More Thoughts: Opening our Hearts & Being Virtuous

A couple of other thoughts and principles I have been thinking about lately are the importance of being open and honest (really opening our heart and soul to others) and being virtuous and making a difference in the world. For some reason these two thoughts seem to come together in my mind. We must be open and love others and really let them get to know us and stand up as examples of virtue in the world that badly needs that example.

President Uchtdorf's CES Fireside message The Reflection in the Water on Nov. 1, 2009 was so good. We are children of God. He loves us and wants us to be happy and get to know and love others. Listening to him speak and several experiences since then have helped me feel the great need for single adults and our whole generation to stand up, fear not, and make a difference. We need to be strong, reach out to others, accept each other, and create perfection together. Relationships need constant polishing. We need to make it work and make it happen! :)

I was also inspired by Sister Dalton's CES Fireside message Zion is the Pure in Heart on Sep. 13, 2009. She called on everyone to "lead the world in a return to virtue." It was a powerful message and reminder to do good in the world by standing up for righteousness. She said that "one virtuous woman or man, led by the Spirit, can change the world!"

I am grateful for examples of friends and people in my life who are very open and share themselves and their love with others. I know this is what the Lord wants us to do and be. I am also grateful for virtuous examples and those that stand up and make a difference for good in the world. These are two of my great desires and goals in my life--to open my heart and stand up for virtue!

Good Leaders

I have been to many Sunday School lessons, business meetings, and academic lectures where we discussed what makes a good leader and differentiated between leaders and managers. I have enjoyed many of these discussions and been inspired to want to be a good leader in my life. But, recently I had some of these principles really come to life for me.

After reading part of The Leadership Challenge (great book) and discussing the importance of setting an example, defining personal values, envisioning the future, listening to constituents, communicating vision, being genuine, and speaking from the heart in my Management Strategy class (probably my favorite MPA class so far), I was reading Alma 46-48. I just finished reading in Alma chapter 46 about Moroni recording his vision and standards by creating the Title of Liberty and then running around and personally creating enthusiasm about these values and outlining a shared vision to gather his forces. Then I read in Alma 47:1 that "the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation throughout all his land" to gather the Lamanites to battle. Which one of these methods would inspire you to action? :)

I have always loved these chapters where we learn that "if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, . . . the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever." He is a "strong and mighty man" with "perfect understanding" who was "firm in the faith of Christ" and "his soul did joy in the liberty and freedom of his country" and his "heart did swell with thanksgiving to his God." All of these things are so important, but the principle that struck me this time as I was reading was the idea of creating a shared vision, communicating that with others PERSONALLY, and encouraging commitment. Moroni was involved with his people and his purpose and passion on the ground level. He was passionate and shared his passion in a way that motivated others. He was THE commander and leader and head of the army, but he was very much involved in helping each person understand their shared goals and mission. He cared for them and knew and worked with them. It was a relationship and not a proclamation (or email or memo from the president). :) Moroni understood how to be a leader.

It certainly helped that he was fighting for something so righteous: "In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children" and that the Lord was on his side. :) But his delivery and commitment to his people was also apparent and important and I think that was a major reason he was such a good leader and had so much success.

Everything that Moroni does is in such contrast to Amalickiah who is so self-centered and has no other vision or goal than his own power. Why would anyone want to fight for that? What kind of leader are you? What kind of leader do you want to be? How will you create a vision for yourself and others and inspire them to accomplish it?

Recent Thoughts: HOPE, mission, agency

Life is great! It's not perfect, but it's great! :) I have HOPE! :) I have hope in my Savior, Jesus Christ. It seems like I have heard a lot on this topic lately and it seems so appropriate (in the midst of job-searching and seeking for life direction). :)

For a long time I have loved the scripture in 2 Nephi 31:20, "Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."

Recently I have been reminded of Ether 12:4, "Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God."

Elder Maxwell gave a wonderful talk in 1994 entitled Brightness of Hope that was recently referenced in a devotional I attended. Elder Maxwell says, "Those who look forward to a next and better world are usually 'anxiously engaged' in improving this one, for they always 'abound in good works.' Real hope is much more than wishful musing. If stiffens, not slackens, the spiritual spine. It is composed, not giddy, eager without being naive, and pleasantly steady without being smug. Hope is realistic anticipation taking the form of determination--a determination not merely to survive but to 'endure well' to the end."

As a part of the same devotional, the speaker referred to the Optimist's Creed. There is value in many of these ideas. Living as an optimist you promise yourself to:

• be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
• take health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.
• make all your friends feel there is something worthwhile in them.
• look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
• think only the best, work only for the best, and expect only the best.
• be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
• wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature you meet.
• give so much time to improving yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
• live in the faith that the whole world is on your side, as long as you are true to the best that is in you.

There is so much hope in the knowledge of a living, loving, forgiving Savior and an eternal plan created by our Heavenly Father. I love President Uchtdorf's beautiful testimony of the "Infinite Power of Hope."

My testimony has been strengthened of how important and central the principles of faith, hope, and charity are to every part of life. :)

Somewhat related and somewhat unrelated, I have also recently thought of and been reminded of a few truths other truths that bring hope:

• We are all stewards over our earthly blessings and we must work to serve the Lord's purposes with our resources and talents.
• We must be grateful for the life and mission He has given us to accomplish. As Alma, I "glory in what the Lord has commanded me (see Alma 29:9)."
• Agency is a wonderful gift. We must use it! Pray for guidance and ACT!

"One Thing is Needful"

I love lists and goals, but I've realized sometimes they might get in the way of what's really important. :) So, this year I'm not going to make a list of as many specific goals. I want to focus on the "one thing" that is "needful" (see Luke 10:38-42). I really want to focus this year on coming to know the Savior better. He will be the first priority in my life!!! I will spend the time (my best time) to do this....scripture study, prayer, pondering, slowing down sometimes, and listening and following the Spirit. I know that as I do this (which is most important and essential) all the other good things that need to happen will happen as they should, but these good things will not get in the way of that which is most important. :)

Some of the things I hope to accomplish as a result of this are:
- living with a pure heart, a broken heart and contrite spirit
- never suppressing a generous thought
- loving and serving those around me and ministering as I go....following the Spirit and knowing where He needs me each day (being open and willing to stop and help)
- praying and looking for ways to be an answer to others' prayers
- seeing others as Heavenly Father does
- sharing my testimony daily
- increasing my faith, testimony, and trust in the Lord
- understanding better my dependence on the Lord
- striving to have a "heavenly home"

I believe these things will be the key to helping me accomplish the lists of other goals I would usually make like finding the right job, etc. :) I love this quote by President Hinckley: "Believe in yourselves. Believe in your capacity to do some good in the world. God sent us here for a purpose, and that was to improve the world in which we live. The wonderful thing is that we can do it." I am going to try and do that with the Lord's help! :)

(The inspiration for some of these thoughts/goals come from Mary, Martha, and Me: Seeking the One Thing that is Needful by Camille Fronk Olson, Sister Bonnie Parkin's Feb. 2007 BYU Devotional Personal Ministry: Sacred and Precious, and Elder Douglas Callister's Sep. 2006 BYU Devotional Your Refined Heavenly Home.)

Holiday Fun!

It was wonderful to relax and enjoy the time off school with family!!! :) Some of the highlights:

- gingerbread houses

- family togetherness and discussions (Santa Clause, The Anatomy of Peace, jobs)

- soup night and family Nativity play

- family service project (file folder games for kids in India)

- movies (some of the good ones: The Nativity Story, Praise to the Man, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Forever Strong)

- fun in the snow (driving to Grandma's and the airport, shoveling, more shoveling)

- football games (BYU, Utah, Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl)

- Morgan Family Christmas Eve

- talking to Joshie in Samoa

- Kunzler Family Christmas Day

- reading (The Glass Castle, Harry Potter #4, Molokai, Seeking the One Thing that is Needful, Influencer, The Holy Secret, Treasure Island, Our Heritage, A Separate Peace, and parts of Alma and the Conference Ensign)

- exercising

- organizing and getting ready for the new year and semester (work, schedule, jobs)

- hanging out, reading books, huddling by the heater, and talking to mom and dad

- playing with Kayla and Kai

- New Year's Eve and New Year's Day fun (games: Druthers, Scattergories, Mafia, Speed Scrabble, Nerts, Walmart!)

2009: It's been a WONDERFUL year! :)

Here are some of the highlights and things I'm really glad I did this year:

* finished a full year of graduate school

* ran a marathon

* hiked the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim with my dad and brothers

* visited Africa (GHANA) and learned about international development

* lived in, worked in, and EXPLORED Washington D.C. :)

* was in the temple together with my WHOLE FAMILY! :)

* gained an adorable nephew and a neat sister-in-law

* heard firsthand about missionary work in Samoa

* learned a whole bunch of really great things.....from fundraising and social entrepreneurship to change management and how the federal government works

* learned about myself.....gaining confidence in myself and abilities in new situations and places (Ghana, GAO, Logan), strengthening my testimony and faith in Heavenly Father and His plan, deepening friendships and relationships, and seeing the importance of humility, gratitude, and dependence on the Lord

* read some great books (my favorites: "Team of Rivals" and "Three Cups of Tea")

* traveled to Ghana, both sides of the Grand Canyon (by foot), ALL over Washington DC (mostly by foot), Maryland, Virginia, Philadelphia, Gettysburg, Boston, Eugene, Portland, Florence, Bend, Logan, St. George

* learned to be a better leader, follower, and pianist with opportunities to serve

The King of Love my Shepherd is

I was inspired today by this poem and the thought to GIVE ALL to the Lord! :)

The King of love my Shepherd is,

Whose goodness faileth never,

I nothing lack if I am His

And He is mine forever.

Where streams of living water flow

My ransomed soul He leadeth,

And where the verdant pastures grow,

With food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,

But yet in love He sought me,

And on His shoulder gently laid,

And home, rejoicing, brought me.

In death’s dark vale I fear no ill

With Thee, dear Lord, beside me;

Thy rod and staff my comfort still,

Thy cross before to guide me.

Thou spread’st a table in my sight;

Thy unction grace bestoweth;

And O what transport of delight

From Thy pure chalice floweth!

And so through all the length of days

Thy goodness faileth never;

Good Shepherd, may I sing Thy praise

Within Thy house forever.

- Henry Baker, 1868

Inspiration from the Day

"Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God's love encompasses us completely. He loves us because He is filled with an infinite measure of holy, pure, and indescribable joy. We are important to God not because of our resume but because we are His children. He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken. God's love is so great that He loves even the proud, the selfish, the arrogant, and the wicked. What this means is that, regardless of our current state, there is hope for us. No matter our distress, no matter our sorrow, no matter our mistakes, our infinitely compassionate Heavenly Father desires that we draw near to Him so that He can draw near to us."
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct. 2009

"Cultivate a desire to know that God lives. This desire leads us to ponder on the things of heaven--to let the evidence of God all around us touch our hearts. With softened hearts we are prepared to heed the Savior's call to "search the scriptures" and to humbly learn from them."
- Elder Robert D. Hales, Oct. 2009

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

A profound thought I had today walking to the devotional: If we truly loved God with all of our hearts, there would be no room left for our hearts to ever hurt. :) <3

My Internal Moral Compass

I am a happy, kind, forgiving, hard-working, responsible, thoughtful, giving, and honest person.

I value faith, truth, devotion, family, freedom, peace, happiness, unity, friends, love, honesty, integrity, virtue, respect, loyalty, charity, ambition, agency, and dedication.

I strive to live the following principles in my life: faith, hope, charity, love, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, humility, and diligence.

When these principles and values are tested in different situations and roles in my life I will look to the following standards and goals I have set for myself.

• I will seek for truth.
• I will seek the Lord’s guidance.
• I will trust in the Lord and seek to do His will.
• I will seek to serve others.
• I will stand for truth and righteousness.
• I will stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things and in all places.
• I will remember that I am always responsible and accountable for all of my actions.
• I will try to see things from other people’s points of view.
• I will be a wise steward and give generously. I will hold others accountable.
• I will trust others, but not be afraid to ask questions.
• I will not be afraid to change and do things differently when I need to.

As I strive to live these standards I will remember my priorities, which ultimately determine my goals and how I spend my time and make decisions. I believe that the most important things in life are relationships and commitments.

My most important relationships:

1. God is most important in my life! I will strive to love God with all my heart, might, mind, and strength (see Matthew 22:37-39). Loving God means loving all of those around me and standing as a witness of Him in all things.

2. Family members are the next most important relationships in my life. I will show love to them by looking for ways to love and serve them asking, “How can I help or make you happy today?” I will share affection and express why I love and appreciate them each day. I will keep my commitments to them.

3. Friends are also important. I will look for ways to help them. I will strive to be a positive and uplifting influence for friends, co-workers, and colleagues around me. I will also strive to keep in contact with good friends throughout my life.

4. It’s important to be kind to everyone, even acquaintances or strangers. I will look for ways to help and serve others every day.

5. In all of my relationships I will strive to see the good in people. I will strive to never say anything negative about others.

My most important commitments and how they will remain important to me:

1. God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ
a. I will have meaningful prayers morning and evening.
b. I will have a prayer in my heart throughout the day.
c. I will study my scriptures daily.

2. Family
a. I will love, support, and encourage my family members and strengthen relationships.
b. I will tell them often that I love them.
c. I will make family activities a priority.

3. Work
a. I want to always be involved in meaningful work and make a difference for good in the world through my work.
b. I will be dependable and responsible in every job and responsibility I have. I will do what I say I will do.
c. I will not complain or make excuses. I will take responsibility and be proactive.
d. I will work to stay financially stable. I will save money and stay out of debt.
e. I will be frugal, but generous and give to good causes.

4. Church and Service
a. I will look for ways to serve others daily.
b. I will look for ways to share my testimony daily.
c. I will worship in the temple once a week.
d. I will be involved in a community service project at least once a week.

5. Self
a. Intellectual: I want to always be learning something new.
i. I will have meaningful gospel and intellectual discussions daily.
ii. I will always be reading at least one good book.
iii. I will travel someplace new every year.
iv. I will take classes and learn new skills.
v. I will listen to good music.

b. Physical: I want to stay active and healthy.
i. I will exercise at least four times a week—hiking, running, swimming, etc.
ii. I will complete at least one physical challenge a year.
iii. I will enjoy the outdoors and be active. I will explore the world.

c. Social: I want to be happy with who I am and have meaningful relationships.
i. I will choose to be happy.
ii. I will do something fun every day.
iii. I will be open and honest and have confidence in who I am.
iv. I will live in the present.
v. I will express gratitude daily.
vi. I will be friendly and outgoing and try to meet someone new every day.

6. Community
a. I will be involved and stand up for good and important issues in my community.
b. I will look for ways to be involved in serving in my community, nation, and world.

As I strive to live these principles and priorities and make decisions in all aspects of my life I will do the best that I can and assume that others are doing the best they can too.

My Decision-Making Model
Whenever I have a difficult decision to make where there are conflicting priorities or roles I will:
1. Pray for guidance and an open mind and heart.
2. Consider and write down all the facts (in other words, “study it out in [my] mind” D&C 9:8).
3. Identify the main issues and the decision that needs to be made.
4. Identify any stakeholders.
5. Generate alternatives.
6. Analyze the alternatives ethically, practically, intellectually, and spiritually.
7. Make a decision.
8. Pray about the decision and seek confirmation (or, “Ask if it be right” D&C 9:8-9).
9. Act on the decision or go back to analyze the alternatives again.

JOY!!

I had so much fun recording my blessings and gratitude last month. It really helped me focus on what's important in life day-to-day and see the hand of the Lord and His tender mercies in my life! :) So, this month I'm going to record daily moments of JOY! :) After all, that's what life's about, right? :) "Men are, that they might have joy (2 Nephi 2:25)." Here's another video to get in the spirit of the season of JOY!

Joy to the World!! :)

Dec. 1: being inspired by the Spirit while listening to two different General Authorities today--faith is the power, we're stewards, do the Lord's will, astonish the world, rise up and make a difference, miracles will happen, be happy, these are the best of times; being inspired to change and be better--be grateful, be happy, simply seek to do the Lord's will and let go of the rest, focus on what's critically important; friends who say hello or talk or help or share or visit
Dec. 2: finishing our ethics presentation, inspiration to verify lunch for tomorrow, institute, Mosiah 18, relationships, covenants, writing my personal code of ethics, learning, aha moments! :)
Dec. 3: a great class today on diversity that opened my eyes to new ideas, free lunch, nice compliment from a stranger, finishing a lot of little things, the temple and inspiration, good advice
Dec. 4: sleep, my scriptures, fun distractions, Christmas festivities
Dec. 5: learning, working, the Book of Mormon, Christmas songs and praises to the Lord, celebrating with friends
Dec. 6: Church, my testimony, fasting, gratitude, good music, a nap, scripture study, Christmas Devotional
Dec. 7: a covered parking spot, watching the SNOW!, an email from Samoa, pulling into the MTC (oh, all the memories!!), the Engisn
Dec. 8: beautiful and white winter wonderland, early morning scripture study time, personal inspiration and revelation while walking through the snow, learning the need for and striving to have a humble heart, finishing a class for the semester
Dec. 9: great roommates who bring things to school when I forget them, discussing with my fellow MPA class and friends how we will hold ourselves accountable to each other ethically going forward in our careers (after all, we do have a collective reputation), giving and how it makes us happy, one more presentation down, the sunset light on snow-covered Timpanogos, institute, books, Barnes and Noble, a schedule for the week and then no schedule for two weeks, a heart at peace
Dec. 10: finished with classes!!, an almost relaxed feeling, interesting thought-provoking discussions about Santa Clause, an amazing opportunity to go to China next semester, attending the temple!!!!, Gmail :)
Dec. 11: maps, helping others, work, chocolate cheesecake :), visiting teaching, Christmas music, completing a business plan
Dec. 12: SNOW, present deliveries, getting ahead on grading, pondering the coming of Zion, a nap, ward Christmas fun!
Dec. 13: Matt! :), singing in the choir, church, our Savior's love and life, chance to stand up for what's right, freedom, agency, constitution, reminder to be a good citizen, Joseph Smith and his life and mission, restoration of the gospel, Heavenly Father's plan, good uplifting music, Moroni 7:22
Dec. 14: studying with friends, finishing up work, FHE, the end of the semester in sight, time to play soon!!! :)

Dec. 15: steady progress towards my goals
Dec. 16: being done with finals!!!!, inspiration to take my phone :), warm day, my coat, pen and paper, my WONDERFUL sister and adorable niece and nephew, dessert, Loto Taha!!!, chance to learn Chinese, did I say being done with finals??? :)
Dec. 17: time to plan and organize and study things other than homework! :), scripture study, Temple Square!! :), missionary work, good friends and examples, good music, knowledge of our heavenly home
Dec. 18: warm bed, the BYU Bookstore during Christmas and end of the semester, the temple, HOME and family, flute-piano duets with mom (especially Christmas songs!!), trying on all the nativity costumes
Dec. 19: errands for/with dad, reading, dancing to Christmas music with Kayla :)
Dec. 20: testimony of Christ and giving, testimony of Joseph Smith, Sunday study time and discussion, grandmas, family togetherness, graham cracker houses, "The Nativity Story"
Dec. 21: EXERCISE, reading, efficient Christmas shopping, lists, email from Samoa, helping prepare for family gathering festivities, family nativity, service project, family discussions

Dec. 22: spreading out the Christmas celebrations all week long, discussions with Matt, just hanging out with the family, snow for Christmas, shoveling the driveway
Dec. 23: Joseph Smith, the Restoration, scriptures, more shoveling :), opportunities to meet new people, work, books, music, family
Dec. 24: impressions, guidance, some plans and goals for my life to tell family about, traditions
Dec. 25: sleeping in, a quiet Christmas with my wonderful parents, family!!!, I don't have a boil, talking to my great missionary brother in Western Samoa, relaxing at Grandma's
Dec. 26: getting organized, exercising, finishing things, starting new things, the temple, hanging out with the parents watching "My Big Fat Greek Wedding"
Dec. 27: church, family, naps, gospel discussions

Dec. 28: exercise, more organizing, job ideas
Dec. 29: sleep, morning study time, shoveling the driveway some more, exercise, reading, getting a couple more job applications done, inspirational pondering time, learning new things
Dec. 30: someone else shoveling the driveway for me today!! :), Matt and Megan are home, gmail, being VERY productive, running errands with mom, biking, hanging out with Cari's family, finishing a few more job applications (a few that I'm actually kind of excited about)
Dec. 31: sunshine, finishing work, family togetherness, live saxophone of "Auld Lang Syne" at midnight :)

Beautiful Zion

Zion. Zion. Beautiful Zion! :) Zion was especially spectacular this lovely fall weekend. :) It was wonderful to enjoy and it was fun to run 13.1 miles with Dad and Cari through Snow Canyon, and then ride home between Kayla and Kai. :)

I'm THANKFUL for.....

I love (and am grateful for) November! :) It's the beginning of the holiday season and feelings of family, love, selflessness, giving, gratitude, coziness, etc.... Here is a great song (by Josh Groban) to get you in the mood. :) To celebrate and get in the spirit of the season I'm excited to record things I'm grateful for each day. I learned this year from a great roommate that verbalizing gratitude each day is a method of stress relief. I'm grateful for that!! :)

Nov. 1: beautiful weather, inspired lessons ("Take Time to Be Holy") and testimonies, seeing and hearing a prophet, good music ("How Gentle God's Commands"), chance to stand up for marriage and family
Nov. 2: leftovers, free email (if I had to pay for all the emails I sent a day I would be a poor person), chances to learn, FHE, chatting
Nov. 3: a dryer that works, paying tithing, waking up to the sunshine, getting to cross things off the to-do list, the chance to get to work with many good people
Nov. 4: getting a lot done, institute, the Book of Mormon, prophets, having fun with friends, pondering the need to be less busy and being "familiar with all and free with your substance" so that you may be rich (with eternal life)! :)
Nov. 5: emails from Joshie!!, a job, chance to learn from the Stake Presidency--do good, build upon the Rock, look unto Him in all things and then you will doubt not and fear not! :), learning opportunities--what would I have done at Morton Thiokol in 1986? or how do I create a social venture management team? :)
Nov. 6: Fridays, no school, taking a little break from homework/work--sort of, being with family!! :), enjoying the BEAUTIFUL, awe-inspiring fall colors and warm, peaceful afternoon in Zion's National Park--it really was AMAZING!!! :)
Nov. 7: the chance and ability to run, a BEAUTIFUL day in GORGEOUS Snow Canyon, time to spend with family, time to relax, the blessings of the temple
Nov. 8: no stress for 3 days, time to remember what's really important, being with FAMILY (even when that means sitting between a 3-year-old and an 8-month-old in VERY close quarters for 260 miles--they really are the cutest niece and nephew ever), scriptures, great listening and caring roommates
Nov. 9: two weeks until Thanksgiving break, Christmas music on the radio!!!!, family for a few minutes, slowly starting to make a dent in all the big assignments, a little intrigue :), re-learning some Crucial Conversation skills through others
Nov. 10: ten minutes to talk to Joshie on his way to SAMOA!! :), missionary work, the National Parks (and the beauty of the world and its creations), a free day to get a lot done, warm weather
Nov. 11: veterans and all those protecting our freedoms, the ability to work hard and keep going, health, a job--or really 3 jobs I guess I should say :), opportunities and small directions slowly opening up and things working out--class schedule and consulting, inspiration--voluntourism, pictures from Samoa! :)
Nov. 12: seeing little parts of life come together--God is mindful of us!!!...even the very small details (a class time change helping me be able to take one more class I didn't know I needed and there's one spot left, great possible job opportunity opening up and obstacles being removed to have it really be an opportunity, overlapping projects helping me be able to actually get my homework done), family, the energy to keep going (even on 4 hours of sleep), opportunities to learn, 1 1/2 hours to sit still :), more to do tomorrow! :)
Nov. 13: having the time and resources and opportunity right now in my life to be in graduate school--what an amazing learning experience, a little bit of time to sleep in, morning scripture study vs. the 2 a.m. bedtime version, feeling accomplished for the day, Friday (even if it is the 13th)!!! :) , Pandora--my new favorite music resource....try Pachelbel Canon in D radio station! :)
Nov. 14: feeling accomplished and organized and on top of at least some things, a clean room and apartment, great MPA friends to study with, a relaxing-ish yet accomplishing Saturday--work, homework, cleaning, job application
Nov. 15: Sundays!!!, church, the words and teachings of living prophets to re-read in the Ensign!!, President Uchtdorf's words on seeking pure divine truth and LOVING, scriptures, a nap :), good uplifting music, prayer, the guidance of the Holy Ghost, agency and commandments that help us use it well, nice boys who volunteer to help put chairs away :)
Nov. 16: visiting teaching!! :), less than 4 weeks of school, job opportunities, stress (sort of) and opportunities that push me to do more than I ever would have guessed possible! :)
Nov. 17: someone wonderful who scraped the ice off my car windows this morning :), chance to learn at devotionals and forums, getting a lot of work done--school and work and other things in between, my memory that serves me well in the the midst of craziness (most of the time), Abinadi's example
Nov. 18: no class today :), an AMAZING educational/service/learning/networking opportunity at an exquisite home on the top of the moutains in Deer Valley, chances to meet new people and collaborate and synergize, great and fabulous and wonderful roommates :), new and exciting opportunities and friendships :)
Nov. 19: a job (even if it is 12 hours a day on 3 1/2 hours of sleep), the AMAZING opportunity to be a part of an advisory board meeting for an awesome organization--Romney Institute of Public Management, networking opportunities, the chance to be at an amazing university and be connected to amazing people--students and faculty and staff, the MPA lounge, supportive and loving family, the temple and its blessings, a chance to sit down :)
Nov. 20: my WONDERFUL, AMAZING Dad!!! :) and all that he helps me with in my life, including encouraging and inspiring me to do new and good things, teaching me and talking to me about important things, and spending time to do fun things with me--from hiking, running, walking around the neighborhood, shoveling the driveway, boogie boarding, traveling, hometeaching, and making cookies :)
Nov. 21: scripture study, time to go for a run, beginning to see an end of the big projects for the semester, chance to be involved in learning the social venture process, chance to learn and have fun with other good people, good and courageous people who stand up for righteousness historically and especially today
Nov. 22: how the Lord blesses and magnifies us in our callings and talents, spiritual gifts and the reminder to identify and develop them, Elder Scott's reminder on the importance of seeking the Spirit and guidance and knowledge and inspiration: "Is there more I should know [or do]?", Global Pursuit
Nov. 23: the chance to be in school at BYU now, MPA family, ward family, the fact that I did not have to worry about planning and coordinating and carrying out the annual ward thanksgiving dinner, a six-day break from school!!!, family that is close by that I can be home to see in less than an hour :) (without having to fly across the ocean or drive for 10 hours to see)
Nov. 24: sleeping in, sunshine, being at home, getting lots of work done, time to play the piano, an email from Samoa!!! :), playing with Kayla and Kai
Nov. 25: getting to go to a new temple, going to the zoo, discussing important ways to be better (and what to write one of my 3 papers about) with dad, getting some work done, cooking with mom, movie and fun with the family!! :)
Nov. 26: gratitude, memories, home, FAMILY, health, food-- especially mashed potatoes and rolls, time to talk, soccer and fun with cousins, puzzles, maps, time with grandma, movies, scriptures, music, traditions
Nov. 27: time to relax, playing with the CUTEST niece and nephew in the world, the greatest mom and dad in the world and getting to spend time with them, the greatest brothers and sister and sister-in-law and brother-in-law and the chance to spend time with (most of) them, movies, Christmas decorations!!!! :)
Nov. 28: more fun with the family!!! :), beginning to check some things off the to-do list, Christmas music!!!, fun new ringtones
Nov. 29: my REMARKABLE, FANTASTIC, Mom!!!! and all that she has taught me and continues to teach me, the time she spends with me, her amazing selfless love and care for all of us, and her meaningful friendship and advice
Nov. 30: my gratitude list!!! :) (your blessings sure can make you happy on a stressful day), Alma 26 (especially the first 10 verses or so), a phone call, FHE, smiley faces :)

Happy Homecoming....

.....from the top of the Y! :)

My Personal Code of Ethics

I am learning so much this semester that is applicable and valuable in my life--academically, professionally (for the future), socially, personally, spiritually, etc. Everything I am learning seems to tie back into other principles I am learning in other classes. This is exciting! :)

My ethics class really seems to tie right into everything I'm doing and want to do in my life. I think one of the greatest assignments I've had in graduate school yet (and there have been some great ones) is the assignment I get to turn in tomorrow--my personal code of ethics.

I had so much fun thinking about this....and I'm just beginning. It's a good thing this is a rough draft and I get to ponder this more throughout the semester (and my life). I feel like it is so important to know what I stand for so that I can consciously try to live those standards.

Here is my first attempt at trying to capture my code of ethics (edited, better version to come in December):

My Personal Code of Ethics

I am a happy, kind, forgiving, hard-working, responsible, thoughtful, giving, and honest person.

I value faith, devotion, family, freedom, peace, happiness, unity, friends, love, honesty, integrity, virtue, ambition, and dedication.

I strive to live the following principles in my life: faith, hope, charity, love, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, humility, diligence.

My priorities determine my goals and how I spend my time and make decisions. I believe that the most important things in life are relationships and commitments.

My most important relationships:
1. God is most important in my life! I will strive to love God with all my heart, might, mind, and strength (see Matthew 22:37). Loving God means loving all of those around me as well.
2. Family members are the next most important relationships in my life. I will show love to them by looking for ways to love and serve them asking, “How can I help or make you happy today?” I will share affection and express why I love and appreciate them each day.
3. Friends are also important. I will look for ways to help them. I will strive to be positive and uplifting influence for friends, co-workers, and colleagues around me. I will also strive to keep in contact with good friends throughout my life.
4. It’s important to be kind to everyone, even acquaintances or strangers.
5. In all of my relationships I will strive to see the good in people. I have a goal to not ever say anything negative about others.

My most important commitments and how they will remain important to me:
1. God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ
a. I will have meaningful prayers morning and evening.
b. I will have a prayer in my heart throughout the day.
c. I will study my scriptures daily.

2. Family
a. I will love, support, and encourage my family members and strengthen relationships.
b. I will tell them often that I love them.
c. I will make family activities a priority.

3. Work
a. I want to always be involved in meaningful work and make a difference for good in the world through my work.
b. I will be dependable and responsible in every job and responsibility I have. I will do what I say I will do.
c. I will not complain or make excuses. I will take responsibility and be proactive.
d. I will work to stay financially stable. I will save money and stay out of debt.
e. I will be frugal, but generous and give to good causes.

4. Church and Service
a. I will look for ways to serve others daily.
b. I will look for ways to share my testimony daily.
c. I will worship in the temple once a week.
d. I will be involved in a community service project at least once a week.

5. Self
a. Intellectual: I want to always be learning something new.
i. I will have meaningful gospel and intellectual discussions daily.
ii. I will always be reading at least one good book.
iii. I will travel someplace new every year.
iv. I will take classes and learn new skills.
v. I will listen to good music.
b. Physical: I want to stay active and healthy.
i. I will exercise at least four times a week—hiking, running, swimming, etc.
ii. I will complete at least one physical challenge a year.
iii. I will enjoy the outdoors and being active. I will explore the world.
c. Social: I want to be happy with who I am and have meaningful relationships.
i. I will choose to be happy.
ii. I will do something fun every day.
iii. I will be open and honest and have confidence in who I am.
iv. I will live in the present.
v. I will express gratitude daily.
vi. I will be friendly and outgoing and try to meet someone new every day.

As I strive to live these principles and priorities and make decisions in my life I will do the best that I can and assume that others are doing the best they can too.

Family Fun

It's fun to get together with the family for Conference! :)