Back for both segments

Thanks to COVID, church was cancelled for a while. We then went back just for Sacrament meeting, with the option to still follow the service via videoconference. This was done for a few months.

Today, we started back with both segments: Sacrament meeting for the first hour; Sunday school for 12 and older, Primary for 18 months to 12 years old. I did not realize how much I missed the in person worship until today. It was great to be among friends again and discuss the gospel together. 

Next Sunday, we will have again Sacrament meeting for the first segment and then we will have Relief Society for women, Priesthood for men, Young Men and Young Women for the youth 12 to 18. I am looking forward to these meetings. 

When we go prepared, these meetings are always a great spiritual experience. I learn things I did not know before, I confirm things I already know, and I get to share things I might know but are new to some others.

Whichever church you attend, take the time to spiritually prepare that you might have a great experience and come home strengthened in your faith.

What Would Jesus Do

 As I try to live my life following the Savior's example, I find myself asking, "What would Jesus do in this situation?" 

In certain instances, I am able to confidently say, "He would do this!" and then I go about doing what He would do.

However, there are instances that, although I would say, "He would love and help this person," I find myself cutting ties with the individual because, after giving my all, I find myself like an empty bucket with nothing more to give. I cannot help unless I replenish my own bucket. And what I have to give to this person, is not enough and not the right kind of assistance, because this person needs professional help. 

Should I feel guilty for not reaching out to this person? I admit that I do have twinges of guilt that gnaw at me. However, I have to remind myself that I have given all the help I can give and that I can still keep this person in my prayers. And that, my friend, will need to suffice. 

We are asked to do our best. Once we do that, He will do the rest.

Mother's Day

 Today is Mother's Day.

There are many types of mothers. There is the mother who

* lost a child while still in the womb

* lost a child, no matter the age

* out of love, gave up the child for adoption, in hope to give the baby a better life than she could provide

* raised children not born from her but to whom she gave unconditional love and a family

* raised children of her own and who now have their own families

* was/is a teacher and loved each child who was part of the classroom

* never had children of her own, whether she was married or single, but who helped raise the children of other mothers when worshipping with the children's families. 

To each and every one of you, whether you are a mom to children at home or at work or at church, I wish you a wonderful Mother's Day.

"For All You Do: A Mother's Day Tribute"

Believe in God and Yourself

 As I reflect upon the fact that I have not written in a long time, I cannot help being discouraged and disappointed in myself and my lack of perseverance.

Then, as I analyze why I have not done much with my blogs these past few years, I realize that I started teaching full time. And when I say full time, I mean 12 to 14 hours a day. I sped about 10 hours at school and the remainder of the time at home, planning, grading, researching the best possible activities for my students and doing paperwork. The remaining hours are spent in a zombie like state: mentally, physically, and spiritually exhausted!

Even after this realization, I still feel like I fall short and that, somehow, I am not giving it my best shot.

I am forever grateful for the words of one of our Apostles:
"Believe in God and yourself. You are doing better than you think you are.” —Jeffrey R. Holland"

I hope his words will also touch you and help you feel better about your accomplishments, no matter the stage you are in. 

May be we have not accomplished what we had planned to do, but we have done something else in its place and that, most likely, was in His plan. 

Again, I Am Still Here

 This would be the third time that I use the title "I Am Still Here." May be, as they say, three times is a charm.

I am still a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I have had ups and downs, because life needs opposition for us to appreciate all the blessings. I have had questions and some do not have an answer, yet.

I would like to talk about "The Power of Yet" at this time.

Yet is a three letter word packed with hope, futuristic vision, and endurance.

If  you don't believe me, try saying this sentence: "I don't know how to do this." 
Now, add the three letter word, "I don't know how to do this, yet!" What a change in perspective. What a way to turn a negative statement into a positive one. 

Now, think of your spirituality. You may feel and think you are not close to the Savior. Try adding the word "yet" at the end of your thought. You are not close to Him, yet... but there are many things you can do to take you in the right direction. 

I would love to extend a challenge to all of you readers: start using the word YET at the end of each negative thought you might have. 

Whatever your situation, let "The Power of Yet," take over so you can start taking small steps towards a more positive future. This is my prayer for all of us.