Thoughts

I've had a few thoughts recently that I've been needing to share. It may seem a conglomeration of random things, but it all fits together in my mind.

First: my new job.

I love it. There is no other way to put it. I go to work every day and I get to work with kids that got a bum rap. It may be from an accident and they will recover. It may be from an accident and all we are trying to do is get them to be able to function in their new reality. It may be from an unknown cause, some seizure or neurological disorder that will affect their entire lives. But no matter what has happened, they are still kids. They are still innocent and pure and loving. They still teach me something every single day. They have a strength that I can only hope to develop. They are the ones making their parents laugh and smile. I am so glad I get the chance to meet and help these kids.

Second. Sacrament.

I've spent the majority of the last few Sundays at work. Honestly it feels just about like any other day at work. It's busy, it's crazy, kids are still hurt and sick. But then in the middle of the day, the volunteer elders come by with the sacrament. The first week we were super crazy, and two staff members and myself gathered in an empty room with the elders. They blessed the sacrament. I will honestly say that the spirit felt in that empty hospital room in the only quiet moments of that day was the most amazing spirit I have felt. Sometimes I feel guilty for working sundays. But then I have an experience like this, and I know that I am where I am supposed to be at that exact moment. No, I'm not worshipping in the traditional way, but I am sharing the gifts and talents that have been given to me by a loving Heavenly Father that knew that I needed to help someone that day.

The next week was similar. It was slower, so ab0ut 8 of us gathered in the conference room to receive the sacrament. It is amazing to know that these people I work with are so giving and loving and willing to take their Sabbath and share it with people who need their strength and skills.

We have all been given special gifts, and this is where mine fit. I get to care and give and learn so much from the people I work with.

Third. Baptism.

This cute girl got baptized today. I cannot believe she is old enough to be taking this big step. As I sat and listened to the simple talks that were given I was overwhelmed. This is what it is about. Choosing to follow our Savior every single day, in every action and in every word that we speak. A bunch of the children got up and sang the song "If the Savior Stood Beside Me". I love this song and the simple message it shares with us.

1. If the Savior stood beside me,

would I do the things I do?

Would I think of His commandments,

and try harder to be true?

Would I follow His example?

Would I live more righteously

if I could see the Savior standing nigh,

watching over me?

2. If the Savior stood beside me,

would I say the things I say?

Would my words be true and kind

if He was never far away?

Would I try to share the gospel?

Would I speak more rev’rently

if I could see the Savior standing nigh,

watching over me?

3. He is always near me,

though I do not see Him there,

And because He loves me dearly,

I am in His watchful care.

So I’ll be the kind of person

that I know I’d like to be

if I could see the Savior standing nigh,

watching over me.

So many times we forget that he is always near us. We are loved. More than we can imagine, and he is watching us every step of every day, helping us, guiding us, and putting people in our lives that will be his hands here on this earth.

I am so grateful for this gentle reminder of these truths. I am so glad I get to be a part of this sweet girls life and watch her grow into a beautiful young woman.

Fourth: General WOmen's Meeting.

Amazing. There is no other way to describe it. The choir was full of women from the age of 8 to 80. They sounded so great. The messages were powerful and pointed out the basic, undeniable fact that we are all Daughters of God. He loves us and knows us. If you didn't get the chance to watch it, you need to. DOn't read it, watch it. The musical numbers and video presentations were strong and powerful.

Fifth: tying it all together.

These four things have been a powerful and frequent reminder that my Heavenly Father is guiding and directing my life. He is always there leading me on in a way that will test me, stretch me and teach me. I am so grateful that I can see this.