Confession...

I have a secret to confess. Sometimes I think that life is not fair. Really, really, really unfair. I think of all the dreams I had when I was little and how those dreams are never going to be realized. And then I stop and think of all of the new dreams I have now...and how I am MAKING those dreams happen. I am doing what I can to reach my dreams, and then I let God come in and make up the difference. I have been realizing more and more that our Savior's role as the Savior and Redeemer of mankind involves so much more than just his ability to forgive us of our sins. He is our Best Friend. He is there to comfort us in times of pain, of sorrow, of frustration, whatever it may be. He is there to celebrate with us when things go well. If you don't believe me, check out Alma 7:11-13. Isn't it nice to know that even when there is no one else you can turn to here, that you can turn to Him? That he is always ready to listen to your troubles and comfort you when you need comfort? I don't know if I could ask for a better Best Friend.

Sunshine and Rain

Yesterday I was driving up the freeway with a dear friend, rockin' out to Demi. As we were nearing the point of the mountain...I had an epiphany. It was rainy, and the storm clouds were rolling in from the west as the sun was setting. But, there was this break in the clouds where rays of sunshine were pouring down, and the cloud was beautifully back-lit. It made me think a lot about how our Father in Heaven is like the sunshine. Even during the stormy times, we can see His hand in all we do--whether through the rays of hope that penetrate the dark storm, or just knowing that he is there, guiding the storm to help us grow the most. So, I am thankful. Thankful that I have a loving Father in Heaven who looks out for me in the stormy trials of this life. Thankful that he sends the storms that will help me grow the most. Thankful that He loves me just for being me. Amen.