoughts of all that is to play out. I felt much in my soul like the servant that was with Elisha in seeing all of the chariots of soldiers ready to pounce them, "Alas, my master! how shall we [they] do?" I do not believe in despair, I have too much hope...but truly the burdens I behold others going through caused a great heaviness on my soul. Then, as God does so often in my life, he led me (not in my normal routine of reading in order) he led me to read Alma 55 in preparation for institute tonight... and there the Balm of Gilead was given! As I am sure that Joseph Smith in his own Hell of Carthage Jail must have received a stirring and deep peace in receiving D&C 122...I too was given such a moment by reading Alma 55:31

But behold, the Nephites were not slow to remember the Lord their God in this their time of affliction. They could not be taken in their snares..."

"...not slow to remember the Lord their god in THIS THEIR TIME of affliction."(emphasis added) I read this verse and wept. I am not perfect, so far from it. But with confidence I can say that I have strived not to forget God in good times and in bad times. And this verse spoke peace to my soul. It was as if God was saying, "Hey Bryndi, I have got your back. You are not slow to remember me. Those whom you love are not slow to remember me. Trials are here. Affliction is great and yes very deep, but I am here. You are not without me right now in this your time of affliction." I told you---kind of really personal. :) I often play Richard G. Scott's words over and over in my mind.

"No matter how difficult something you or a loved one faces, it should not take over your life and be the center of all your interest. Challenges are growth experiences, temporary scenes to be played out on the background of a pleasant life."

And I did last night before coming upon the verse, ponder over Elder Scott's words. I told myself that the challenges were just temporary scenes to be played out as a background of a pleasant life. "Temporary" played out in the "background". Background is just filler stuff. It is not the focus of anything. In a picture, the subject is the focus and the background often becomes blurred.

Well, this verse spoke much peace to my soul. I rejoiced/found great peace in the fact that I can say with confidence I have been striving to keep God/remember him throughout my days. I try to direct my thoughts to him and be with a constant prayer in my heart. This being said, I am not perfect. I am far from it. But there is something to say about the peace in being prepared. I am well acquainted with who Heavenly Father is and what keeping his commandants can do/do do for me. At this moment of my time and those I love times of affliction--we are not just Sunday worshipers of a God we only know through an hour of Sunday worship. We are a family/friends acquainted with the tender mercies of God throughout the week. There is not a day that goes by that I do not see His hand witnessed and often countless times throughout each day. I know in whom I trust! And just as another act of His many countless kindnesses, he allowed me to be reminded that I have remembered him in times of joy, and I will remember him in this my time of affliction and I can call upon Him in this my time... the deliverance/kindness of God was that, "They could not be taken in their [the enemies/the affliction/the trial's] snares..." May this very personal thing, help whoever feels entrapped by a snare of whatever magnitude/shape.

PS. SIDE NOTE! MIRACLE!!! I had the opportunity to go with a girlfriend to the temple yesterday morning. Boys--oh you would be so lucky to date such a girl!! As we were walking up to the temple from the parking lot my girlfriend turned to me and asked if we could slow our pace for she was starting to be "huffing it" as we walked. Embarrassed at my speed in my walk, I slowed down and told her of course we could slow down...we both laughed and walked the normal speed one should walk in high heals. It wasn't until after leaving the temple that I caught the miracle and significance of our walking!! I was not "huffing" at all. Now I am not in awesome shape yet, but for months I have been working on it. Just last year, I would dread over ever having to walk up to the temple with a guy because I knew I would have to be hiding my inside huffing of walking fast up the slanted hill. It is like the dreaded stairs at UVU. You start at the bottom and by the time you get to the top floor, which is from the bottom of campus to the top--by the time you get to the top you are trying to not look winded and you are keeping a smile on your face just so your mouth is open to get as much air to your lungs without looking like you are gasping for it. If you are reading this and have not never experience this/know what I am talking about--you can stop reading now because there is just no way for you to sympathize or know! ;) Well, that is how I used to be going to the temple. And yesterday, in high heals, I was walking fast enough to make my friend winded. Not on purpose of course. Lesson learned, I want to make people comfortable and I will watch my pace. Miracle witnessed! I DID NOT HUFF!!! Really!? ... I stand all amazed! And anyone who knows me ... reads all amazed! ha ha Told you!! God, IS a God of miracles!! :)

GO IN THERE

I was able to go to institute last night...truly I am grateful for any chance I am given to fill my soul with things of Christ. I wish at times I could overcome the natural man, and not over sleep or waste my time, that I might take more time to fill my soul with things of God. Whether that filling time be of study, service, learning lessons from others--I love the things of light! And oh the people of/with "light" the Lord puts around me. I LOVE to see when someone is giving their life over to Heavenly Father. I have so many examples of this.

A dear friend who has chosen to put Heavenly Father first--who constantly amazes me at her willingness AND desire to do the right things. My parents--who make me want to live better every day. For sisters and brothers who show me constantly by example how to love. A best friend who allows me to live my Sundays. Another friend who reminds me the importance of praying. A teacher who after an awkward moment for a student, asked questions so that the class could fall in love/understand/see who the student really was/is better. For a prophet, who lives by example and because of journal keeping and other resources has set a righteous example of "how" one becomes more like Christ.

My heart is swollen. God is so good.

After institute last night as I was going home, I felt to go into Wallgreens. My ipod alarm clock is broken so I figured maybe God would lead me to one in there. I walked in the store and circled the perfume section first. Now to appreciate this--my sister Krysti has well over 30 different perfumes--and she smells amazing in ALL OF THEM! I will be around her and comment that I love the smell. On a handful of occasions, I have gone and sprayed on the amazing smelling stuff on me--and within mins I am washing it off or wishing it would come off. My body chemistry does not produce the same smell as my sister. So rather disappointing what smells good on her usually STINKS on me! I only have a handful of smells I can do.

Well one particular new smell, I found that I like how it smells on me. I walked past the counter and was amazed at the price. about 25 bucks cheaper than at Kohls. I didn't stay at the counter long because it was 35 bucks, and I didn't want to be spending money, but also didn't want to be spending money on perfume.

I knew God wanted me in the store. I just needed to find out why. I walked down the isle and nothing called to me. I walked over and viewed the rather pricey alarm clocks. I walked around aimlessly not knowing what God wanted me to do. I had been in the store for nearly 10 mins just walking around. I then had the impression to buy the perfume. Now, I have fought God before on buying things when I had rather saved the money, BUT too often has God taught me that He works through purchases. So I walked over to the front counter and the man said he would send someone over to help with the perfume.

A kid came out and he was very familiar to me. I told him that I thought I knew him. He said he was from California while giving me the look like I was crazy. So I just pushed aside the familiarness and we chatted over my perfume drama. He helped me take out the perfume and then walked me over to the counter. I asked him if he went to UVU (Which I haven't gone for almost two years? really has it been that long?!) and he said that he was an interpreter. His name tag made me believe that he spoke spanish--so I asked interpreter for what? He said sign language. Well after a few mins, we connected the dots. He came to my old singles ward for a while while I was still there, and now was a currant member of that ward. I KNEW I had seen him before! And I know his roommates who also attended that ward when I was there.

He has tried to pass the written exam to get certified 4 times for being an interpreter and has not passed. We talked about the need of praying and asking for help. I then asked him if he had met with the Bishop. He very opinionatedly (is that a word? If it is not, it should be. :)) said that the bishop had not ever come and shaken/introduced himself since he has been in the ward officially for two months. This kid felt that because he was an interpreter, and the Bishop passes him often because of sitting close to the front of the chapel, that he was horribly wronged by not being noticed by the Bishop. I prayed to know how to not push his buttons...and I asked him the question, "Well have you ever gone up to the Bishop and introduced yourself to him?" The question he wanted to justify, but he knew it sounded ridiculous. he had not done that. And then tried to say as a Bishop, the bishop should do it--however he caught himself in his own flawed thinking and what he was hearing himself say. He then said, "ya, maybe I should do that". I then had the sweet ability to tell this kid that I knew his Bishop first had and had worked every Sunday with him for two years, and that his Bishop was and is a man of God. And surely he has a lot of people to meet in such a diverse and sometimes transient ward. This kid, seemed for the first time to have some understanding towards the Bishop.

He was called over to help in camera section of the store. I challenged him to pray and ask for help from God to help him with his test. He really did look at me like it was the most foreign idea to pray and ask for help. I suggested that he covenant with the Lord... and some other things were quickly said. He politely smiled and then went his way.

I left the store not only smelling AMAZINGLY good ;) but with deep gratitude to have felt prompted to go in there. I got in my car and wanted to say a prayer, but noticed a woman next to my car just staring at me. The temptation was just to wait to pray when I wasn't in view of peering eyes, but that was a silly more selfish thought. So right then and there I bowed my head and thanked the Lord for allowing me to talk to that kid about a bishop and the gospel that I love so much. I have no idea what will come of that meeting, if anything. But I do know that that kid felt the truth of what was sad about the man of God who leads his ward. And I know he felt his heart pricked with some softness on his situation.

"Go in there" "buy perfume"... God's hand can be seen everywhere!

And as a kind perk--he has made this daughter smell all the more better! (He didn't have to throw in that bonus...!)

I love my Heavenly Father. A lot! I love Jesus Christ, a lot!

The Church is TRUE!

I'M A BELIEVER!!!!!

So confession! Remember when President Hinckley said, "...the minimal piercing of the ears by women for one pair of earrings.” -- I was in college at the time and I remember very well hearing the counsel. I think it was only six or so months before that, that I went out and got a 2nd earring pierce in my right ear. AND OH HOW I LOVED THE Diamond that or small hoop I kept there. I LOVED IT! ("Love" probably doesn't describe enough the emotion I had for a little extra piece of metal placed in my ear.) I never regret getting that piercing... what I do regret is my attitude and lack to follow counsel given. I heard the prophet say it, and in my mind completely justified/came to the conclusion rather too quickly that his counsel surely didn't apply to me. After all I was keeping commandments and trying to live my life right. Ya, you might be saying, as I have come to see--the commandment about following the prophet must have been slipping my mind!

I remember going to institute that week--Miracle of Forgiveness. The section "just happened" to be on following the prophets. Nothing was said about the earring comment just made the weekend prior at general conference... but I remember distinctly that I my soul was wracked. And almost as if I had had a battle outwardly, I shot my hands up to my ear while saying, "Okay, okay, I will take it out". I took out the little diamond stud and threw it away. I am sure there were others in the class that must have thought I was crazy. Now, I never regret getting the earring. At the time it was not against counsel. I do regret that it took me several days to follow the counsel of the Lord's servant. I really didn't think his council applied to me.

Since then, my spirit has become a little more "hyper/sensitive" to try to catch areas where I am justifying not following what is taught. I have had many great examples placed in my life to remind me that I need to be looking for what is asked of me, and then following.

A month or so after conference, I was visiting with a dear mission friend. We were talking about how awesome the RS conference was. She made the comment about when she heard that we RS sisters need to be studying from our history, her thought was, "Oh no, one more thing I need to start researching--how am I going to find time." She was relieved when Sister Beck made the comment that they have already compiled a history book on RS that will come out for us. My friend was sorry that she was a little grumpy she had the thought of dread in where she was going to make the time to do research on history... UM PERSPECTIVE! I was floored that my friend had even had such a thought... didn't even cross my mind that I should start studying from the history of RS. I heard Julie B. Beck state it--but the thought that I needed to do it--never crossed my mind. That is what I am talking about! I have this disease of not thinking things apply to me. SO.. I found a weakness I really don't want--and I have been working to not be in the category of, "well that doesn't apply to me" mode.

Because of this sweet sister's comment, and my sin of omission of taking so long to follow Pres. Hinckley's words--has made me a little hyper sensitive and this past general conference, I was bound and determined to be more in-tune/willing to apply whatever was said of the prophet that I would apply, go, and do. I just wanted to make sure my spirit recognized that what he says for all--applies to me too!

I know there was lots to catch, and I am working on his constant theme/reminder of gratitude-- but one thing I caught to do was President Monson said,

"I hope that we will take the time to read the conference talks, which will be printed in the November issue of the Ensign...for they are deserving of our careful study."

Now I know he didn't command us in a "thou shalt read the ensign" way--but I really do want to get rid of the weakness of not seeing/hearing/applying to myself.

SOOO-- Confession - (what a way to end my year with all these confessions! ;) ) I have never, that I can recall, ever read the conference ensign cover to cover before. I probably listen to the conference at least 8-10 times over and over before the next conference--but I have never sat down and studied the pages. I have been a little opposed to it, because I listen to them while cleaning or exercising or traveling. Well, not wanting another regret in an omission--I decided I would read one conference talk a day... and for the first time in my life, I read the conference edition cover to cover. And can I tell you--I have very few pages that are not marked up!


When I was telling a sister of mine about the amazing journey it has been in studying through reading--she questioned if reading is really different than listening--and in with a resounding, "YES" I answer her question. At least it has been for me.

I remember working in the temple and a brother that would come quite often on my shift pulled me aside and asked if there were different blessings that came from being a temple worker as apposed to being a patron. I told him for me there had sure been. Being a worker in the temple brought choice choice blessings and experiences into my life. But if I fell into the trap of thinking, "I work in the temple, so therefore I didn't need to go as a patron" I missed out on blessings that come from only being a patron.

I found that it is true for general conference. I have found power and answers to prayers with listening over and over to the general conference talks. And in a more powerful way--studying from the conference ensign--so different are the blessings that have come into my life through the careful read/pondering of it's pages. It took me two days to just go over Richard G. Scott's talk--and I still feel a week long study of his talk alone would still render countless mysteries unfolded and still lots more to be gained and understand.

Holy Cow! I AM A BELIEVER!! I hope to pour over every conference edition ensign from now on. It changed me. It was beauitful. I HIGHLY recommend the challenge! :)


ON A CHRISTMAS NOTE
Christmas was amazing... can I share a little something with you? I had prayed and God gave me a list of some folks to see on Christmas Eve. I had no idea how I was going to hit those on my list for they seemed to live in all opposite directions from my finally destination=Christmas BBQ Salmon with my folks and then off to caroling to the branches widows. (The caroling with my folks to these choice friends is my favorite--will forever stay Christmas tradition.)

Well God made a way and I was able to make the visits I had felt impressed I needed to do. On my hurried drive up the canyon--it was late in the evening, the canyon was dark and I was driving with a purdital (one headlight missing) car. As I came around a bend--all of a sudden there was a large dear within not even three feet from my car. I didn't notice the deer until it was right there. My heart jumped and I drove past un-harmed and the deer safe too. I know, "Bryndi there are deer in the canyon all the time" but had you seen this deer--you would have notice as did I that the body was ready to leap probably from the scare of my one car headlight. (I know, I still need to get that fixed!) The deer was going to leap right into my car. It's body was facing (looking to charge) right into my car--but it's head was facing the opposite way. As I drove past, deep gratitude set in and I pondered over what could have been and I questioned why the Deer had not jumped. To my minds eye, came the image of someone dressed in white at the side of the deer. The person was holding their arms around the neck of the deer and the deer was being held from leaping into my car.

I cried as I thought of the image of this unknown, only seen in my minds eye, angel--who protected me so that I could not have any delay in getting to be with my parents and going caroling. The tears came down as to how, because of the lack of light and hurry of the moment, I hadn't seen the deer until it was right by my car. I pondered over why the Lord would be so kind. I felt it was a blessing for going the places he wanted me to be that day--and in return he was allowing me to go to the place I longed to be for Christmas Eve.

A family member, a relative, an ancestor or a past friend? I have no idea who the angel was, but an angel dressed in white it surely was. With my hand over my mouth, I wept in gratitude, for several mins afterwards.

HE KEPT ME FROM SEEING
I am an accountability partner for a friend that has had a battle with pornography. There is this awesome sight that is called covenanteyes.com that will put a block on websites and give you a high level of filter. Then once a week or however many times you want a report--the accountability partner gets an email with all the websites viewed/searches attempted.

I have been the accountability partner for my friend for several months now. A few weeks ago, the report came through and it was alarming. I didn't dare check the sites that had been visited/attempted to be visited on my work computer because I feared what might come on my computer. I made a mental note to check the sites when I got home to my mac. I LOVE macs for the fact that pop ups are hard to come through. I kept forgetting to check when I was at home... until finally I remembered.

The keywords were new to me--and I was saddened by the terms that could pull up such filth. I needed to verify the sites my friend had visited so I could know if it was a problem site. Nervously I clicked on one, and had a beauitful miracle take place.

Yes, sure enough it was a horrible search. When the page opened--although there was MUCH to look at, God had my eyes focused on a particular part of the page that was demeaning to women yes, but was the least "yuck" possible to see. I quickly closed the window and clicked on one more to check, and again, awful was the site, but God had me focus on a particular spot on the page long enough to confirm and then to get out!!

What is so amazing to me--is that I really didn't "see" anything that would leave a haunting image. I know they were on the page--many many disrespecting pictures, but when I opened them, literally, my eyes were blurred from seeing them and I was able to get out. This happened on both pages.

I count this as a tender mighty miracle from God. I was able to keep my accountability in order because I knew that what my friend was dealing with was real--but God had me verify without having to see any images that would stay in my mind. I can't describe it, but I know was a miracle from God. A kind of tunnel vision/blurred stigmatism kind of thing really happened with my eyes.

I lOVED Elder Ballard's talk on addictions-- in all their forms. He said:

"Brothers and sisters, stay away from any kind of substance that may trap you."
...
"Remember...any kind of addiction is to surrender to something, thus relinquishing agency and becoming dependent."
...
"Medical research describes addiction as "a disease of the brain." This is true, but I believe that once Satan has someone in his grasp, it also becomes a disease of the spirit. But no matter what addictive cycle one is caught in, there is always hope."
...
"To those who are dealing with an addiction personally or within yoru family, I repeat, fervent prayer is key to gaining the spiritual strength to find peace and overcome an addictive craving. Heavenly Father loves all of his children, so thank HIm and express sincere faith in Him. Ask Him for the strength to overcome the addiction you are experiencing. Set aside all pride and turn your life and your heart to Him. Ask to be filled with the power of Christ's pure love. You may have to do this many times, but I testify to you that your body, mind, and spirit can be transformed, cleansed, and made whole, and you will be freed.
...
"I have seen the marvelous blessing of recovery that can set one free from the chains of addiction. The Lord is our Shepherd, and we shall not want as we trust in the power of the Atonement. I know the Lord can and will free the addicted from their bondage, for as the Apostle Paul proclaimed, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13)."

OH I AM A BELIEVER! There is hope! There is a way for our deliverance, through our Deliver, Jesus Christ.

We can be made whole through His atonement. Reading/studying the pages of the general conference magazines=life changing.

I'M A BELIEVER!

REJOICE!

My heart is so full. I have so much I would like to write about... all the miracles that have come into my life! This year has been filled. What a wonderful time to be alive! And all things are possible because a son was given, a king was born--lived, died and was resurrected to make a way. An atonement was preformed. My eyes have been wet this week. My family, the gospel of Jesus Christ, answered prayers, prayers that were "no", forgiveness, new friends, size 16, kindness, surprising relationships, temples, covenants, garments, Bishops, best friends, snuggles, morning jogs with an angel, saggy skin, understanding, The Book of Mormon, waterproof mascara, priesthood blessings, sealings, aunts and uncles, piano recital, moments alone, sweat, 30 inches, time with sisters, living with my best friends, laughter, seeing change, wanting change, hope, writing, truths, insights, time when I can study and ponder, food to eat, an earring stand, a plan, reassurances, confidence, light, 92 pounds, sister-in-laws=sisters, family scripture study, prayer, mysteries unfolded, for the guy who said something first :), belief, constant/consistent love. These are just a few of the many beauitful things that came in my 2010 year. I stand all amazed! My heart is full.

HE LIVES!!
Merry Christmas!

TIS THE SEASON

Tonight while in institute, the teacher made a comment about the gift of the Holy Ghost. He said it in such a way, and with such a pause, that my brain seemed to be registering it in a different way.

Bruce R. McConkie stated:
By the grace of God — following devotion, faith, and obedience on man's part — certain special spiritual blessings called gifts of the Spirit are bestowed upon men. Their receipt is always predicated upon obedience to law, but because they are freely available to all the obedient, they are called gifts. They are signs and miracles reserved for the faithful and for none else.

Moroni says that the gifts of God come from Christ, by the power of the Holy Ghost and by the Spirit of Christ. (Moro. 10.) In other words, the gifts come by the power of that Spirit who is the Holy Ghost, but the Spirit of Christ (or light of Christ) is the agency through which the Holy Ghost operates.

Their purpose is to enlighten, encourage, and edify the faithful so that they will inherit peace in this life and be guided toward eternal life in the world to come. Their presence is proof of the divinity of the Lord's work; where they are not found, there the Church and kingdom of God is not. The promise is that they shall never be done away as long as the earth continues in its present state, except for unbelief (Moro. 10:19), but when the perfect day comes and the saints obtain exaltation, there will be no more need for them. As Paul expressed it, "When that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away." (1 Cor. 13.)

Faithful persons are expected to seek the gifts of the Spirit with all their hearts. They are to "covet earnestly the best gifts" (1 Cor. 12:31; D. & C. 46:8), to "desire spiritual gifts" (1 Cor. 14:1), "to ask of God, who giveth liberally." (D. & C. 46:7; Matt. 7:7-8.) To some will be given one gift; to others, another; and "unto some it may be given to have all those gifts, that there may be a head, in order that every member may be profited thereby." (D. & C. 46:29.)

From the writings of Paul (1 Cor. 12; 13; 14), and of Moroni (Moro. 10), and from the revelations received by Joseph Smith (D. & C. 46), we gain a clear knowledge of spiritual gifts and how they operate. Among others, we find the following gifts named either in these three places or elsewhere in the scriptures: the gift of knowing by revelation "that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world" (D. & C. 46:13), and also the gift of believing the testimony of those who have gained this revelation; the gifts of testimony, of knowing that the Book of Mormon is true, and of receiving revelations; the gifts of judgment, knowledge, and wisdom; of teaching, exhortation, and preaching; of teaching the word of wisdom and the word of knowledge; of declaring the gospel and of ministry; the gift of faith, including power both to heal and to be healed; the gifts of healing, working of miracles, and prophesy; the viewing of visions, beholding of angels and ministering spirits, and the discerning of spirits; speaking with tongues, the interpretation of tongues, the interpretation of languages, and the gift of translation; the differences of administration in the Church and the diversities of operation of the Spirit; the gift of seership, "and a gift which is greater can no man have." (Mosiah 8:16; Alma 9:21; D. & C. 5:4; 43:3-4; Rom. 12:6-8.) And these are by no means all of the gifts. In the fullest sense, they are infinite in number and endless in their manifestations.

I love that last two sentences... "And these are by no means all of the gifts. In the fullest sense, they are infinite in number and endless in their manifestations." (emphasis added).

So as I sat in institute (this is the first time going to institute in over a year, maybe it has been close to two years--Micarie I want you to come with me!) and heard the teacher talk about the "gift" of the Holy Ghost-- it clicked! That is a type of gift every member of the church receives. That gift is available to all who will have faith on Jesus Christ, repent, and be baptized by someone who has authority--can and will receive the "GIFT" of the Holy Ghost! Whether we choose to keep the gift/live with it daily will be up to each individual. It is up to me.

So simple--and yet my heart started pondering the significance of everyone who wants it can receive THAT gift. A constant companion, a constant guide. And with that gift comes an "infinite...endless" other gifts one can seek to obtain. But we all get that gift of the Holy Ghost--if we will claim it! Very cool.

THIS WILL ONLY TAKE YOU ONE MINUTE!

Dear Friends and Family,

Andrea, my friend, and I bumped into each other a few weeks ago. She and her family are working towards adopting a young girl from Haiti. It is an amazing story click here to read! As Andrea shared with me the chain of events to how this all came to be--we both were relishing in the tender mercies of God! God is the one who has been guiding Andrea's family to adopt Kethia and the things He has already done in preparation--have been nothing short of a lot of miracles!

For this month only - ANY comments posted on the SixSeeds CLICK HERE website--the site will donate $2 dollars to Kethia's adoption. That is awesome!! SOOOO if you will just take a min to post an encouraging word to Andrea's family, you will be the means of "doing much good"(D&C 6:8)!

Read this quote last night-- AMAZINGLY PROFOUND and true!

"No matter how difficult something you or a loved one faces, it should not take over your life and be the center of all your interest. Challenges are growth experiences, temporary scenes to be played out on the background of a pleasant life" --Richard G. Scott

Love you all!

The church is true! Jesus is the Christ! We can go "boldly" before the throne in mighty prayer (Hebrews 4:16), for our Heavenly Father hears every sincere prayer (Moroni 10:4).

EVEN IN THE DARK, GOD HAS A PLAN

Today the spirit world was privileged to receive fully one choice daughter of God. A woman of great faith, kindness, service, humor, fun, and love. An aunt that would let me make no bake cookies every week for months with her kids and when driving to a church to go sing, she let me pull over at least seven different times to shoot the eagle in the passing tree. Never mind that it was freezing outside. And never mind I made she and I late for the little program we were apart of. She just laughed at how exited I was to see an eagle. A woman that loved deeply and didn't let the world stress her out. Today the spirit world received Becky Cloward. An amazing wife/lover. A wonderful mother of four kids. I surely don't understand God's ways for they are not my own. But even in the Dark--God has a plan.

Oh you lucky spirit world... You just received our angel.
Love you Beck. Love you.

REJOICE, THE LORD IS KING

I have a habit of singing a hymn all the way through before saying my morning or night prayers. Today was "Rejoice, the Lord is King". In such a real personal way, this spoke to me and I wept. Lift up my head, Lift up my heart, and REJOICE. Today I am rejoicing in family ties. For good Aunts and Uncles in my life. For the gospel, for Jesus Christ and his never failing love--for me.

I went to go date the top of my hymn book to symbolize that the song was an answer to prayer... and then I looked at my watch. Today is 11.1.10. Exactly 7 years ago I was in the temple Timp Temple--taking out my endowments. I always try to go to the temple on my anniversary--but this week will have to wait until tomorrow morning.

... My heart is full. My head is lifted. And I AM rejoicing in MY King. Whatever God wants, His will be done.

But I do believe in miraculous miracles.

KINDNESS

Mom came home last night and as we sat around the table, she told us of the new Provo Temple presidency that would be coming. They shared some of the training they received from the first presidency in Salt Lake. In regards to the temple, temple workers are to treat everyone with kindness. "Error" on the side of kindness. From big jewelry, to forgetting to change out colored underclothes, to whatever. Love the patrons. As mom shared these thoughts, a sweetness filled the air. Kindness = an attribute that wins me over time and time again. (I am sure this is true thinking for most folks.)

Jade, a great mission companion (now pregnant with twins!) wrote a blog post (click here) on mean vs. kind. Besides being a great writer, I was touched by her shout out to do more random acts of kindness to strangers.

My visiting teaching companion, Becca, is always showing love and kindness. Especially to anyone who may be tempted to feel like the underdog.

Don't even get me started on Sam. Kindness is just part of his "being".

I really do LOVE and cherish kindness. I am in need to sharpening that saw, but it is something for whatever reason-my senses are keenly aware of when it is being offered. Not just to me, but more when it is being offered around me.

My ultimate FAVORITE talk on this subject is from Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin. I cried/rejoiced/felt more determined-dedicated to make kindness more apart of my life after hearing this talk. (Still a work in progress...)

The Virtue of Kindness

Many years ago, when I was called as a bishop, I had a desire for the bishopric to visit those who were less active in the Church and see if there was anything we could do to bring the blessings of the gospel into their lives.

One day we visited a man in his 50s who was a respected mechanic. He told me the last time he had been to church was when he was a young boy. Something had happened that day. He had been acting up in class and was being noisier than he should when his teacher became angry, pulled him out of class, and told him not to come back.

He never did.

It was remarkable to me that an unkind word spoken more than four decades earlier could have had such a profound effect. But it had. And, as a consequence, this man had never returned to church. Neither had his wife or children.

I apologized to him and expressed my sorrow that he had been treated that way. I told him how unfortunate it was that one word spoken in haste, and so long ago, could have the effect of excluding his family from the blessings that come from Church activity.

“After 40 years,” I told him, “it’s time the Church made things right.”

I did my best to do so. I reassured him that he was welcome and needed. I rejoiced when this man and his family eventually returned to church and became strong and faithful members. In particular, this good brother became an effective home teacher because he understood how something as small as an unkind word could have consequences that extend throughout a lifetime and perhaps beyond.

Kindness is the essence of greatness and the fundamental characteristic of the noblest men and women I have known. Kindness is a passport that opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships that can last lifetimes.

Kind words not only lift our spirits in the moment they are given, but they can linger with us over the years. One day, when I was in college, a man seven years my senior congratulated me on my performance in a football game. He not only praised how well I had done in the game, but he had noticed that I had showed good sportsmanship. Even though this conversation happened more than 60 years ago, and even though it’s highly unlikely the person who complimented me has any recollection of this conversation, I still remember the kind words spoken to me that day by Gordon B. Hinckley, who would later become President of the Church.

The attributes of thoughtfulness and kindness are inseparably linked with President Hinckley. When my father passed away in 1963, President Hinckley was the first person to come to our home. I’ll never forget his kindness. He gave my mother a blessing and, among other things, promised her that she had much to look forward to and that life would be sweet for her. These words have brought comfort to her and to me, and I’ll never forget his kindness.

Kindness is the essence of a celestial life. Kindness is how a Christlike person treats others. Kindness should permeate all of our words and actions at work, at school, at church, and especially in our homes.

Jesus, our Savior, was the epitome of kindness and compassion. He healed the sick. He spent much of His time ministering to the one or many. He spoke compassionately to the Samaritan woman who was looked down upon by many. He instructed His disciples to allow the little children to come unto Him. He was kind to all who had sinned, condemning only the sin, not the sinner. He kindly allowed thousands of Nephites to come forward and feel the nail prints in His hands and feet. Yet His greatest act of kindness was found in His atoning sacrifice, thus freeing all from the effects of death, and all from the effects of sin, on conditions of repentance.

The Prophet Joseph Smith exemplified kindness in his life to everyone, old and young. One child who benefited from the Prophet’s kindness remembered:

“My older brother and I were going to school, near to the building which was known as Joseph’s brick store. It had been raining the previous day, causing the ground to be very muddy, especially along that street. My brother Wallace and I both got [our feet] in the mud, and could not get out, and of course, child-like, we began to cry, for we thought we would have to stay there. But looking up, I beheld the loving friend of children, the Prophet Joseph, coming to us. He soon had us on higher and drier ground. Then he stooped down and cleaned the mud from our little, heavy-laden shoes, took his handkerchief from his pocket and wiped our tear-stained faces. He spoke kind and cheering words to us, and sent us on our way to school rejoicing.” 1

There is no substitute for kindness in the home. This lesson I learned from my father. He always listened to my mother’s advice. As a result, he was a better, wiser, and kinder man.

I have tried to follow my father’s example and listen to my wife’s point of view. I value her opinion. For example, when my wife begins a sentence with the words “I should think you would …” I instantly pay attention and begin searching my mind for something I may have done wrong. Ofttimes before my wife has finished her sentence, I have already planned out in my mind a magnificent apology.

In truth, my wife is a model of kindness, gentleness, and compassion. And her insight, counsel, and support have been invaluable to me. Because of her I, too, am a wiser and kinder person.

The things you say, the tone of your voice, the anger or calm of your words—these things are noticed by your children and by others. They see and learn both the kind and the unkind things we say or do. Nothing exposes our true selves more than how we treat one another in the home.

I often wonder why some feel they must be critical of others. It gets in their blood, I suppose, and it becomes so natural they often don’t even think about it. They seem to criticize everyone—the way Sister Jones leads the music, the way Brother Smith teaches a lesson or plants his garden.

Even when we think we are doing no harm by our critical remarks, consequences often follow. I am reminded of a boy who handed a donation envelope to his bishop and told him it was for him. The bishop, using this as a teaching moment, explained to the boy that he should mark on the donation slip whether it was for tithing, fast offerings, or for something else. The boy insisted the money was for the bishop himself. When the bishop asked why, the boy replied, “Because my father says you’re one of the poorest bishops we’ve ever had.”

The Church is not a place where perfect people gather to say perfect things, or have perfect thoughts, or have perfect feelings. The Church is a place where imperfect people gather to provide encouragement, support, and service to each other as we press on in our journey to return to our Heavenly Father.

Each one of us will travel a different road during this life. Each progresses at a different rate. Temptations that trouble your brother may not challenge you at all. Strengths that you possess may seem impossible to another.

Never look down on those who are less perfect than you. Don’t be upset because someone can’t sew as well as you, can’t throw as well as you, can’t row or hoe as well as you.

We are all children of our Heavenly Father. And we are here with the same purpose: to learn to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. 2

One way you can measure your value in the kingdom of God is to ask, “How well am I doing in helping others reach their potential? Do I support others in the Church, or do I criticize them?”

If you are criticizing others, you are weakening the Church. If you are building others, you are building the kingdom of God. As Heavenly Father is kind, we also should be kind to others.

Elder James E. Talmage, a man who is remembered for his doctrinal teachings, showed great kindness to a neighbor family in distress. They were complete strangers to him. Before he was an Apostle, as a young father, he became aware of great suffering at a neighbor’s home whose large family was stricken with the dreaded diphtheria. He did not care that they were not members of the Church; his kindness and charity moved him to act. The Relief Society was desperately trying to find people to help, but no one would because of the contagious nature of the disease.

When he arrived, James found one toddler already dead and two others who were in agony from the disease. He immediately went to work, cleaning the untidy house, preparing the young body for burial, cleaning and providing for the other sick children, spending the entire day doing so. He came back the next morning to find that one more of the children had died during the night. A third child was still suffering terribly. He wrote in his journal: “She clung to my neck, ofttimes coughing [germs] on my face and clothing, … yet I could not put her from me. During the half hour immediately preceding her death, I walked the floor with the little creature in my arms. She died in agony at 10 a.m.” The three children had all departed within the space of 24 hours. He then assisted the family with the burial arrangements and spoke at their graveside services. 3 This he did all for a family of strangers. What a great example of Christlike kindness!

When we are filled with kindness, we are not judgmental. The Savior taught, “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.” 4 He also taught that “with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” 5

“But,” you ask, “what if people are rude?”

Love them.

“If they are obnoxious?”

Love them.

“But what if they offend? Surely I must do something then?”

Love them.

“Wayward?”

The answer is the same. Be kind. Love them.

Why? In the scriptures Jude taught, “And of some have compassion, making a difference.” 6

Who can tell what far-reaching impact we can have if we are only kind?

My brothers and sisters, the gospel of Jesus Christ transcends mortality. Our work here is but a shadow of greater and unimaginable things to come.

The heavens opened to the Prophet Joseph Smith. He saw the living God and His Son, Jesus the Christ.

In our day, a prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley, walks the earth and provides direction for our time.

As our Heavenly Father loves us, we also should love His children.

May we be models of kindness. May we ever live up to the words of the Savior: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” 7 Of these truths I bear witness in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.

PUMPKIN IN THE SKY

I know that I have no excuse because I am in a very selfish time in my life--but for the last week I have had the hardest time getting out of bed! I have no children, I have no husband, and I have nothing to even justify this action. To all my married friends, I know I know! :) When I have a family such luxuries are not to be found.

Now before you go thinking I am completely lazy, I am getting up by 6:30-7, but with a morning like that...well let me share my thoughts today.

What a blessing it was to hit the snooze button for a good hour. My personality is if I HAVE to wake up at a curtain time, I like to set the alarm clock a good 30- 50 mins earlier because I love waking up and knowing that I still get 45 mins more of time in bed. (Yes I realize my future spouse may hate this habit, so I will have to break it I am sure. :)) But for whatever reason the last week, I just have not been able to get out of bed--so not like my personality.

Yesterday as I was frustrated with my morning and my lack of "get up" I found my goal sheet for 2010. Little late to be reading my goals here in Oct. But as I read over all the things I wanted to do and become this year, the spirit filled me and I was determined to overcome this sleeping in habit that I have allowed to creep in for the last week.

This morning, my alarm went off at 4:45. And although I slept in until 5:40, I still got out of bed, threw on my exercise clothes and went out the door. The sky was still black and no stars were out because of a thick low cloud cover. As I turned a corner, I saw a sliver of the moon start to come to a break in the clouds. It is not November yet, but that moon could have passed for a harvest moon. There was only a little break in the clouds for 20 mins until the moon fell behind the west mountains. The moon was a pumpkin in the sky--HUGE and orange. I smiled as it portrayed the perfect Halloween color. As I finished my exercise, I noted all the cars passing. They were passing under a black sky--where as moments before it was filled with a great orange light. Had those cars come just mins before they would have seen the magnitude and brilliance of the moon. 20 mins--that is all the window of time there was to see it.

How often in my life, do I sleep away or idle 20 mins--here or there-- doing something less then worthy of my precious time? (I say precious, not because my time is a higher value than any time, but President Eyring talked about how sacred it is to have "time" in the last time.) If I had not gotten up this morning, the moon still would have come out-pumpkin like in glory and the break in the clouds still would have let her light shine for 20 mins...the moment still would have been there--but like the late passing cars, I would have not even known the moment existed while asleep in my bed.

I believe this moon is an exact replica of my life. God's hand-in a 20 min or a whatever time-is ever present in my life. I see His works all around me. Storm cloud covers or not. When the break in the clouds come to revel His hand, like the moon in the morning--His miraculous grace and power is there. If I am idling in anyway, I will not be there to see it, or like the passing cars--miss out on such a moment from heaven. Doesn't meant the moments still don't happen, but I for one do not want to be doing things of lesser value that would take me from experiencing such a moment. The moments are always there--throughout the day. And I believe if I am living or striving to live my life in accordance with doing good and striving to keep the commandments--I will see many many more pumpkin moons in the breaks of life.

God's hand is-never hidden-. Am I choosing to be in the places/moments where I can recognize it?

God bless my Pumpkin morning!

DO ANGELS HAVE BLOW-DRYERS?!

A choice friend recently went through the temple last month. There was a time when she dreaded even the thought of going there. Not because of what it was, but she wanted to make sure she was committed to keep the covenants she entered into there. She went to the temple completely by herself. Her escort was a temple worker. She wanted it this way, because for her, she needed to experience the temple by herself.

She called me up about a week ago and said she was ready to go to the temple with the ward and asked if I would be willing to come. My ward temple night was the day before and being in a new ward I wanted to support them, but this dear friend "going public" with others knowing she was endowed meant a lot to me. I prayed. I was to go with her which I was trilled about. For the last week I have been anticipating to going to the temple with her last night.

Yesterday while at work, I thought of another friend that I had not seen in a long time. I called her up and asked if she would like to come with us. Her situation is quite tough. The amount of afflictions she has in her physical/mental areas are some of the greatest battles. And yet this sweet sister chooses the better path. She could be over come by sorrow and grief and yet she strives to live each day defiant and full of faith. She kills her "odds" with her believe/trust in Jesus Christ.

She said that she would go, but an hour or so later she called me to let me know that she just didn't think she would be able to go. She didn't have any clean clothes and her mom was really sick. I told her that if she would pray about whether to go or not I would support whatever she received. I suggested that she wash her clothes in the tub and hang them up to dry if she was really worried about something to wear. She said she would pray.

A few hours later she left me another message saying she would be ready to go at 6. :)

As I entered her house my heart became heavy as I looked at the challenges that face she and her mom. I was proud of her for wanting to go to the temple.

As I went into her room. She had surgery on her ankle (I think it was her ankle/foot area-don't quote me) and still had the cast on. She has not been to the temple since the beginning of Aug. But cast and crutches she was determined to do a session. I had forgotten my advice about washing her clothes, but as I gave her a hug I was shocked to feel her all wet. She looked BEAUTIFUL! But I exclaimed that her clothes were all wet and she just smiled and told me that she washed them like I had suggested. My heart swelled with the faithfulness of this sweet sister. Now please note- it is Oct, and yesterday in the valley it was so cold that we had a good scuff of snow! This is a picture taken from my car on the way out of work. See that mountain-- there is snow on the top of it!! This tells you it was not the "warmest" of days.

Now this sweet sister was not thinking of the weather outside. I doubt she had been outside for a few days. But here she was wet skirt, shirt, and sweater/cardigan--crutches and cast--hobbling out to my car! What a site. My heart was full.

When we got in my car, I put the heater on to quite a full blast and aimed it her.

We drove picked up our friends and went to the temple. I dropped everyone off as close as I could. I was really worried about getting out of the temple at 9 pm and having her wet clothes make her sick. As I was thinking this, a spot was available for front row parking!! At least I could run to my car and not have her sit out in the cold too long.

I went into the temple and found my adopted grandparents waiting to do initiatory!! This was a surprise because of health reasons the Shepherds had said they wouldn't make it to the stake temple night anymore. This was a kind blessing from God to see them there. I also saw other sisters from my old ward that I so dearly loved--the whole situation was choice.

We went to go do a session. I could not help smiling at my friends and to God. There were two sisters there that were at the temple for their second time. It was beautiful to behold. And there was my friend with her crutches against the wall, just happy to be in the temple.

Through the session I still thought about how when we left the temple with her wet clothes--IF she became sick it would be my fault. I said a silent prayer. I had thought about going and asking the temple workers to dry her clothes in the temple dryers but thinking that would not work because of sanitary reasons--then I thought maybe I could ask them if we could lay out the clothes where the workers change their clothes, perhaps the 1 1/2 of being in the session would allow them to dry out more. The thought of the clothes being in a small locker with no air--just made the thought of her putting them back on wet all the more dreadful. These are the thoughts that raced in my mind...so in the session I prayed/asked/thought in my mind that Heavenly Father could send some angles to blow-dry the clothes in the locker. I explained the faith of this sister in coming to the temple that night and all her efforts. Now she had not complained once about her clothes. And in fact--had I not hugged her I would have never known they were wet! She would have just let me taken her for she would have not said a word. That is just how this sister is/has--faith of David and non murmuring like Nephi.

I stewed over her clothes for a few more moments and then focused on the endowment and basked in the sisters sitting around me. I LOVE that God gives us brothers and sisters to love!

The session finished, and it was sweet. I was able to shake my old bishoprics hands in the celestial room--choice sons of God. I told my old Bishop about this sister and her wet clothes. He too knows the type of determination she has, even at the sacrifice of comfort. He beamed with is smile for her.

We all went downstairs. I changed out of my temple clothes and met my friends in the lobby. My cast/crutch using sister was waiting for me. I hugged her...and found her clothes to be completely DRY! Not believing it I rubbed her sweater and exclaimed that the angels had gotten out their blow-dryers! I wanted to cry. She was completely dry.

We talked about the miracle all the way back to her place.
...
This morning as I got up to walk--the natural man in me wanted to rationalize this miracle. But I have done the math. A locker that is 5 1/2 feet'ish tall 12 inches'ish wide and 15-17 inches'sih deep--no air circulation--wet/damp clothes hanging in there for two hours = still damp/wet clothes coming out! Think of a boys locker room after a practice. Sweaty clothes hung in a locker-no air circulation for two hours = still moist, now smelly, I don't want to go on a date with you if you are wearing those same clothes!
...
MY CONCLUSION:

Angels HAVE blow-dryers!
:)

Needless to say - it was a choice night in the temple.

Jesus is the Christ!
God is a God of miracles.