To be honest, Winter semester scares me. The most difficult times in my life have started at the beginning of the new year; however, these soul-bending experiences have also yielded the greatest blessings. I learned something about myself this week. Whenever the trials and tests of life bombard me, I find refuge not only in my faith and testimony, but also with those I love. Their mere existence and love for me buoy me up and bring much-needed comfort.
One undergrad semester was exceptionally trying. The blessing of a plane ticket allowed me to fly to California for the weekend where I found the escape and perspective I needed by playing with my nieces and nephews and talking with my sister and brother. I came back having renewed energy and strength to tackle the difficult tasks before me.
Most of you have heard the Parable of Thursday Night Class, an experience that happened while I attended ASU. Though I didn't understand what was happening, I knew that God loved me and guided me in that direction. Little by little, I recognized what I needed to learn and how this "mistake" allowed me to serve others. My parents were my anchor and support as I navigated this difficulty. Never once did they let me give up. They encouraged and pushed me onward, for which I am forever grateful.
Which leads me to now. With the bombardments of life, I have felt myself faltering in adversity. Realizing I needed the love of family, I visited Melissa and Adam who live nearby. There, I was able to ponder and find peace in the Lord. Because I do not know the end of the story, I would like to close this post with thoughts from Elder Maxell. In a fireside on December 2, 1984, Elder Maxwell spoke about D&C 121:8, If Thou Endure It Well. This talk is one I referred to many times in the above experiences and it has become a frequent read the past few weeks. May you also find peace in the words of an apostle of the Lord.
There have been, and will be times in each of your lives when such faith must be the bottom line. You don't know what is happening to you or around you, but you know that God loves you, and knowing that, for the moment, is enough.
The gospel is not a religion of repose. There is an inherent activism in which God will not be content with us as we now are because he knows what we have the possibilities to become.
For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so . . . righteousness could not be brought to pass. (2 Nephi 2:11)
The Lord will measure our bearing capacity. (See D&C 50:40) He knows we are children and what we cannot handle, but He will give us almost all that we can handle, at times.
So it is that enduring well to the end--or to the very beginning--becomes a prime quality. It calls for shoulder squaring and not shoulder shrugging. It calls for realizing the wisdom of that wise man who said to each of us, the "cross comes before the crown, and tomorrow is a Monday morning." So is the structure of life.
May God bless you as a generation of destiny to whom so many challenges and opportunities will be given, to develop within you, along with all the other qualities, that added sense of reverence and respect for the spiritual submissiveness which permits us to endure well to the very beginning. To take one more step when we think we cannot, to make it to the next ridge when we are sure it is too far to go, to endure injustice, misrepresentation and abuse because we are the servants of Him upon whom they spat, and He suffered it. We should do it in the same way--with kindness and long suffering.
Life is My Adventure
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Unexpected is What Changes Our Lives
I love quotes or little anecdotes that capture the essence of a situation. I have been thinking of all that has happened the past month and find myself thinking of the inspiring words of others. So I share the those thoughts that have been pressing on my mind, beginning with the inspiration for my blog.
-But sometimes our expectations sell us short. Sometimes the expected simply pales in comparison to the unexpected. You've got to wonder why we cling to our expectations. Because the expected is just what keeps us steady. Standing. Still. The expected is just the beginning. The unexpected is what changes our lives
-Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted.
-Brick walls are there for a reason. They are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. The brick walls are there to stop people who don't want it badly enough.
-There was this law of life, both so cruel and so just, that demanded one must grow or else pay more for staying the same.
-Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.
-Keep away from those who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you believe that you too can become great.
-To endure is greater than to dare; to tire out hostile fortune; to be daunted by no difficulty; to keep heart when all have lost it; to go through intrigue spotless; to forego even ambition when the end is gained - who can say this is not greatness?
-Adversity has a way of challenging all of us, sooner or later. How we collectively bear up to the pressures of unexpected tragedy, how we care for and honor those who suffer loss, how we hold on to our values despite the seductive lure of simple, quick and easy solutions to the complex problems we face — how we deal with such things defines us forever.
-But sometimes our expectations sell us short. Sometimes the expected simply pales in comparison to the unexpected. You've got to wonder why we cling to our expectations. Because the expected is just what keeps us steady. Standing. Still. The expected is just the beginning. The unexpected is what changes our lives
-Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted.
-Brick walls are there for a reason. They are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. The brick walls are there to stop people who don't want it badly enough.
-There was this law of life, both so cruel and so just, that demanded one must grow or else pay more for staying the same.
-Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.
-Keep away from those who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you believe that you too can become great.
-To endure is greater than to dare; to tire out hostile fortune; to be daunted by no difficulty; to keep heart when all have lost it; to go through intrigue spotless; to forego even ambition when the end is gained - who can say this is not greatness?
-Adversity has a way of challenging all of us, sooner or later. How we collectively bear up to the pressures of unexpected tragedy, how we care for and honor those who suffer loss, how we hold on to our values despite the seductive lure of simple, quick and easy solutions to the complex problems we face — how we deal with such things defines us forever.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
What Am I Going To Do?
My last final ended last night at 8:30PM. I had been there for almost three hours and had typed over five pages of material. When I left, 2/3 of the class were still there. In a 58 hour period, I was in finals almost 12 hours, had a little over 12 hours of sleep, and studied almost the rest of the time. I did take a study break and Andrew helped give me some semblance of sanity. Finals are now over! I survived my first semester of MBA school and am amazed at the changes and growth that have occurred in me. As a side note, I love self-reflection. It brings such peace realizing how the Lord has helped me accomplish difficult tasks that I didn't think I had the capacity to complete. Such a humbling thought.
Now on to the real reason for the post. I was laying in bed this morning, enjoying not waking up to an alarm or having somewhere I had to be, and created a list of all the things I needed/wanted to do now that I didn't have to study for classes. Here is my list:
1. clean my room
2. clean the house
3. organize and file my notes and assignments
4. balance my checkbook (I have been keeping track of my finances but haven't taken the time to balance my checkbook since October.)
5. write my Christmas card
6. decide what to buy people for Christmas and actually go buy it
7. go food shopping (In July and August I built up a food storage because I had the impression that I was going to need it. I thought it was because finances would become tight. No, no. I didn't have time to run to the grocery store. I think I went twice after school started. Now, I went to Costco every few weeks to get milk and a few other essentials, but never made it to the grocery store.)
8. drop off items at the DI that have been sitting in my closet
9. organize the piles that have built up (this is not part of cleaning room because the piles need to be filed in the folders in the basement)
10. start creating the family calendar
11. organize emails (I take emails I write to people and put them in my journal)
12. write on the backs or pictures and put them in an album (In September I went through my 2006 pictures and had Costco print them. Well, they have been sitting in a box on my floor since then.)
13. search companies that do not recruit at BYU and look for a summer internship
14. read a book Andrew lent me about Hugh Nibley and the 101st airborne
15. read other books that I am not assigned to read
16. actually talk to Suzy on the phone (She has called me a few times the past week and I just couldn't talk when she called.)
17. clean out my car (However, it is snowing outside and this one may have to wait)
18. take a nap (I think I deserve this one)
19. venture out into the real world and meet people outside of the Tanner building
20. go to the temple
And that is the list I came up with this morning. I don't expect to do this all today. Just my list of things I can concentrate on now that final are over. Happy day!
Now on to the real reason for the post. I was laying in bed this morning, enjoying not waking up to an alarm or having somewhere I had to be, and created a list of all the things I needed/wanted to do now that I didn't have to study for classes. Here is my list:
1. clean my room
2. clean the house
3. organize and file my notes and assignments
4. balance my checkbook (I have been keeping track of my finances but haven't taken the time to balance my checkbook since October.)
5. write my Christmas card
6. decide what to buy people for Christmas and actually go buy it
7. go food shopping (In July and August I built up a food storage because I had the impression that I was going to need it. I thought it was because finances would become tight. No, no. I didn't have time to run to the grocery store. I think I went twice after school started. Now, I went to Costco every few weeks to get milk and a few other essentials, but never made it to the grocery store.)
8. drop off items at the DI that have been sitting in my closet
9. organize the piles that have built up (this is not part of cleaning room because the piles need to be filed in the folders in the basement)
10. start creating the family calendar
11. organize emails (I take emails I write to people and put them in my journal)
12. write on the backs or pictures and put them in an album (In September I went through my 2006 pictures and had Costco print them. Well, they have been sitting in a box on my floor since then.)
13. search companies that do not recruit at BYU and look for a summer internship
14. read a book Andrew lent me about Hugh Nibley and the 101st airborne
15. read other books that I am not assigned to read
16. actually talk to Suzy on the phone (She has called me a few times the past week and I just couldn't talk when she called.)
17. clean out my car (However, it is snowing outside and this one may have to wait)
18. take a nap (I think I deserve this one)
19. venture out into the real world and meet people outside of the Tanner building
20. go to the temple
And that is the list I came up with this morning. I don't expect to do this all today. Just my list of things I can concentrate on now that final are over. Happy day!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Be Right Back
I haven't written for a while because I am in the midst of finals. Lots to say but my mind can only speak NPV values, capital budgeting, pro formas, CAPM, cycle counting, safety stock, EOQ, EPQ, 4Ps, 5Cs, and human capital relations. After Wednesday, I'll be back.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Remembering
Many people I know are suffering from the trials of life. One of those succumbed to colon cancer yesterday. She was a vibrant 26-year-old who still had so much to live for. This quote became her mantra and I post it in memory of her.
“… the tests of life are tailored for our own best interests, and all will face the burdens best suited to their own mortal experience. In the end we will realize that God is merciful as well as just and that all the rules are fair. We can be reassured that our challenges will be the ones we needed, and conquering them will bring blessings we could have received in no other way.
If we constantly focus only on the stones in our mortal path, we will almost surely miss the beautiful flower or cool stream provided by the loving Father who outlined our journey. Each day can bring more joy than sorrow when our mortal and spiritual eyes are open to God’s goodness. Joy in the gospel is not something that begins only in the next life. It is our privilege now, this very day. We must never allow our burdens to obscure our blessings. There will always be more blessings than burdens—even if some days it doesn’t seem so. Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Enjoy those blessings right now. They are yours and always will be.” --Elder Jeffery R. Holland
“… the tests of life are tailored for our own best interests, and all will face the burdens best suited to their own mortal experience. In the end we will realize that God is merciful as well as just and that all the rules are fair. We can be reassured that our challenges will be the ones we needed, and conquering them will bring blessings we could have received in no other way.
If we constantly focus only on the stones in our mortal path, we will almost surely miss the beautiful flower or cool stream provided by the loving Father who outlined our journey. Each day can bring more joy than sorrow when our mortal and spiritual eyes are open to God’s goodness. Joy in the gospel is not something that begins only in the next life. It is our privilege now, this very day. We must never allow our burdens to obscure our blessings. There will always be more blessings than burdens—even if some days it doesn’t seem so. Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Enjoy those blessings right now. They are yours and always will be.” --Elder Jeffery R. Holland
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Christmas Story
My Favorite Christmas storybook is Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree.
Mr. Willowby's Christmas tree
Came by special delivery.
Full and fresh and glistening green -
The biggest tree he had ever seen.
The story continues as Mr. Willowby realizes his tree is too tall. The top is whacked off and the maid takes it to her room. She too needs to take a bit off the top and discards the remaining portion. The story continues as the poor tree continues to be cut and thrown out. However, the ending brings warmth to my heart as the final recipient of the tree is a little mouse who lives in the wall of Mr. Willowby's house.
Oh, wasn’t it grand to have a tree—
Exactly like Mr. Willowby?
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Birthday Week
Today is my brother Richard's and sister Lucille's birthdays. They are not twins but were born eight years apart. My mom was very good and always made two birthday cakes making sure both felt important. Richard is always fun. He makes me cds full of random music that I would never put together. This week he sent me one titled CRAP (country, rock, alternative, and psychedelic). I enjoy the mixes he creates. When I first came to college, I felt alone but Rich always took time for me. We would go for walks and he would give me big brother dating advice. When I come to visit now, he shows me the latest basketball or Sports Center highlights on his DVR. We have a good time together and I am glad he is my brother. Lucille is one of my best friends. We have so many fun memories together including beach trips, playing _________ (fill in the blank) when we were younger, laughing hysterically when staying up too late (think 3 Little Pigs and Mickey and the Beanstalk), quoting movies, and conversations that always give me hope. One of those times happened in Russia. Because of some unfortunate circumstances, I was quite upset. Lucy put her arm around me, let me cry, then let me know everything would be okay. She is an amazing sister.
Monday, December 1, 2008
An Editorial on Mormons
http://townhall.com/Columnists/KathrynJeanLopez/2008/11/26/mormons_in_the_crosshairs
Mormons in the Crosshairs
by Kathryn Jean Lopez
Mormons have a reason to be nervous. I didn't fully appreciate it two years ago, when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints first came under an intense political spotlight. In 2006, Mormon officials had begun making the media rounds, prepping for former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney's expected try for the Republican presidential nomination. This protective measure stood out. No evangelical contingents were giving theological primers in anticipation of Mike Huckabee's run. Few officials were warning Catholics to not do as Rudy Giuliani does on abortion before his run. Why did the Mormons need to do advance work?
We quickly saw why. Many members of this young, uniquely American church understandably did not desire the intense scrutiny that Romney's run would bring. It didn't take long, as it turned out, for journalists and popular blogs to raise questions about undergarments, theology and points of history. Some points fell within the fair scope of political journalism, while many were clearly out of bounds.
But nothing justifies the concerns of anxious Mormons like the current controversy over Proposition 8 in California. This initiative protecting traditional marriage won by the same margin as Barack Obama did in that state -- getting the support of some Obama voters, in fact. Its victory has led supposed agents of tolerance to blatant acts of bigotry; gay-marriage advocates are blaming the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their electoral defeat.
Romney, because he subscribes to the Mormon faith, had to give a speech on religion a year ago. In it, Romney did what John F. Kennedy didn't do in the first Catholic president's effort to allay concerns about his creed. Kennedy essentially apologized for his religion, assuring people that it wouldn't have any real influence over his decisions as president. Romney, on the other hand, stood by the faith of his fathers, and took the opportunity to talk about how the varieties of belief and nonbelief practiced in the United States make it a richer, more vigorous country.
Romney's thanks for this contribution to our civic life consist of continued hostility. A piece in the Boston Herald proclaimed "Mitt Romney's kin put faith in pa$$ing Proposition 8." The story detailed how some Romney relatives, along with other prominent Massachusetts Mormons, contributed cash to the pro-8 campaign.
And so? While some reports claim that Mormon contributions accounted for a whopping 70 percent of total donations to the pro-8 cause, it should also be noted that 70 percent of black Californians voted for the initiative. The backlash -- which has included white-powder scares and bomb threats at Mormon temples and offices -- is both wrong and unfair. (Outside Denver, a Book of Mormon was lit on fire and dropped on the doorstep of a Mormon temple.) Catholics, Orthodox bishops and evangelicals also supported the initiative.
A law professor at the purportedly Catholic Georgetown University, who is also a gay activist, argues that the cause of gay marriage is simply in conflict with religious liberty; he's "having a hard time coming up with any case in which religious liberty should win." (Never mind, again, that the victory of Proposition 8 in California was not the result of an edict from Salt Lake, the Vatican or any one religion, but the free and fair vote of California citizens, some informed by their religious belief, as they are free to be so motivated.)
Surely we don't have to be Mormon to be outraged. I make no statement about their recruitment strategies when I say, watching California, "We're all Mormons now." Next time the violent backlash may be in response to a brave Catholic bishop teaching responsibility at the voting booth. Next time it could be an online evangelical dating service hauled into court by a state "civil rights" office for not providing same-sex matchmaking. Oh wait, that already happened in New Jersey.
Now I know why Mormons were so nervous. They were warning the rest of us. Our freedom to believe is at hazard, and it's time we all had the Mormons' backs.
Mormons in the Crosshairs
by Kathryn Jean Lopez
Mormons have a reason to be nervous. I didn't fully appreciate it two years ago, when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints first came under an intense political spotlight. In 2006, Mormon officials had begun making the media rounds, prepping for former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney's expected try for the Republican presidential nomination. This protective measure stood out. No evangelical contingents were giving theological primers in anticipation of Mike Huckabee's run. Few officials were warning Catholics to not do as Rudy Giuliani does on abortion before his run. Why did the Mormons need to do advance work?
We quickly saw why. Many members of this young, uniquely American church understandably did not desire the intense scrutiny that Romney's run would bring. It didn't take long, as it turned out, for journalists and popular blogs to raise questions about undergarments, theology and points of history. Some points fell within the fair scope of political journalism, while many were clearly out of bounds.
But nothing justifies the concerns of anxious Mormons like the current controversy over Proposition 8 in California. This initiative protecting traditional marriage won by the same margin as Barack Obama did in that state -- getting the support of some Obama voters, in fact. Its victory has led supposed agents of tolerance to blatant acts of bigotry; gay-marriage advocates are blaming the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their electoral defeat.
Romney, because he subscribes to the Mormon faith, had to give a speech on religion a year ago. In it, Romney did what John F. Kennedy didn't do in the first Catholic president's effort to allay concerns about his creed. Kennedy essentially apologized for his religion, assuring people that it wouldn't have any real influence over his decisions as president. Romney, on the other hand, stood by the faith of his fathers, and took the opportunity to talk about how the varieties of belief and nonbelief practiced in the United States make it a richer, more vigorous country.
Romney's thanks for this contribution to our civic life consist of continued hostility. A piece in the Boston Herald proclaimed "Mitt Romney's kin put faith in pa$$ing Proposition 8." The story detailed how some Romney relatives, along with other prominent Massachusetts Mormons, contributed cash to the pro-8 campaign.
And so? While some reports claim that Mormon contributions accounted for a whopping 70 percent of total donations to the pro-8 cause, it should also be noted that 70 percent of black Californians voted for the initiative. The backlash -- which has included white-powder scares and bomb threats at Mormon temples and offices -- is both wrong and unfair. (Outside Denver, a Book of Mormon was lit on fire and dropped on the doorstep of a Mormon temple.) Catholics, Orthodox bishops and evangelicals also supported the initiative.
A law professor at the purportedly Catholic Georgetown University, who is also a gay activist, argues that the cause of gay marriage is simply in conflict with religious liberty; he's "having a hard time coming up with any case in which religious liberty should win." (Never mind, again, that the victory of Proposition 8 in California was not the result of an edict from Salt Lake, the Vatican or any one religion, but the free and fair vote of California citizens, some informed by their religious belief, as they are free to be so motivated.)
Surely we don't have to be Mormon to be outraged. I make no statement about their recruitment strategies when I say, watching California, "We're all Mormons now." Next time the violent backlash may be in response to a brave Catholic bishop teaching responsibility at the voting booth. Next time it could be an online evangelical dating service hauled into court by a state "civil rights" office for not providing same-sex matchmaking. Oh wait, that already happened in New Jersey.
Now I know why Mormons were so nervous. They were warning the rest of us. Our freedom to believe is at hazard, and it's time we all had the Mormons' backs.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Gratitude - Day 28
As this is the last day of my gratitude blog, I wanted to highlight eternal things I am grateful for.
1. I am grateful for scriptures that testify of Christ. As we approach this Christmas season, my thoughts focus more keenly on His birth and life. The scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, teach us about Jesus Christ, His earthly mission, and how we can become like Him.
2. I am grateful for revelation. More and more, I rely on the simple insights I receive which help me make important decisions. Without revelation, my life would feel directionless. I am very grateful for personal revelation.
3. I am grateful for modern day apostles and prophets. In church we discussed the Proclamation on the Family. In a world of uncertainty where the tides of discord are threatening our moral foundation, I am grateful for a living, latter-day prophet who guides and directs our lives.
1. I am grateful for scriptures that testify of Christ. As we approach this Christmas season, my thoughts focus more keenly on His birth and life. The scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, teach us about Jesus Christ, His earthly mission, and how we can become like Him.
2. I am grateful for revelation. More and more, I rely on the simple insights I receive which help me make important decisions. Without revelation, my life would feel directionless. I am very grateful for personal revelation.
3. I am grateful for modern day apostles and prophets. In church we discussed the Proclamation on the Family. In a world of uncertainty where the tides of discord are threatening our moral foundation, I am grateful for a living, latter-day prophet who guides and directs our lives.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Another trailer for the movie being released July 2009.
http://harrypotter.warnerbros.com/harrypotterandthehalf-bloodprince/
http://harrypotter.warnerbros.com/harrypotterandthehalf-bloodprince/
Gratitude - Day 27
1. I am grateful I had a successful shopping day. I don't really care to go shopping for myself. Unfortunately I have a pair of church shoes that squeak every time I walk (4 years old), a pair of brown shoes that are falling apart (5 years old), and most of my clothes would be tossed if Stacy and Clinton showed up at my house (okay...not really). The point is I needed to go shopping, but I don't like searching for the perfect outfit, I dislike having to wear five or six layers, I refuse to spend full price knowing if I am patient I can get an item on sale, I find it pointless to buy something that is ruined with a camisole underneath, etc., etc., etc. So I was really excited yesterday when I found things I actually liked, that were on sale, and didn't require me to layer for modesty sake. Such a nice feeling!
2. I am grateful for Trader Joe's Candy Cane Joe-Joe's. I indulged myself while living in Phoenix. Last year my aunt brought two boxes from Oregon. Most of the year, I don't miss Trader Joe's, but at Christmas time my heart gives a sigh knowing I'm missing out on one of the good things in life. I bought Oreo's Candy Cane variety, but was sadly disappointed. Next year, I will pre-order my boxes of Joe-Joe's from you who live near Trader's Joe.
3. I am grateful for Google Reader. With so many friends out there with blogs, it is so nice to visit one page that updates all of you for me. Thanks for sharing your blogs with me and thanks to Google Reader for keeping them all organized.
2. I am grateful for Trader Joe's Candy Cane Joe-Joe's. I indulged myself while living in Phoenix. Last year my aunt brought two boxes from Oregon. Most of the year, I don't miss Trader Joe's, but at Christmas time my heart gives a sigh knowing I'm missing out on one of the good things in life. I bought Oreo's Candy Cane variety, but was sadly disappointed. Next year, I will pre-order my boxes of Joe-Joe's from you who live near Trader's Joe.
3. I am grateful for Google Reader. With so many friends out there with blogs, it is so nice to visit one page that updates all of you for me. Thanks for sharing your blogs with me and thanks to Google Reader for keeping them all organized.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Gratitude - Day 26
1. I am grateful for Thanksgiving. Every year all of my mom's family gathers together, and we spend the day eating, playing games, and enjoying one another's company. A crowd of 30 is average but we usually range around 40-50 people! I love spending time with my aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings.
2. I am grateful for the majesty of the mountains.
3. I am grateful I didn't even think about homework on Thanksgiving.
2. I am grateful for the majesty of the mountains.
3. I am grateful I didn't even think about homework on Thanksgiving.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Gratitude - Day 25
1. I am grateful for home. I love driving onto my parents' street and pulling into the driveway. So many memories flood my mind including playing night games, sleeping in the field, sledding behind 4-wheelers, and being creative with friends. But what I love even more is walking into our home because I always feel at peace. Nothing compares with coming home.
2. I am grateful for my parents' advice. Whenever I was traveling, my dad always would say, "Don't hit any deer. Pull over if you get tired. It's better to arrive late then get in an accident." And so forth. As I was driving home yesterday, I realized I was fighting sleep. I only had 25 minutes left and could have pushed through. But, the memory of my dad's advice hit me. I pulled into a gas station parking lot, slept for 20 minutes, and continued on my way with no harm done.
3. I am grateful for pictures. My parents' home is loaded with family pictures. I love walking around seeing how we have all changed. My parents also proudly display pictures of their grandchildren. Each one of them knows they are important because Grandma and Papa have their pictures and they, the kids, get excited finding where theirs is located. You can tell family is important to my parents just by stepping into the house and looking around.
2. I am grateful for my parents' advice. Whenever I was traveling, my dad always would say, "Don't hit any deer. Pull over if you get tired. It's better to arrive late then get in an accident." And so forth. As I was driving home yesterday, I realized I was fighting sleep. I only had 25 minutes left and could have pushed through. But, the memory of my dad's advice hit me. I pulled into a gas station parking lot, slept for 20 minutes, and continued on my way with no harm done.
3. I am grateful for pictures. My parents' home is loaded with family pictures. I love walking around seeing how we have all changed. My parents also proudly display pictures of their grandchildren. Each one of them knows they are important because Grandma and Papa have their pictures and they, the kids, get excited finding where theirs is located. You can tell family is important to my parents just by stepping into the house and looking around.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Gratitude - Day 24
1. I am grateful I enjoy driving. I have been and will be traveling back and forth between home and Salt Lake many times this week. As long as traffic isn't bad, I find driving cathartic. Some of my favorite memories are the road trips I have taken: Vegas with Annette a couple of times - food was the sole purpose for one of those, Arizona with Annette - Fiesta Bowl, driving to Sacramento - blip.blip.blip.blip.blip.etc, and others. Good times!
2. I am grateful that I am still in bed at 9am on a weekday. Don't think I'm too lazy. I woke up at 7:30am. I have just been playing old school Nintendo on my computer, catching up on emails, and not doing homework.
3. I am grateful for lunch plans with friends. With my life being so busy, it is nice to take a break, eat good food, and talk with people I care about. Yesterday, my friend Chloe and I had lunch. She sits behind me in all my classes but we rarely have time to just be us. I have lunch plans with another friend today and am looking forward to more good food and conversation.
2. I am grateful that I am still in bed at 9am on a weekday. Don't think I'm too lazy. I woke up at 7:30am. I have just been playing old school Nintendo on my computer, catching up on emails, and not doing homework.
3. I am grateful for lunch plans with friends. With my life being so busy, it is nice to take a break, eat good food, and talk with people I care about. Yesterday, my friend Chloe and I had lunch. She sits behind me in all my classes but we rarely have time to just be us. I have lunch plans with another friend today and am looking forward to more good food and conversation.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Gratitude - Day 23
1. I am grateful for the ability to choose. Agency truly is a gift.
2. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn about other people. I am constantly amazed at how the experiences of others teach me understanding, perspective, and kindness.
3. I am grateful for my family. Anytime someone in the family needs help, everyone rallies to the cause. When my nephew began having grand-maul seizures, the family immediately began a fast for my nephew and his family. When my sister unexpectedly had twins, my siblings immediately began emailing one another discussing ways we could help. They support and strengthen me, and I love them!
2. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn about other people. I am constantly amazed at how the experiences of others teach me understanding, perspective, and kindness.
3. I am grateful for my family. Anytime someone in the family needs help, everyone rallies to the cause. When my nephew began having grand-maul seizures, the family immediately began a fast for my nephew and his family. When my sister unexpectedly had twins, my siblings immediately began emailing one another discussing ways we could help. They support and strengthen me, and I love them!
NY Times Quote of the Day
"I agree with the residents that they should not be rousted out of bed by a professional gym instructor at 6 in the morning saying, ‘One, two, three, four!’"
Bobby Shriver, a councilman in Santa Monica, Calif., where a scenic median in a wealthy neighborhood is attracting crowds of exercise enthusiasts.
Bobby Shriver, a councilman in Santa Monica, Calif., where a scenic median in a wealthy neighborhood is attracting crowds of exercise enthusiasts.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Gratitude - Day 22
1. I am grateful for sleep. The past four days I have averaged 10 hours of sleep a night. I am finally starting to feel better.
2. I am grateful for December birthdays. They make the Christmas season even better.
3. I am grateful I have a two day school week. I need a vacation.
2. I am grateful for December birthdays. They make the Christmas season even better.
3. I am grateful I have a two day school week. I need a vacation.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Gratitude - Day 21
1. I am grateful for being forced to slow down.
2. I am grateful for those who help me.
3. I am grateful for blankets. I love wrapping myself in a blanket and putting on a good movie or reading a good book.
2. I am grateful for those who help me.
3. I am grateful for blankets. I love wrapping myself in a blanket and putting on a good movie or reading a good book.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Gratitude - Day 20
1. I am grateful for books. Harry Potter transports you into a world where the unexpected is always happening. When I read those books, I become an unnamed character experiencing the same adventures as Ron, Hermione, and Harry. My favorite book is The Blue Castle. Nothing compares to sitting on the porch of Lake Mistawis watching the sunset and being (to use an LM Montgomery phrase) deliciously happy. I love reading! However, some people feel the need to translate books into movies and they fail miserably at the attempt. Some things are better left to my imagination. Movies rarely do any book justice.
2. I am grateful for good movies. Annette and I label movies as DVD worthy, opening night, full price, matinee, dollar, and redbox. Some movies are fantastic on the big screen - Batman Begins, Bourne series, Star Wars, etc. Fun entertainment value. Others are barely worth the dollar theatre. I don't need to mention those because we all have our lists. The best movies though are the ones worth buying. Some of my favorites movies are the action-packed thriller, the Disney cutsie fairytale, and the historical epic. But what really captures my attention are movies that get you to rethink your current perspective. These include A Time to Kill (edited), Dead Poets Society, Glory, The Pianist (edited), and Wall-E. I am grateful for quality movies that don't insult my intelligence.
3. I am grateful for a listening ear when I need to vent, flesh out my thoughts, or just have "big people" time. That last phrase came when I was a first year teacher. After work, I usually went and visited my friends Rob and Bryan. When I came over they would laugh and say, "Thamina, do you need big people time?" I am grateful for all those who take the time to listen to me.
2. I am grateful for good movies. Annette and I label movies as DVD worthy, opening night, full price, matinee, dollar, and redbox. Some movies are fantastic on the big screen - Batman Begins, Bourne series, Star Wars, etc. Fun entertainment value. Others are barely worth the dollar theatre. I don't need to mention those because we all have our lists. The best movies though are the ones worth buying. Some of my favorites movies are the action-packed thriller, the Disney cutsie fairytale, and the historical epic. But what really captures my attention are movies that get you to rethink your current perspective. These include A Time to Kill (edited), Dead Poets Society, Glory, The Pianist (edited), and Wall-E. I am grateful for quality movies that don't insult my intelligence.
3. I am grateful for a listening ear when I need to vent, flesh out my thoughts, or just have "big people" time. That last phrase came when I was a first year teacher. After work, I usually went and visited my friends Rob and Bryan. When I came over they would laugh and say, "Thamina, do you need big people time?" I am grateful for all those who take the time to listen to me.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Gratitude - Day 19
After rereading the threads of gratitude, I realized so much of my life is hidden in the things I am grateful for. Sharing the story behind the posts may help those of you find answers in your lives, just as I found mine.
1. I am grateful for faith. My friend Mel has been an example of faith to me. Her life has been completely turned upside down this year and yet she still exercises her faith in the eternal plan of the gospel. In Alma 32, we learn the fundamentals of faith. One line from this chapter reads "faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." My notes in my scriptures read "Learning by faith requires bending of whole soul" and "Faith is the moving cause of all action in each of us." My faith has been tested the past few months and I feel my soul has been bended, twisted, tied, and beaten. It has been hard to move forward feeling so weighed down. But the Lord has sent His angels to me this week. They have buoyed me up, strengthened my resolve, and restored my faith.
2. I am grateful for revelation. One thought that has consumed me is what I want to be when I grow up. To be honest, all my life I have hoped to have a family. That hasn't changed, but the possibility of needing to work, even though I am a wife and mother, is quite real. I came to MBA school with a specific emphasis in mind. Three weeks into the program I felt that direction was not in my best interest. I could complete the work in an HR program but I would not find the fulfillment I was seeking. I have been counseled to gain an education, to study hard, and to seek those things that would be a benefit to my future family. When I switched to marketing, I felt that was the course of action I was to pursue. However, the opposition I have encountered has been fierce. Overwhelming. Paralyzing. Fear of failure has been my biggest foe. Unfortunately, that fear has permeated all aspects of my life. I often feel like a guppy swimming in a lake of piranhas. Intense prayer, pondering, and studying has not manifested any insights until recently. First, I have the skills necessary to succeed as long as I am involving the Lord in my decisions. Second, I love education! Working in a business role in the private school sector excites me. Where is this all going to bring me? Not a clue, but I have faith that the Lord will continue to guide me and reveal to me what he would have me do.
3. I am grateful for eternal perspective. Through tender mercies of the Lord, I was reminded about the real purpose in life. I encountered people who I don't normally see and they felt inspired to share their personal thoughts with me. My questions the past three months are "How can I do this?", "Am I good enough?", "What am I even doing in the MBA program?". What I learned from these individuals is all these things shall give thee experience. My cousin pointed out to me that in MBA school we all sacrifice something: spirituality, social life, physical activity, family, grades, etc. I am performing average in MBA school, which is not what I wanted when I first entered the program. Gratefully my cousin, who knows me well, pointed out that I am sacrificing high grades for something more important: developing personal relationships. In the eternal scheme of life, my grades don't matter. My interactions with people do. So I am embracing this new perspective and leaving my worries in the hands of the Lord. I can do this. I am in the program because there are experiences here that will help me fulfill my eternal role, and I know the Lord will help me every step of the way.
1. I am grateful for faith. My friend Mel has been an example of faith to me. Her life has been completely turned upside down this year and yet she still exercises her faith in the eternal plan of the gospel. In Alma 32, we learn the fundamentals of faith. One line from this chapter reads "faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." My notes in my scriptures read "Learning by faith requires bending of whole soul" and "Faith is the moving cause of all action in each of us." My faith has been tested the past few months and I feel my soul has been bended, twisted, tied, and beaten. It has been hard to move forward feeling so weighed down. But the Lord has sent His angels to me this week. They have buoyed me up, strengthened my resolve, and restored my faith.
2. I am grateful for revelation. One thought that has consumed me is what I want to be when I grow up. To be honest, all my life I have hoped to have a family. That hasn't changed, but the possibility of needing to work, even though I am a wife and mother, is quite real. I came to MBA school with a specific emphasis in mind. Three weeks into the program I felt that direction was not in my best interest. I could complete the work in an HR program but I would not find the fulfillment I was seeking. I have been counseled to gain an education, to study hard, and to seek those things that would be a benefit to my future family. When I switched to marketing, I felt that was the course of action I was to pursue. However, the opposition I have encountered has been fierce. Overwhelming. Paralyzing. Fear of failure has been my biggest foe. Unfortunately, that fear has permeated all aspects of my life. I often feel like a guppy swimming in a lake of piranhas. Intense prayer, pondering, and studying has not manifested any insights until recently. First, I have the skills necessary to succeed as long as I am involving the Lord in my decisions. Second, I love education! Working in a business role in the private school sector excites me. Where is this all going to bring me? Not a clue, but I have faith that the Lord will continue to guide me and reveal to me what he would have me do.
3. I am grateful for eternal perspective. Through tender mercies of the Lord, I was reminded about the real purpose in life. I encountered people who I don't normally see and they felt inspired to share their personal thoughts with me. My questions the past three months are "How can I do this?", "Am I good enough?", "What am I even doing in the MBA program?". What I learned from these individuals is all these things shall give thee experience. My cousin pointed out to me that in MBA school we all sacrifice something: spirituality, social life, physical activity, family, grades, etc. I am performing average in MBA school, which is not what I wanted when I first entered the program. Gratefully my cousin, who knows me well, pointed out that I am sacrificing high grades for something more important: developing personal relationships. In the eternal scheme of life, my grades don't matter. My interactions with people do. So I am embracing this new perspective and leaving my worries in the hands of the Lord. I can do this. I am in the program because there are experiences here that will help me fulfill my eternal role, and I know the Lord will help me every step of the way.
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