It's Possible Through Him

Today, we took the city bus everywhere. It was quite the adventure... You end up in conversations with the most interesting human beings! I'm reminded of a phrase that I heard once that has stuck with me: "Truth is stranger than fiction." That has proven to be true, as I meet all kinds of people that I definitely could never have dreamt up.

While looking out the window of the city bus and watching all of the hustle and bustle of Nashville, I realized what it is that I love about the city - the people. All of these people that I watch from the bus window are from all walks of life, and yet we all have similar stories. We all have the same desires. To be happy, to find love, and to feel like we are a part of something.

We are all connected by the fact that we are human beings. There is something great inside each one of us, because we have a divine origin: God, our loving Heavenly Father. And because we are His children, we have so much potential. There is something innately inside each one of us that drives us to become and to achieve. That is no coincidence.

I've learned recently that it's all about having a vision for yourself. That vision of who it is that you want to become, and what it is that you want to achieve. That stems from remembering the simple truth of your true identity and purpose. If you remember that, you become unstoppable. As a child of God, you have endless potential.

It's so important to remember that in today's world. There are so many competing messages in the media; that you have to look this way, or act this way. But in actuality: YOU CAN BE WHO EVER YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME.
And that's the truth.

Jesus Christ gave us that ability when He suffered for our imperfections, so that we could have the chance to become better and to perfect ourselves. We are all imperfect, but have the power to change. To deny that ability to change, is to deny the power of His eternal sacrifice. When we truly begin to understand Jesus Christ, who He is and what He has done for us, we will begin to see our potential.

Click on the picture to view an amazing Easter video called, Because of Him.

That's what I've learned this week.
That it's all been made possible through Him.
#BecauseofHim

Don't ever let the world blind you, and tell you that only one kind of person is acceptable. Because you are accepted and loved no matter who you are and what you do. Isn't that comforting? I don't ever have to earn love. I can receive it freely whenever I need it through talking to my Father in Heaven. He loves me, and He loves you. And He wants you to dream big, but to take life a step at a time. It's ok if we mess up. Embrace each moment and remember it's a gift from Him.

Be where your feet are.

Because that's what life is all about: living.

There's No Catch When it Comes to Jesus

Today, I feel blessed. 

I had multiple "Ah HA! How did I not realize this before?!" moments this week.

I learned that God answers prayers and that He's actually listening to what I am saying to Him. You hear this your whole life, but when you actually experience it, it's life changing. You realize how close He actually is to you, and you experience just a small portion of how much He must love you.

We are eternal beings. We are connected to God. We can strengthen that connection with Him as we diligently and faithfully seek Him. Why would you want to do this? Because, Christ-like love is the most important, most fundamental, human need. When we feel that love, we feel whole. We feel complete.

So, if you feel distant from God, or would like to be happier in your life, listen up! The prophets and apostles have given us specific prescriptions for this ailment, but do we actually take the time to use it? You can be healed of every affliction life has thrown at you. But you have to be ready and willing. It will change your life, you will feel whole. You will feel complete.

Don't give up. It can happen for you. It's not just an idea or a philosophy. It's real! I've never been so sure of anything in my life. Jesus Christ lives, and He is ready to heal you, to comfort you. But you have to ask.

Step 1: Asking Him specifically for things

"26. And after that he came men also were saved by faith in his name;

and by faith, they become the sons of God. And as surely as Christ

liveth he spake these words unto our fathers, saying: Whatsoever thing

ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is good, in faith believing

that ye shall receive, behold, it shall be done unto you.

27. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, have miracles ceased because

Christ hath ascended into heaven, and hath sat down on the right hand

of God, to claim of the Father his rights of mercy which he hath upon

the children of men?" -Moroni 7:26-27

I know that miracles have not ceased. He continues to give us the answers and guidance that we are looking for, but we have to ask Him.

Step 2: Make time to listen for the guidance

I have really felt the power of taking time to ponder and to meditate on my mission. It's my time to truly connect with God and listen to what He has to say. Take the time to listen. Pay attention to the thoughts and impressions that come to your mind and then write them down. Take time to search the scriptures and ponder concepts and questions that you have.

Step 3: Watch for confirmation 

Pay attention to when your miracles happen. Often times, if you are looking for your prayers to be answered, you will see Him give you answers over and over in small ways and in big ways. Then, WRITE THEM DOWN, so you don't forget!

As you repeat this cycle over and over again, you will feel Him closer to you. Your testimony will increase. The spirit will increase in your life, and you will be changed.

I realized I have never found true happiness until my mission. NOTHING can shake me. I may have temporary set-backs or disappointments, but because I feel that love all the time, I am constantly at peace. Even though I live in a world of chaos, I can clearly feel and listen to the spirit. It's amazing. And remember, this is promised to us in the scriptures. Well, I'm here to tell you that it's possible. I'm a living witness.

It sounds too good to be true, but let me tell you something:
there's no catch when it comes to Jesus.