Easter

 

This is my most dear holiday.  When I think of what happened, was planned, and executed here on earth, I am overcome with gratitude and hope.  Because of Jesus Christ's sacrifice and the Atonement, I am not lost.  I am not forever subject to death, spiritual death, or eternal pain.  I am so grateful for this knowledge, and I hope others can gain this knowledge so they can use this power to move forward in their lives.  I hope I can move forward.  

I hope I can use this beautiful gift to make my own life the best it can be.  I also know that "the best life" changes with our understanding of the Lord and our whole purpose.  I went for a pedicure recently, and realized that it wasn't that enjoyable (other than getting the nails clipped and trimmed).  I wondered why I didn't enjoy it.  In fact, I quit going to do it.  I trim my own nails now.  And I asked myself a question, "What really is the most enjoyable thing to me?"  And I realized that helping others with the talents I have been given is really the most enjoyable thing to me.  I have been presented with various forms of these opportunities along my life.  Raising children is a big one.  Serving a spouse or other family member is another.  Forgiving someone is yet another.  Cleaning and organizing the things I have been blessed with also brings satisfaction.  Mourning with a neighbor, teaching piano, growing a garden and sharing the produce, being patient with others and myself, disciplining myself to do hard things, walking or hiking or biking in nature, helping in anyway are all ways I have found true joy.  Sometimes we think that money can make us happy, and it does relieve hunger, worry, and situations.  But beyond that, our own efforts bring the most joy.