Sometimes the spirit whispers truths to our soul that bring us clarity and joy. I believe that such was the case just a few weeks ago when Chandler felt compelled (beyond all reasonable common sense) to drive back to his mission in Minnesota. The 20 hour drive seemed daunting and the Hansen car situation left a lot to be desired in the area of reliability. The purpose of the trip, however, was to attend the sealing of a family he had baptized just before he returned home - and that made all the difference!
There aren't enough moments in this life when we can really see what is important. I believe that a loving Father wants us to catch a glimpse of the eternities, but the forces of this world are definitely against us. The few hours that Chandler spent in the Minneapolis St Paul temple on August 15 offered the opportunity to witness with complete clarity the eternal perspective of that loving Father. Those moments give whole new meaning to the phrase "we're all in this together." In answer to the question "Was it worth it?" Chandler quickly replied, "Yes. Now I know that they have everything they need to make it!"
I remember when I used to get so excited for the beginning of a new year. I have watched Kalinee experience those same feelings as she has prepared for her Sophomore year of High school. The possibilities were and are endless for her. A member of the soccer team, a new face at the school, a friend to many and a potential friend to all, Kalinee knows no limitations. She has been so excited about the prospect of playing on the varsity soccer team - and she has realized that dream.
There is nothing sweeter than seeing possibilities met. It is in those moments when I believe that we understand a little better our own divine potential. I am a firm believer that we can be magnified beyond our abilities by a loving Savior. It's another of those eternal truths that are just hard to remember while living in this world.
Achieving success after years of hard work is sweet. Yet, even sweeter, perhaps, is the feeling of finding satisfaction in trying something new. Teagan has wanted to play football for years. But every year as the registration date approached, he decided that he would play lacrosse with all of his friends. This year he finally took the big plunge and signed up to play football. The motivation may have been personal desire, or maybe it was the importance of keeping a promise to a friend. Whatever the reason, Teagan is experiencing the anticipation, fear, excitement and hesitation that comes with trying something new.
I watch him mentally prepare for the challenging games. It takes a lot of self-talk to step on a field of uncertainty. Where are the moments of confidence at the plate and cockiness with the lacrosse stick? Now, with great intimidation, Teagan steps onto the field, takes a deep breath and places his hands resolutely on his hips.
It reminds me of the kind of preparation we are all engaged in here. "...and let virtue garnish they thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God."
I like to make life tougher than it needs to be. Sometimes I forget to recognize how greatly blessed I am. Sometimes I struggle more than I need to because things aren't perfect. There are even moments when I feel sorry for myself. But when I take a minute to think about the sweetest things in life - times when I know what my purpose is. Those are the times when I am so grateful to be a mother. Those are the times when I know why I am surrounded by the strong, talented, smart people that I call my children.
