Yep, that's us :)
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Yes, i did it...
My arm has been twisted. And it was by nobody, really. Just had it in the back of mind for a while to make a real blog or not. I've been using Facebook and their handy little notes section. So why not compile them all together in a blog. Sure, why not? Hopefully it can be a start to something good :)
"Coming back for a Comeback" (from March 29, 2011)
Thats right the title says it all. No, im not talking about some cheesy feel good story that turns into a disney movie or something mentioned on the "Not Top 10" of the ESPN blotter; nope, none of those. But i am poised to make my own kind of comeback. A comeback to...Rexburg?!?! wait what?! (and its NOT 'cause of the blueberry pie shake at Sammy's either, which is still a good reason...just sayin'.)
So when last year i got to BYU-Idaho last semester, i was totally geeked out, im not gonna lie. Sure there's not a whole lot in Rexburg when it comes to usual "fun" things to do, but who cares. If you dont like it, dont go is all i can say! But anyways, i was excited to get my education on and get some mingling done as well. I started out like some young puppy being able to run around free. Having a couple good roommates that i knew already helped ease myself into it. School started and i was ready to roll through. What started happening was me getting rolled over by it instead. (Being absent minded when it comes to doing a ton of the work online will do that to ya.) I started to rebound after that in some of my other classes. I then tripped at the finish line and will have to redo a couple classes this next semester. (im shaking my fist at you, math!)
And in the mingling scene? Not as great as i had hoped. Lots of dates and thats about it. Even a couple girls i went out with i really regret now. (same, head-shaking story) Maybe i tried to hard or what, thats TBD.
Summary of last semester? Think of a boxing ring. Me in one corner, and the semester as a whole in the other corner. I had many really good moments that made it look like i had that round won. But before the bell sounded, i got my face smashed in and bloodied. I went to my corner fuming mixed with pouting. I've been in my corner ever since the semester ended in December. Since then, anxiety and an itch to get back and do better this time around. Thats a long time to stare down the opponent. I think im more excited this time around; one reason being to prove to myself that i can do better. I have others, but that's all i'll spill for now. (you could just ask me about more, duh)
Things to change? Well:
-make sure i do ALL the little things for the class, i.e. paying attention better to the details.
-have studying include more than a quick look over my notes for a few minutes in the library with my iPod
-spend MUCH less at Wendy's (well...i'll sure try. haha)
-date smarter
-aaaaaannnnddd...well, we'll get more over time
So with that said...im ready for my comeback. 17 days and counting. yeeeeaaah boiii
So when last year i got to BYU-Idaho last semester, i was totally geeked out, im not gonna lie. Sure there's not a whole lot in Rexburg when it comes to usual "fun" things to do, but who cares. If you dont like it, dont go is all i can say! But anyways, i was excited to get my education on and get some mingling done as well. I started out like some young puppy being able to run around free. Having a couple good roommates that i knew already helped ease myself into it. School started and i was ready to roll through. What started happening was me getting rolled over by it instead. (Being absent minded when it comes to doing a ton of the work online will do that to ya.) I started to rebound after that in some of my other classes. I then tripped at the finish line and will have to redo a couple classes this next semester. (im shaking my fist at you, math!)
And in the mingling scene? Not as great as i had hoped. Lots of dates and thats about it. Even a couple girls i went out with i really regret now. (same, head-shaking story) Maybe i tried to hard or what, thats TBD.
Summary of last semester? Think of a boxing ring. Me in one corner, and the semester as a whole in the other corner. I had many really good moments that made it look like i had that round won. But before the bell sounded, i got my face smashed in and bloodied. I went to my corner fuming mixed with pouting. I've been in my corner ever since the semester ended in December. Since then, anxiety and an itch to get back and do better this time around. Thats a long time to stare down the opponent. I think im more excited this time around; one reason being to prove to myself that i can do better. I have others, but that's all i'll spill for now. (you could just ask me about more, duh)
Things to change? Well:
-make sure i do ALL the little things for the class, i.e. paying attention better to the details.
-have studying include more than a quick look over my notes for a few minutes in the library with my iPod
-spend MUCH less at Wendy's (well...i'll sure try. haha)
-date smarter
-aaaaaannnnddd...well, we'll get more over time
So with that said...im ready for my comeback. 17 days and counting. yeeeeaaah boiii
"Get out of the Boat" (from February 23, 2011)
(This idea was kinda swimming around in my head off and on for the last week and inspired and taken from institute class last tuesday)
22.) And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
23.) And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
24.) But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
25.)And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
26.) And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
27.) But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
28.) And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
29.) And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
30.) But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
31.) And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
32.) And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
33.) Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. (Matthew 14: 22-33)
So we were learning about Peter and the question for the night was: "what are we willing to do to stand where Peter stood?", which is in relation being able to walk on the water for the short time he did with the Savior. Having a week to digest the spiritual awesomeness that it brought, i've thought of these few lessons that we can learn from these verses and the story it tells.
1.) Forget about Peter falling...he had the courage to get out of the boat in the first place.
2.) We sometimes fear the help that is on the way, even in the midst of trials.
3.) Christ helps us up, even after we assure to him our faith is firm and then slip up.
So...onto my thoughts and commentary
1.) Forget about Peter falling...he had the courage to get out of the boat in the first place. As we know, Peter was a fisherman by trade. He knew those waters of Galilee. The water was his life, basically. Im sure he had seen and also experienced many storms, too. So at this point, Peter and others were in the boat while the storm was raging and then saw Christ coming towards them. Despite the crappy weather conditions, Peter willingly on knowingly chose to get out of the boat and its safety to walk towards Christ. Theres no need to put all the focus on Peter falling in the water and then labeling him as a big doubter. For us as a whole, are we willing to get outside of our comfort zone and go towards those good things in life, even Christ himself, while storms of life rage around us? Why risk it, right? Yet, those good things in life are worth reaching out to even when all around us is raging. Doesnt mean there isnt any risk involved with it. It may cost us in some way thats merely temporal, but the ultimate reward is much better. Patricia Holland (Elder Holland's wife) quoted Madeleine L'Engle when she said, "Peter was able to walk on the water until he remembered he didnt know how." Those water walking moments in life will empower us with something we didnt know we had. We just have to get out of the boat first.
2.) We sometimes fear the help that is on the way, even in the midst of trials. With the crew being tossed about in the boat on the sea, Christ came towards them and bid them to "be not afraid", yet they were still. Sometimes, when we have trials in life and a solution is present to remedy that, we either A.) fear that the solution may be worse than the trial or B.) we focus so much on the trouble, we totally miss the help there ready and willing. Peter sank only after taking his view off the Savior and instead looked at the trouble around him. Being a really stubborn person, when i find myself in a bad mood or what have you, a good few try to help break me out of my funk; yet i dont always want the help right away. Or say to get out of a tight spot, we have to "bite the bullet" to get out. Willing to accept help and not fearing it helps when we are finally delivered off our storm tossed sea.
3.) Christ helps us up, even after we assure to him our faith and then slip up. As Peter walked across the water, again he took he focus off Christ and sank. After demonstrating the faith to get out of the boat and then start walking, Peter was looking like the great person that he was and the person Christ knew he could be. But as he sank, Peter shows us that endearing vulnerability that all of us can relate to. Peter's heartfelt "Lord, save me" rings in our ears as similar pleas we have offered ourselves. Christ reached down and helped him up and with a reply of "wherefore didst thou doubt?". i believe that wasn't intended as chiding, but more like the tender council a parent would give to a child as something to learn from. Coming from a fellow Peter, i can reeeeeeeally relate. I myself have shown my efforts to do good and have strong faith. They're not in huge, extraordinary ways but they are things i try to always keep in mind. But as hard times come about and opposition builds, i start to sink. As i get helped back up, the pattern tends to repeat itself though. Im definitely a work in progress. But so was he
(With all of these, we can also take away this bonus lesson from Peter...despite the times he had where his faith wavered a little bit and even denied the Savior three times...he came back stronger than ever in the end and became the prophet of Christ's Church and helped carry the gospel to the gentiles and many other great miracles. Showing that everyone can come back from even our lowest point.)
...it was a good lesson last week
22.) And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
23.) And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
24.) But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
25.)And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
26.) And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
27.) But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
28.) And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
29.) And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
30.) But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
31.) And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
32.) And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
33.) Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. (Matthew 14: 22-33)
So we were learning about Peter and the question for the night was: "what are we willing to do to stand where Peter stood?", which is in relation being able to walk on the water for the short time he did with the Savior. Having a week to digest the spiritual awesomeness that it brought, i've thought of these few lessons that we can learn from these verses and the story it tells.
1.) Forget about Peter falling...he had the courage to get out of the boat in the first place.
2.) We sometimes fear the help that is on the way, even in the midst of trials.
3.) Christ helps us up, even after we assure to him our faith is firm and then slip up.
So...onto my thoughts and commentary
1.) Forget about Peter falling...he had the courage to get out of the boat in the first place. As we know, Peter was a fisherman by trade. He knew those waters of Galilee. The water was his life, basically. Im sure he had seen and also experienced many storms, too. So at this point, Peter and others were in the boat while the storm was raging and then saw Christ coming towards them. Despite the crappy weather conditions, Peter willingly on knowingly chose to get out of the boat and its safety to walk towards Christ. Theres no need to put all the focus on Peter falling in the water and then labeling him as a big doubter. For us as a whole, are we willing to get outside of our comfort zone and go towards those good things in life, even Christ himself, while storms of life rage around us? Why risk it, right? Yet, those good things in life are worth reaching out to even when all around us is raging. Doesnt mean there isnt any risk involved with it. It may cost us in some way thats merely temporal, but the ultimate reward is much better. Patricia Holland (Elder Holland's wife) quoted Madeleine L'Engle when she said, "Peter was able to walk on the water until he remembered he didnt know how." Those water walking moments in life will empower us with something we didnt know we had. We just have to get out of the boat first.
2.) We sometimes fear the help that is on the way, even in the midst of trials. With the crew being tossed about in the boat on the sea, Christ came towards them and bid them to "be not afraid", yet they were still. Sometimes, when we have trials in life and a solution is present to remedy that, we either A.) fear that the solution may be worse than the trial or B.) we focus so much on the trouble, we totally miss the help there ready and willing. Peter sank only after taking his view off the Savior and instead looked at the trouble around him. Being a really stubborn person, when i find myself in a bad mood or what have you, a good few try to help break me out of my funk; yet i dont always want the help right away. Or say to get out of a tight spot, we have to "bite the bullet" to get out. Willing to accept help and not fearing it helps when we are finally delivered off our storm tossed sea.
3.) Christ helps us up, even after we assure to him our faith and then slip up. As Peter walked across the water, again he took he focus off Christ and sank. After demonstrating the faith to get out of the boat and then start walking, Peter was looking like the great person that he was and the person Christ knew he could be. But as he sank, Peter shows us that endearing vulnerability that all of us can relate to. Peter's heartfelt "Lord, save me" rings in our ears as similar pleas we have offered ourselves. Christ reached down and helped him up and with a reply of "wherefore didst thou doubt?". i believe that wasn't intended as chiding, but more like the tender council a parent would give to a child as something to learn from. Coming from a fellow Peter, i can reeeeeeeally relate. I myself have shown my efforts to do good and have strong faith. They're not in huge, extraordinary ways but they are things i try to always keep in mind. But as hard times come about and opposition builds, i start to sink. As i get helped back up, the pattern tends to repeat itself though. Im definitely a work in progress. But so was he
(With all of these, we can also take away this bonus lesson from Peter...despite the times he had where his faith wavered a little bit and even denied the Savior three times...he came back stronger than ever in the end and became the prophet of Christ's Church and helped carry the gospel to the gentiles and many other great miracles. Showing that everyone can come back from even our lowest point.)
...it was a good lesson last week
"Georgia, oh Georgia" (originally from January 2010)
---This is one i wrote about a year ago when i had been home for about 7 1/2 months and my feelings on it. Well...obviously, a ton of time has past since that time and it came to my mind again today. Im adding a little more to it, so it'll be newer to those that have read it and an even bigger read for those who havent. Mazel Tov.
"Georgia, Oh Georgia...
how've you been my old friend?
It's been seven months and a half since i reached the end.
Sorry i had to leave, the time was set to go
But i had to be home, so fair is fair ya know?
When i opened my letter and saw Gerogia, i thought i'd be quite prepared
Although inside, i must admit, i was really really scared.
Three weeks were plenty of time over at the MTC,
Yet after leaving i felt like screaming, "Wait, come back for me!"
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
remember when in Albany i first stepped out that car?
I was incredibly lost, with home being oh so far.
It was definitely something different than being in Colorado
You try to ignore it, but two years seems much to far to go.
But i had to suck it up and admit that this was life!
Hoping the girl i was writing would someday be my wife.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
the time seemed slow and just a big struggle.
Investigators, members, appointments, and everything else were a lot to juggle.
But time on and i began to slowly adjust,
Going along with the craziness turned out to be a big must.
No mom here to do your laundry or cook your food,
Ramen, Easy-Mac, and Eggo waffles means you're on your own, dude.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
there were good comps and bad ones too...its just the way it is
Labeling your food is a good thing to separate your food from his.
When your day completely falls through, you just want to scream.
Although some of those were fixed with some Blue Bell ice cream.
Tracting is hard and most of the time just plain sucks,
Never have i seen so many ghetto sleds and modified trucks.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
I was able to make so many new friends!
The length of such i hope never ever ends.
Despite my dorkiness, i was shown so much love;
I'll never forget when i first ate BBQ'd dove.
Oh and just a quick favor, if you so please...
Chicken's just not the same, so send me a Zaxby's!
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
Torrential downpours are just how it goes,
During one in T-Ville, i got many blisters on my toes.
And also you sweat and sweat and sweat some more too,
Brown and yellow shirts, ripped pants, and worn out shoes will happen to you.
So load up on ties and your zebra pens as well,
Your stuff will absolutely go through hell.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
The time is coming to its end,
My family is waiting and theres time with them i want to spend.
Being born in Idaho, no one gave to much care;
But in Georgia?...i was spiritually born there.
Its over now. The airport was such a big fat pain,
Time to board now...i'm heading home on that plane.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
how've you been my old friend?
It's been seven months and a half since i reached the end.
I think about you every now and again,
Without you, i dont know who i could've been.
Although some things haven't worked out like i planned it,
Like Ben Folds once said, "Come pick me up...i've landed."
--------
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
...Do you still remember me?
It's been a long time and im a bit different, you see.
A year and half away tends to change a man
Some moments have been great, and others...im no fan.
Im still learning, still fighting, still figuring my potential as i grow
If i came back to visit and say hi, would you even know?
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
You moved on no doubt since i left in the air,
Heck, you've even had it snow there...no fair!
But overall, i bet you're still the same ol' Peach,
I love my mountains and my cold air, but missing you is no reach.
But can you please do something about those mosquitoes and sand gnats?
Besides bringing Zaxby's out west, that my wish and thats that.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
Looking back, i have my share of regrets...
I wasnt bad, but i have moments that i want to forget.
Being young and immature, i caused quite a few headaches to some of my peers,
i hope i wont be too hated for it over the days, months and years.
It was at the end of it all that it hit me fully and i got to realize,
Working hard til is the end is so worth it, but in the end...time still flies.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
I will come back for you someday later on in my life,
Maybe a carriage ride through Savannah with my beloved wife.
Perhaps hit up T'Ville and watch the Rose Festival with the kids,
Or relax on Hilton Head at the beach and close our eyelids.
Riding on that midnight train like Gladys 'cause its on my mind like Ray,
To all who made that whole ride worthwhile, "thank you" is all i have to say."
"Georgia, Oh Georgia...
how've you been my old friend?
It's been seven months and a half since i reached the end.
Sorry i had to leave, the time was set to go
But i had to be home, so fair is fair ya know?
When i opened my letter and saw Gerogia, i thought i'd be quite prepared
Although inside, i must admit, i was really really scared.
Three weeks were plenty of time over at the MTC,
Yet after leaving i felt like screaming, "Wait, come back for me!"
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
remember when in Albany i first stepped out that car?
I was incredibly lost, with home being oh so far.
It was definitely something different than being in Colorado
You try to ignore it, but two years seems much to far to go.
But i had to suck it up and admit that this was life!
Hoping the girl i was writing would someday be my wife.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
the time seemed slow and just a big struggle.
Investigators, members, appointments, and everything else were a lot to juggle.
But time on and i began to slowly adjust,
Going along with the craziness turned out to be a big must.
No mom here to do your laundry or cook your food,
Ramen, Easy-Mac, and Eggo waffles means you're on your own, dude.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
there were good comps and bad ones too...its just the way it is
Labeling your food is a good thing to separate your food from his.
When your day completely falls through, you just want to scream.
Although some of those were fixed with some Blue Bell ice cream.
Tracting is hard and most of the time just plain sucks,
Never have i seen so many ghetto sleds and modified trucks.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
I was able to make so many new friends!
The length of such i hope never ever ends.
Despite my dorkiness, i was shown so much love;
I'll never forget when i first ate BBQ'd dove.
Oh and just a quick favor, if you so please...
Chicken's just not the same, so send me a Zaxby's!
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
Torrential downpours are just how it goes,
During one in T-Ville, i got many blisters on my toes.
And also you sweat and sweat and sweat some more too,
Brown and yellow shirts, ripped pants, and worn out shoes will happen to you.
So load up on ties and your zebra pens as well,
Your stuff will absolutely go through hell.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
The time is coming to its end,
My family is waiting and theres time with them i want to spend.
Being born in Idaho, no one gave to much care;
But in Georgia?...i was spiritually born there.
Its over now. The airport was such a big fat pain,
Time to board now...i'm heading home on that plane.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
how've you been my old friend?
It's been seven months and a half since i reached the end.
I think about you every now and again,
Without you, i dont know who i could've been.
Although some things haven't worked out like i planned it,
Like Ben Folds once said, "Come pick me up...i've landed."
--------
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
...Do you still remember me?
It's been a long time and im a bit different, you see.
A year and half away tends to change a man
Some moments have been great, and others...im no fan.
Im still learning, still fighting, still figuring my potential as i grow
If i came back to visit and say hi, would you even know?
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
You moved on no doubt since i left in the air,
Heck, you've even had it snow there...no fair!
But overall, i bet you're still the same ol' Peach,
I love my mountains and my cold air, but missing you is no reach.
But can you please do something about those mosquitoes and sand gnats?
Besides bringing Zaxby's out west, that my wish and thats that.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
Looking back, i have my share of regrets...
I wasnt bad, but i have moments that i want to forget.
Being young and immature, i caused quite a few headaches to some of my peers,
i hope i wont be too hated for it over the days, months and years.
It was at the end of it all that it hit me fully and i got to realize,
Working hard til is the end is so worth it, but in the end...time still flies.
Georgia, Oh Georgia...
I will come back for you someday later on in my life,
Maybe a carriage ride through Savannah with my beloved wife.
Perhaps hit up T'Ville and watch the Rose Festival with the kids,
Or relax on Hilton Head at the beach and close our eyelids.
Riding on that midnight train like Gladys 'cause its on my mind like Ray,
To all who made that whole ride worthwhile, "thank you" is all i have to say."
"Be who you are, 'cause who you are is what you is" (from January 17, 2011)
(try to translate that one, haha)
having just returned from my best friend's wedding and seeing all the love and such everywhere, it tends to be on your mind quite a bit. obviously, im not quite there yet with the whole being married. im still on "trying to find the right one to date regularly" (definitely a challenge) So with that in mind, i actually get to my point. With plenty of time to think about it (driving through wyoming does that to you)...
One of the few things that some people say that annoys the crap out of me besides "well if it makes you feel any better,...." is when i hear some tell me "just be yourself"
so technically what is being "just yourself"?...
My friend Emma said to me earlier last week is that all of us have different sides of what we are. We're not just one thing, but a blob of multiple parts; the hard part is which one we let show at different times. Some may think, "wait what???" But go with me on this one. When we act one way that isnt typically seen by others but still something we do, then the first thought is to go "they're not being themselves". Now dont get me wrong, if all of the sudden start being a know-it-all or some kind of wankster, then yeah im not being myself. Making sure which side shows can be tricky because sometimes we try to act one way and its taken as something else, then misinterpretations take place. But as for me, speaking from my own standpoint, i have many sides.
Theres the:
-Spiritual/mature peter
-jokester peter
-"eeyore" peter
-grouchypants peter
-super nice guy peter
-competitive peter
-aaaaand everything else in-between
When you put them altogether, you get the whole me. individually, they're not really all that much and are really boring. Of course, i have to make another food analogy with this one. Think of your all-time favorite meal to have with your favorite side-dishes. One or two sides is ok i suppose, but when you have them all; it really makes the meal all that much better. So it is with all of us. When it comes to love, everyone has different sides to them and you must recognize that so that you can love them for the whole person they are. Love is two imperfect people coming together to become a perfect one. So you gotta take them all or, or get the crap outta here. haha :)
having just returned from my best friend's wedding and seeing all the love and such everywhere, it tends to be on your mind quite a bit. obviously, im not quite there yet with the whole being married. im still on "trying to find the right one to date regularly" (definitely a challenge) So with that in mind, i actually get to my point. With plenty of time to think about it (driving through wyoming does that to you)...
One of the few things that some people say that annoys the crap out of me besides "well if it makes you feel any better,...." is when i hear some tell me "just be yourself"
so technically what is being "just yourself"?...
My friend Emma said to me earlier last week is that all of us have different sides of what we are. We're not just one thing, but a blob of multiple parts; the hard part is which one we let show at different times. Some may think, "wait what???" But go with me on this one. When we act one way that isnt typically seen by others but still something we do, then the first thought is to go "they're not being themselves". Now dont get me wrong, if all of the sudden start being a know-it-all or some kind of wankster, then yeah im not being myself. Making sure which side shows can be tricky because sometimes we try to act one way and its taken as something else, then misinterpretations take place. But as for me, speaking from my own standpoint, i have many sides.
Theres the:
-Spiritual/mature peter
-jokester peter
-"eeyore" peter
-grouchypants peter
-super nice guy peter
-competitive peter
-aaaaand everything else in-between
When you put them altogether, you get the whole me. individually, they're not really all that much and are really boring. Of course, i have to make another food analogy with this one. Think of your all-time favorite meal to have with your favorite side-dishes. One or two sides is ok i suppose, but when you have them all; it really makes the meal all that much better. So it is with all of us. When it comes to love, everyone has different sides to them and you must recognize that so that you can love them for the whole person they are. Love is two imperfect people coming together to become a perfect one. So you gotta take them all or, or get the crap outta here. haha :)
"Sunday Thinking" (from January 2, 2011)
So there i was...just sitting there in Priesthood today. It had been a pretty good sunday so far. Testimony meeting was positive, not a rehashing of possible personal problems from some people; sunday school was good and informative, and Priesthood was pretty packed for the first time in...well...it seemed like ever! (ok, granted i've only been in the Laredo Branch for around a year, but still...) and then it happened...a spiritual mega-slap to the face. One of those, "A-ha!" type moments that happen from time to time. In relating a lesson that was based around making positive changes for the new year, this scripture was shared from Esther.
"For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? ---Esther 4:14 (obvious emphasis on the last line)
The point? Well...you've come to the right place! The teacher was trying to make the point of us being where we are for an actually good reason. Then that when i thought...(DANGER: Peter thinking now)
-Why am i here in Aurora, CO at this particular point in time?
-Why am i in the particular ward that i am and have the friends that i have?
-Why was i chosen to serve a mission in Georgia?
-Why wasn't i able to find a job only after i chose to postpone going to BYU-I this last fall instead of last spring like i wanted?
essentially, "who knoweth whether (I) art come to the (insert place) for such a time as this?"
Have you ever thought about that?
It all comes down that we are where we are for a specific and particular reason. God's the only one that knows the truth and reason why. I mean, i'll admit...im the first one waiting in the "guilty line" for questioning why. (all my friends can wait in line right behind me, since we all do it. lol) I want sooooo bad to be back at school in Rexburg to continue there and to start some other things anew. I was even in a huge funk earlier this week 'cause i was having withdrawals from there. You know, "Why the crap am i here? I want to leave and go be with friends and get more schooling under my belt." When i tend to do that and think too much on stuff i cant control and let it get to me, i go crazy cranky and, in turn, makes all my friends go crazy 'cause they have to hear it from me.
So...whats does this mean in this context?
- I'm here in Aurora for a reason (reason yet to be fulfilled)
-I'm in my ward because i have something to contribute to it to help it grow
-I have the friends i do because their influence is meant to bless my life, and in turn i can do the same for them.
-I served in Georgia because the Lord needed me there to grow personally and spiritually. Physically born in Idaho, spiritually born in Georgia.
-I had the wait because my job i got helped me immensely to pay for school AND live comfortably also that perhaps another job couldn't do, plus i met so many people this fall that i might not have met if i came in the spring.
The lesson learned from all this, and pretty comforting, is to know that God has us where we are for a reason. We just have to learn why.
Hmmmm....good thing i left my thinking cap on for church.
"For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? ---Esther 4:14 (obvious emphasis on the last line)
The point? Well...you've come to the right place! The teacher was trying to make the point of us being where we are for an actually good reason. Then that when i thought...(DANGER: Peter thinking now)
-Why am i here in Aurora, CO at this particular point in time?
-Why am i in the particular ward that i am and have the friends that i have?
-Why was i chosen to serve a mission in Georgia?
-Why wasn't i able to find a job only after i chose to postpone going to BYU-I this last fall instead of last spring like i wanted?
essentially, "who knoweth whether (I) art come to the (insert place) for such a time as this?"
Have you ever thought about that?
It all comes down that we are where we are for a specific and particular reason. God's the only one that knows the truth and reason why. I mean, i'll admit...im the first one waiting in the "guilty line" for questioning why. (all my friends can wait in line right behind me, since we all do it. lol) I want sooooo bad to be back at school in Rexburg to continue there and to start some other things anew. I was even in a huge funk earlier this week 'cause i was having withdrawals from there. You know, "Why the crap am i here? I want to leave and go be with friends and get more schooling under my belt." When i tend to do that and think too much on stuff i cant control and let it get to me, i go crazy cranky and, in turn, makes all my friends go crazy 'cause they have to hear it from me.
So...whats does this mean in this context?
- I'm here in Aurora for a reason (reason yet to be fulfilled)
-I'm in my ward because i have something to contribute to it to help it grow
-I have the friends i do because their influence is meant to bless my life, and in turn i can do the same for them.
-I served in Georgia because the Lord needed me there to grow personally and spiritually. Physically born in Idaho, spiritually born in Georgia.
-I had the wait because my job i got helped me immensely to pay for school AND live comfortably also that perhaps another job couldn't do, plus i met so many people this fall that i might not have met if i came in the spring.
The lesson learned from all this, and pretty comforting, is to know that God has us where we are for a reason. We just have to learn why.
Hmmmm....good thing i left my thinking cap on for church.
"Head First" (from October 7, 2010)
Hmmm...i figure i have a little bit of time before i need to get to my first class today, so why not power out a note before then! eh? eh?!
(Reflection time)....uh oh, you asked for it.
---
For as long as i remember, i've always hated to go swimming. Sure, i liked to wade around here and there but never really swim. Why? I never learned, or actually, never wanted to learn. I was scared of drowning, scared or failing in a way. Even when i thought i could pass through the fear, that first step was the hardest and i cowered. So today, im still a 6'3" lead weight in water.
---
Just like me and swimming, some choices and decisions we have to make in life are scary and we're pretty hesitant about jumping in. Perhaps its a relationship, what to study in college, which job to take, a financial sacrifice, or heck...if someone is that big of a pansy, deciding which can of peaches to buy. All of those (ok, maybe not the last one) take a lot of thought and pondering and require us to make a choice that we can't fully see the outcome of. So what do we do?
One of my favorite scriptures in the Book of Mormon is Ether 12:6. I think it applies here,
-"And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen, wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.
What i love about that is that it says we don't receive the witness until AFTER our faith has been tried. You can't expect to just be given the answer you're seeking if you're sitting on your butt, you have to do something and then it'll come. In one of my favorite movies "Inception", theres a concept spoken of a few times of "being willing to take a leap of faith, or growing old to be an old man filled with regret, waiting to die alone." So my opinion says this: when making hard decisions like the ones listed above, (again, minus the peaches...you're on your own for that one.) jump right into the pool. Study it all out, recognize those feelings from the Holy Ghost and other good feelings, then jump head first in. But also be open to changes for good that may or may not happen, but fix that as a course and have the faith to believe that you'll receive a witness that it was a good choice. When it comes, you'll be verrrrrrry grateful for what you went through to get to that point.
But if you're going to leap, my advice is that it's always best done with company :)
(Reflection time)....uh oh, you asked for it.
---
For as long as i remember, i've always hated to go swimming. Sure, i liked to wade around here and there but never really swim. Why? I never learned, or actually, never wanted to learn. I was scared of drowning, scared or failing in a way. Even when i thought i could pass through the fear, that first step was the hardest and i cowered. So today, im still a 6'3" lead weight in water.
---
Just like me and swimming, some choices and decisions we have to make in life are scary and we're pretty hesitant about jumping in. Perhaps its a relationship, what to study in college, which job to take, a financial sacrifice, or heck...if someone is that big of a pansy, deciding which can of peaches to buy. All of those (ok, maybe not the last one) take a lot of thought and pondering and require us to make a choice that we can't fully see the outcome of. So what do we do?
One of my favorite scriptures in the Book of Mormon is Ether 12:6. I think it applies here,
-"And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen, wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.
What i love about that is that it says we don't receive the witness until AFTER our faith has been tried. You can't expect to just be given the answer you're seeking if you're sitting on your butt, you have to do something and then it'll come. In one of my favorite movies "Inception", theres a concept spoken of a few times of "being willing to take a leap of faith, or growing old to be an old man filled with regret, waiting to die alone." So my opinion says this: when making hard decisions like the ones listed above, (again, minus the peaches...you're on your own for that one.) jump right into the pool. Study it all out, recognize those feelings from the Holy Ghost and other good feelings, then jump head first in. But also be open to changes for good that may or may not happen, but fix that as a course and have the faith to believe that you'll receive a witness that it was a good choice. When it comes, you'll be verrrrrrry grateful for what you went through to get to that point.
But if you're going to leap, my advice is that it's always best done with company :)
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