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What I Know

       I'm 32 years old. I've been married 12 years, given birth to 5 children, worked as a bookseller and a telemarketer, attended several years of college and lived in 5 different states. Yet, what wisdom I've gained thus far in my life experience can often seem lacking. Some nights I struggle to close my eyes from fretting over all the things I don't know or don't understand. I encounter trials, challenges that make me question things which I've always thought I knew to be true. I express my opinion and am met with opposition. I search for truth, and often times end up more confused than when I started the journey.

       But, no matter how much I've yet to learn, no matter how ignorant I may be in certain areas, there are some things that I know for absolute certain.

       I know that I am a daughter of God. I have heavenly parents who know me, love me and watch over me. They sent me here to this earthly training ground in order to allow me the precious opportunity to learn how to become as they are - perfect. My Heavenly Father always listens when I pray to Him. He's eager to hear me, always available as I express my concerns, my ideas, my fears and frustrations to Him. He answers my prayers. Through a hundred tiny whisperings throughout my day, He shows me the path to take and assures me of His love.

       I know that my Savior, Jesus Christ Lives. He is very real. He is always, always with me. His atonement made it possible for Him to understand me in an intimate way. He knows my faults. He knows my fears. He knows my pain and He knows my desires. He sees my potential and He wants what is best for me. I think one of the best descriptions of Him can be found in the Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 26:24 "He doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation."

       This knowledge is the foundation of my life. No matter the things I don't understand, I rely on this cherished truth - that God the Father and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, live and that they love me. I know they are here for me, and for you. Then, now and always. They live. This Easter, I hope you may feel that same truth burning in your own heart.


                      




Comments

  1. I feel awful I've missed this last string of posts. I stopped checking when there was a dry spell. Just beautiful. You have a lovely way of articulating the depth of your heart.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Arianne, that means so much, coming from you. Thank you!

    ReplyDelete

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The joys of life taste sweeter when they're shared. Please share your joy by leaving me a comment. I love to hear your stories-- the joys as well as the sorrows.
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--- Bethany

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