~ * ~ 65 Random Things About Myself ~ * ~

I've seen this done on other blogs and I find them very interesting (it helps me realize I'm not as weird as I sometimes think).  Who knows!  Maybe I'll have something in common with you!

1. I started my first job at the age of 18 and have stayed with the company for the last 8 years.  (Talk about commitment!)
2.  I love to break the register at work (make it display funny error messages) and find out problems with the coding.
3.  I absolutely love the Asian culture (obviously), but I don't know exactly why or what started it.  [See #23]
4. My favorite type of food is sushi.  [See #32]

5.  I'm rather fond of things that are different/unique.
6.  I'm not a huge fan of cooking, but I believe that it's simply a mental obstacle and once I start cooking (or befriend someone who loves to do it) I will enjoy it much more.  [See #18]
7.  My favorite animal is a tiger.
8.  My bedroom could also be classified as a library because of how many books I own (and not having access to a library card doesn't help the decreasing bookshelf space).
9.  Up until recently, I had never flown on a plane.  It wasn't as scary as I thought it would be.*

*This picture may not reflect opinion stated above.

10.  I created my own daily planner using Excel and a mini binder.  I absolutely love it.
11.  I haven't listened to English music in over 8 months.
12.  My favorite music group is Super Junior, where my favorite song writer is David Hodges (though they are in no way related).
13.  In high school, I went through a "goth" faze, but never got around to dying my hair black.
14.  Now (ten years later) I can't seem to get enough bright colors in my life!
15.  I absolutely adore my co-workers and the people that I serve.
16.  I can easily spend hours on YouTube watching vloggers.

17.  My favorite holiday is Christmas as the Spirit is amazing, (and I'm not referring to the materialistic spirit).
18.  My mother suffered from a degenerative disease called Rheumatoid Arthritis for most of my life, and doing simple daily tasks were very painful and challenging.  [See #6]
19.  I am the "President" of a creative writing group with nearly a dozen of my friends, and I love being with them!
20.  My favorite thing to do with friends is go out to eat, window shop, or simply watch funny videos/movies with them.
21.  My favorite movie genre would be technically classified as "Family" or "Children" as I LOVE the animated movies such as Rise of the Guardians, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Megamind for their stories and morals that are taught.
22.  I'm definitely a story-kind of girl.  If the plotline doesn't make sense or isn't interesting (mindless action scenes, etc.), I won't enjoy it.
23. When I was a child, my best friend growing up was from Cambodia.  [Possible reason for #3?]
24.  I am normally very suspicious of people due to my trust being broken in the past.  However I am working on improving this.
25.  I am an only child and wish I had siblings.
26.  Some of my favorite vloggers on YouTube to watch are: Dodger Leigh, Random Panser, Marikplier, and Mary Doodles.  [*Not all content on their channels I approve of, however I do love their vlogs when they simply talk about their daily life]
27.  My birthday is in February and lies on the border with the horoscope calendar, so I have mixed qualities of both Aquarius and Pisces (if you believe in horoscopes).
28.  My mother passed away April 22, 2011 and there's not a day that goes by that I don't think about her.
29.  I love fruit, especially during the wintertime.
30.  I have only experienced two "Snow Days" in my entire life, though I have lived in the state with the "greatest snow on earth" my entire life.
31.  My dad and I are really close and have similar personalities (you've been warned).
32.  I love breakfast meals (pancakes, waffles, eggos, bacon, sausage, hash browns, etc.).  It's probably my second favorite food.  [See #4]
33.  I have over 19 hours of kpop music on my iPod and I love every minute of it.

[Image Source]

34.  I wish I had a great sense of style and accessorizing like other girls with short hair, but I don't. [See #54]
35.  I don't even have my ears pierced!
36.  Thanks to my first boyfriend, I'm no longer afraid to be my true self.
37.  Overall I am a generally happy person.  I will act happy even when I'm not, but once you get to know me, you'll be able to tell when I'm having a hard time.
38.  My favorite New Testament story is the story of a man named Legion and how Christ heals him.  For some reason that story has stood out to me for years.
39.  My favorite Book of Mormon story is Alma the Younger's life story.
40.  I love looking for symbolism in life.
41.  I can't wait to go through the temple [See #40].  But I don't have plans to receive my endowment as I would really like to go through the temple my first time with my future husband.  I am temple worthy and hold a baptismal recommend however.
42.  My dream is to someday do an Asian tour and visit all the countries.
43.  I plan to meet someone "famous" in my life.
44.  My guilty pleasure is YouTube, Netflix, and DramaFever.  They will be my downfall.
45.  I love to set weekly goals and strive to accomplish them.
46.  I love video editing (mainly making movie trailers) but after killing my third computer, I stopped.
47.   I miss the days when life was simpler and my greatest concern was whether it was going to be sunny enough to play Power Rangers outside or not.
48.  I am not a big video game person, but I do have friends who are (and I obviously follow YouTubers who are HUGE gamers, but I myself am not one).  [See #26]
49.  I haven't had a serious boyfriend in years (mainly because I told the Lord what I wanted and He was kind enough to bless me with it... though now I'm not so sure I can wait for the blessing).
50.  I am on an adventure called Life and I love every moment.

51.  I would not change anything in my past, for by doing so, I would change the person I am today and I don't want that.
52.  I'm far from perfect, and I hope my future husband has some flaws or I'm going to feel extremely inferior.
53.  As a child, I was never into "girly" things.  In fact, when McDonald's would have the different toys for girls and boys (barbies for girls, Hotwheel's cars for boys) I would cry if I ended up with a barbie because I wanted the car.  Yeah, I was THAT child.  But look at how well rounded I turned out! :)
54.  My entire wardrobe could do with a makeover [See #34].
55.  I can't speak another language, but if I could, it would be Korean.  But I am trying!
56.  I do not have a single scar and I have never broken a bone.  (as of yet)
57.  I graduated with a degree in Family, Consumer, and Human Development, with an emphasis on Community Services.  Basically, I want to work with helping families have a better life.
58.  I originally wanted to major in Psychology, but I hated the medical diagnosis side and loved the application side.  [Hence #57]
59.  I took art all 4 years in high school, but I don't consider myself an artist in the least.
60.  I enjoy writing and coming up with stories.  It's the organizing different scenes into a coherent storyline that I struggle with.
61.  When I was little, I used to eat chapstick; specifically the strawberry flavored kind (Smackers brand).
62.  I didn't like raspberries until after high school because of the "little hairs" but yet I love to each peaches with the skin on (fuzz and all!).  (Side note: I did wash the peach first.)
63.  I'm a total geek at heart. <3
64.  I enjoy playing European table top games ("Euro Games").  My favorites include Dominion, Carcassonne, and Tsuro.  I even wanted to start a weekly game night with friends!
65.  I would LOVE to adopt Asian children once I'm married.  They're ADORABLE!!

I'm going to stop it here.  If you want to get to know me better, feel free to contact me. :)

Walking On the Sea of Life

The Church recently released the following Bible Video:

The story of Peter walking on the water is one that is near and dear to my heart.

Matthew 14: 22-33

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. 

So often in life we walk atop the waters of life, having faith in Christ, but when outer forces seek to bring us down, our faith waivers and we begin to sink.

"O thou of little faith..."

But if we cry out, Christ will immediately stretch forth His hand and catch us.

If we remain focused on the Lord and not let the outer forces distract us, we will be able to walk on the sea of Life and reach our destination.

Walking By Faith

In order to complete my Bachelor's degree, they require a practicum (or "internship").  I am required to gain 300 hours of hands-on experience in my field of study. I was going to do it over the summer, but I felt so confused and lost.  I was literally wandering around in the dark waiting for the Lord to answer my prayers.  Funny thing is, when I finally made a decision (as opposed to waiting) I felt a strong confirmation that I was where I was supposed to be.

As a result, in September I started volunteering at a local domestic violence shelter (as my emphasis is helping families in the community).  What we do is help individuals who have suffered from abuse, by providing a safe place for them to come if they are seeking shelter and counseling onsite that help the client get back on their feet.  I'm amazed at what a great resource this is for my community and I'm proud to be a part of it!  The individuals (staff) who work there are phenomenal!  At first I was terrified at the prospect of being one on one with a client as I asked about their experience.  But the other night (my second check-in shadowing) I had a neat experience:

The client is not native to America, so her English is a bit rough, but clear enough to understand.  The advocate I was shadowing had a hard time hearing her because the client spoke softly, so I was able to help the advocate understand what the client was saying.  Then, once the check-in process was complete, I had the awesome opportunity of showing the client around the shelter.  Her eyes just lit up.  No longer afraid, peace filled her eyes for the first time that night.  She was going to be alright.  And as I took her up to the room she'd be staying in, my heart was so filled with joy at being able to help this individual, it could have burst.  I know that was the Spirit of the Lord.

"I Walk By Faith" by Judy Cooley

You see, for a long while now (since Spring) I have felt completely lost when it came to my future.  I didn't know what I was going to do, where my life was headed, etc.  As you know if you've followed my blog for a while, I had expected to be married, hopefully staying at home with the kids, etc.  My life was not turning out the way I had hoped and it left me feeling like I was walking blind.  The Lord obviously had different plans for my life, but I would have liked to know them!  Then I had a glimmer of revelation when I thought of going to South Korea to teach English.  It gave me hope and excitement.  I knew that would be at least a year away, so what was I going to do for my practicum?  My immediate future?

The feeling I experienced the other night at my Practicum was like a light shining on my dark path.  I came home feeling energized and excited.  It was as if the Lord was telling me, "This is where you are supposed to be right now, Melissa."  I have not given up hope for gong to Korea.  But after the other night, I feel more peace at where I'm currently at in life.  And that feeling is incredible.

And last night I came across the following scripture that really captured my feelings:

"There are many mysteries which are kept, that no one knoweth them save God himself. But I show unto you one thing which I have inquired diligently of God that I might know... [But] it mattereth not; for God knoweth all these things; and it sufficeth me to know that this is the case..."  ~ Alma 40: 3, 5

So even though I still am unsure about my immediate future, knowing that the Lord has a plan for my life brings me peace and hope to carry on walking my current path.

Prayers & Praying

They say to talk to Him as though He's sitting beside you. Tell Him your stories, fears, gratitude...

However, there are times in life when things seem to coast along, and we may become lax in our relationship with God. As a result, when the time comes we really need His help, we won't be close enough to hear His answer. This is not a result of Him pulling away, but rather us pulling away from Him through small, everyday decisions. If this pattern of relationship continues, it's no wonder we may feel like our prayers are bouncing off the ceiling.

Where is the heartfelt tale of the day?

What's the pun of that funny joke?

What do you need help with?

All of the above questions I can imagine The Lord asks every time we create distance within that sacred relationship.

So how do you go back to giving your whole heart over to The Lord in prayer? How do you remove the pavilion and look at the heavens more clearly?

Be Believing

Sometimes in life, we wander through periods of wilderness.  Other times we are blessed with a land of promise.  The Lord doesn't always give us what we want, not because we don't deserve it, but rather, He knows we deserve something better.

During our times of wandering, it is important to keep the faith and continue to believe.  The following are a handful of scriptures that I find inspiring and help my faith during these dry times:

"Be not faithless, but believing." {John 20:27} 

"Fear not: believe only." {Luke 8:50} 

"Be not afraid, only believe." {Mark 5:36} 

"Doubt not, but be believing, and begin as in times of old, and come unto the Lord with all your heart..." {Mormon 9:27} 

"Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend." {Mosiah 4:9} 

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." {John 14:27} 

"Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." {Joshua 1:9}

So whether you are walking through your wilderness or have made it to your Promised Land, it is important to keep in mind that the Lord is always with you and has great plans for your life, no matter where you are at in your journey.

[Image Source]

~ * ~ Fear not, but be believing. ~ * ~

Lent For Growth

I like to think that I am constantly improving, constantly changing for the better.  But sometimes, I realize activities or things I choose to make priorities in my life don't always necessitate growth.  For a while now, I have indulged in a hobby and thoroughly enjoyed it, however it has come at the cost of other more important tasks.  This hobby is not something that is helping me grow, especially spiritually.  Lately I have felt starved spiritually and even though it is Conference Weekend for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (where we get to listen to apostles and prophets speak for ten hours), my spirit remains hungry.

I have pondered why this may be.  The answer is not new.  I have had feelings such as these before and set goals for myself to mitigate the time I spent on this hobby in hopes of being more productive in other areas of my life.  The goals worked for a time, but eventually I fell back into old habits and the cycle repeated itself.

I am talking about my addiction to YouTube.

Yes, the dreaded Tube.  In the last six months my "addiction" has spiraled out of control.  I will stay awake late into the night (sometimes all night) to watch videos of bloggers rambling, do-it-yourself projects, and other random colorful images flash before my eyes.  Having an affinity for video editing, I am drawn to YouTube.  I find the editing, stories, and other such aspects intriguing.

There is one YouTuber in particular who I admire a great deal.  Her name is Dodger Leigh and she has a gaming channel called PressHeartToContinue and a personal blogging channel called DexterityBonus in which she does daily "Coffeh" times and rambles about her life.  I'm addicted to DexterityBonus because of her humor, impressions, stories, and insights.

But as much I have enjoyed watching multiple Dodger videos every single day, spending many hours with her, I have decided it's time for a change.

No, the change isn't because I no longer like the girl.  Rather it's a change I feel is necessary if I want to get back upon my spiritual feet.  You see, lately (as in the pass few weeks) I have felt myself drifting away from my Heavenly Father and my testimony becoming brittle, like a candle whose wick is burning low.  This is not to say I don't believe in Him or Jesus Christ anymore, it's more that I feel like I have shut out a good friend and I need to find the courage to open the door again.  Finding that courage is going to require discipline and humility, without any distractions.

And right now, I can't afford distractions in my life.  I'm graduating college and have no idea what I'm going to do after that!  I need divine assistance, yet I can't get myself to open the door.  I know He's on the other side, waiting... But I'm too darn prideful!

YouTube provides a nice escape for me to run to when I don't want to open that door.

I am tired of running.

It's time to face who I am and strengthen my relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

So how am I going to do this?

Have you heard of Lent?  It is a period of 40 days prior to Easter in which many Christian religions participate.  Individuals "give up" or fast from something they love for a period of 40 days in the hopes of becoming a better person or connecting with God (much like when Christ went 40 days in the desert to commune with His Father).  In my case, I want to go without YouTube for 40 days in hopes of strengthening my conversion to the Gospel.  I know Lent has actually already started (in fact, it's more than half over by now), but I figure it doesn't matter when I start, just as long as I do something.

Now, I have made goals like this before.  I have said, "No YouTube for one week."  And let me tell you, it was killer.  So 40 days seems like an eternity to me without amazing COFFEH time videos... But what makes this fast different is the fact that I'm not simply going without YouTube to see if I can or because the week is busy.  No, I'm going without YouTube with the distinct purpose of drawing closer to my Father in Heaven and Savior Jesus Christ.

It's like working out: you can exercise to lose weight and succeed only to return to old habits once you've reached your goal, or you can choose to exercise to live a healthier life and be happier (a goal which is ongoing and doesn't have a set end-date).  I prefer to choose the second option.  Losing weight is simply a bonus!

Likewise, quitting YouTube for 40 days to grow spiritually is the goal.  Breaking my addiction is simply a bonus!

To all of you who are currently doing Lent, or wish to join me in giving up something you enjoy, I want to say good luck!  And if you have any suggestions or encouraging tips to help me (and others) through this challenge, please feel free to comment below!

We can conquer this!

Returning to Sand

"The light after the storm, shows that hope was never gone."

You have seen this line all over this blog, in posts as well as the description to the right.  It was also one of the main inspirations behind the title of this blog, "Dancing Through the Rain."  This amazing line belongs to none other than David Hodges who co-wrote the song "Returning to Sand" with Tamar Kaprelian back in 2009.  He later released a re-recorded version on his December Sessions, Vol. 1 album.

This song has given me much strength over the years and has become a motto for life.  So even when times are tough, I know that  if  when I make it through the storm, there will be sunlight again.  Like Jack Frost from Rise of the Guardians states, "Do you stop believing in the sun when clouds block it out?"  Hope is the exact same way.

When times are tough, the storm seems so dark and so oppressive.  But through our belief, we know the sun is still shining above those clouds, and we simply need to have faith and wait for the storm to pass in order to see the sunlight once again.

Don't be afraid to fall.

Don't be afraid to change.

Don't be afraid to feel.

Don't be afraid to learn.

Don't be afraid to grow.

Don't be afraid to love.

Don't be afraid to be you.

Don't be afraid to face the storm.

Returning to Sand

David Hodges

Tamar Kaprelian

Fate driven deep under the waves

An empire of gold

Returning to sand

Falling asleep to the rhythm of days

Watching the tide

Pull back again

I'm not afraid to fall

I've lived without water

I've walked through the fire before

I'm not afraid of change

'Cause I've dined with kings

And I've watched it be taken away

Leaving this town with wings and a prayer

These helpless streets

Are too dead for dreaming

The past made of thorns is a cross I must bear

At the edge of defeat

Miles from believing

And time will let mend we've broken...

I'm not afraid to fall

I've lived without water

I've walked through the fire before

I'm not afraid of change

'Cause I've dined with kings

And I've watched it be taken away

The light after the storm

Shows that hope was never gone

Fate driven deep under the waves

Empire of gold

Returning to sand

I'm not afraid to fall

I've lived without water

I've walked through the fire before

I'm not afraid of change

'Cause I've dined with kings

And I've watched it be taken away

Yeah, I've dined with kings

And I've watched it be taken away

Eden

You know those moments in life when you realize you have become your parents?  Yeah, totally had one of those the other day.

I decided to buy a new music album off of iTunes to help me tackle a very large cleaning/organization project.  After it downloaded, I stopped to think about how my music interests have changed over the years.  In high school, if you even mentioned the word "pop" around me, I would have walked away.  But as time has gone by, my interests have gone from hard-rock/punk to alternative to pop... to instrumental.  And the funny thing is, this is exactly the kind of music my parents listed to when I was younger!  I grew up with a lot of Yanni, Kenny G., Jim Brickman, and Donny Osmond playing in the house.

In a psychology class I took years ago, I heard that as people age, they actually revert into what they experienced as a child when it comes to personal tastes, etc.  Boy is it ever true in my case!

Anyway, one of my favorite artists is Piano Guys.  They are phenomenal and made listening to piano music fun again (not to mention how David Hodges has influenced me in my choice of music as well).  As I listen to their stuff on Pandora, Paul Cardall kept coming up, and I really started to like his piano music.  So I purchased one of his CDs this last week: Living For Eden.

Within twenty seconds of the first song, I knew I was in love.

It hasn't changed after hearing the entire album.

I looked at the CD artwork and found this on the back:

"Music is a means to an end for me.  It's a gift that allows me to share emotions that reflect my life's philosophy.  Johann Sebastian Bach said, 'The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.'

Life is full of surprises.  There are ups and downs, happiness and pain.  But, through it all there exists in my heart the comforting assurance that faith in a loving God and loyalty to family creates a Garden of Eden, or refuge, in our lives.  I've learned that long-term happiness does not come from any accolades, money, or advancement in society but by putting our whole heart into love, sacrifice, and service to those in our home, extended family, and community.

This album [Living For Eden] is a celebration of my 35 years.  I love life.  I am reminded every day through my experiences of the gift of life.  However, I think of the millions of people suffering in the world.  Pain and loss is all around us.  Poverty, disease, war, the list goes on.  It's overwhelming and devastating.  My heart turns to these people.  I believe we should trust in the message of Jesus who more than 2000 years ago taught us how to live and love all people.

We should focus all our priorities in actively building homes with love and also extend that love to our communities.  And then, maybe, this world once again will become a peaceful place like the Garden of Eden."

- Paul Cardall

I want to add my testimony to his about how our priorities need to be within the home.  It is in this sacred place that we learn the basic values and morals to function in life.  This is where we should feel safe and be able to escape the concerns of the world.  I have been blessed to live in such a home.  Though it is not the Garden of Eden, it is my Eden.  I am proud to call it Home.

What will your Eden be like?

Children & Christ's Atonement

Today I had the awesome opportunity to attend my cousin's mission homecoming.  Now normally I attend a Single's Ward (individuals aged 18-30 who are not married).  But today, I attended a home ward where young families abound.

What struck me, and the thought I wish to share with you today, is the love I felt as I looked around the room at the little children (some of which belong to my cousins not much older than myself, I might add).  I looked at those little children and was thinking about the Atonement as the Sacrament was being passed.  I realized the Jesus Christ Atoned for everyone, including the innocent three-year-old two benches in front of me.  Now, children are innocent and I (as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) firmly believe that if a child dies prior to the age of accountability (age 8), they have a freeway pass to Heaven.  So, knowing the Atonement takes away sin, I asked myself, "How would this innocent child utilize the Atonement when they haven't sinned?"  Well, I was quickly reminded that the Atonement is not only for the sinner, but also for the saint.  Christ Atoned for us so that we have the opportunity to return to our loving Father in Heaven.

Jesus Christ Atoned for everyone no matter their age, race, gender, or lifestyle.

On top of that, I think about the love the father has of this three-year-old sitting in front of me.  I think about the cousins closest to me in age, who now have children of their own, and I can imagine the love and pride (the good kind) they experience when they look at their child.  Take that warm fuzzy feeling of love and magnify it by infinity.  That is the love that Heavenly Father experiences as He looks down upon us.

This love is why Jesus Christ came down to this Earth and died for our sins; so Heavenly Father has the chance to be reunited with the children He loves so very much.

As I continue to look around at the children, and feel the warmth of love, the Spirit quietly whispers to me: "He doesn't love them more than you.  You are loved just as much as that small, innocent child."

The Lord loves all of us unconditionally: the sinner and the saint, the poor and the rich, the mean and the kind.  But I think He has varying degrees of (wholesome) pride when we choose to follow Him and when we think of Him and His Son.  It is similar to when a parent sees their child succeed in life.  Obviously they are going to feel a sense of pride from that child and rejoice in their successes.  How much greater could that feeling be from our Infinite Eternal Father in Heaven?  How much more are you willing to do to please Him?

When I was a child, I made mistakes.  Some of these mistakes hurt my parents dearly and I still remember the shame I felt at seeing them disappointed with me.  How is our relationship with Heavenly Father any different?  Likewise, I think when we choose a different path, stray away from Him, He feels sad and wishes we would choose differently.  But He knows it is ultimately our decision (that's why He gave us agency), but He still feels sad.

Think of the loss He would have felt during the War in Heaven, when he lost a third of children!  That's billions of children!  I easily can see Him upset at the loss (yet, having the infinite knowledge He does, He realizes the power of agency in His children).  I cannot fathom a parent who loses even one child not to experience some sort of great loss.

But that is why we are in this life.  We are here to learn and prove ourselves to Him, so that we may return to live with Him someday.

Christ sacrificed His perfect life so that all may be given the chance to succeed.  Some may not partake of His gift, others will abuse it, and yet there are many others who will cherish the gift we cannot fathom, and return gratefully into His loving arms as we fall down at His feet.

I long for that day.

Rise of the Guardians & Symbolism

As you already know, I am a huge fan of Rise of the Guardians.

But did you also know that one of the reasons I love it is because of the symbolism I see between that story and the Gospel?  Here, let me share some examples.

(The following should *NOT* include spoilers.  You're welcome.) ^-^

Jack: "Darkness.  That's the first thing I remember.  It was dark, and it was cold... And I was scared.  But then, then I saw the moon.  It was so big and it was so bright, and it seemed to chase the darkness away.  And when it did... I wasn't scared anymore."

First of all, talk about an awesome opening scene.  Beautifully written.  Now for the symbolism...

This world can be a very scary and dark place.  All you have to do is look at the news and see what's going on.  But, the light (Jesus Christ) can chase that darkness away.  When I turn to my Savior at times when I am scared of the uncertain future, I find peace and hope.

[Image Source]

Continuing along that same thought (of the Man in the Moon symbolizing Christ), later in the movie after longing for something he didn't have, Jack looks up at the moon.
"If there's something I'm doing wrong, can you, can you just tell me what it is?  Because I've tried everything... You put me here, the least you can do is tell me, tell me why..."

When life isn't going according to our plan, how often do we look up at Heavenly Father and say those same words?  How often does He respond with silence or "Patience, my child"?  For me, it's far more than I can count.  Ten years ago, I honestly thought my life would be different; for starters, I thought I would be done with college (still working on it), Mom would still be alive (but she's in a much better place now), and I would be married...  Well, none of those three things have happened yet.  But I have learned to have patience and recognize that the Lord has His timing and we have ours, often they are different.

[Image Source]

And when we don't receive an answer, but someone else does (through the Holy Ghost and inspiration), we then question why we were not told...

Jack to the Guardians:
"The Man in the Moon, he talks to you?  But why, why wouldn't he tell me that himself?"

Sometimes Often the Lord will work through other people in order to bless our life.  If we are too focused on what we want and not what He wants, how could we possibly hear Him?  It takes someone else to speak up and act in His behalf.  When I have had this happen, I stop and question myself, wondering what it was that caused me to be so "unavailable."  However, sometimes it isn't that we are to blame; sometimes the Lord simply has other plans.  Even if, like Jack, we are trying our best but we still can't receive inspiration, perhaps it's because He has a greater plan in store (So-and-so needed to talk to you because they needed it, etc.).

[Image Source]

North: "I don't know who you were in your past life, but in this life you are Guardian."
Jack: "But how can I know who I am, until I find out who I was?"

No, I am not endorsing reincarnation.  =P

What I love about this is that it doesn't matter what your past is like, you can still become who it is you want to be.  Thanks to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, your past can be healed.  Yes, the scar may still remain for a time, but the pain will be gone, and we can move forward with the life we desire to live.

[Image Source]

Another aspect of this movie that I enjoyed was the concept of "What's your center?"  What's your purpose?  We are all here in this life trying to find our center.  For some it may take longer than others, but eventually I think we all find it.

[Image Source]

And don't even get me started on Pitch...

[Image Source]

This entire movie is also based on the premise of faith and believing in something you cannot see, which of course goes hand-in-hand with the Gospel.  So...

"Believe it."

~ ~ ~

Fear Not

I came across the picture above on FaceBook and shared it.  One of my friends commented and asked, "So what would you let go of?" and it caused me to stop and think...

If I could live my life without fear...

What would I do?

That's a very good question... and I'm not really sure I have the answer to that.  There is so much to fear in this world (especially since I keep hearing about school shootings).

Then, in Institute on Monday, my teacher referenced a talk by Elder Holland entitled, "Terror, Triumph, and a Wedding Feast."  This is the section that spoke to me the most:

"I say this because in recent times—post 9-11 times, I suppose—I have heard very fearful and even dismal opinions coming from some in your age group... I have heard some of you say that you wonder whether there is any purpose in going on a mission or getting an education or planning for a career if the world we live in is going to be so uncertain. I have even heard sweethearts say, "We don’t know whether we should get married in such uncertain times."

Worst of all, I have heard reports of some newlyweds questioning whether they should bring children into a terror-filled world on the brink of latter-day cataclysms. May I tell you that, in a way, those kinds of attitudes worry me more than Al-Qaeda worries me.

I have just two things to say to any of you who are troubled about the future. I say it lovingly and from my heart.

First, we must never, in any age or circumstance, let fear and the father of fear (Satan himself) divert us from our faith and faithful living. There have always been questions about the future. Every young person or every young couple in every era has had to walk by faith into what has always been some uncertainty—starting with Adam and Eve in those first tremulous steps out of the Garden of Eden. But that is all right. This is the plan. It will be okay. Just be faithful. God is in charge. He knows your name and He knows your need.

Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ—that is the first principle of the gospel. We must go forward, as it says in K. Newell Dayley’s hymn commemorating our pioneers of the past, “with faith in ev’ry footstep.” But like those pioneers, you do have to keep taking them—one step and then another and then the next. That is how tasks are accomplished, that is how goals are achieved, and that is how frontiers are conquered. In more divine language, that is how worlds are created and it is how your world will be created.

God expects you to have enough faith and determination and enough trust in Him to keep moving, keep living, keep rejoicing. In fact, He expects you not simply to face the future (that sounds pretty grim and stoic); He expects you to embrace and shape the future—to love it and rejoice in it and delight in your opportunities.

God is anxiously waiting for the chance to answer your prayers and fulfill your dreams, just as He always has. But He can’t if you don’t pray, and He can’t if you don’t dream. In short, He can’t if you don’t believe."

[I encourage you to listen to Elder Holland's talk and read along with him.  He emphasizes words in such a way that it will touch you on a deeper level.]

I absolutely LOVE that last statement.  We need to believe in the future and have faith that Heavenly Father will help give us strength to face it.  As Elder Holland goes on to say...

"...God not only lives, He loves us. He loves you. Everything He does is for our good and our protection. There is evil and sorrow in the world, but there is no evil or harm in Him. He is our Father—a perfect father—and He will shelter us from the storm."

Fear of the future has been a concern of mine.  In fact, I have expressed it in previous posts.  The future is scary, but it's going to be alright... if we just believe.

We cannot let our fear of the future withhold us from reaching our potential in this life.  We have so much going for us, and we can do it.

So I am going to leave you with departing words from a song by David Hodges (yes, everything does relate back to him somehow).  It is entitled, "Little Juliet."  He is singing as a father (to his daughter), but the song has a much deeper meaning: There's another Father that is telling us (everyone) the words of this song whenever we are going through a difficult time or are scared.  This song speaks peace to my soul.

I can't imagine while you're waking
From a dream, the darkness
Is making you so scared
Honey, I've been there
But I know it won't be long
So baby, hold on

I know you can't understand
I know it's hard to trust these hands
When you're so scared
Honey, I've been there
Please believe it won't be long
So baby, hold on.

[Image source]

Season of Solitude

I came across this quote tonight and it touched me in a profound way.

"If God is preparing you to make an impact on this world for His kingdom, chances are He will take you through a 

season of solitude. 

This is a season when you learn that you can't lean upon anyone but Him for your confidence and when you 

gain the strength to stand alone even 

when no one else stands with you." 

~ Leslie Ludy

When God Writes Your Love Story, p. 157 

Coincidences

I don't believe in coincidences.  I honestly believe that everything we experience (especially major trials) are for a reason and that we can learn something from everything we go through.

However, trials are not the reason for this specific post.

For the past little while, my life has had a lot of these "coincidences."  Namely in my social life.  There have been too many instances when I have thought of a friend but failed to act, only to have them act instead and contact me.  Or there are times when the Spirit will whisper to me to do something and I decide to act, only to realize that it was exactly what the person needed at that time.  More often than not, it was what I needed as well.

The Lord is very aware of us.  In the words of Albert Einstein: "Coincidence is God's way of remaining anonymous."

I found the article below and fell in love with it.  It speaks the truth to me about coincidences.  I am re-posting it here in order to have the article even if the original link disappears someday.  (See citation after the article):

When God Winks at You
By: Squire Rushnell
 
You’ve had another one of those days. Everything seems uncertain.

You think: Wouldn’t it be great to wake up one morning and have everything be certain? Certain in love? Certain about your job? Certain about your future?

Who could you talk to about this? Bigger question, who’d listen?

Tentatively your eyes drift skyward.

Hello? Are you there, God?

Then your mind quickly assesses the immensity of your request. You want God to listen to you, right now. How ridiculous. There are six billion people on this planet. What if they’re all calling God at the same time?

You slump. Deeper into the dumps.

Then--something happens.

A little silly thing.

Someone you just thought about for the first time in years phones out of the blue--a silly little coincidence, so silly you shrug it off. Or a prayer you didn’t really expect to be answered--was! Immediately, your left brain repeats something you once heard: There’s a mathematical explanation for everything.

“But…” you say, “mayyyyybe... it’s not just coincidence or chance!”

Maybe God is communicating with you.

Yes directly to you!

You shake your head.

Naw. Couldn’t be.

But…what if God is communicating with you--in a nonverbal way--making a little miracle happen, right in front of you? After all, God doesn’t speak to people in a human voice. He’s God…He’d do something no one else could do, just to show you it’s Him!

If so, that would mean that He is listening! Right?

He has heard you!

What if through this odd little coincidence, or answered prayer, He’s sending you--you… out of all of those billions of people--a direct personal message of reassurance? To stop worrying? To keep the faith? That everything will be all right?

Every time you receive what some call a coincidence or an answered prayer, it’s a direct and personal message of reassurance from God to you--what I call a godwink.

It’s similar to when you were a kid at the dining room table. You looked up and saw someone you loved looking back. Mom or Dad or Granddad. They gave you a little wink.

You had a nice feeling from that small silent communication.

What did it mean? Probably--“Hey kid…I’m thinking about you right this moment. I’m proud of you. Everything is going to be all right.”

That’s what a godwink is.

Every so-called coincidence or answered prayer is God’s way of giving you His small, silent, communication. A little wink saying, “Hey kid! I’m thinking of you…right now!”

It’s a clear message of reassurance-that not matter how uncertain your life seems at the moment, He will help move you toward certainty.

And it’s a sign that you’re never alone. In fact, you’re always on His GPS--a global positioning system I like to call God’s Positioning System...

[Source: http://www.beliefnet.com/Inspiration/2006/10/When-God-Winks-At-You.aspx]

There are no coincidences in this life.  Keep that in mind the next time a prayer seems to have been answered, or that cute boy/girl finally talks to you right when you feel you are having a difficult time with loneliness.  Just remember, the Lord knows us individually and He will provide for us individually, often through the service of others.

Let Him Lead

Everything in life has a reason.

You lose a loved one... for a reason.

You meet a new friend... for a reason.

You even fall in love (and possibly have your heart broken)... for a reason.

There is so much more to this life than I think we comprehend.  Sometimes we can't see where the path will end.  What is our destination?  Are we going to make it there in one piece?  What lessons will we learn along the way?

I believe there is a lesson in everything we go through.  We can learn something from everything if we will but simply open our hearts and listen.

So much has happened to me in the last few years... It's amazing the difference just a year--a month--can make.  I look back on my life and marvel at the path it has taken.  I can see the Lord's hand interwoven throughout so much of it that I cannot adequately put into words my feelings.

There are no coincidences in this life.  We go through experiences (whether good or bad) for a reason.

Walking along the path of life can be difficult and challenging at times.  We may even stumble and lose our way for a while.  But if we exercise our faith, and just believe, we can come back to the path.

I try not to think of all the challenges and decisions I must face in the next ten years.  The different possibilities overwhelm me and I begin to doubt (especially about marriage and childbearing and then raising those children who will eventually go out into the world).

Then, I take a deep breath...

...and tell myself that everything will be alright.

As long as I remain faithful, and diligently strive to stay close to the Lord, He will guide me and walk beside me, leading me along this path of life.  He will strengthen during times of struggle.  He will comfort in time of sorrow.  But most of all, He will always be only a prayer away.

I know that with Him by my side, I will be able to accomplish many things I couldn't do otherwise.  He will be my rock, my foundation.

As much as I love having control over my life, I realize I must let Him gently guide me along and I will eventually reach my desired destination.

I realize there is a reason my mother passed away last year.  I continue to learn lessons from not only the experience, but also the type of life she lived.

I realize that many friends have come into my life for a reason, and many have left footprints on my heart that continue to linger...

I realize that the relationships I have had (both good and bad) happened for a reason.  I have learned so many things from those relationships, especially about myself.

I know that more of my loved ones will eventually go the way of all the Earth, but the Lord will always strengthen me.

I know more friends will come and go along the way, but the Lord will always be the friend who stays.

I know the relationships I have in the future will all prepare me for the one everlasting relationship I long to have, but the Lord will always be there to comfort me during times of heartache.

So let the Lord lead.  Let Him be the one you lean on.  Let Him be the one you go to for advice and counsel.

For He will give you everything.

Let Him lead.  You never know the amazing journey He will take you on.

[Image Source]

Waking Up To A New Day

Today was kind of a big day for me.  I underwent a procedure using anesthesia for the first time in my life.  Being extremely nervous about what could happen, I turned on some David Hodges to help calm my nerves (his music has that affect on me).  Listening only to one song, I had a specific line running through my head the entire time I was going to and prepping for the procedure before the anesthesia took effect: "The light after the storm shows that hope was never gone."

I knew I would get through this minor procedure just fine and I knew I would have hope.

Well, long story short they found some interesting things out.  I'm rather nervous to hear the test results (in about a week's time), but I also realize that it may answer many of the questions I have had for years.  No matter what it turns out to be (whether positive or negative) I hang on to the hope that "tunnels end in light."

So, after sleeping all day (due to the aftereffects of anesthesia), the song line I had running through my head this morning returned.  I chose to listen to one of my favorite versions of the song, which just happens to be a live version of David Hodges singing with a girl named Tamar.  Feeling the lyrics wash over me, I decided to go on a little adventure and see what other songs this Tamar girl has written.

And I fell in love with her songs.

I came across this one and it offered me strength and a peace of mind.  The song sings of moving on and that everyday can be a new day despite the challenges of today.  We have the chance to try a little harder, be a little better, and live life a little fuller.  It's about change despite the challenges that we face.  And as Tamar herself put it:

"New Day, my first single, is a song about overcoming struggle and being in negative situations, but finding the positive lessons through those not-so-wonderful situations that we kind of run into in life."

I fell in love with this song not just because of what I went through today, but because it sings about healing and being able to live a different life.  It has special meaning for me since I have not always lived the life I currently am.  For a while in high school I ran around with a pretty rough crowd, but I have since let go of my past and embraced the future, changing for the better along the way.  "New Day" brings back those feelings I experienced 5 years ago: Change is possible no matter the circumstances.  This song also helps me realize that the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ is very real; for without Him, change would not be possible and a "new day" would never come.

"New Day"

Tamar Kaprelian

Before the light, I found the dark

Before tonight, I fell apart
Frozen up, I've realized that something's gotta change

It took a crash to understand
Time kept slipping through my hands
I never used to know the sun will shine after the rain

Say goodbye, say goodbye to the way I was before
Say hello, say hello to a new way
I was lost, but I found what I was looking for
Waking up, waking up to a new day
To a new day

I was sleeping in a twisted dream
Dying just to make believe
A pretty situation was far from where I was

But I'm not up for giving up
Lying down and out of luck
My mistakes are in the open and now I'm finally coming clean

Say goodbye, say goodbye to the way I was before
Say hello, say hello to a new way
I was lost, but I found what I was looking for
Waking up, waking up to a new day

'Cause everything, everything ends at the start
I'm healing and feeling all of my scars

Say goodbye, say goodbye to the way I was before
Say hello, say hello to a new way
I was lost, but I found what I was looking for
Waking up, waking up to a new day
To a new day
To a new day

I was lost, but I found what I was looking for
Waking up, waking up to a new day

Right Place, Right Time

Have you ever had one of those moments where you knew you were in the right place at the right time?

Well, today was one of those days for me.

First of all, my own father was assigned to speak in church.  We are both certain that the adversary did not want him giving his talk because there were all sorts of conflicts.  The first time he was asked, they ended up rescheduling him.  Then, this last week has been hectic with getting back from a family reunion and changes at work.  Then yesterday (the day he would have spent collecting his thoughts and putting them into a cohesive talk) was spent with his family taking a day trip.  We didn't arrive home until nearly 8:30 last night and that's when we discovered a problem with the printer/internet and our home computer wouldn't print, therefore, he had no way of printing his outline.  Oh my, the obstacles that had to be overcome this day.

However, I know my dad was supposed to give this talk today.  I really wanted to attend so I could support him (seeing as I'm an only child), but I was scheduled to teach this Sunday in my own Single's Ward.  When I texted the other teacher to ask him to cover for me, I secretly knew he probably wasn't going to be able to since he sometimes has work or he's attends another ward.  Thankfully, he quickly agreed.  Being able to get my own lesson covered so easily was a sign to me that I needed to go to my old Home Ward this week.

Boy oh boy, I'm so very glad I went.

Not only did I have the opportunity to listen to my dad give an amazing talk and feel the Spirit, but an older gentleman from Japan had been visiting his family here in our Ward for the last month.  He had been asked to share his testimony for he had been converted and was previously a Stake President over in Japan.

He bore his testimony in Japanese with his son-in-law translating.

For those of you who don't know, I love the Japanese culture and especially hearing the language.  I could easily sit for hours and listen to Japanese music/shows/etc.  There's something about the fluidity of the language that gets to me, and I find it relaxing to listen to.  Therefore, I couldn't help but smile the entire time this elderly man shared his testimony with us.  It was short and sweet, but carried an incredible spirit of how the Atonement of Jesus Christ truly changes our hearts and has an impact on thousands of souls.  The choices we make now will influence the choices of our children and our children's children.  It was so incredibly touching.

Not only that, but in Sunday School the son-in-law (who I learned is a PhD in linguistics and also from Japan--though he looks American) gave an amazing lesson in Gospel Doctrine on Alma 36.  He talked about how the Chiastic Structure is very evident in this chapter.  The Chiastic Structure is use in ancient text and only known by a handful of professionals at the time that Joseph Smith translated the plates.  No farmboy could have come up with this kind of structure.  It kind of looks like the following and can vary in size:

A
   B
      C
         D
            E
               F
                  G
                     H
                     'H
                  'G
               'F
            'E
         'D
      'C
   'B
'A

Where A and 'A are mirrored phrases (or exact opposites using similar words) and there is a defining point where the most important message is placed (the H's in the example above).  For example, if A read: "My son give ear to my words" then 'A might say "This according to [the Lord's] word."  Or a better example:

C: The very thought of coming into the presence of my God did rack my soul with inexpressible horror...
'C: Yea, and my soul did long to be there [with God].

You see how it is like a parallel?  Alma 36 (Alma's story of his conversion) is a perfect example of the Chiastic Structure.  And guess what is at the point, or the center, of the axis?  Yes, it's Jesus Christ.  This is not simply "ironic" that it's this way, Alma designed this chapter the way he did because it was the way they wrote in ancient times.  The Book of Mormon is truly an ancient book, and here is evidence of that.  In no way could a farmboy do something like this.

But wait!  There is more to this day that I enjoyed!  (I know, right?  My mind was already blown from Gospel Doctrine!)

Where it is the 5th Sunday, the Relief Society and Priesthood combined and...

(This is the good part!!)

...We learned how to do indexing!!!!

I have never learned how to do this, but I've always had a desire to find out more (especially lately).  It was neat to learn how I can help souls on the other side of the veil have the opportunity to accept blessings that only we can give them while in this life.  What a blessing that this is.  I can't wait to download the program and get started!  After all, I hear it's the best addiction to have.

On top of everything else, I also received personal guidance and desires in my own life of things that I would like to do.  Things like read "Jesus the Christ" by James E. Talmage, and study my Patriarchal Blessing again, amongst other ways in which I can strive to live a fuller life now.

I am soooo grateful that the Lord provided a way that I was able to attend this meeting today.  I learned so much and my spirit feels so full and sated.  How I do love Sundays such as this!

"Of Grace and Chocolate" Book Review

Title: Of Grace and Chocolate
Author: Krista Lynne Jensen
Series: N/A
Number in Series: N/A
Copyright: 2012; Covenant Communications, Inc.
Genre: LDS Fiction: Romance / Suspense
Pages: 194
ISBN: 9781608618651
My Rating: 4.5 / 5
Content Rating: PG (for some alcohol/drug use, and an intense scene)

This story is about a 25-year-old girl named Jill who tries to keep everything perfect in her life: clean apartment, a small dog, and is even writing a book!  She works at a publishing company and when they express interest in one of her manuscripts, she rushes back to her office to locate her flashdrive for the file to send them.  But it's not there.  Neither are her keys its attached to.  Her phone is also gone, replaced by one she doesn't recognize.  It rings.  On the other end is a voice she recognizes.  He's attempting to ask her out.  Little did Scott realize his clever "trick" to get her attention has sent Organized Jill through the roof--for if she doesn't get that manuscript in her boss's hands ASAP, she may just lose the chance of getting something published--her dream.  When Scott realizes his mistake, he's horrified and tries to make it up to her.  She won't have anything to do with him.  With the chaos of the day behind her, she heads home, only to find her drug-addicted long-lost sister standing on her porch in the rain with a baby to her chest.  Jill invites her in, not having spoken to her sister in nearly two years.  She looks terrified.  Offering to let her stay, Jill settles down for the night. In the morning, Jill awakes to find her sister gone... the baby crying on the couch.  From there, Jill's life becomes increasingly more strained and dangerous.  People wreck her apartment, go after her father, and even threaten her friends; all in search of finding her sister who had obviously crossed the wrong people.  On top of all that, Scott keeps showing up in her life and she can't help but feel the pain he caused her years ago... and he doesn't even remember it.

This was a fast read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  It had everything I liked from romance to the suspense and mystery.  I feel the story was laid out well and flowed along quite smoothly.  The fact that Scott kept appearing was rather humorous and added depth to the story.  Watching the characters grow and change was my favorite part.  I understood how Evie (the sister) felt and why she left the way she did.  I also can understand Jill's bewilderment at suddenly having to provide for a baby (something I don't even have knowledge about, so it was easy to sympathize with her).  The author did a great job at painting each character's personality and emotions, while revealing their secrets at just the right times.

One of the things I found interesting was the climax.  Because the majority of the book is Jill running from the perpetrator who is after Evie, when the believed climax occurred, I was disappointed.  As the book went on, I was thinking, Well, that was a lame climax, and I let my guard down, trying to enjoy the remainder of the book.  Little did I know the author had another twist coming and the true climax was much more than I expected.  And because I had let my guard down, it genuinely surprised me.

The following lines are Jill's summary of the book she is writing (which ironically enough, is entitled "Saved by Grace and Chocolate") and I feel it sums up this book very nicely:

"...And then there's God's grace.  Those things that happen and, for all the laws and powers of reason, they shouldn't happen, but theyd o , and someone is given a chance..."

"Mercy."

Jill turned to Laura.  "Yes.  Mercy."  She swallowed.  "The book is about a girl who is given mercy and then learns that mercy, that grace... is not always painless... It's not always graceful."

p.62

In the end, this book turned out to be quite the tear-jerker.  In ways, I even feel changed from reading it.  Crazy, I know, but it's true.  I simply love the message that grace truly is not always graceful.  Often the Lord blesses us in ways we don't expect, even ways we don't want.  But once we get passed the trial and look back, we see how His hand was in our life the entire time, weaving all the stray parts together to form a masterpiece.