1Ne 11: My Dad

Nephi shows so much faith and persistence. He had so much strength and did all in his power to build his testimony by living righteously & continually having faith.

Nephi believed the words of his father, Lehi; he trusted him and knew through the spirit that he wasn’t crazy like others may have believed.

“And it came to pass that I, Nephi, being exceedingly young, nevertheless being large in stature, and also having great desires to know of the mysteries of God, wherefore, I did cry unto the Lord; and behold he did visit me, and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father; wherefore, I did not rebel against him like unto my brothers.”(1Ne 2:16)

“Yea, thou knowest that I believe all the words of my father.“(1 Ne 11:5)

He loved his father and knew he was speaking the truth. As I thought about this, I reflected back on my life and how often my own dad gives me advice. He has helped me become part of who I am today. I find when I ignore his advice; I later regret it…

 My dad is the greatest. I have seen his testimony continue to grow throughout my own life and I am so grateful he holds the priesthood and is there for me whenever I am in need of a blessing. He has given me many blessings including, fathers blessing before every school year and just at times I need strength and courage. He has given me many blessings with anointment for the sick and afflicted. He gave me my very first blessing, my baby blessing, to give me a name & promised blessings. He was there to baptize me and helped me find the way along the straight and narrow. My dad has taught me a great deal through his example. He has helped me with homework and buying cars (though I should’ve listened to his advice with my first car, Bumble, because things have just gone downhill from there). He has taught me what I know about cars, plus more that I am sure I have forgotten :/ - I can put gas in my car and check & fill the air pressure in my tires as well as re-fill my washer fluidJ I know I have a turbo diesel fuel engine and that it is fast. He taught me how to drive stick shift, even after he came home with me in tears on more than one occasion. He has taught me how boys should respect me and how special I am, that I deserve only the best.  

He has warned me of the bad creeps that could be out there, like one I found online. Long story - short, after talking over the phone, we were going to go out, but I suggested we meet somewhere in a group setting (I was trying to be careful…you never know). My dad told me to be careful and to not do anything ‘stupid’; Duh Dad, I am not going to meet him in some dark alley… I just kinda ignored his comment and knew I was already being smart about it. When we decided to meet at a bowling alley with friends, he got really funny and persisted we meet somewhere beforehand to get to know each other. He wanted to know exactly what friends of mine were coming and other weird random info. Long story short, I finally told him I no longer wanted to meet and to leave me alone. That night, I told my dad what happened and he informed me that he hadn’t felt right about me going & was happy to know that I too listened to the promptings of the spirit. My dad was only trying to protect me by reminding me to be safe and not do anything ‘stupid’. Not sure what would’ve happened that night, but I feel that I did the right thing in backing off and de-friending him on Facebook.

Thanks to my dad I enjoy listening to Pink Floyd, Journey, America, The Eagles, & other oldies I can’t think of right now. He has shown me how to tie a tie, but don’t ask me to do it because it isn’t something I do every day. He has taught me how to be silly and make a hard situation more fun. He has taught me NEVER to park in HIS parking spot…lol…I had to throw that one in;) He has taught me how to camp and love the outdoors. He recently gave me pointers on skiing this last week and coached me down the mountain on the steep, scary spots after I tweaked my knee. He has taught me how to have courage and to stand up for what I believe. He has taught me the gospel and how to take a step closer every day to live a righteous & happy life. I love my dad and I trust his decisions. I am grateful I can turn to him when I need help, when I need answers. I love my dad, to the moon and back and a million more times…

Recently I watched a movie with my family called, Courageous. Despite the cheesiness of the movie,  it was really inspiring and had good meaning behind it. In the movie, a group of men (mostly cops with a few friends) write up a Declaration:

THE RESOLUTION

I DO solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself, my wife, and my children. 

I WILL love them, protect them, serve them, and teach them the Word of God as the spiritual leader of my home. 

I WILL be faithful to my wife, to love and honor her, and be willing to lay down my life for her as Jesus Christ did for me. 

I WILL bless my children and teach them to love God with all of their hearts, all of their minds, and all of their strength. 

I WILL train them to honor authority and live responsibly. 

I WILL confront evil, pursue justice, and love mercy. 

I WILL pray for others and treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion. 

I WILL work diligently to provide for the needs of my family. 

I WILL forgive those who have wronged me and reconcile with those I have wronged. 

I WILL learn from my mistakes, repent of my sins, and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God. 

I WILL seek to honor God, be faithful to His church, obey His Word, and do His will. 

I WILL courageously work with the strength God provides to fulfill this resolution for the rest of my life and for His glory. 

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ---Joshua 24:15

I loved this! What a great thing to stand by. Fathers should be there to protect, to teach, to live worthily and be an example. This is something I would like my own future husband to abide by and follow.  According the movie, the whole thing was found within the scriptures. I like it. It is bold and has such great meaning.

Nephi had prayed from the beginning to know that his fathers’ words were true. Then, after that, he didn’t question! We should also try to be more diligent in listening & following the guidance of our own father. This is true to our Heavenly Father and his guidance as well. He knows all things and loves us so much. He has great power and is always there for us, guiding us along our journey.  We must build our trust with him so that we can be lead back into his arms to stay.

-Sarah M

1Ne 10: Straight & Narrow Path

As I look back at my life, I see the many trials I have overcome. It is because of life's hard moments, I have become a stronger individual and have gained a greater knowledge of things that have helped me through lives many challenges. I try to set goals throughout my life, major goals, with smaller goals that will build up to my ultimate destination and desire. Just as I did as a gymnast; I planned and dreamed of competing nationally and as a US Olympic team member. Then, when everything seemed to come to an end, I questioned, why did He have me go in this direction if I couldn't finish through to the end? But the Lord knew what he was doing. I just had to come to the understanding that His plan never changed. Many times, he will place opportunities, or trials, in our path to prepare us for the future. The Lord knows the way and it may end up different from what we expected. So, when we are told to follow the straight and narrow path, this doesn't mean it will be easy. We will still have trials and hardships that will jump before us, which we must have faith and courage to overcome.


"For he is the same yesterday, today, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him.
For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round." (1Ne 10:18-19)

I try my hardest to be in tune to the spirit so that I can receive the inspiration I need to make the right choices and head down the right path. When making decisions in life, faith typically plays a big role. Whether it be faith that I am doing the right thing when I don't get an answer right away or faith in Heavenly Father that He will not lead me astray. We must hold tight to the rod and follow His path back to his presence. I love the following story from Elder Joseph B Wirthlin,

"While traveling along a mountainous road one evening through a driving rainstorm punctuated with frequent claps of thunder and flashes of lightning, Sister Wirthlin and I could barely see the road, either in front of us or to the right and the left. I watched the white lines on that road more intently than ever before. Staying within the lines kept us from going onto the shoulder and into the deep canyon on one side and helped us avoid a head-on collision on the other. To wander over either line could have been very dangerous. Then I thought, “Would a right-thinking person deviate to the left or the right of a traffic lane if he knew the result would be fatal? If he valued his mortal life, certainly he would stay between these lines.”
That experience traveling on this mountain road is so like life. If we stay within the lines that God has marked, he will protect us, and we can arrive safely at our destination." ("The straight and narrow way" - Oct '90 Conference)

“For God doth not walk in crooked paths, neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left, neither doth he vary from that which he hath said, therefore his paths are straight, and his course is one eternal round.” (D&C 3:2.)

He will guide us. We just have to be willing to change our direction in life if it is not in line with the Lords.

"Let the Lord be your light. Let Him prepare the way before you to your promised land. “There [is] … no life so dark [that] he cannot light” (Sam Cardon and Steven K. Jones, “Come unto Him,” New Era, Apr. 1995, 10). You don’t have to be a prophet like Lehi or the brother of Jared. Just be you—with a hunger and thirst for righteousness. Trust Him. Keep your eyes riveted on your goal across the field and walk in the straight and narrow path of the Son—the Son of God. I testify of the light and the Spirit that comes from Jesus Christ." (Sis. Sharon G Larson: "Your Light in the Wilderness" - Ensign 1999)

So, what is the best way to follow the straight and narrow path?

Elder Wirthlin said the following:

"Good physical and spiritual health can help us to stay on the straight and narrow way. The Lord gave his code of health in the Word of Wisdom, a “principle with promise” that modern medical science continues to substantiate. (D&C 89:3.) All of God’s commandments, including the Word of Wisdom, are spiritual. (See D&C 29:34–35.) We need to nourish ourselves spiritually even more than physically. Are we giving adequate emphasis to our spiritual health?"


Sister Sharon G. Larson gives another suggestion:

"You know, don’t you, that prayer turns on the light? When you make prayer a regular part of your life, you begin walking in the light, in the straight and narrow way." (Sis. Larson)


"Through divine personal revelation, the Book of Mormon prophet Lehi and his son Nephi were each shown a vision of our mortal probationary state and its accompanying dangers. Lehi says, “And it came to pass that there arose a mist of darkness; yea, even an exceedingly great mist of darkness, insomuch that they who had commenced in the path did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost” (1Ne 8:23). Yet “he [also] saw other multitudes pressing forward; and they came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to [that] rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree,” meaning the tree of life (1Ne 8:30)." (Sister Ann M. Dibb)


Ask yourself, are you following the straight and narrow path? 
I am trying my very hardest to keep his commandments and doing everything I can to keep the spirit with me. I try to listen closely so that I know the direction I need to go next. I am trying. And this is all he asks of us. 


“Our Heavenly Father, who loves us completely and perfectly, permits us to have experiences that will allow us to develop the traits and attributes we need to become more and more Christlike. Our trials come in many forms, but each will allow us to become more like the Savior as we learn to recognize the good that comes from each experience. As we understand this doctrine, we gain greater assurance of our Father’s love. We may never know in this life why we face what we do, but we can feel confident that we can grow from the experience.” (Elder James B. Martino, “All Things Work Together for Good,” Ensign, May 2010)


-Sarah M.

1Ne 9: The Lord Knoweth All Things

"Wherefore, the Lord hath commanded me to make these plates for a wise purpose in him, which purpose I know not.

But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of all his words. And thus it is. Amen." (1Ne 9:5-6)

These two verses really hit me. We may not know where life is taking us, but as long as we listen to the spirit and follow the direction of our Heavenly Father, things will work out in the end. I feel like sometimes I am directed along one path and just as I get settled and think things are going well, I am told to go a different way. Often, I pray for guidance and direction in my busy life, and when I receive an answer, I quickly respond with action. The Lord told me to do this, so I do.  But, too often, I plan everything out from that single decision and think I know exactly where he is leading me. This is not always the case. For example,

I grew up spending multiple hours in the gym, training to be the World's BEST gymnast...or so I thought. I spent many hours (as many as 32 hrs/wk) working harder then I ever thought possible; enduring bloody rips, pulled muscles, screaming coaches, dripping sweat and working to perfection, trying to reach my dreams, goals, and greatest potential. My closest friends were from the gym, it was my home away from home. And, believe it or not, I wouldn't take any of it back. Yes, there were hard times; times I wanted to quit and walk away. But I had worked too long and too hard to just give up. I prayed to know that is where my Heavenly Father wanted me and as an answer to my prayers, I knew I was meant to be right there in the gym. 

When my dad lost his job, my parents set up a meeting with Jim, the owner, to explain our situation and to tell him they were going to have to pull me out. The cost of training, competition, & everything else that goes along with being a competitive gymnast, was too much, and my parents could no longer afford to keep me in. An answer to my prayers was found in his reply, "No, we can't have that. She has too much talent and great potential, we will take care of everything." Wow! They believed in me; they saw my strength and determination. I pushed even harder, determined to work my way up the ladder - regionals, then to nationals, and then working towards becoming an Olympic Gymnast. I competed in Region 3, held in Kansas, in 2002. I was a proud Texas gymnast, who took 8th all around. After season, I spent the summer training level 9 & 10 skills. 

Then, in August of 2002, my family moved to Utah, where the Lord directed us to go. I was leaving my friends, my team, & my coaches who believed in me. My dad had found a job, but it wasn't enough to afford gymnastics training. I prayed to know where to go from there.  We went into Missy Marlow's Gymnastics, and sure enough, they were willing to help out. They put me on scholarship and let me train with their team. The Lord was there and knew my desires. Though it just wasn't the same, competition was nothing compared to TeXas and I became very ill losing much of my strength. I prayed. I pleaded with the Lord to help me find a way to continue doing what I loved most. After another season of level 8, I found a great coach, who believed in me more then any of my other coaches, Brandy. She trained me and got me ready for level 9. I decided last minute to compete a mini meet before season. First event: Beam...I performed beautifully. It felt great to be up there again, and I stuck it, that is until I hit the dismount mat where I landed wrong, tearing my ACL, medial & lateral ligaments. My season was over. Again, I became discouraged, questioning why this had to be happening. Things were going great, I had made a great comeback after being so sick, and then this. Since then, I have tried on and off to get back in the gym. I miss it so much. I never went on to compete in nationals, I never competed against girls around the world. I felt like everything I had worked towards had been shattered. Why would the Lord tell me to go one direction and then it end so quickly and so differently then I expected? But then, I look back at all I did accomplish. I have 98 medals which I proudly earned; I am a perfectionist, determined to get things done right; I persevere and never give up; I give 100% of my efforts to find success; I am respectful of those around me; I did my very best and because of that, I gained skills that have helped me become who I am today. Skills that will forever be a part of me in life and help me in my passion for health and fitness. And, I have had many opportunities to share the gospel with those around me and to be an example of my Savior, Jesus Christ. I know my Heavenly Father does have a plan for me and despite how badly I wanted to go all the way in gymnastics, I know he has something greater in store. 

We must be willing to go whichever way the Lord would have us go; just as Lehi and his family, who were told to make their journey into the wilderness and then commanded multiple times to return to Jerusalem (for the Gold Plates & again Ishmael's family). It would've been more convenient and much easier to accomplish those tasks before they left their home land in the first place, but the Lord knew what he was doing. He was testing them and only giving them the opportunity to strengthen their faith. Life isn't always going to be easy and we may question why the Lord leads us one way and then quickly another. This life is the test and our purpose is to strive to be like Him and be worthy to return to His presence. I learned so much as a gymnast, I have had opportunity to share the gospel, and I have great memories to look back on. I can see how far I have come when I look back on hard times. Don't give up and remember, the Lord knows the way!

The Lord taught Lehi and his family:
“I will … be your light in the wilderness; and I will prepare the way before you, if … ye shall keep my commandments; … ye shall be led towards the promised land; and ye shall know that it is by me that ye are led” (1Ne 17:13).

"You all must have promised lands that you would like to go to, and you can have your own light in that wilderness that challenges young people today. This light comes all wrapped up in love, the Lord’s love for every one of His children...The Lord knows that you face challenges and temptations, and He provides the light that brightens your hearts, your minds, and your spirits. He has said that His word is truth and truth is light and light is the Spirit of Jesus Christ" (Sister Sharon G. Larson: "Your Light in the Wilderness" - Ensign May 1999)

"I, Nephi, was desirous also that I might see, and hear, and know of these things, by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him, as well in times of old as in the time that he should manifest himself unto the children of men.
For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round" (1Ne 10:17, 19)

We may not know the reasoning for the ways he may direct our paths, but we must trust in him, have faith in him, and know that He will lead us back to his presence. I know that he has a plan for me, and every time I am directed in a new direction, I adjust my goals and desires to follow that path. As I look back at the many things I have experienced and all that I have endured, I realize how far I have come and how much of a stronger person I am because of everything I have been through. I thank my Heavenly Father for trials and for those moments where I may not have a full understanding at the moment, but they have strengthened me in my life and helped me become who I am today. Press forward with faith!

-Sarah M.

1Ne 8: Lehi's Dream

Lehi shares another vision with his sons; another message he received from God the Eternal Father.

 

 Picture yourself in a scene that is completely pitch black and full of gloom and discouragement. You wonder helplessly in the dark for hours, confused and lost. Then, you decide to fall to your knees and pray to the Lord for direction and plead for His tender mercies. As you look up, you get a glimpse of the entire world in front of you. Within this world, you see many things. Your attention quickly sets on a bright, white object - a large, beautiful tree. More beautiful and powerful then you have ever experienced. It fills your heart with love and compassion. You run up to it, blinded by its brightness, re-focus and reach for the fruit hanging from its limbs. Your mouth begins to water and you take a bite. Oh, it is so sweet and delicious! You are filled with joy and happiness beyond anything you have ever felt, you can't help but to grin. Then, you peer out into the darkness and see a running river with an iron rod following alongside it, leading by way of a straight and narrow path, up to the tree. Off in the dark distance, you see an enormous building filled with people dressed in expensive clothing & flashy jewelry, drunk and mocking those who clung to the iron rod, making their way to the tree ahead and laughing at those who were eating its delicious fruit. You want all your family to join you and find the same happiness you have, but there are some who have wondered and become lost. They have chosen other paths and it saddens your heart to see their choices and where it has lead them. You think, What does this all mean? 

Many symbols can be found throughout Lehi's dream that give us great guidance and direction.

In a recent Ensign article: Lehi's Dream -Holding Fast to the Rod (Oct2011), Elder David A. Bednar, explains Lehi's dream in a way I had never thought of before. I just love it. First he explains the symbolism of certain pieces of the dream. 

"The central feature in Lehi’s dream is the tree of life—a representation of the Love of God (1Ne 11:21-22). “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Thus, the birth, life, and atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ are the greatest manifestations of God’s love for His children."

"The fruit on the tree is a symbol for the blessings of the Atonement. Partaking of the fruit of the tree represents the receiving of ordinances and covenants whereby the Atonement can become fully efficacious in our lives. The fruit is described as “desirable to make one happy” (1Ne 8:10) and produces great joy and the desire to share that joy with others."

 "Significantly, the overarching theme of the Book of Mormon—inviting all to come unto Christ—is paramount in Lehi’s vision. Of particular interest is the rod of iron that led to the tree (1Ne 8:19). The rod of iron is the word of God."

This next part of Elder Bednar's talk I love..

"Father Lehi saw four groups of people in his dream. Three of the groups were pressing forward along the strait and narrow path seeking to obtain the tree and its fruit. A fourth group did not seek after the tree, desiring instead the great and spacious building as their ultimate destination (1Ne 8:31-33). 

In 1Ne 8:21-23 we learn about the first group of people who pressed forward and commenced in the path that led to the tree of life. However, as the people encountered the mist of darkness, which represents “the temptations of the devil” (1Ne 12:17), they lost their way, wandered off, and were lost.
 
Notice that no mention is made in these verses of the rod of iron. Those who ignore or treat lightly the word of God do not have access to that divine compass which points the way to the Savior. Consider that this group obtained the path and pressed forward, exhibiting a measure of faith in Christ and spiritual conviction, but they were diverted by the temptations of the devil and were lost.

In 1Ne 8:24-28 we read about a second group of people who obtained the strait and narrow path that led to the tree of life. This group "did press forward through the mist of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partake of the fruit of the tree". However, as the finely dressed occupants of the great and spacious building mocked this second group of people, “they were ashamed” and “fell away into forbidden paths and were lost". Please notice that this group is described as “clinging to the rod of iron”.

It is significant that the second group pressed forward with faith and commitment. They also had the added blessing of the rod of iron, and they were clinging to it! However, as they were confronted with persecution and adversity, they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost. Even with faith, commitment, and the word of God, this group eventually was lost—perhaps because they only periodically read or studied or searched the scriptures. Clinging to the rod of iron suggests to me only occasional “bursts” of study or irregular dipping rather than consistent, ongoing immersion in the word of God.

In verse 30 we read about a third group of people who pressed forward “continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree.” The key phrase in this verse is continually holding fast to the rod of iron.

The third group also pressed forward with faith and conviction; however, there is no indication that they wandered off, fell into forbidden paths, or were lost. Perhaps this third group of people consistently read and studied and searched the scriptures. Perhaps it was diligence and devotion to a seemingly “small and simple [thing]” (Alma 37:6) that saved the third group from perishing. Perhaps it was “the knowledge of the Lord” and “the knowledge of the truth” (Alma 23:5,6) obtained through faithful study of the scriptures that yielded the spiritual gift of humility—such that this group of people “fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree” (1Ne 8:30). Perhaps it was the spiritual nourishment and strength provided by continually “feasting upon the word of Christ” (2Ne 31:20) that enabled this group to heed not the scorning and mocking of the people in the great and spacious building (see 1Ne 8:33). This is the group you and I should strive to join."

This is a whole new way of looking at this story. Elder Bednar goes beyond the obvious symbols and digs deeper. He pulls out more meaning and understanding of how we, as latter day saints, should live our life. I try to continually do those things that will lead me to the tree of life, back to my Heavenly Father. At times it can be hard. Especially in the world we live in with so much evil, so many temptations. But I find that as I make time for the little things that are important - reading my scriptures, saying my prayers, going to church - it makes it easier to withstand temptations and I am more in tune with the spirit of God.

 
"May we all have eyes to see and ears to hear additional lessons from Lehi’s vision that will help us to “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life” (2Ne 31:20)".  

 -Sarah M.

1 Ne 7: Rays of Sunshine

Lehi is told that he should not take his family into the wilderness alone, but that his sons should return to Jerusalem again to bring Ishmael and his family with them. This way, the sons could marry Ishmael's daughters, allowing the family to grow as they make their journey to the Land of Promise. On their way back, they begin arguing amongst one another; Laman, Lemuel, & part of Ishmael's children wish to return to the city and be done with such madness. But, Nephi, reminds them of the good things that have occurred. He explains:

"How is it that ye have forgotten that ye have seen an angel of the Lord?
"Yea, and how is it that ye have forgotten what great things the Lord hath done for us, in delivering us out of the hands of Laban, and also that we should obtain the record?

"Yea, and how is it that ye have forgotten that the Lord is able to do all things according to his will, for the children of men, if it so be that they exercise faith in him? Wherefore, let us be faithful to him.

"And if it so be that we are faithful to him, we shall obtain the land of promise..." (1Ne 7:10-13)

This only makes them more angry and they tie Nephi up, planning to leave him behind as bate in the wilderness. Nephi, without hesitation and with amazing courage, prays to his Father in Heaven;

"O Lord, according to my faith which is in thee, wilt thou deliver me from the hands of my brethren; yea, even give me strength that I may burst these bands with which I am bound." (1Ne 7:17)

Because of his great faith, he is freed. Again, they were mad and went to tie him up again. Thanks to a daughter and son of Ishmael, as well as his wife, they soften their hearts through their words of pleading. They begged for forgiveness of Nephi, their younger brother and Nephi "frankly" forgave them. 

I always thought I would be at a completely different point in my life then I am now, @ 25 yrs. I thought I would be married and beginning my family. I thought I would be done with school and graduated with a degree and had experience competing gymnastics nationally. I thought I would have the greatest happiness in the world and that life would just be dandy, living happily in Texas. I didn't doubt I would have trials - that is what this life is about, right? It is a test and we are all going to have our own trials and we are all going to take them differently. But I never imagined I would be fighting the trials I am now and I thought I would have a loving husband to help me along the way. 
Well, God had a different plan for me.  I am single. I am not currently dating anyone. I am a former gymnast, forced to quit far before I was ready. I am still working towards my degree. I am living at home in Utah. I have multiple health issues. This is not the life I dreamed of living. 
The last couple of weeks have been tough. I have found myself deep inside a black hole I can't seem to escape. I am depressed and I hate feeling this way. There I admitted it. I want to have fun and enjoy life. As I read this chapter, I realized I am not being anything like my hero, Nephi. Instead I am complaining as Laman and Lemuel, wishing things could be like they used to. Wishing to go home to where I grew up and not willing to move forward with faith. 
Ok, so now what? Now that I know my attitude needs to change and I want to be more like Nephi, what is the next step? Well, as I read Nephi's reminder of all the good things that have taken place, I decided to think of the good things in my life. The rays of sunshine that brighten each day and bring true happiness to my everyday life. 
1. My Family - I am so blessed with the unconditional love of my family and the good times we share
2. My Heavenly Father, His son Jesus Christ, and the Companionship of the Holy Ghost -  I am NEVER alone. Though at times it may seem, He is always there to comfort and to love no matter what!
3. Friends - I have great friends that bring me such amazing support and happiness, friends that make me want to be a better me
4. Knowledge of the Gospel - I am so blessed with the knowledge of the gospel and the principles that are there for us to follow; for the Prophet of this church and the leaders who are here to guide us along the path of righteousness in a world of such wickedness; for the scriptures and their continual guidance in my life. 
5. America the Beautiful & my Rights and Freedoms - I am so blessed to be an American, to live in safety and live according to my desires with great resources.
6. Education - I have learned so much in this life and though I have not earned my college degree yet, I am still learning everyday and working towards it. I am blessed with the opportunity to learn and succeed. The thing I love about learning, there is always more to learn :)
7. My Hobbies - Fitness & Health, Sports & Recreation (gymnastics), Scrapbooking, Writing, Photography, Playing the Piano, Outdoors Adventure...

My Heavenly Father has blessed me with so much! I shouldn't have any reason to be unhappy or disappointed in who I am and where my life is right now. I have so many blessings, so many great rays of sunshine beaming down on my life! And with every trial, I am strengthened, I am more prepared for what may come next! 
Don't lose hope. Don't give up. Know that Heavenly Father loves you and has a plan for you. He wants you to succeed and grow with every footstep. 


"Quit thinking about where you want to be in life & focus on where you are in life!" -me


Have a happy day and let the sun shine down on you!!!
-Sarah M.

1Ne 5-6: Keeping a Record

I try to keep records of my everyday life. Not only the major things that seem most important, but the little things that make up your life. Those little facts & doings that make you - YOU. What you do when you hang out with friends, what you wish to become and do in the future, what thoughts enter your mind every morning you wake up and the little accomplishments you make throughout the day, or even what are your favorite things to do, places to go, foods to eat.
I have recently tried to record these little moments on my personal blog, http://princessflip.blogspot.com/
I want to include the things that happen every day. I want to truly record my life, not just events of my life.
Lehi searches through the brass plates which were brought back by his sons. In them, he discovers a whole lot that he didn't know before. He learns where his family comes from and that they are a descendant of Joseph. He discovers how precious they are and how important it was that they get them into their hands, to cherish them and protect their great value.

"And now when my father saw all these things, he was filled with the Spirit, and began to prophesy concerning his seed—
That these plates of brass should go forth unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people who were of his seed.
Wherefore, he said that these plates of brass should never perish; neither should they be dimmed any more by time. And he prophesied many things concerning his seed.
And it came to pass that thus far I and my father had kept the commandments wherewith the Lord had commanded us.
And we had obtained the records which the Lord had commanded us, and searched them and found that they were desirable; yea, even of great worth unto us, insomuch that we could preserve the commandments of the Lord unto our children.
Wherefore, it was wisdom in the Lord that we should carry them with us, as we journeyed in the wilderness towards the land of promise." (1Ne 5:17-22)


"It can be a great thrill to discover a diary or journal written by a grandparent or loved one. For example, the record of a great-grandmother’s experiences as a bride and young mother can touch the heart of a granddaughter and cause deep love, even though the two are generations apart. Just as we are strengthened as we read the words of early prophets, we can greatly benefit from the testimonies of our own ancestors as they recount for us their trials and sacrifices." (Ensign July 1986: Hidden Benefits of Keeping a History By Gawain and Gayle J. Wells)

I think it is important to keep some type of a record for family after us. Not only that, but to learn and grow and to look back to see how far we have come in this life. I came across my great grandma's journal a couple of months back and it was pretty cool. Reading about her life, I was attached to the words on the page, and didn't really know her personally. I mean I did, but I wasn't super close. But because she was family, I was interested and wanted to read more - despite her messy handwriting... I have multiple scrapbooks, journals, and blogs that keep my records from the time I was born. It makes me happy and feel successful having completed so much history. I love to look back and discover past experiences, remembering and learning, and knowing I am going somewhere in this life. 

I recently asked my mom if she had written anything about the day I was born. She went to her room, and grabbed 2 journals, one was hers and the other my dads. In them, she flipped to the entries about my birth; this was the first time I have ever read their thoughts and feelings about the day I came into this world.
A piece of what my dad wrote:
July 19, 1986
"One week ago today, I had a daughter come into my life. Kathy and I named her Sarah. She is so special to the both of us.
The whole process of having Sarah started Friday July 11, when Kathy had contractions for 3 hours, then they stopped. She was just teasing us. Then Saturday morning, July 12 at 5am the contractions started again and at 9:30am we went to the hospital. The whole process of her coming into the world was different then we had anticipated, which made it all the more special....
...When we entered the birthing room to have the baby, we invited Mom Inkley & Sandy to stay and watch the baby be born. This made it all the more special.
At about 11:30am, Dr. Clark came in to check things out. He looked at Kathy and said she was dilated to 8 cm. Then he said he was going to plant some trees and left. He was not gone 5 minutes when Kathy cried 'it's coming! The baby is coming!'...
...Dr. Clark came rushing back in and everything was ready and in the process. the baby's head was just now beginning to appear and things were really beginning to get intense. Kathy was really using her breathing technique well and we were going all the way with no medication, it was going so perfect....
...Kathy kept asking 'what is it?''...she [came] out and tears of joy filled the room as we realized we had our baby girl. Kathy said over and over, 
'I got my baby Girl!'
"We then brought in Tyler to see his new baby sister and I don't think she was quite what he had expected. He looked at her and back up about 5 steps. He looked like he had just seen a ghost. 
Sarah weighed in at 5lbs 2oz. Dr. Clark said she was 3 weeks premature, Dr. Sharon claimed 4 weeks. Whatever she was, her nickname in the hospital became PEANUT. Kathy's nickname was speedy.
Everyone who came to visited commented on how tiny she was and how pretty she looked. I could not agree more. 
Since Sarah has been with us for a week she has become more special and precious then ever! I am very proud of the way Kathy handled the delivery and very happy my baby girl has arrived!"

Here are a few of my moms words:
July 13, 1986
"I am really not sure I can express how I truly feel. I am so excited and overjoyed that it is hard to put it down on paper. Yesterday at 11:53am I gave birth to a beautiful baby daughter. She is so perfect. Looks just like Tyler. She's very small however, 5lbs 2oz, 17 1/2" long. She was 3 weeks premature but she seems very healthy. The feelings I felt when she was born are overwhelming. I already love her so much!...
...Mom and Sandi watched the delivery, which was quite an experience for Sandi - being that she never say any of her children born. As for mom, she never gets tired of watching the beautiful event. Tyler is not quite sure how to react to such a small person. I think he though she would be old enough to play with. It was really funny because when he first saw her, he just backed away. I'm glad it's over with and that everything is fine. Life couldn't be better - I have a husband who I love with all my heart and soul; an especially beautiful boy and then my daughter. What a family. Oh, by the way, during my beautiful blessing which I received from my husband, the spirit told 'daddy' that it was a girl. I love life and everything in it. 
note: When Sarah was born, the doctor called her Peanut and it stuck in the hospital {and has continued to be my nickname throughout my life}....
July 19, 1986
"Well, today my little girl is a week old and she is even more precious than the day we brought her home...Tyler is really enjoying Sarah - he likes to stand on his stool and peek into the bassinet. He loves to hold her and pat her back. It's been so nice to have Allen home all week. He's been such a big help, I never could've done it without him." 


Reading them was so touching. Knowing I came into this world to a wonderful, caring mother and father, who have done a great job raising me.

I love reading of the Book of Mormon. There is so much we can learn from its words, and I know they are the words of God. I know them to be true and I have found so many answers and great inspirations in its pages. So, get to work, reading past experiences as well as working on your own! 

PS, one day, my goal is to pick up on the genealogy my Grandma has left behind. She was always going to teach me, and then her time came much quicker than anybody expected. This was one of her true-to-the-heart hobbies. She loved the work and she accomplished so much, yet, there is MUCH more to be completed...
-Sarah M. 

1Ne 3-4: Persistence = Blessings

Nephi and his brothers were asked to return to the city to retrieve the gold plates from the hands of Laban. It took them 3 attempts before finally getting a hold of the plated and returning safely to their family. Nephi had continuing faith and persistence in accomplishing that which the Lord had commanded them.

"And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." (1Ne 3:7)

When we pray for guidance from the Lord, we must be willing to do whatever he asks of us in return. He will help us, and it may not always be easy, but He is only trying to strengthen us and build our courage and confidence. He will provide a way! 

I was laid off from my job very unexpectedly back in August. Previously, I thought things were good and I felt secure. I enjoyed my job and was living pretty easily. But then, after they called me in, I left in tears. No job. How would I pay bills? I was devastated, confused, and hated life. And, I knew, this meant my health insurance would be dropped.
I decided to rely on a given talent of mine to coach. I knew it would be a HUGE pay cut and I knew it wouldn't be enough, but it was much better then nothing at all. I soon received a call back from a friend of mine, requesting the need of a team coach. This is something I have always wanted to do! Be involved with the competitive side of gymnastics again, only this time on the other end, as a coach. I quickly went to work, helping with the level 7s. Then, in December I got my own group of level 5 girls. It has been a great experience. Despite the pay being quite a bit less then what I was previously making, I was doing something I loved. I was helping girls fulfill their dreams of being star gymnast. But, the drama didn't end here. My health decreasingly became worse and I was missing work because of it. I have had to drop this semester of school due to my health conditions. 
Decreased work = smaller paycheck. Decreased school = Further away degree. 
Everything seemed to be tumbling downhill. I prayed, every night and every morning for direction. I was not happy with my life and I wanted so much more. I have since taken a moment to look at my many blessings. I have a great supportive and loving family, who have helped me through all of this. I have a job that allows me to share my talent as well as be an example of living the gospel. I have a wonderful friend who offered me a babysitting job and the experience has been great. I have been blessed with a much healthier body than many out there. No, it is not perfect, and sometimes I wish I could have a new everything, but I can at least fight to live my everyday life, I can walk, I can talk, and breath on my own. 
Come July, I will be cut off my dads health insurance because of my age. Currently I don't have a job that provides my own. I am not sure what I am going to do. But this is where I must be like Nephi, be persistent in my prayers and have faith that things will work out. 

"And I was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do."(1Ne 4:6)

Because of Nephi's diligence and persistence in keeping the Lords commandments, he was blessed greatly. He was blessed with a safe return back to the tent of his father and he was blessed with the spirit to guide him. I do not know what life has in store for me. My plans have changed again and again in this life, but every time I head down a new road that has been opened to me, I grow and become stronger. I will be blessed. 
A friend once told me, 

"Your set backs do not create doors to discouragement but create doors to opportunity." Megan Hutchinson 


-Sarah M.