I have spent a lot of time thinking about forgiveness; the atonement along with compassion and understanding. I have reflected on the hurts and pains that I have been through and of those who have experienced similary pain. I have plead for peace; compassion; understanding along with the desired companionship of the Holy Spirit and to have Christ's Healing Power manifest in my life and in the lives of those that I love deeply.
Normally, I would share my feelings and the things that I have read on my other blog, Tender Mercies. I wanted to make sure that all my family and my friends had the opportunity to share in what I have learned because I know that they will benefit from the eternal truths that have been spoken and written by the Apostles and Prophets of the Lord.
Richard G Scott stated in his talk "To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse":
"The beginning of healing requires childlike faith in the unalterable fact that Father in Heaven loves you and has supplied a way to heal. While an important part of healing, if the thought of forgiveness causes you yet more pain, set that step aside until you have more experience with the Savior’s healing power in your own life."
Some times we chose not to address repentance and forgiveness in a given situation because it causes too much pain. I understand that feeling acutely. However, when the situation(s) is addressed and repentance and forgiveness are allowed to happen we experience the amazing miracle of the Healing Blessings of the Savior's Atonement.
In July of 2005, James E Faust stated: James E. Faust
"Christ is the Great Physician, who rose from the dead “with healing in his wings,” 6 while the Comforter is the agent of healing. Part of the healing process occurs as we worship through music and song."
I have mention before how music has been my therapy for most of my life. As I really read the words of hymns and ponder on the messages I am often bouyed up and am strengthened to continue.
Aislyn and I talked one time after Sacrament Meeting and she shared with me that it is hard for her to sing some of the hymns because they make her cry. I told her that she shouldn't be ashamed. I further explained that her own mother is touched deeply by the spirit of the hymns; which I also believe is an inherited condition from my own parents... :)
I love James E Faust!!! In 2003 he wrote the following:
"Healing the Inner Self: The healing that we all so often need is the healing of our souls and spirits. Christ is the Great Physician who rose from the dead “with healing in his wings” (2 Ne. 25:13), and the Comforter is the agent of healing."
There is no reason for any of to not have the blessings of the Savior and the Comforter in our lives. We each have been baptized and confirmed members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints. This is not a casual gift. This is an active gift from God for us to partake of. We should never be in a situation where we can't rely on these gifts and seek after the promises of a loving Heavenly Father through the loving Sacrifice of our Elder Brother, Jesus Christ.
I implore my brothers and sisters to seek after the strength found in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. It pains my heart and soul to know that there is sorrow and despair in the lives of so many people I know and love. There is joy and peace in this world waiting for you to take.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Monday, September 20, 2010
IN CASE YOU DIDN'T HEAR
This past weekend was a milestone for Victor's family.
His sister Sandy; nephew Nico and niece Raquel were all baptized on Saturday. Many friends from our ward and her ward came. It was great to have everyone there.
The Spirit was palpable and every heart was touched.
The occurred during sacrament meeting when each of them was confirmed a member of the church.
17 years ago, I was the only member in Victor's family. Victor joined the church 13 years ago and we were sealed in the St. George Temploye 12 years ago (Sept 4th).
Victor's children have all been baptized since he joined the church. Having his sister and family join the church is just another mile stone.
Victor was baptized for his father about 10 years ago. We look forward to the day when Lucy accepts the gospel and joins the church. I have seen the future possibility of Victor being sealed to his parents along with Sandy.
As Dad mentioned this morning, we just need to be patient. I know that everything happens in its own time and some hearts need longer to open up to be touched by the wonderful message of Jesus Christ's gospel.
His sister Sandy; nephew Nico and niece Raquel were all baptized on Saturday. Many friends from our ward and her ward came. It was great to have everyone there.
The Spirit was palpable and every heart was touched.
The occurred during sacrament meeting when each of them was confirmed a member of the church.
17 years ago, I was the only member in Victor's family. Victor joined the church 13 years ago and we were sealed in the St. George Temploye 12 years ago (Sept 4th).
Victor's children have all been baptized since he joined the church. Having his sister and family join the church is just another mile stone.
Victor was baptized for his father about 10 years ago. We look forward to the day when Lucy accepts the gospel and joins the church. I have seen the future possibility of Victor being sealed to his parents along with Sandy.
As Dad mentioned this morning, we just need to be patient. I know that everything happens in its own time and some hearts need longer to open up to be touched by the wonderful message of Jesus Christ's gospel.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
THE RIGHT DECISION
When Evan was a Freshman last year we hoped that he would find his groove and have a wonderful high school experience.
Alas, his first year in high school was a disaster; except for the Cross Country and Track experience. He also loved French and wants to continue learning...
After meeting with his counselor and weighing the many options for success we opted for Evan to transfer to ACE Charter High School. The maximum number of students is at about 150. Student capacity is smaller for each class so more attention is given to each student. Each period is almost two hours long and each subject is every other day. This gives Evan more time to complete assignments.
He really enjoys what he is doing and I have noticed that he really pays attention to the assignments and completes them. WOW!!! :)
To top it off, we were able to move him to another seminary class with a bus pickup to take him to school after seminary each morning. Everything has fallen into place. I was concerned that we may have made a decision out of desperation. Now I am satisfied that we did the right thing.
Alas, his first year in high school was a disaster; except for the Cross Country and Track experience. He also loved French and wants to continue learning...
After meeting with his counselor and weighing the many options for success we opted for Evan to transfer to ACE Charter High School. The maximum number of students is at about 150. Student capacity is smaller for each class so more attention is given to each student. Each period is almost two hours long and each subject is every other day. This gives Evan more time to complete assignments.
He really enjoys what he is doing and I have noticed that he really pays attention to the assignments and completes them. WOW!!! :)
To top it off, we were able to move him to another seminary class with a bus pickup to take him to school after seminary each morning. Everything has fallen into place. I was concerned that we may have made a decision out of desperation. Now I am satisfied that we did the right thing.
Monday, September 13, 2010
PARTY LITE PARTY
I love candles! Once a year I have a Party Lite consultant come to my home to demonstrate the new products and I invite all my friends.
I love the smell of the candles and I love sharing them with family and friends.
This year I decided to have my party in the fall so that I could participate in the fall and winter specials. I love the deals because I can buy more and have a really festive home at Thanksgiving and Christmas time.
If you want to order candles as Christmas gifts let me know - I will send you the web address so that you can shop online :)
I love the smell of the candles and I love sharing them with family and friends.
This year I decided to have my party in the fall so that I could participate in the fall and winter specials. I love the deals because I can buy more and have a really festive home at Thanksgiving and Christmas time.
If you want to order candles as Christmas gifts let me know - I will send you the web address so that you can shop online :)
Friday, September 10, 2010
Written by a 90 year old
This is something we should all read at least once a week!!!!! Make sure you read to the end!!!!!!
Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio .
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written.
My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."
Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio .
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written.
My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
CREATIVE EXPRESSION Instrument of Healing
Mary Beth Maziarz recently wrote an article in a publication called Natural Awakenings. Mary Beth Maziarz is an author and professional songwriter whose songs have appeared in 50 films and television shows. Her most recent book is, Kick-Ass Creativity - An Energy Makeover for Artists, Explorers, and Crative Professionals.
She stated: "We all feel drawn by enticing creative projects we'd like to try."
She also said:
"Mounting scientific evidence makes it clear that personal creative expression, once percieved as a luxury, sideline or hobby in our busy lives, is in fact a keystone of our most healthy and worthwhile activities. In infinitely varied and pleasurable forms, creative practices can move us beyond artful living to also serve as a vehicle for healing."
"When we apprceiate others' creativity, or better yet, activley bring creativity to bear in our own experiences, such participation shapes our sense of self and can render physical and emotional benefits. Studies published in Time and MuSICA (Music and Science Information Computer Archive), for example, have shown that music is a powerful ally. Listening and playing music not only helps us manage our moods and emotions, it also works to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, repair and regenerate brain neurosn, calm anxiety and regulate heart rate."
I have always felt relief and comfort when a take the time to sit at the piano and play. It has been theraputic and has been a source of balance for me. My other creative activities have the same affect; however, playing music has been the most powerful.
I always felt a little selfish endulging in creative pursuits and after reading this article I realized that those pursuits not only benefit me it benefits my family because I am more rounded and I have skills to offer my children. I also encourage my children to pursue their creative desires.
She stated: "We all feel drawn by enticing creative projects we'd like to try."
She also said:
"Mounting scientific evidence makes it clear that personal creative expression, once percieved as a luxury, sideline or hobby in our busy lives, is in fact a keystone of our most healthy and worthwhile activities. In infinitely varied and pleasurable forms, creative practices can move us beyond artful living to also serve as a vehicle for healing."
"When we apprceiate others' creativity, or better yet, activley bring creativity to bear in our own experiences, such participation shapes our sense of self and can render physical and emotional benefits. Studies published in Time and MuSICA (Music and Science Information Computer Archive), for example, have shown that music is a powerful ally. Listening and playing music not only helps us manage our moods and emotions, it also works to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, repair and regenerate brain neurosn, calm anxiety and regulate heart rate."
I have always felt relief and comfort when a take the time to sit at the piano and play. It has been theraputic and has been a source of balance for me. My other creative activities have the same affect; however, playing music has been the most powerful.
I always felt a little selfish endulging in creative pursuits and after reading this article I realized that those pursuits not only benefit me it benefits my family because I am more rounded and I have skills to offer my children. I also encourage my children to pursue their creative desires.
Friday, September 3, 2010
LIVING ART
I have been doing a lot of reading about health life styles and how to incorporate fun and creativity into my life. I have come across some interesting and thought provoking quotes that I wanted to share:
One of the most important things we can do is spend time with our families doing something. The most fun I have had is when we do things together that are creative or imaginative. That is when me and the kids laugh the most and we get to know each other better.
In 1998, the Urban Land Institute conducted a study to uncover the answer to why people engage in creative opportunities in their communities. The same can be applied to our families. They are small communities afterall. According to the participants of this study, the individual's primary motivations include:
Do something creative; enhance our quality of life; grow and have fun!
"Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life." - Pablo Picasso
"Art has been the means of keepingg alive the senses of purpose..." - John Dewey
"All creative people want to do the unexpected." - Hedy Lamarr
"Imagination is more important than knowledge." - Albert Einstein
"Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it, we go nowhere." - Carl Sagan
One of the most important things we can do is spend time with our families doing something. The most fun I have had is when we do things together that are creative or imaginative. That is when me and the kids laugh the most and we get to know each other better.
In 1998, the Urban Land Institute conducted a study to uncover the answer to why people engage in creative opportunities in their communities. The same can be applied to our families. They are small communities afterall. According to the participants of this study, the individual's primary motivations include:
- to celebrate hertiage
- to support community events or organizations
- to learn something about another time or culture
- to learn more about a particular form of art or cultural expression
- to experience the high quality of an art
- to support a family member or friend
- to participate in a religious service, ceremony or ritual
- to get together with friends or family for social reasons
Do something creative; enhance our quality of life; grow and have fun!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
SEPTEMBER
I love September for many reasons:
1) Evan was born in September. September 1st to be exact.
2) Alex was born in September. September 7th - exactly 51 weeks before Evan was born... :) - It also happens to be Emily's birthday!!!!! :)
3) Grandma Mead was born in September (and she died the same month :(... )
4) Tammy's birthday is this month. Don't forget to wish her happy birthday tomorrow.
5) Kids are back in school
6) Labor Day Holiday - great for an official send off for my students - we are having a family BBQ on Monday.
7) There are some Jewish Holidays that I try to remember - Victor and I have many friends who are Jewish so we try to recognize their traditions: Rosh Hashanah (9/8) and Yom Kippur (9/17)
8) Autumn Begins - September 23
9) It's a great send off for the final quarter of the year - my most favorite time of year. I love all the holidays that allow me to be festive and to decorate my house inside and out.
1) Evan was born in September. September 1st to be exact.
2) Alex was born in September. September 7th - exactly 51 weeks before Evan was born... :) - It also happens to be Emily's birthday!!!!! :)
3) Grandma Mead was born in September (and she died the same month :(... )
4) Tammy's birthday is this month. Don't forget to wish her happy birthday tomorrow.
5) Kids are back in school
6) Labor Day Holiday - great for an official send off for my students - we are having a family BBQ on Monday.
7) There are some Jewish Holidays that I try to remember - Victor and I have many friends who are Jewish so we try to recognize their traditions: Rosh Hashanah (9/8) and Yom Kippur (9/17)
8) Autumn Begins - September 23
9) It's a great send off for the final quarter of the year - my most favorite time of year. I love all the holidays that allow me to be festive and to decorate my house inside and out.
"The greatest lesson of life is to know that everything happens for the best. Every no leads you that much closer to a yes."
HAPPY FALL!
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