Timing

It seems kind of like my whole life I have had a plan. It is similar to probably most....graduate high school, go to college, find a job...

Now I find myself in a position that I didn't expect.... I did it.

However, instead of feeling a sense of accomplishment, I feel more lost. My plan is gone. Now, two words keep going through my head, "now what?"

Last Saturday I realized my plan was gone and had a small breakdown. I like to call it my "mid-life crisis." I'm not sure where the Lord wants me to be. I've looked into graduate programs and met with counselors to discuss future educational plans. I've looked into hair school, culinary school, or obtaining a pilot's license. I've looked into cruise lines and flights, investigating the adventures outside of Orem, Utah. However, nothing is fitting. Nothing is feeling right. So then I decided that although I don't know where I'm going, I need to be prepared for wherever the Lord takes me so... I bought shoes. I love shoes. I've always loved them. Not that I need or want dozens, but I like shoes because they allow me to go places. They are the means by which I get around and am able to do what I do day to day. I may not know exactly where I'm going, but I will be prepared to act on the Lord's timing.

I learned something about timing today as I was practicing my violin. I have decided to start a Celtic band with my friend Devan. It has been years since I've really played my violin. Anyhow, as I was practicing the music, it occurred to me that timing is everything. I could have the notes completely right and have the bowings spot on, but it's the timing that makes the song. Timing. I think the Lord was trying to teach me something. To figure out the timing, it takes time. I have to slow down. I have to count out loud and choose to follow the music, rather than do my own thing because if I don't, I won't be in the position I need to be in when Devan and I play together.

I have a testimony that everything testifies of Christ and as we evaluate our routine, like buying shoes and playing music, we will find the good things in our routine testify of Christ love. The gospel is true and I'm so grateful the Lord has a hand in my life teaching me these little lessons day to day.

Spirit of Christmas

I need to be in bed, but I have had a lot of thoughts running around in my head today. I don't think any of it is really profound, and at this time of night I am unsure it will make sense, but I need to explain how I've been feeling.

During the last week or so, it has felt like Christmas to me. I've tried to figure out what it was. Is it the weather? Is it the music I listen to? Is it that I am coming down with a cold and I always get sick during Christmas? All sorts of questions, similar to these, have been in my head. Why does it feel like Christmas?

As I think back as to what has changed in my schedule, I see that within the last week or so, I have adjusted my media and the way I spent my time. I am trying to spend more of my time serving others, rather than thinking of my own needs. I have also reduced the amount of media that I use (hence, deleting facebook) and changing the media I do use (no longer radio alternative rock but Mo-Tab and classical in the car.) As I have changed these behaviors, I have felt a change. These small changes have allowed me to be more in tune and feel closer to Christ....much like a do at Christmas time. The holidays are a time to be with family, remember our blessings, think of others, sing praises and songs to Him, and ultimately turn our thoughts to Him. I decided everyday can be Christmas. Everyday I can love the time with my family, be grateful, serve and invite uplifting music to praise my Savior and think of Him.

Although the last few weeks have been a roller coaster of ups and downs, I have been filled with peace and joy because of the spirit of Christmas. As I was praying in Spanish this morning I was reminded of something I learned from my sister. "mas" in Spanish is "more". Thus, if we combine Spanish and English, the word Christmas could mean "Christ more." Everyday is a reason to celebrate Him and try harder to be more like Christ and have him more in our lives.

My challenge to you....make tomorrow Christmas!