Something Extraordinary

We had our Stake Women's Conference today - and I have to say - something extraordinary happened. I was asked somewhat last minute to present a workshop. I had 4 days to prepare - and you know how us women are - typically 4 weeks would have been about right! But - 4 days! The workshop was on trials - surviving them - and learning from them. I totally stole some thoughts from Emily Freeman from here, (I totally LOVE her blog) and also from President Eyring from the October 2007 General Conference - 'Remember, Remember' - (sorry - I couldn't get it to link) ....and somewhere in the midst of the presentation - the words came that I was supposed to say. I had wonderful priesthood help to get a projector and screen set up and my computer connected to the wi-fi so we were able to end with Hilary Weeks' music video for Beautiful Heartbreak here. I believe hearts were touched as we could all relate to heartfelt struggles and the desire to rise above them and not look back. I am thankful that for maybe just a small moment in time I was able to be an instrument in His hands. I am grateful for the tender mercies that were extended to so many on this day.

Spiritual Pick-Me-Up or Daily Closer to Christ

Some people need a good strong 'something' in the morning to get going; hot shower, coffee, etc. I've found something that gets me going in the right direction and I want to share that with you. I've tried to do better at reading my scriptures every day. Mornings aren't always good because I tend to sleep in as long as possible - and if I don't shower before reading - I fall asleep while attempting said task. So unless it's a Saturday or Sunday - morning scripture reading doesn't happen. But I can go here and find some spiritual fuel to keep me going for the day. Emily Freeman is an author and a frequent presenter at Time Out For Women. She also has an incredible insight to the scriptures and a way to 'liken them to us' that is intensely personal. I can go to the blog and peruse what she has written - or - the best thing - I now have it sent directly to my email when she puts a new one on. She has a calendar listing of daily reading so you can read the entire standard works (Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine & Covenants and Pearl of Great Price) in one year. I'm not sure I'm there yet, but I AM appreciating the perspective she is adding to my scripture study.