All posts tagged happiness

Can You Feel So Now?

It’s my favorite time of year.

The days are getting longer.

My morning run is a lot brighter these days.

My morning run is a lot brighter these days.

There are colorful pots of joy all around my yard.

Happy!

Happy!

The citrus trees are starting to bloom.

Trust me when I say you wish you could smell this.

Trust me when I say you wish you could smell this.

Soon, we will be celebrating Easter–which is pretty much my favorite holiday (even though I love Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, and I usually do a lot more to celebrate them with my kids) it is Easter that brings me hope and joy. And I love that Easter is a holiday completely centered on Christ.

Now…before I go on too much about Easter, another thing I LOVEEEE about this time of year is General Conference.

In case you are not familiar with General Conference, once every six months, we in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have a meeting where we hear from the Living Prophet, 12 apostles, and other leaders of our church. For me, General Conference is always just what I need to get through the next six months.

I have a few thoughts about two talks.

In Quentin L. Cook’s talk, he asks the question posed by Alma in the Book of Mormon:

“And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?” – Alma 5:26

I have been thinking about this question because, to be honest, I’ve been in a little bit of a funk lately. Sometimes, when I’m having depressing thoughts, it effects me in such a way that I begin to question everything: the purpose of my life (as in where I’m headed in life), my faith, and my testimony…Obviously, this isn’t good.

here’s the thing.

I have experienced a change of heart

My change of heart didn’t happen in one amazing or startling moment. Over time, my heart has changed. It has shifted toward the Lord. I can see that I’ve grown closer to the Lord over time. I was baptized when I was eight. My testimony has grown a lot since then, but I still have the same feeling about God that I did then. I know that He loves me. I know that I matter to Him. I know that I want to please Him.

Though there are times when I give in to many of my natural desires and weakness, I know where my heart is. I want to please the Lord. I want to bring him happiness and glory through my good decisions because I have felt so much love and blessings from Him.

I have felt to sing the song of redeeming love

Yes. This joy is also something I’ve experienced.

I have felt it when I look in the eyes of my children, and I see how much the Lord has blessed me–even though I, in no way, deserve it.

I have felt to sing the song of redeeming love when I have sinned, then repented, and have been forgiven. I know what that kind of deep, abiding joy is. I know that this is a miraculous feeling.

Sometimes I feel it [that love] and sometimes I don’t…Why???

When we can’t feel to sing the song of redeeming love anymore, Elder Cook suggests the possible reasons why:

“Many who are in a spiritual drought and lack commitment have not necessarily been involved in major sins or transgressions, but they have made unwise choices. Some are casual in their observance of sacred covenants. Others spend most of their time giving first-class devotion to lesser causes. Some allow intense cultural or political views to weaken their allegiance to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Some have immersed themselves in Internet materials that magnify, exaggerate, and, in some cases, invent shortcomings of early Church leaders. Then they draw incorrect conclusions that can affect testimony. Any who have made these choices can repent and be spiritually renewed.” – Quentin L. Cook

Now…as I read this, I have to amid, I don’t feel like I’m in a spiritual drought. Yet, I don’t feel as much happiness or joy as I’d like either. While Elder Cook’s advice is true and valuable, I don’t feel like actually applies to me right now. There is something else that is inhibiting my happiness, and I think that I found my answer in another conference talk given by President Uchtdorf.

One thing he said that I found especially interesting:

“So often we get caught up in the illusion that there is something just beyond our reach that would bring us happiness: a better family situation, a better financial situation, or the end of a challenging trial.

The older we get, the more we look back and realize that external circumstances don’t really matter or determine our happiness.

We do matter. We determine our happiness.

You and I are ultimately in charge of our own happiness.” – President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Here is my answer. Why do I have trouble, at times, with feeling the joy – in singing the song of redeeming love–that I have felt in the past? It is because I get caught up in an illusion.

Sometimes this illusion is caused because I suffer from physical pain and weakness (hormones, anyone), and I mistakenly forget that I can find happiness and comfort in Christ, despite my weakness.

Sometimes this illusion is caused by boredom and ingratitude. I forget the blessings in my life, and become deceived that certain circumstances would make me happier.

But we are reminded, we matter; we determine our happiness.

If I determine my happiness, then what am I doing about it?
In the same talk, we learn to resolve to:

  • spend time with people I love
  • live up to potential–to be the person God knows I can be
  • find happiness; regardless of circumstances

And the amazing thing is: when I take the time to do these three things, then I can answer the last question of Alma’s with a resounding Yes!

***
I’m so grateful for general conference. I’m grateful for the practical advice, reminders, and warnings that we receive from the Prophet and apostles. I’m grateful for their testimonies. I’m grateful for the Book of Mormon and how it has clarified so much of the Bible and doctrine of Christ. I know that this Gospel is the true and living Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that Heavenly Father loves us and wants each of us to feel the joy of forgiveness and conversion. I also know that He wants us to remember it.

How do you answer the question posed by Alma? How has General Conference and the Book of Mormon been a blessing to you?

Check out more experiences with General Conference and the Book of Mormon at Jocelyn’s blog.

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by chococatania on March 12, 2013  •  Permalink
Posted in General Conference, Insights
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Posted by chococatania on March 12, 2013

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2013/03/12/can-you-feel-so-now/

What do Mormons believe is the purpose of life?

I still remember during the vice-presidential debate (in 1992!) when one of the candidates (Stockdale – who was running with Perot) asked, Who am I? Why am I here? That was really hilarious. And every time I think about my own life on earth, those words run through my squirrel-like brain: Who am I? Why am I here?

As funny as it seems, it is a true question? Who are we? What are we doing here? I believe that in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we get the answers to these questions.

In the scriptures, we learn:

“For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” – Moses 1:39

In this scripture, God is speaking to Moses. This declaration was made when Moses received the revelation at the burning bush. Moses was learning, from the God, about the purpose of life.

So – the entire purpose – of our lives and everything that God has done is to help us become immortal and receive eternal life. These two aspects are different in nature but equally important:

Immortal
The purpose of this life is to help us achieve immortality. This is why the earth was created. It is why Adam and Eve were created and put in the Garden of Eden. Our immortality is fundamental to everything the Lord has done.

Yet, we know, that Adam and Eve partook of the “forbidden fruit,” which introduced pain, sickness, and death. The Lord had already prepared a way for the results of the fall of Adam and Eve to be overcome: The Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Paul succinctly taught:

“For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” – 1 Corinthians 15:22

Thanks to Christ’s decision to die and then power to overcome death, we are all blessed. We will all be resurrected. We have the chance to overcome death through Christ and God’s work is fulfilled: we are immortal beings. Just as Adam’s choice led to a consequence for every living being on earth, so does Christ’s resurrection extend to everyone who has lived and died. None are exempt from this gift.

Eternal Life
Another purpose of this life, and God’s work is to help us receive Eternal Life.

The Lord explains that eternal life is the greatest of all the gifts of God. (See Doctrine and Covenants 14:7). This gift involves eternal peace, joy, and happiness.

The purpose of our lives is to give us the opportunity to be eternally happy.

Of course, it is important to note that this is true happiness – not pleasure or fleeting happiness. What the Lord has to offer and wants to give us is everlasting happiness. It is not easily obtained and won’t be fully experienced during our mortal lives.

Unlike immortality, eternal life and happiness is not automatically granted to every person who has been affected by Adam’s fall (namely, everyone!). Instead, eternal life requires a measure of work on our part. So, the purpose of this earth life is to make a choice:

“Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself.” – 2 Nephi 2:27

In order to inherit the blessings that Christ offers – of liberty and eternal life, we must make a choice: to follow Him.

This is easier said than done. While on this earth, we must struggle. Not only do we face physical difficulties like pain and illness, but we will also succumb to the pain of sin from time to time. We are imperfect people: prone to various problems. As we learn to make good choices and repent for the not-so-good choices we’ve made, we will experience the blessings of Christ’s atonement. We will feel peace. We will feel a measure of happiness. We will get a glimpse of the eternal happiness that Christ offers to those who are faithful.

It is also important to remember that our struggles, trials, difficulties, and temptations are part of what will eventually make us happy. The thing is: God is the source of Happiness. If we want to experience happiness, then we must go to Him – through prayer and covenant-making. Yet, we are naturally slow to go to the Lord. Through trials and pains, we are often encouraged to go to our Maker for His support through difficult times. Our challenges are blessings.

Anciently, Paul suffered from “a thorn in the flesh.” Paul begged the Lord to take this difficulty from him, yet it remained. Paul got the big picture, and stated:

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” -2 Corinthians 12:9-10

We can be happy – even in our weakness – through Christ’s mercy and grace. Like Paul, we can go to Christ who will make us strong even when we are weak. The difficulties we face in life are a necessary part of our process to receiving eternal life. When we choose to accept God’s will and humbly receive Christ’s grace, then we will come to know Him. We will receive His gift of eternal life. We will be filled with peace, and will become happy.

Conclusion
There is a purpose to our lives. The Lord wants us to live forever. And he wants to grant us eternal joy. Neither of these gifts would be possible if we didn’t have the opportunity to come to this earth, be born into families, experience difficulties and blessings, and make choices. We can find peace in our lives now when we come to truly know our Heavenly Father and His plan.

***
Find out more about what Mormons believe. For more information on what Mormons believe about the purpose of life, click here.

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by chococatania on July 6, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in FAQ Purpose of Life, Mormon FAQ
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Posted by chococatania on July 6, 2012

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2012/07/06/what-do-mormons-believe-is-the-purpose-of-life/

Five Ways to Infuse our Lives with Happiness

Happy Faces

I have found that there are several themes that always seem to stand out to me as I study the scriptures. Happiness ranks as one of the top themes. I’m sure that is the same for pretty much anyone. That’s what life is all about – right? Finding happiness. In a gospel context – this life on earth is part of a plan – The Plan of Salvation; also referred to as the plan of happiness. I think that it is a part of being a human to search for happiness in our lives.

I’ve blogged about this before, so I don’t want to seem annoying or redundant, but I feel like I’ve learned a few good things about happiness and being happy.

Defining Happiness
It is important for us to define happiness correctly. I am tempted to think that happiness = fun, but that is not the case. Happiness is not in the eye of the beholder. It can be tempting to think this because we are offered so many ideas of what might make us “happy.” But we learn in the gospel and scriptures that happiness is a real, not quite relative, thing. Happiness is contentedness, joy, delight, satisfaction. It is lasting. It is deep. It isn’t as simple as a pleasure that lasts a minute. Pleasure may be a part of happiness, but it isn’t everything. Or in other words, there may be some things that make us feel happy that are pleasurable. That doesn’t mean that pleasure=happiness.

We learn in the scriptures that “wickedness never was happiness.” Alma teaches his son, also, that the nature of God is happiness. (See Alma 41:10-11.) If we want to experience happiness, then we need to adopt a nature that is like God’s nature, as His is the nature of happiness. When we do anything to cut ourselves off from God, we cut ourselves off from happiness.

Understanding the true definition of happiness is key. We can’t expect to get happiness if we don’t know what we’re searching for.

But I don’t want this post to be about the definition of happiness. I feel like I understand what happiness is, yet I find that it is elusive. Of course it is. Just as God wants us to be happy, and has provided a plan for us to obtain happiness, the adversary wants us to be miserable. Because of this, there are times when we don’t feel happy. We are fallen creatures. We are distanced from God. Even when we’re trying our best to be faithful, it can be hard to feel happiness.

So…here are five ways that we can infuse our lives with happiness – especially during those times when we lose our “mojo”.

i) Find Joy in Compensatory Blessings
Even while we are struggling through trials, we are blessed along the way. Often these blessings help to compensate for the difficulties of our adversity. The Lord blesses us along the way – even when “the way” is difficult. We can find joy during these times by counting our blessings.

As I think about it, many of these compensatory blessings cannot come without the trial! When I was a single mother, I experienced many blessings – independence, running a marathon, traveling to Europe, finding and doing well at a job. None of these blessings would have come if I hadn’t gone through the trials of my ending marriage! While I was struggling, I saw that the Lord was blessing me. When I recognized these blessings, it was easier to be happy – even in trial.

ii) Seek Experiences that Will Rejuvenate Our Souls
There are so many ways to “fill our tanks.” When we do things that rejuvenate our souls, we find happy moments. The ways I rejuvenate my soul are: exercising, date night, hikes, day trips, scripture study. I try to kiss my children, make a rich and scrumptious meal (and eat it happily).

Many of these things: exercising, spending time with children, scripture study, or cooking can feel like chores sometimes. When we seek these rejuvenating experiences, we should let them rejuvenate us – rather than doing them because we think that we need to check things off a list.

iii) Be Creative
We are creative beings. God created us with His image, and He is creative. We have a divine drive to create. There are many ways to do this. Elder Richard G. Scott told of a group of women who took up painting. He then said:

“They not only leave legacies of art, but they will never see a sunset, a face, or a tree the same again…Being creative will help you enjoy life. It engenders a spirit of gratitude. It develops latent talent, sharpens your capacity to reason, to act, and to find purpose in life. It dispels loneliness and heartache. It gives a renewal, a spark of enthusiasm, and zest for life.” – Richard G. Scott

I love this! Being creative is a way to be more grateful, and gratitude always seems to yield increased happiness. Not only that, but there is something about creating that brings joy – there is happiness in accomplishment. I love creating, yet I find myself consistently underestimating the power of creativity.

iv) Serve Others
This is a such a quick, effective way to feel a surge of happiness and purpose in life. When I have served, I have felt good. Why? I think that it is because when we serve, we become conduits of God’s love for His children. We can’t help but feel happy as a side effect! We feel the Love that God has for those we serve, and we’re drenched with this love in the meantime.

I need to remember that charity begins in the home, and that the service I render to my family members is real. It is a good, worthy thing to do! It will bring happiness to those whom I serve, and I will also feel happy.

v) Remember Your True Identity
I felt this advice very distinctly recently. I realized that I needed to remember who I am. Sometimes, I get caught up in my “life” – being a stay-at-home-mother, and I forget who I am, at the core of me. I need to be true to the daughter of God I truly am – and not let my circumstances tarnish my good traits.

When I think of who I truly am, I do feel happy. I want my children to see this side of me. I want everyone to see this side of me. I don’t want it to remain a hidden secret. Of course, there is a need to be responsible. I’m not saying that we should abandon duties and covenants to be “true to ourselves”. Duty and covenants are a part of who we are. But I also think that we become dull when we are trying to live up to everyone’s expectations rather than becoming better versions of who we already are.

***
So…these are the things I’m thinking about as far as happiness is concerned. What do you do to “be happy”?

6 Comments
by chococatania on June 21, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in General Conference, Insights, Life Lessons, Motherhood
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Posted by chococatania on June 21, 2012

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2012/06/21/five-ways-to-infuse-our-lives-with-happiness/

No Sorrow (D&C 101:29, 36)

I’ve been interested in the concept of happiness lately. I’m not sure why. I feel like a happy person, in general. But there are times when I’m not having a particularly happy time. Today, I was cleaning up. Typcially, this isn’t a big deal, but when my (nearly)three-year-old and my one-year-old are “helping” me, it is very difficult to get anything done.

Then I get a little frustrated.

After I get frustrated with them, I get frustrated with myself – I know better than to get upset with these tiny children. They don’t know any better. I begin to question my abilities as a mother, which then leads to general feelings of weariness. I wonder if I was cut out for righteousness. I don’t want to be righteous just because I love feeling “holier” than others. I want to be righteous because I love my Heavenly Father. I want to be righteous because I know it’s connected with happiness.

Thankfully, Heavenly Father understands me. I read the following scripture:

And there shall be no sorrow because there is no death.
…
Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.” – Doctrine and Covenants 101:29, 36

It is great to have this reminder.

1. Sorrow is an effect of the fall – just as death is. And, the one who saves us from Death: Christ. So, if i want to access a way to end the sorrow in my life, then I must look to the Savior.

2. Fear, a lack of faith, will rob us of happiness and joy. It may even rob us of life. When we are overcome with fear, we give in to the temptations of Satan. We underestimate Christ’s power. Our faith is diminished, and then we cannot experience His Salvation: which brings us joy.

3. Again, Christ = life.

4. Worldliness will not bring a fulness of joy. Worldliness may bring some momentary pleasure. It may even bring some happiness. But it cannot bring a fulness of joy.

5. Christ will fulfill our Joy.

So – when I’m feeling unhappy. I need to remember to look to Christ. He has overcome death – spiritually and physically. He has overcome the natural man. And through Him, I can live with a fulness of joy.

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by chococatania on March 2, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Doctrine and Covenants, Insights
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Posted by chococatania on March 2, 2012

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2012/03/02/no-sorrow-dc-10129-36/

Finding Joy in New Habits

This year, I’m trying to make good habits… But it’s not enough for me to simply make new habits — I want to actually enjoy life. I want to enjoy the things I’m doing. I want to be happy, I want to enjoy the process, and I’m convinced that I can be happy by doing things that are good for me.

I've got to learn to love life the way a two-year-old can.

Enjoying the process has been an interesting aspect to my New Year’s resolution. This has actually been an essential part of the resolution, and has also helped me to stay motivated to change my habits….but it can be hard.

It seems like with each of the changes I’ve made so far, I’ve had to really make an effort to be positive. It’s like I originally wanted the positive outcome of such a change without doing the hard work. But that isn’t possible. I must do hard work to reap good results. For example, if I’m looking to be able to do a pull-up, then there’s a lot of hard work involved! I will have to lose weight, train my muscles, and eat better – just to do a single pull-up. And in the middle of all of these things I must do, I have to overcome the desire to keep going down the pull-up-less path that I’ve been on – full of bad habits and instant gratification.

So…I’m learning to train my mind.

When I’m eating salad for lunch, or fruit for breakfast – and I think that I want something easy like a hoagie or a donut, I take time to enjoy my meal. My fresh meal. My healthy meal. The meal that will make me feel happier while I’m eating it, without a single bit of remorse later. I take time to eat my favorite salads. Instead of getting iceberg lettuce and some ranch dressing, I make a mediterranean salad – with pepperocinis, cucumbers, kalamata olives, shaved parmesan cheese, chicken breast, and tomatoes. (sounds good, huh?)…Or a fruity/green salad – with strawberries, mango, avocado, cucumbers, green onions, chicken breast, and poppy-seed dressing (totally amazing!). Then, I sit down and eat a huge salad, and feel a double whammy of happiness- my body is happy because I’m providing it with the food it actually needs to maintain good health. And my conscience is happy because I’m not eating something that is bad for me, and then leaving lunch riddled with guilt and regret.

There are other habits I’m working on changing, too.

Right now, I’m working on prayer. I’ve been horrible at prayer lately. So, for this three weeks (starting last Tuesday), I’ve been making a real point to pray morning and night – in my closet for privacy. Sometimes it is hard to remember. I’m tired. I’ve got kids crying for me. Whatever. But I’m getting better. And in the meantime, I’m training my mind to love this good habit. Even when it is hard to give up an old, comfortable bad habit, I know that the supposed comfort I feel from the way I’ve been doing things is a lie. These bad habits are what contributes to depression and guilt I feel – because I’m not doing what I know I should be. So…I get out of bed, and say a prayer, and feel happier for it. Amazingly enough, the happiness effects of prayer are almost instant. Even if you don’t believe in prayer, you should try it. I’m sure you’ll like it.

So – finding joy in the journey now is an important part of change. What do you do to find joy in the changes you’re making in life – even when they are difficult?

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by chococatania on February 27, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Discipline and The Process 2012
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Posted by chococatania on February 27, 2012

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Looking Up

I like running.

Well, I used to love it. I loved the way it made me feel. I liked the idea of it – simple, difficult, and disciplinary. I liked the way it would make me sweat – even on a cold day. And I loved how my legs felt after a difficult run. I loved running up hills, even if they were steep, and then enjoying the view. I loved sprinting along flat stretches. Every time I went out for a run, I came home happy and refreshed. I told everyone, “there’s no such thing as a bad run.”

But, time passed. And I had a kid. I had another kid. Both of those pregnancies were hard on me. I had problems with my pubic symphysis. I can’t describe the pain I experienced when I took a single step (well, when I was pregnant, my steps were more of a shuffle). Because of the pain and instability in my pelvis, I couldn’t put on a pair of pants (long before the belly got in the way). Running? Ha! A single mile would leave me in a buzzing pain for two days. So I stopped.

I had my baby a year ago (tomorrow), and I started running again last summer. I’ve been running pain-free since then, but with a ten year old, nine year old, two-year-old, and a nursing child (well, he’s not nursing anymore, but in the summer he was), I didn’t find much time to run. I have exercised here and there, am still eating like a pregnant woman, so I still haven’t lost the weight (it was my fourth! I’m older now! It’s harder…excuses, excuses).

Which brings me to running: I can’t run as fast or as far. Running with extra weight hurts my feet more. I feel my belly jiggle. I feel my butt and thighs with each pounding step. I think about what I’m eating, how I’ve gotten to this point, and I remember how I used to be, and it gets me a little depressed.

So…while I’m on the run, I get these negative thoughts, and find that’s what I spend my time focusing on. I focus on the ground. I focus on the pavement. I feel each movement, and watch the white line…

I notice only the road and my difficulties – even when I’m in the middle of doing something good – and end up spending all of my time looking down.

I was running a few weeks ago, coming down a hill…focusing on the white line. When I noticed, out of the corner of my eye, my scenery.

As I did so, the thought came to my head, “It is better too look up“. When I chose to look up, finally, I started to forget about how tight my pants were. I forgot that I’ve got an “extra chin” for now. I forgot that I used to do this run without talking walk-ing breaks. Instead, I remembered the love that Heavenly Father has for me, and how He values me – especially the physical sacrifice I’ve made for my children. I realized that, while it is okay to want to progress, I can also be happy along the way. Each run, each act of discipline, doesn’t need to be done in heaviness of heart. Instead, I can look up to the Lord and feel revitalized and inspired by His Love.

Elder Cook teaches,

“Experience has taught me that if we, like President Monson, exercise our faith and look to God for help, we will not be overwhelmed with the burdens of life. We will not feel incapable of doing what we are called to do or need to do. We will be strengthened, and our lives will be filled with peace and joy. We will come to realize that most of what we worry about is not of eternal significance—and if it is, the Lord will help us. But we must have the faith to look up and the courage to follow His direction.” – Carl B. Cook

I know that what Elder Cook is teaching is true. I have also experienced it. As I look to the Lord, I will not be overwhelmed with the burdens of life. I don’t know how Heavenly Father does it, but I know that He strengthens us. I know that He loves us. I know that He has blessed us with our personalities, talents, and even desires. I know that He wants us to pursue those. Yet, along the path, we have duties, weaknesses, and other things that get in the way of what we think will make us happy. I know that if we keep looking up, to the Lord, then He will consecrate our afflictions for our gain, and, even if our burdens aren’t lifted, we will be strengthened.

I feel like looking up is the key to enjoying the process. It is the key to enjoying every single run. Instead of thinking of the end, or thinking of the past, we need to look up right now. We need to be grateful right now. We need to be happy right now. I love it: look up!

***

What do you do to remember to “look up?”

6 Comments
by chococatania on January 19, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Discipline and The Process 2012, General Conference, Insights, Motherhood
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Posted by chococatania on January 19, 2012

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Joy and Thanksgiving: Connection – Joy and Thanksgiving!

Well, today is the last day of the Joy and Thanksgiving Study Series. I hope that you have enjoyed it. I have! It has been great to learn more about the true meaning of happiness, how to find it, and how it is related to gratitude. Studying these scriptures has inspired me to make positive changes so I can be happier.

Anyways…today’s scripture block is a connection – between Joy and Thanksgiving.

“And the earth did cleave together again, that it stood; and the mourning, and the weeping, and the wailing of the people who were spared alive did cease; and their mourning was turned into joy, and their lamentations into the praise and thanksgiving unto the Lord Jesus Christ, their Redeemer.” – 3 Nephi 10:10

Okay…so the first part of this scripture assignment doesn’t seem very joyful, but I think that one of the biggest things I’ve been noticing about happiness is it’s relationship with pain. Sounds strange, I know, but happiness and misery, joy and pain, are related. They are related – especially in this life – as they are in opposition one to another.

My friend, “Curls” made the best observation…“I think for me the most important thing I’ve learned about happiness is that it is NOT constant. Because happiness comes from God and we are not yet in perfect unity with Him there will be times (sometimes short and sometimes long) where we don’t feel happy or joyful. These times are usually when I have the opportunity to experience serious growth since they try my character and my faith.

I think another important thing I’ve learned is that the world expects happiness ALL the time. So if something doesn’t make you happy constantly then you should let go of it and try something else. I think this is one of the selfish roots of the many problems of our day, divorce, broken families, entitlement, greed, etc.

And finally the scripture in 2 Nephi 2:11 stating that there is opposition in all things. No happiness without misery as they are a compound in one.” Don’t you think that’s great! I love this concept…

Once, I was teaching a class to a group of Young Women, and one of the girls asked me if God is happy. That question still comes to me all the time – is He happy? Will we be happy?

And, I think that the answer is YES! It doesn’t mean that he’s happy in the way the world has taught us to be happy. But He’s really happy. Does this mean that misery does not exist? No. He is perfect though, and as God, he is above sin and everything that misery causes.

So, as we learn to be like Him, we overcome the pains of misery. And, as taught in 3 Nephi 10:10, our overcoming misery and the pains of mortality is through Jesus Christ.

Jesus heals our broken hearts. He brings peace to our souls. He will turn our mourning into joy and our lamentations into thanksgiving. And here’s how it can be done…

“If thou art sorrowful, call on the Lord thy God with supplication, that your souls may be joyful.” – Doctrine and Covenants 136:29

I have to admit, I don’t do this enough. Often, I go through, suffering pain or affliction, worrying, moping, whatever – I do this on my own. I don’t always call on God with supplication. Instead, I think that either 1) I have to suffer or 2) I have to figure it out on my own. or 3) I’m just crazy.

No!

The Lord wants to help our souls to be joyful. We need to turn to Him.

And when we do, our souls are joyful. We are happy, and this is how we should respond to such a blessing:

“If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing, and with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving” – Doctrine and Covenants 136:28

We give thanks.

One thing I love about this scripture is that we give thanks through creative expression. We give thanks with praise and singing, music, dancing, and prayer! (Prayer – to supplicate the father; Prayer – to thank the father!)…so much prayer!

One thing I’ve noticed, when I’m taking the time to be grateful, I’m more aware of the world around me. I’m not taking it for granted. I’m listening better, observing more clearly. And, when I’m doing this, it is impossible not to be grateful – even for the ugly things. For it is the ugly things that make the beautiful things even more amazing.

So…be happy; be grateful. Be grateful; be happy!

I hope you have a good Thanksgiving. I have really enjoyed doing this scripture study series. I have learned a lot about thanksgiving and happiness. I’m grateful for the love I experience, daily, from my Heavenly Father. I’m grateful for the mercy and blessings He gives me.

What are you grateful for? What are some of the lessons you’ve learned as you’ve studied Joy and Thanksgiving?

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by chococatania on November 24, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in 3 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Insights, Joy and Thanksgiving, Uncategorized
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Posted by chococatania on November 24, 2011

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2011/11/24/joy-and-thanksgiving-connection-joy-and-thanksgiving/

Joy and Thanksgiving – Gratitude Scripture Chain

Today, we are studying a scripture chain on Gratitude. I wish I could say that there was more of a “theme” to these scriptures, but mostly the theme is: Gratitude Scriptures I Like. That being said, I think that there are definitely themes and things to learn with this series of scriptures.

“Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.” – Alma 37:37

I love this scripture because it makes prayer seem so personal. We need to counsel with the Lord. We need to discuss our ideas with him, share our dreams with him, and also let him have a part of our plans and daily lives. If we counsel with Him, then He will advise us. Pretty awesome.

Oh yeah, and we need to be grateful – this scripture gives us good advice on what gratitude is: a heart full of thanks.

A grateful heart is an important part of counseling with the Lord. Here’s the thing…In Alma 37:37, we are taught to counsel with the Lord. And we are also taught in Jacob “Wherefore, brethren, seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works.” – Jacob 4:10 There is a difference – between counseling with the Lord and telling Him what to do. I have a tendency to “tell the Lord what to do.” I mean, I just ask for blessings and kind of leave it at that. Counseling with the Lord implies a conversation. We discuss with the Lord what we’re thinking, desiring, and doing. Yet, with the attitude of a grateful heart, we also allow Him to speak, and that is how we will get the guidance we need.

“And ye must give thanks unto God in the Spirit for whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with.” – Doctrine and Covenants 46:32

We must give thanks to God for all of the blessings we receive. This section is specifically speaking giving thanks when we are blessed with gifts of the Spirit. I think that this commandment is not limited to such blessings. We need to give thanks for every blessing we receive from the Lord.

One thing that is difficult for me is to be grateful for all of the ways that Heavenly Father blesses me – especially when these blessings come in the form of trials. I don’t think that we are expected to be all “jumpy” and “happy” when enduring trials, but we are expected to look to the Lord with cheer, hope, and gratitude.

“Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.” – Psalms 97:12

I like this scripture because it brings up two different but related concepts: joy and thanksgiving. I feel like the concepts of rejoicing and thanksgiving are more closely related than I’ve ever really recognize before. As we rejoice in the Lord and in His holiness, we really recognize our need for Him. Rejoicing in the Lord, finding Joy in His blessings, humbles us. And, as we rejoice in Him and find joy in our lives, we become more grateful.

But I don’t think that joy necessarily comes first. It almost seems like joy and thanksgiving are companions. Because as we fill our hearts with gratitude, joy comes along. The joy leads to greater gratitude, which leads to greater joy.

I’ve noticed something about the gospel: it is an upward cycle.

Oh, and before I move to the next scripture, again, I’m thinking about Joy and Gratitude within the context of our trials. I think that the end of this verse helps us understand how this is possible: “give thanks at the remembrance of His Holiness.” Often, when we go through trials, we have intimate experiences with the Lord and His atonement. We have personal, deep experiences with His Holiness. Even though our trials are difficult, when we experience His Holiness and atonement so personally, our gratitude and joy grow.

“I, the Lord, am willing, if any among you desire to ride upon horses, or upon mules, or in chariots, he shall receive this blessing, if he receive it from the hand of the Lord, with a thankful heart in all things.” – Doctrine and Covenants 62:7

I like this verse because it teaches us more about the nature of God. He is willing to bless us in any way that is within His will or power. We simply need to receive such blessings with a thankful heart.

He loves us so much.

“And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.” – Doctrine and Covenants 78:19

Again, I’m struck by the word all in this verse. There is no caveat that we are to be grateful only for the things that seem to be positive or favorable. We need to be grateful for all.

When we are grateful for all, then we’re made glorious.

I think that this is because when we are grateful – even for our adversities – we manage them better. We let the Lord work miracles in our lives. And ultimately, the miracle He works is our perfection. (pretty glorious if you ask me…)

Gratitude is essential in our progression. As we live gratefully, we receive more blessings from Heavenly Father – including the instruction and Spiritual gifts that we need to be like Him. As we become more like Heavenly Father – we come closer to His nature…and His nature is happiness. So, gratitude leads to happiness.

Pretty cool. :)

***
For tomorrow’s assignment, please read The Divine Gift of Gratitude. As you read, mark anything that stands out to you. Write a few notes on why these things made an impression. Take a minute to really learn from the Spirit.

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by chococatania on November 22, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Joy and Thanksgiving
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Posted by chococatania on November 22, 2011

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/joy-and-thanksgiving-gratitude-scripture-chain/

Joy and Thanksgiving: Scripture Chain – Happiness

So…we’re halfway through the Joy and Thanksgiving scripture study series. I hope people like it – if you are doing it. If not, no big deal – I like it. :)

Today, we are doing a scripture chain. I really like scripture chains. They are a cool way to study and mark the scriptures. I like having a series of related scriptures referenced to one another – in my scriptures. If you want more information on finding/marking scripture chains, click here.

“Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:” – Job 5:17

Have you ever been corrected by the Lord? I have. In fact, I’m corrected by the Lord a lot. I’ve been corrected while I read my scriptures, when I’m praying, I’ve been corrected in priesthood blessings that I’ve received. I’m corrected in so many situations.

It is a little hard at first, but I have found that if you are living your life worthy of the spirit, then the correction isn’t always too bad. The Spirit manages to comfort while correcting.

That is where happiness comes in. Any time I’ve received correction, as soon as I commit to making the change, my perspective is filled with hope, and I know that I’m on the right track. I am filled with the Love of the Lord, and that is a happy place to be.

“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.” – Psalms 127:3-5

So much happiness!

I truly have a “quiver” full of these little ones. And it is exciting. True to everything we’ve learned about happiness, there are times when I experience a lot of pain and frustration as a mother. Childbearing, in and of itself, is extremely painful. And teaching children can be difficult. They are discovering the world around them, they have many needs, and there is little time leftover for yourself. Yet, this sacrifice brings so much happiness. I’m amazed at how my children have grown over the years. Every time they experience something difficult, my heart aches for them. And when they accomplish something good, I feel great.

And, we can fill our quivers with children that we haven’t birthed ourselves. There are children all around us in our lives – grandchildren, step-children, nieces, nephews, children we teach and serve. They can all bring us joy!

“Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the Lord.” – Psalms 144:15

We are happy when the Lord is our God. In some ways, that seems obvious, but I know that there are times I have to ask myself, who is my God? Is there something I spend time doing that competes with my ability to worship? Is there something that I prioritize over my covenants and relationship with God?

Sometimes it seems like we’ll be happier when we give in to our natural desires, but according to the Psalmist, If our god is the Lord, then we’ll be happy.

“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.” – Proverbs 3:13

This reminds me of the need for opposition. We are happy when we obtain knowledge. Part of the “knowledge” experience includes misery, pain, and affliction. Despite the difficulty of such opposition, if we go to the Lord, we can gain knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. Understanding and applying knowledge will bring us happiness.

“He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.” – Proverbs 14:21

This scripture reminds me of what we learned about the good fruit: it is the love of God and of all men.

When we have mercy on others, and love others, then we can be happy. Happiness is very closely related to charity. Judgment, contention, hatred, are not fruits of the Spirit. They are not Christ-like attributes. And they will not bring happiness.

***

I have really liked studying various scriptures that have had to do with happiness. I think that it has helped me to shape my understanding of what happiness is. I feel like we are happiest when we are most like Christ. This is achieved both through our good choices in keeping the commandments and through taking on His name in the waters of baptism (and renewing that covenant).

Christ makes our happiness possible. We have so much to be thankful for…

What have you learned about happiness? Is there any idea that has helped to you be happier or understand more of what happiness, as the Lord defines it, is?

***
For tomorrow’s assignment, please click here.

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by chococatania on November 17, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Insights, Joy and Thanksgiving, Old Testament, Scripture Chain, Scripture Study
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Posted by chococatania on November 17, 2011

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2011/11/17/joy-and-thanksgiving-scripture-chain-happiness/

Joy and Thanksgiving: Allegory – The True Vine

Today’s assignment was all about the Allegory of the vine. I really love studying allegories in the scriptures. They are like parables, but still a little different. A parable always stays a story. An allegory seems to slip back and forth between story and application. Or, an allegory is like a souped-up parable.

In this case, it feels woven – sometimes it is an analogy, and other times it is direct guidance.


“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” – John 15:1-11

So…a few things…

  • We should strive to be branches that bring forth good fruit. We spent some time studying fruit already and know the blessing that fruit is. Now, we learn that if we bring forth good fruit then we will be purged. What does purging have to do with happiness? – It helps us to bring forth even more good fruit. I wonder, also, if purging helps to increase the quality of the fruit. In any case, purging, or pruning, helps us to be more fruitful -which means that, at some point, we’ll experience more happiness.
  • Purging sounds like it hurts a lot. There are other words that are used in the scriptures to describe the same process: pruning, refining, purifying. None of them sound comfortable because they aren’t. But they will make us into better people. It is good to remember this. I love this quote from Elder Packer,
    “We live in a day when the adversary stresses on every hand the philosophy of instant gratification. We seem to demand instant everything, including instant solutions to our problems. …

    It was meant to be that life would be a challenge. To suffer some anxiety, some depression, some disappointment, even some failure is normal.

    Teach our members that if they have a good, miserable day once in a while, or several in a row, to stand steady and face them. Things will straighten out.

    There is great purose in our struggle in life.” – Boyd K. Packer

    So, this process of purging is challenging. It may even result in a bit of pain and misery. The pain and misery may last several days or maybe even weeks. But this pain and misery will ultimately give way to the production of good fruit – which is happiness.

  • The only way that we can bear good fruit is by abiding in Christ. As I think about this, I think of the relationship between good works and faith. Many people seem to think that good works are unnecessary. However, I feel like we learn from this verse that good works come out of faith. If we have faith in Christ, we are abiding in Him, then we are producing good fruit. And if we aren’t, then we’ll be cut off and burned.
  • It’s not enough to not bear bad fruit. We need to bear good fruit. If we are bearing no fruit, then we will be taken from the branch and burned just as quickly as a branch producing bad fruit. The non-producing branch weighs too heavily on the rest of the plant for it to survive. We need to be potent and prolific – in bringing forth good fruit if we don’t want to be gathered and destroyed. Here, Christ teaches that good works are necessary if we want to abide in Christ and inherit His joy.
  • Abiding in Christ = continuing in the Love of Christ. He will offer us life. He will nurture us. He will stabilize us. He will do all for us that a vine, the true vine, does for the rest of the plant. We can depend on Him, and as we do, then we are able to bear good fruit. I am amazed at how simple the gospel can be. It’s not that it is easy (purging is hard!), but it isn’t complicated. We have faith in Christ, and He nourishes us so that we can bring forth good fruit – or do good works.
  • We glorify God with our good fruit. I love the fact that God is glorified by our good works. When we love and serve others, we glorify God. When we are happy, we glorify God. I love that he glories in our good works! He is such a selfless God. He loves to see us do our best.

    Going to Pre-school. I think I'm even happier than she is.


    I feel like I can relate to this. I have four children. They each bring me so much joy. And when they do something good – when they excel in life, my joy is so overwhelming, I feel like my heart will explode. When the holidays come, I have more fun than they do – I love seeing them happy, I love seeing them excited. I think that Heavenly Father probably feels the same way as we do. He doesn’t want us to bring forth good fruit because he is some kind of greedy god. He wants us to bring forth good fruit because it will make us happy, and when we’re happy, he’s even happier. We have such a loving God.
  • Christ was the pattern for us to follow. He kept the commandments and was able to abide in the Love of the father. When we keep the commandments, then we’re able to abide in the love of Christ. I can’t imagine a better place to abide.
  • Christ teaches us this allegory so that his joy might remain in us, and our joy might be full. That’s the whole gospel – to have joy. To be happy. The allegory of the vine teaches us that we receive this joy only when we abide in Christ, as a branch can remain alive only when it abides in the true vine.

Don’t you love allegories and other elements of the scriptures? They make everything so much easier to understand!

***
For tomorrow’s assignment, click here.

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by chococatania on November 15, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Allegories, Insights, John, Joy and Thanksgiving, New Testament, Scripture Study
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Posted by chococatania on November 15, 2011

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/joy-and-thanksgiving-allegory-the-true-vine/

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