Scars

Every scar has a story
Whatever it may be
Great tales can be told as we study
The rings of the great oak tree

Scars become an archive
They remind us where we've been
As I survey my collection
The past becomes real again

Not all scars are visible
Some stay hidden inside
And remain secret, except to a few
In whom the bearer confides

I know of a set of scars
Older than the great oak tree
They serve as a sacred record
Of a price paid for you and me

Those scars call out to remind me
That whatever wounds I may gain
Because of the story behind those scars
My scars don't have to remain

Reflecting on a Reflection

As I look out at the moon from my window,

I realize this world is actually beautiful; 

I am actually very small;

And someone actually cares.

This life is full of wonder.

"...All things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator."

Alma 30:44

Portable Sunshine

How do you stay bright when everything goes wrong?
Carry the sun in your pocket, I suppose
How is this possible? you might well ask
Let me tell you what keeps away my woes

I rely on someone who's been through it all
He always knows just what I need
He's felt every pain and He knows every balm
From every trap He knows how to be freed

What about carrying the sun in your pocket?
That would sure make your life glow
My faith in my Comforter burns with a radiant heat
And it's with me wherever I go

So I can press on through the darkest of caves
Because the Creator of the sun has declared
That through storms and hardships of every kind
He will not leave me alone, comfortless, or scared

Sometimes as a missionary, life is hard. I'm confident this is not just a "missionary problem". Everyone will weather their fair share of storms. That is simply a part of life. What we can choose to do is to have faith. I have found that when we approach challenges armed with faith, we can get through whatever adversity comes our way. I've learned to trust in a simple promise made by Jesus Christ: "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." (John 14:18).

Perspectives on a Rainstorm

All is perfect, or so it would seem.
The elements of the ideal outdoor feast are in place.
Blanket? Check. Sandwiches? Check.
And the flowers are stunning today.
But,
We have a problem.
The clouds are looking dark and inconvenient.
Rain.
Our distressed picnic-er looks up with dismay.
Ruined.

Just feet away, a flower is curious.
Our picnic-er storms off, matching the gathering clouds.
"Where is he going? Why would he leave?
"The best part is about to begin."
Thirst.
That's no longer a problem.
Flowers need the sun and the rain.
Balance.
Our flower looks up with joy.
Life.

"So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment."

President Thomas S. Monson