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This thanksgiving I have been thinking about one of the most precious gifts from our Heavenly Father--our agency. I'm so glad we can choose to be happy, choose how we react to trials as Marilyn says (http://light-in-leaves.blogspot.com/2008/11/miracles-and-disappointment.html), and choose what we do with our time and means. These two scriptures say it much better than I can:"For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare; yea, I prepared all things, and have given unto the children of men to be agents unto themselves." Doctrine & Covenants 104:17
"Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself." 2 Nephi 2:27
I'm finding this choice, the choice to be happy, increasingly difficult as our lives get increasingly busy. But when we took our family pictures the other night and the kids were crazy and screaming and wouldn't wear the clothes we wanted them to and wanted to see every picture on the camera after it was taken, we had to do as Sister Marjorie Hinckley says: "The only way to get through life is to laugh your way through it. You either have to laugh or cry. I prefer to laugh. Crying gives me a headache."
6 comments:
WAY CUTE. That is a very nice picture.
So true, Jess. I find this difficult too, but it helps so much to just lighten up and laugh at things. We had our FHE lesson the other night on Elder Wirthlin's conference talk, and all week I have been thinking of him saying "When we got lost, we laughed. Each time we took a wrong turn, we laughed harder." It's so cute! And of course that story about his daughter and the "blind date" :) Anyway, I want to be that type of person--that chooses to react happily and not freak out about every little thing (which I too often tend to do). Anyway, hope you guys have a great Thanksgiving! :)
love sis. hinckleys quote, great reminder!
crying gives me a headache too. thanks for the uplifting quotes!
Jessica, I thoroughly enjoyed getting caught up with your family - and all of brothers and sisters. I have such great memories of your sweet parents and siblings. You were all such a great influence on me. Your children are adorable - the last time I heard from you, you only had Lydia - what sweet additions you've had since then. I'll be in touch! (How do you pronounce Elani?)
I can't believe you are a family of four! Your little Gabe is adorable. I wish we could have helped you out when you were taking him to Primary's..we are not that far from there. Cute family! I miss you guys!
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