I have a problem with reading assignment on time, I always have, but my goal is to actually make it through all the talks...so don't mind me stepping in here a little late sometimes.
I liked so much of this talk, and being slow so many on the juicy morsels have been touched on. A few of the parts I liked that haven't been discussed so far are:
"Unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives." When I read this line I thought of so many people in the world (and yes I in my own life sometimes) who claim that with the life they are living now, being known as the mom or the wife, they feel as though they have lost "themselves". I guess in the Lord's eyes this is a great position to be in. What a blessing in the Eternal Family it will be to be known as the wife and mother who helped her family to the kingdom of our Father.
I also really liked the part where he touched on the difference between "intentions" and action. I feel like a lot of latter day saints hide behind the principle that we will be judged on the feelings of our heart so if they "intended" to serve then they are covered. This really comes into play in my life with regards to the temple. I need to quit intending to serve and just do it.
After he recites the kindness poem he talks about "those in need of our attention, our encouragement, our support, our comfort, our kindness." I find it interesting that he points out those ways of serving. When I think of service projects I think of cleaning up the cemetery, or volunteering at the school. While those are noble things I think often the most productive service, especially within our own homes comes down to those 5 things. Imagine how strong our children would be if our efforts were spent on showing them kindness and encouragement, rather than grumping about the chores left undone...oh wait maybe that is just me.
I loved when he brought up the scripture of taking up the yoke of Christ. However it was the middle part that struck me this time "learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart." When we learn how to follow Christ's example we should be learning how to be simple and humble, even when the world around us screams that that is wrong. I think that applies not only to our priorities, but to how we choose to live our life. For example, if we have a 4000 square foot house when a 2000 square foot house would be sufficient, that eats up time and resources in maintain having more than we need. I think that this applies to all aspects of life. On the remake of Sabrina Julia Ormond says "More isn't always better Linus, sometimes it's just more." I love being reminded that it is not only ok but preferable to stop looking at the Joneses and just do my best with my little surroundings.
Sorry this got a little long. Simplify KayLynn, simplify! :)
2 comments:
Kaylynn, I love your perspectives on how these principles apply to family life. I think we often underestimate the value of the nurturing, praising, & encouraging that mothers do.
No worries about posting late. The motive of the blog is definitely not to cause anyone stress.
Just lovely. We are all so unique and yet share soo much. My new goal in service to my children is to count to ten before I do anything (ah an oldie but a goodie). ok, sometimes it is ten twice over.
Post a Comment