I've always had a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Some people search - mine came with the package. I know where I came from, why I'm here, and where I am going. But the most unfortunate part of this story is that, still, after knowing all of this, I definitely have a past. A past filled with glorious Soap Opera descriptions - that I wouldn't want to bore you with:) -
I've debated how much detail to give - but that answer remains the same. I'll leave that up to your wild imagination. Here's the short version. A lot of regrets. A lot of wasted time. Should have been a better friend, sister, daughter - and for the first two years of Little C's life - mother. You never feel victorious for wasted time.
What made the difference in my life? The desire to be happy. The desire for change. I knew how to be happy. I had the keys. Was I ready to put the time and work in? Yes. Was it easy? No. Was it worth it? 100%
The gospel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints is true. The same Heavenly Father who loves and helps me, loves you. Maybe you've already invited him in - or maybe he's waiting for your call. Please call or keep calling.
It will be five years this December since I made the appointment with my Bishop and I think I knocked his socks off. He was probably thinking, Oh goodness woman, do not tell me anymore. A guy in my ward told me that a bishop would be great in a poker game, because of their excellent "poker face". Collected on the outside, jaw dropping on the inside. YOU DID WHAT?! - My Bishop was magnificent. And I am sure it was the spirit directing him - not his skill at poker :)
So here's my testimony about the simplicity of the gospel. It is true. The Atonement is real. It's called the Plan of Happiness for a reason. Because - it makes you happy. Trials still come - some really hard trials- but living the gospel allows you to be prepared with your spiritual storage.
Just Do It.
When I was in high school I remember being in attendance at a missionary farewell. The missionary said a statement that has forever remained in my head, "Stay clean, or get clean."
It's easy to have a testimony when things are good. But, the gospel is still true when things are horrible.
Now, don't freak out - nothing is horrible in my life right now. We are doing quite lovely, which always makes me a little bit nervous - don't want to become too complacent and all that jazz :) - but just in case I hadn't told you -
It is worth it. For me, for my family. I choose happy.
5 comments:
I liked that post. Simple and sweet. And you are 100% right. Gosh I wish I had some strong desire to go to church and teach Malia. I think the hardest part for me is, I'm not necessarily doing anything "bad" I just don't go! I don't feel unhappy at the moment (I have my moments tho, i've obviously blogged about them;) but it's so hard to have a desire. I love your stories and the fact that you just did what was right and made it all right. Great example and mommy of the year!:)
um.....the word verifacation I had to just type in for my last post was "Judgement" ahhhh creepy.....haha
Thank you for your sweet, simple testimony. You leave me feeling hope and happiness in my heart. I am so happy for you and your family.
I loved your testimony. It's always good to hear about someone's struggles to know you're not alone. I think you're a sweetheart that is stronger because of your struggles and not in spite of them. I also think you're an amazing person that accepts your past and has become an incredible person because of them. I love you!
It is worth it. I can see your smiling face now, and I know you feel it, it is written all over you. Thanks for your testimony.
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