Path to Peace

No matter where we go, we cannot hide from the influences of the world. We cannot remain locked inside our homes and hope that things will get better. Those who follow and understand the teachings of Jesus Christ know that troubled times will increase as the second coming of our Savior draws near. Much of the world is in chaos but it is possible to find peace in the midst of turmoil.

The faithful seekers of guidance can be comforted through the power of the Holy Ghost as we seek with a sincere and honest heart. We can be rewarded with a peace that may not calm the storm raging around us but will bless and give reassurance that all will be well in time. Peace that will calm our fears, give us courage, and lift our hearts.

Even when the odds are against us, when we are outnumbered, when it seems gaining ground isn’t possible then we must exercise faith, pray and trust in the Lord. He is a man of many miracles and they still happen in today’s world. When we walk uprightly before the Lord he can and dose bless us. He can replace fear with assurance, doubt with hope and despair with joy. Look to God and live with courage… He will never fail thee nor forsake thee.

Courage to Become..

Every human on earth is a unique child of God, each having a special balance of talents and abilities that are perfect for them. Blessings that we carried from our heavenly home, gifts from a loving Heavenly Father.

If we seek to develop these gifts the rewards can be many. But some may feel there is nothing special about me, but consider this. Talents come in many sizes shapes and forms. With some you can win gold medals, bring a crowd to their feet, make scientific discoveries or wow the world. These are outward talents that bring earned respect and notoriety. But the intangible, inward talents have great value as well. People who can soothe a broken spirit or calm a troubled heart with gentle words. Someone who can mediate between opposing sides and come to a resolution of peace. Others who see beyond the brave disguise of courage into the hearts of the fearful. Gifts of a compassion, cheerfulness, perseverance are also inward talents. You may scoff and say “Cheerfulness, awe come on how is that a talent?” But when your best friend is down in the dumps and hurting inside cheerfulness can help them see a brighter day. It can make a big difference to their lives.

Our individual stories are written daily, page by page. Talents were not given to be hidden away, but to share. Making a difference in the world around you can be gratifying and the rewards lasting.  For deep inside each us lies the desire to become better. To mold our life into something worthwhile and memorable. For many, their legacy will even outlive their tombstone.

Celestial North

No matter who you are or where you came from each of us was born with the Light of Christ. A gift to help guide and direct our lives. Most people call it a conscience. Some people choose to listen to the quiet whispers. Others are reluctant to act on the thoughts received and some shut it out completely.

The Light of Christ is like a compass.  If we heed its directives and promptings we will find ourselves on the path to Celestial North.  We will be presented with opportunities to do good and inspired to be good. When we take advantage of those possibilities our light within will grow stronger and brighter over time. The results can be uplifting and a positive experience for both sides. A simple example:

Walking toward the Walmart doors I noticed a lady with a large, bulky box in her cart.  It looked like a small refrigerator. I walked over and asked if she wanted some help. She said yes and that she had wondered how she was going to load it in her vehicle. She opened the back and I mentioned she would likely need to lay her seats down. While she was moving things from the back and tossing them in the middle seat area, I chuckled and told her in reminded me of my daughters’ car. It took a couple of tries but with one of us on each side we lifted the box and slid it into place with ease.  Her expressions of thanks and appreciation were sincere and heartfelt.

When I returned home I pondered that experience for a couple of reasons. First it was for the surprise I saw on her face when I offered to help and then the sincerity for which she thanked me.  The kind of thanks that might propel her to do the same for another should the opportunity arise. Second was my thought process. I saw the need and went directly to respond, there was no questioning, debating from within or making excuses why I couldn’t help. It was a “go and do” opportunity.              

When we do good it helps us to be good.  When the Light of Christ shines brighter in our hearts it reflects into other parts of lives. Our day will seem a little brighter, our steps a little lighter and our desire to do good will grow. When our hearts are prepared, our eyes will see the need, our ears will hear the unspoken plea and our spirit will answer the call.

A New Path a New Day

January often brings reflection. We ponder our experiences, rejoicing in the happy moments and reliving over and over the tearful ones.  Sometimes we question our rational. “Why on earth did I do that?”  “What in the world was I thinking?”  “How could I let that happen?” Why is it we keep reliving these less than stellar moments?  Over and over scenes pass through our mind...

There are likely more theories on this than letters on this page.  I believe it is the pathways we follow, that create the options to choose who we become. When we look back and relive those moments it is with a different mindset.  We are like a bystander watching a movie.  We have different thoughts and emotions as we reconsider our actions.  We have the power to ask; “What might I have done differently? What have I learned? How would I face the same situation?”

We can’t change the past or wash away our heartache and the tears.  However, we can rise above yesteryear, set our sights on new horizons and move forward. Every morning brings a new day... A new path may be on the horizon. Consider your options carefully, for they determine who you become.