So...
We had word yesterday of there being lots of bloodshed in France. My
heart goes out to the people in France they are in my prayers and
thoughts. Have there been storms in Virginia because I saw an article of
how the church is helping with supplies that are needed. You kinda
really don't hear much of what is going out here like not much at all.
You hear everything is fine when you kinda know there are somethings
that you all may be going through. But I pray for you all that you may
have strength and that you may be guided by the Lord.
With this cold day
today - it's a little windy outside, it reminds me of the true darkness
and cold that there is out in the world. And just as we are inside,
outside we can hear the trees hitting the side of the house and can see
the wind and some flurries in it. If it were not for the coldness we
feel in here we would not know there is a little storm outside. In the
same way although our lives at the moment are not being directly
affected by the calamities that are going on around us we can feel the
cool air setting around us. This morning when I woke up at 5:00am again I
turned on the little heater we have because it was chilly.
Yesterday
during sacrament meeting I glanced next to me to see a Sister we went
by to see two weeks ago. She sat next to me and I was surprised. I did
not see her earlier. I hugged her and I could feel how weak her spirit
felt. As we sang the hymns I could hear her breathing as when a baby
does after crying, inconsolable. We both sat at her sides and she
thanked us and said she loved us. We have come to realize that everyone
around us is in need of a helping hand, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to
listen. And who can provide that? We can. As in you and me. Look out and
seek opportunities to reach out to others.
As
my companion and I were discussing yesterday the only thing that brings
us hope and strength is the gospel. YOU KNOW WHAT? It is also a time of
happiness because we can be comforted through Christ's atonement. We
can have happiness as we stay optimistic and look to God.
I like an article I read from the Ensign it had the following tips:
BE OPTIMISTIC
LOOK FOR COMPENSATORY BLESSING
FIND WAYS TO SERVE
HAVE FAITH IN THE LORD'S TIME
In
being optimistic we were told to laugh in the mornings. I have tried and I feel funny doing it. So I try giggling so my companion won't
hear. But I guess I'll do it right, haha starting this week.
My
companion has helped me notice and see even the smallest of blessings.
And I can feel God's love. We are finding many opportunities to serve :) How can we find these opportunities? By seeking them out! There are many
ways to help and everyone needs that help. Heavenly Father knows. He is
aware of all things. We just have to have faith and trust, and have
hope that there are good things to come.
Although
it is now super windy and snowing now. I can keep calm and bundle up in
my coat. The warmth comes through the gospel. Joy :)
A quote I like from the meeting we had with Elder Russell M. Ballard was the following:
"Take on the World with a smile on your face!"
As it was said to us I extend this invitation "Be Grateful and energetic and take on the world with a smile on your face.
Enjoy every moment. :)
