This year has been a bit of a roller coaster ride for me. I haven’t written much on my blog because of several health issues. I know what it is like to live with pain on and off. But I’m actually smiling because my perspective of trials has changed. When my knees or my lower back or my neck start complaining, I take it easy. I’m learning not to “run faster than I have strength.” Mosiah 4:27
These limitations have given my plenty of time to slow down and ponder who I am and what I should be doing with my life. As I approach my 51st birthday this weekend, I am happy to be alive. I’m blessed with a great family and blessed with challenges that I can learn and grow from. And as Olaf says, “All good things.” I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I used to wonder why the domino game kept happening to me, but now I understand that He knows I can handle more than I think I can. And I trust Him.
This world is changing and as the signs of the times escalate I’ve learned to recognize the good in people. My purpose in life is to lift the hands of those that hang down in discouragement. I can’t bake bread like others, but I can share happy thoughts on Facebook, drive courteously, share helpful ideas and share my testimony.
As an Emergency Resource Specialist for my ward, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to watch our neighborhood emergency plan move forward. It’a a huge undertaking, and it takes a team of great people to pull it off. This weekend we will have a mock emergency drill. It won’t be perfect, but we get to learn from it. Our leaders have gone throughout the neighborhood passing out and collecting Emergency Household Information forms. And this experience has increased my faith in people and their desire to help others prepare for disasters.
My daughter who serves a mission in Santiago, Chile has recently felt several earthquakes. The 8.2 quake was far away, but she is accustomed to feeling 5.0 earthquakes. It’s hard for mom to be far away and concerned, but I pray to the same Heavenly Father she does and that brings me peace. I know what a strong amazing girl she is, and I know she is being watched over.
I hope those of you who watch General Conference enjoyed it. I loved it! I hope you all choose the right and find happiness.
Best wishes!
Valerie