A unique Elder Maxwell quote

"Our perfect Father does not expect us to be perfect children yet. He had only one such Child. Meanwhile, therefore, sometimes with smudges on our cheeks, dirt on our hands, and shoes untied, stammeringly but smilingly we present God with a dandelion--as if it were an orchid or a rose! If for now the dandelion is the best we have to offer, He receives it, knowing what we may later place on the altar. It is good to remember how young we are spiritually."-Elder Neal A. Maxwell

Happiness is a Pursuit

Happiness can come from unexpected places. Sometimes we have to look for it or search it out to find it. Today, in anticipation of my geology field trip as well as the rest of my career, I purchased a rock hammer. Now my list of geologic tools consist of a hammer and an eye piece. I"m pretty much a professional. Now the purchase of a tool is not a significant thing, in fact all I could think about was how much food that hammer is worth to me, but it made me rather happy. It became symbolic of my future--of future adventures and exploits where growth and development will occur. Of a future where I can provide a modest lifestyle for my future family. It became a symbol of my talents and abilities and potential. Yeah, I probably was losing it by looking that much into a piece of steel and rubber but that is that. In a life where it seems like my best laid plans or ideas don't come to fruition always, its comforting to know that my future looks bright. And the picture of the temple is also symbolic of the turmoil and uncertainty of the world with the immovable gospel standing in the face of it. I feel artsy and thoughtful tonight? Or maybe I should just go to bed... oh well. Summary- I love life and finding happiness. 

I only blog when I'm happy?

Looking back at my blogs in recent history, I have found that I am generally in a good mood or have had a good day when I blog. Not that its a bad thing, mind you, but it sure helps me appreciate how good my life is when I'm all stressed out about little, stupid stuff. Last week was rather intense, but very good. Two tests, one research project, one Russian violinist, one cold, one group assignment, some 7 hours of additional study, one girl, eight rail road ties, one Paul Cardall, one new bishop, two birthdays, one very full, grateful heart.

My life is just packed full of tender mercies that surround me constantly. It takes me a minute to see them, or more accurately, to recognize them for what they are. I have a habit of getting caught up in the bustle of things but thankfully days like today allow me to see things as they really are, and not merely just as they seem. President Henry J. Eyring (Henry B.'s son) presided over our ward conference where we sustained our new bishopric. Its rather interesting how much I have grown to love my previous bishop and his counselors. I have only known them for a month, but they have made a pretty significant impact on me in that month. The gospel can unite people faster than anything else in the world. Well, I feel like a nice long walk, so I believe I'll end here. Life is pretty amazing :)