i am a nerd. just ask my mom C:
I took an astronomy class here at BYU in which I learned a lot
about my role as one of God's daughters. At first in the class, when we
learned about planetary nebula and black holes and supernova, I thought
i am so small... i am just a little girl on this little planet in a
little solar system in a little galaxy of a massive universe. what would
an omniscient God need of me? Throughout the semester my mind
drastically changed from those early-on thoughts. On the last day of
class, my professor decided to spend the hour discussing spiritual
matters as they pertain to the cosmos. In that class I had a change of
heart so massive that it still brings me to tears sometimes... let me
explain.
Take a second to look at the stars; if you don't have
stars gleaming right outside your window, look up pictures of the
universe online. oh, isn't it beautiful? Heavenly Father created
the universe in all of its vastness; every star and galaxy and planet.
He is all-knowing and all-powerful, jealous and fierce; yet gentle and
kind and specific. precise... I think precise is a better word for Him.
He is so precise that He knows exactly what each of His children need at
any given moment. I know of countless examples in my life where I have
felt Heavenly Father's hand direct me in incredibly personal ways that
no one else would ever be able to do. I am often stubborn and refuse to
let my true feelings show; yet Heavenly Father knows me and takes care
of my needs when I am too stubborn to lean on other people in my life.
Did you know that I love to hear the birds chirp in the mornings? I adore when clouds look abnormal in the sky! I think, if i saw this scene in a painting, i would think it was fake. but here i am seeing this in real life!! Did
you know that when I see a baby smile, my heart melts like butter in a
microwave? I love to dance in the rain. Did you know that sometimes the
mountains look like a backdrop and I am stunned that I live in beautiful
Utah? I find peace when I can run barefoot through a field of freshly
cut grass. Did you know that flowers on the side of the road make me
smile bright? I leap at any opportunity to sit and listen to a masterful
melody. Did you know that looking up at the stars makes me marvel at my
Savior and often makes me cry? I know that my Savior is real because of
the power that I feel.
You might be wondering, grace... what do all of these things have to do with the immensities of the universe you were just ranting about? They
connect so incredibly seamlessly in my head that I don't distinguish
between the two. Yes, the placement of our planet within our solar
system and galaxy is one huge example of God's attention to details (if you don't understand why... come ask me- i am a nerd for this kind of thing);
I think that the tiny things are examples of God's love as well. He
knows the things that will bring me joy each day- so He gives them to
me! I am often amazed at how personal it feels.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Life Lessons from the Little Ones
Today was definitely a skirt day. My reasoning behind this decision:
#1) I went to the Provo temple this afternoon... temple days are always skirt days C:
#2) My co-worker's wedding reception was tonight... congratulations jon and katie!
aaand
#3) I just darn-well felt like it! ...weather-wise, today was a perfect day!
So with a smile on my face and a bright, bold-colored, flowered print skirt on my body I took on the world. All in all:
Life is so incredibly beautiful.
Sometimes I can't even stand it; I burst out into song and dance regardless of where I am or who I am with. There is some impeccable aesthetic-high that I feel whenever the sky is perfectly blue. man- the sky just looks perfect regardless of season when it is clear and blue. In the summer, the green trees compliment the blue in the most fresh of ways... just look out your window and try to find colors that match more naturally. In the fall, the red/orange/yellow in the trees and on the mountains make the earth seem like a painter's pallet. In the winter, the sun and the sky make the snowflakes look like diamonds; I feel like a princess whenever I have the chance to sit by a warm fire watching diamonds float gracefully towards the ground. Last but certainly not least, in the springtime, the sky looks like a painted Easter egg; pastel blue with perfect, fluffy, white clouds floating effortlessly on by. mmmmmmmhmm, i love the sky.
Weather-wise, today was a perfect day! This afternoon some friends and I went to the park and we played in the perfect weather. The sun just warm enough to make it feel like summer and the breeze juuuuust slight enough to minimize the sweat factor. Something about summertime makes me feel like a little kid again. We splashed in the fountain and played under-dog on the swings; yep, being a kid rocks.
I was talking with my roommate the other day about becoming more child-like. In the scriptures we are told to become as a little child and I absolutely agree. Growing up I did not understand that concept... i am being told right and left to grow up and take on responsibility, I thought to myself, how am i supposed to become as a little child? I definitely don't think that I have it all figured out, but I have a pretty solid foundation of an understanding to build on... let me attempt to explain.
I was a nanny for a wonderful, beautiful family for a while. In that time I was able to very closely observe the way that children thought and viewed life. It is near impossible to capture didactically, but there are a few rules that I have come to live by based off of my experiences [i am not suggesting that i am perfect at any of these things... but i am trying]:
#1) Live, Just Do It- I know how hard it is to put my heart on the line only to have it broken. I know how real disappointment feels when you look into the eyes of someone that is hurting because of something you have done. red alert: I am not perfect... but my lack of perfection should not hold me back from trying new and potentially hard things! I watched the little boy, James, learn to walk up the stairs. His face firm with determination as he began crawling and day by day grew strong enough to take the stairs one step at a time. I cannot imagine how daunting the stairs looked to him; steps half his height, the only two things he had to hold on to were the stair railing spokes and my two fingers. Imagine staring one of your challenges in the face- standing small next to your personal daunting staircase. In these times, with fear of falling and failing, grab onto whatever you can and go for it.
#2) Love and Trust, You Need 'Em- Children are so completely unafraid to love and trust. I remember one time after not being able to watch them for a while, I came over and Morgan was very opposed to the idea of her parents leaving. She was sitting on the floor crying so I sat down next to her and asked, "morgan, can i hold you?" Morgan sheepishly nodded and I wrapped her as close and tight as I could, her warm body close to mine... and there she sat crying. Though she did not really want me there, she allowed me enter her bubble and within minutes I was making her laugh. Her red eyes scrunched with smile lines the second she forgot about being sad. Morgan is a perfect example of straight-up love... and here is why: she doesn't think about ulterior motives. She doesn't protect her heart from events that haven't even happened yet. She just lets life flow through her and she just... trusts people. When you think about it, children don't have any other choice but to love and trust. Children would die in infancy if they refused adult help- it is true! We, as adults, need to realize that life can be so much richer if we could only knock down some of our walls and actually let people in.
#3) There is Joy, Find It- Have you ever looked through a child's toy box? You may find expensive toys with lights and music and sparkly gizmos that spin. You are also likely to find water bottle caps and straws and other run-of-the-mill household items. For the longest time I thought, why do parents let their kids play with this trash? But I think I understand better now... children are just happy to have something to play with. Children don't look at a balloon string and think, what junk, time to throw this away, they view the string as a new stuffed animal leash or a ribbon to float in the wind. There is so much we can learn from this example! Think about the last time you thought negatively about your house or car or backpack? I propose that instead of thinking negatively about all of these things that we just be grateful that we have a house! Be grateful that we have a car! And be grateful that we have a backpack! Yes, they may not be as fancy or new as our neighbors... but in the grand scheme of things... who cares?
Children really know how to keep it simple: they live, love and trust, find joy in the simple things, and that is pretty much it. I love that. I know I am still learning how to become more like a little child. I am so grateful that I have little balls of energy and joy [aka-children] to look up to as my example.
Like I said earlier... life is so incredibly beautiful...
and i am so grateful that i have this chance to live, love, and learn.
-g
ps- I got a bit of inspiration for a new song. It is a two-liner right now, but I am excited for the potential...
"and I don't know what I've done to deserve
all that the scriptures tell me I'm worth."
We'll see where it goes from here... C:
#1) I went to the Provo temple this afternoon... temple days are always skirt days C:
#2) My co-worker's wedding reception was tonight... congratulations jon and katie!
aaand
#3) I just darn-well felt like it! ...weather-wise, today was a perfect day!
So with a smile on my face and a bright, bold-colored, flowered print skirt on my body I took on the world. All in all:
Life is so incredibly beautiful.
Sometimes I can't even stand it; I burst out into song and dance regardless of where I am or who I am with. There is some impeccable aesthetic-high that I feel whenever the sky is perfectly blue. man- the sky just looks perfect regardless of season when it is clear and blue. In the summer, the green trees compliment the blue in the most fresh of ways... just look out your window and try to find colors that match more naturally. In the fall, the red/orange/yellow in the trees and on the mountains make the earth seem like a painter's pallet. In the winter, the sun and the sky make the snowflakes look like diamonds; I feel like a princess whenever I have the chance to sit by a warm fire watching diamonds float gracefully towards the ground. Last but certainly not least, in the springtime, the sky looks like a painted Easter egg; pastel blue with perfect, fluffy, white clouds floating effortlessly on by. mmmmmmmhmm, i love the sky.
Weather-wise, today was a perfect day! This afternoon some friends and I went to the park and we played in the perfect weather. The sun just warm enough to make it feel like summer and the breeze juuuuust slight enough to minimize the sweat factor. Something about summertime makes me feel like a little kid again. We splashed in the fountain and played under-dog on the swings; yep, being a kid rocks.
I was talking with my roommate the other day about becoming more child-like. In the scriptures we are told to become as a little child and I absolutely agree. Growing up I did not understand that concept... i am being told right and left to grow up and take on responsibility, I thought to myself, how am i supposed to become as a little child? I definitely don't think that I have it all figured out, but I have a pretty solid foundation of an understanding to build on... let me attempt to explain.
I was a nanny for a wonderful, beautiful family for a while. In that time I was able to very closely observe the way that children thought and viewed life. It is near impossible to capture didactically, but there are a few rules that I have come to live by based off of my experiences [i am not suggesting that i am perfect at any of these things... but i am trying]:
#1) Live, Just Do It- I know how hard it is to put my heart on the line only to have it broken. I know how real disappointment feels when you look into the eyes of someone that is hurting because of something you have done. red alert: I am not perfect... but my lack of perfection should not hold me back from trying new and potentially hard things! I watched the little boy, James, learn to walk up the stairs. His face firm with determination as he began crawling and day by day grew strong enough to take the stairs one step at a time. I cannot imagine how daunting the stairs looked to him; steps half his height, the only two things he had to hold on to were the stair railing spokes and my two fingers. Imagine staring one of your challenges in the face- standing small next to your personal daunting staircase. In these times, with fear of falling and failing, grab onto whatever you can and go for it.
#2) Love and Trust, You Need 'Em- Children are so completely unafraid to love and trust. I remember one time after not being able to watch them for a while, I came over and Morgan was very opposed to the idea of her parents leaving. She was sitting on the floor crying so I sat down next to her and asked, "morgan, can i hold you?" Morgan sheepishly nodded and I wrapped her as close and tight as I could, her warm body close to mine... and there she sat crying. Though she did not really want me there, she allowed me enter her bubble and within minutes I was making her laugh. Her red eyes scrunched with smile lines the second she forgot about being sad. Morgan is a perfect example of straight-up love... and here is why: she doesn't think about ulterior motives. She doesn't protect her heart from events that haven't even happened yet. She just lets life flow through her and she just... trusts people. When you think about it, children don't have any other choice but to love and trust. Children would die in infancy if they refused adult help- it is true! We, as adults, need to realize that life can be so much richer if we could only knock down some of our walls and actually let people in.
#3) There is Joy, Find It- Have you ever looked through a child's toy box? You may find expensive toys with lights and music and sparkly gizmos that spin. You are also likely to find water bottle caps and straws and other run-of-the-mill household items. For the longest time I thought, why do parents let their kids play with this trash? But I think I understand better now... children are just happy to have something to play with. Children don't look at a balloon string and think, what junk, time to throw this away, they view the string as a new stuffed animal leash or a ribbon to float in the wind. There is so much we can learn from this example! Think about the last time you thought negatively about your house or car or backpack? I propose that instead of thinking negatively about all of these things that we just be grateful that we have a house! Be grateful that we have a car! And be grateful that we have a backpack! Yes, they may not be as fancy or new as our neighbors... but in the grand scheme of things... who cares?
Children really know how to keep it simple: they live, love and trust, find joy in the simple things, and that is pretty much it. I love that. I know I am still learning how to become more like a little child. I am so grateful that I have little balls of energy and joy [aka-children] to look up to as my example.
Like I said earlier... life is so incredibly beautiful...
and i am so grateful that i have this chance to live, love, and learn.
-g
ps- I got a bit of inspiration for a new song. It is a two-liner right now, but I am excited for the potential...
"and I don't know what I've done to deserve
all that the scriptures tell me I'm worth."
We'll see where it goes from here... C:
Monday, August 29, 2011
Food Fights and Food for Thought
Back in the day my friends and I had a loooot of food fights! We had pudding fights, sloppy-joe fights, egg fights, cake fights, ice cream fights, etc... Those days were so much fun and today for Family Home Evening with my ward we had a blast to Grace's past night in which we had a.... JELLO/PUDDING FIGHT!
It was so much fun; getting to shove pudding and jello into ward members' faces that you hardly know. I loved being able to let my guard down and have pure, untainted fun... it makes me crave adventure.
Though the real test is how you feel after the initial glee of lurching hand-fulls of pudding into the air aimed at the back of someone's head... the test is this: am I still comfortable with who I am though I am nasty, sticky, and smell of a mixture of vanilla/cherry/chocolate/lime? After the fight I hosed-off, swam, and then came home and showered... and immediately went back out into public though my hair isn't done and I don't have a trace of make-up on. Am I comfortable with myself without the mask of make-up? I think a year ago the answer would have been no in most scenarios. I would not have allowed myself to go out into public for fear of not being regarded as beautiful. My past definition of natural beauty was based off of the world's standards [you know- perfect skin, air dried hair that lays flat or falls curly, natural honey suckle aroma, etc...] but I think this summer I have learned a different definition of beautiful. This summer I learned that beauty is confidence. Beauty is a deep understanding that I am a daughter of Heavenly Father and everything about me is precious. Think about it like a huge hunk of gold recently mined: though it is not smooth around the edges- there are parts that jut out and pieces that seem to be dented in- no piece of the gold is less valuable than the rest of the mass. This dented and jutting piece of gold is the same value as a gold sculpture that has been smoothed and shaped. I compare that to each of us... we all have our dents and jutts, our faults and perks... but that does not make anyone more valuable or beautiful than another person.
This is a lesson my dear friend Kaja Pool [let me just say- one of the most gorgeous people I know] attempted to teach me in high school. I remember one day while hanging out in the hall after class I approached her with the question of how she felt comfortable wearing so little make-up. She only wore mascara- a thought that I felt was unthinkable! She told me that she didn't need a fake mask to think of herself as beautiful. Beauty isn't physical- beauty is personality. At that time I chalked up her answer to the fact that "oh, she can say that! she is just naturally beautiful- i could never pull that off in my life!" Well folks, I have! After my amazing summer of self-discovery [thank you Jared Workman and all of the other people that helped me figure this out] I am proud to say that I pull a Kaja almost each day. Sometimes I even force myself to leave off the foundation and earrings and walk out the door feeling slightly self-conscious; though after a few minutes I put a smile on my face and have learned to forget about my in-born womanly concern the thoughts of others and be comfortable simply being me.
I suggest you do the same! Sometime this week I challenge you [if you haven't already done so] to leave off the make-up... or to wear a baggy t-shirt to class... or to let your hair do its own natural thing. Leaving the house might be hard at first! You may feel pangs of self-doubt... am i beautiful enough to pull this off? The answer is a RESOUNDING YES! Beauty isn't beauty... it is personality. Stick a smile on that clean face of yours and show people that beauty emanates from inside. I bet if you smile and serve and let the light of the Spirit shine through- you will get a bunch of compliments. Compliments that don't trace back to the clothes you wear or the headband in your hair... these compliments will trace back to you. Natural, beautiful you. You might even change your definition of beauty.
It was so much fun; getting to shove pudding and jello into ward members' faces that you hardly know. I loved being able to let my guard down and have pure, untainted fun... it makes me crave adventure.
Though the real test is how you feel after the initial glee of lurching hand-fulls of pudding into the air aimed at the back of someone's head... the test is this: am I still comfortable with who I am though I am nasty, sticky, and smell of a mixture of vanilla/cherry/chocolate/lime? After the fight I hosed-off, swam, and then came home and showered... and immediately went back out into public though my hair isn't done and I don't have a trace of make-up on. Am I comfortable with myself without the mask of make-up? I think a year ago the answer would have been no in most scenarios. I would not have allowed myself to go out into public for fear of not being regarded as beautiful. My past definition of natural beauty was based off of the world's standards [you know- perfect skin, air dried hair that lays flat or falls curly, natural honey suckle aroma, etc...] but I think this summer I have learned a different definition of beautiful. This summer I learned that beauty is confidence. Beauty is a deep understanding that I am a daughter of Heavenly Father and everything about me is precious. Think about it like a huge hunk of gold recently mined: though it is not smooth around the edges- there are parts that jut out and pieces that seem to be dented in- no piece of the gold is less valuable than the rest of the mass. This dented and jutting piece of gold is the same value as a gold sculpture that has been smoothed and shaped. I compare that to each of us... we all have our dents and jutts, our faults and perks... but that does not make anyone more valuable or beautiful than another person.
This is a lesson my dear friend Kaja Pool [let me just say- one of the most gorgeous people I know] attempted to teach me in high school. I remember one day while hanging out in the hall after class I approached her with the question of how she felt comfortable wearing so little make-up. She only wore mascara- a thought that I felt was unthinkable! She told me that she didn't need a fake mask to think of herself as beautiful. Beauty isn't physical- beauty is personality. At that time I chalked up her answer to the fact that "oh, she can say that! she is just naturally beautiful- i could never pull that off in my life!" Well folks, I have! After my amazing summer of self-discovery [thank you Jared Workman and all of the other people that helped me figure this out] I am proud to say that I pull a Kaja almost each day. Sometimes I even force myself to leave off the foundation and earrings and walk out the door feeling slightly self-conscious; though after a few minutes I put a smile on my face and have learned to forget about my in-born womanly concern the thoughts of others and be comfortable simply being me.
I suggest you do the same! Sometime this week I challenge you [if you haven't already done so] to leave off the make-up... or to wear a baggy t-shirt to class... or to let your hair do its own natural thing. Leaving the house might be hard at first! You may feel pangs of self-doubt... am i beautiful enough to pull this off? The answer is a RESOUNDING YES! Beauty isn't beauty... it is personality. Stick a smile on that clean face of yours and show people that beauty emanates from inside. I bet if you smile and serve and let the light of the Spirit shine through- you will get a bunch of compliments. Compliments that don't trace back to the clothes you wear or the headband in your hair... these compliments will trace back to you. Natural, beautiful you. You might even change your definition of beauty.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Trial Turned to Testimony
Sometimes it just hits me... emotion, that is. Emotion just swells over me like a tidal wave and I am left standing in a crowded room on the verge of tears with nothing to do but bite my cheek and desperately pray that no one is watching. I run scenario after scenario through my head which helps me think of exactly what I would say when approached by someone... in my head I remain composed and calm while in reality I know that would never happen. I am such a bawl-baby... a trait I have had since I can remember; I am not ashamed to show emotion, I just wish that I could control my tear ducts.
In regards to this happening in a crowded room... sometimes it is even more embarrassing when it happens while I am in a room that only has a few people in it- why? because then I'm not simply some random girl and they always feel inclined or even obliged to ask me whether or not I am doing okay. I appreciate the thought each time, but sometimes I just wish I could be left to my own devices as a way to let the emotion subside until later when I am alone with a box of tissues and a loving roommates' shoulder to cry on.
So, as you can imagine, this happened today. I was informed of some big and potentially scary news about a friend which made me feel like a juggler that had been hit by a ton of bricks. I was scrambling to catch my manners, composure, language, and what felt like twenty other juggling-balls when literally 3 seconds later, I heard a knock on my door. I thought, oh shoot! i forgot i had been expecting company. I opened the door and managed to hold my composure through conversation for about 2 minutes before I felt moisture swell on my bottom eye-lid and my face begin to turn a slight shade of pink. Just as I began to think of a way to cover up the fact that I was crying my friend noticed something was up- I could tell because he furrowed his brow and tilted his head [concerned face]. I swiftly apologized and ran into Victoria's room where I said all too fast, "Victoriacomehugmeplease." She came over and I let a few tears fall into her shoulder before I felt my muscles relax; I knew then that I would be able to keep my cool though I was not feeling... cool.
Well, I did it. I managed to wimp my way through a couple hours before it hit me again and I felt the strong current tugging at me- forecasting another tidal wave. Each time this happens during a trial/event, in my life or the life of a loved one, I think how long will it take for me to not need an emotional vent every few hours? That depends on what happened; it may take a day, a few days, a week, a month, or even in terms of semesters and years. Sometimes the emotional outlet subsides to once a week or once a year, but that doesn't change the fact that I wish my bawl-baby eyes could handle it better. thank you, parents, for giving me this crying gene. it truly is fantastic c:
You know what keeps me going through it all- the stress and sickness and semesters of utter dirt? My Savior Jesus Christ and my loving Heavenly Father. Whenever I feel like I need a shoulder to cry on [which often, I do], I know that I can confide all things in the most loving Beings imaginable. I am so grateful that I am not asked to walk this life alone- though sometimes it feels that way. That reminds me of the footsteps poem- you know, the one with the man walking in the beach and throughout his life he can see two sets of footsteps imprinted in the sand. But there are times where only one set of footprints have been set in the sand. At first the man is hurt and he asks, in the darkest of times why did you leave me alone? and Christ responds, it was in those darkest of times that i carried you. I know that this is true. I know that I am never alone at any time of my life; when I am happy- my joy is doubled because Christ rejoices right along with me. But when I am sad or alone or afraid of the uncharted darkness ahead- I feel a burden lifted because I know, i know that God loves me and would never leave me with too much to bear. Though that knowledge doesn't change the physical trial... it changes my attitude about the situation and I am able to see my life brighter.
hmmmm... see, i'm feeling better already c:
I'm just a beginner, but I am learning everyday.
much love,
G
In regards to this happening in a crowded room... sometimes it is even more embarrassing when it happens while I am in a room that only has a few people in it- why? because then I'm not simply some random girl and they always feel inclined or even obliged to ask me whether or not I am doing okay. I appreciate the thought each time, but sometimes I just wish I could be left to my own devices as a way to let the emotion subside until later when I am alone with a box of tissues and a loving roommates' shoulder to cry on.
So, as you can imagine, this happened today. I was informed of some big and potentially scary news about a friend which made me feel like a juggler that had been hit by a ton of bricks. I was scrambling to catch my manners, composure, language, and what felt like twenty other juggling-balls when literally 3 seconds later, I heard a knock on my door. I thought, oh shoot! i forgot i had been expecting company. I opened the door and managed to hold my composure through conversation for about 2 minutes before I felt moisture swell on my bottom eye-lid and my face begin to turn a slight shade of pink. Just as I began to think of a way to cover up the fact that I was crying my friend noticed something was up- I could tell because he furrowed his brow and tilted his head [concerned face]. I swiftly apologized and ran into Victoria's room where I said all too fast, "Victoriacomehugmeplease." She came over and I let a few tears fall into her shoulder before I felt my muscles relax; I knew then that I would be able to keep my cool though I was not feeling... cool.
Well, I did it. I managed to wimp my way through a couple hours before it hit me again and I felt the strong current tugging at me- forecasting another tidal wave. Each time this happens during a trial/event, in my life or the life of a loved one, I think how long will it take for me to not need an emotional vent every few hours? That depends on what happened; it may take a day, a few days, a week, a month, or even in terms of semesters and years. Sometimes the emotional outlet subsides to once a week or once a year, but that doesn't change the fact that I wish my bawl-baby eyes could handle it better. thank you, parents, for giving me this crying gene. it truly is fantastic c:
You know what keeps me going through it all- the stress and sickness and semesters of utter dirt? My Savior Jesus Christ and my loving Heavenly Father. Whenever I feel like I need a shoulder to cry on [which often, I do], I know that I can confide all things in the most loving Beings imaginable. I am so grateful that I am not asked to walk this life alone- though sometimes it feels that way. That reminds me of the footsteps poem- you know, the one with the man walking in the beach and throughout his life he can see two sets of footsteps imprinted in the sand. But there are times where only one set of footprints have been set in the sand. At first the man is hurt and he asks, in the darkest of times why did you leave me alone? and Christ responds, it was in those darkest of times that i carried you. I know that this is true. I know that I am never alone at any time of my life; when I am happy- my joy is doubled because Christ rejoices right along with me. But when I am sad or alone or afraid of the uncharted darkness ahead- I feel a burden lifted because I know, i know that God loves me and would never leave me with too much to bear. Though that knowledge doesn't change the physical trial... it changes my attitude about the situation and I am able to see my life brighter.
hmmmm... see, i'm feeling better already c:
I'm just a beginner, but I am learning everyday.
much love,
G
Monday, August 22, 2011
Dear Maggie...
Dear Maggie:
You made me feel loved, thank you. You brought light into my dimming day, thank you- I was tired, hungry, and on the verge of grouchiness when you waved my shuttle van down. I remembered you from before because I had made a mental note of your tan floor-length skirt. You were so kind as you assured me that you didn't need me to get out of the van to help you get in. I saw a sigh of relief on your face as you sank into the seat cushion; soaking in the air conditioning. The conversation we had changed my perspective and I continue to strive to live closer to your example. Thank you, Maggie. I desperately hope we will meet again- then this thankful heart can rectify.
I doubt that the woman this post is inspired by will ever read this, but I couldn't stay away. So many things have happened in my life this past year that should have prompted me to post... but I didn't... oops. Then, on a busy day in a busy week, a woman most likely in her 60s made my day which prompted me to share my good fortune. This past Thursday and Friday I was able to work as a shuttle van driver for BYU's Education Week. I loved it. I met some of the most eccentric, loving, and gracious people I have ever met. [I also met the most pessimistic person and it made me feel very blessed and loved that I am able to see beauty all around me despite the grey nature at times.] There are a few people I met that stand out and deserve a shout out:
#1) Man from the South: Thanks for making me laugh and calling me "pretty lady."
#2) Young Mother: This may sound weird, but when you broke down in tears in the passenger seat, it was exactly what I needed. You felt the Spirit so strongly and were not ashamed to share that Spirit with everyone in the van... including me. I am so grateful that you were able to share with me the blessings of your life because you truly helped me recognize the blessings in mine. You make me excited to be a mother; to have a loving husband that will rush to my rescue during times of stress and much needed "mommy time."
#3) Young Girls: HAH! We laughed about the fact that I had been holding in my desire to "Slug Bug" all of the passengers in my van. Thank you for being a breath of fresh air and fun. It was nice not having to hold a professional air for a few minutes. You let me be myself in my most natural element, and I loved it!
#4) All the Women in my last trip: Ladies, ladies, ladies... you truly were my favorite van-full. I have often heard from women, "How come you aren't married yet?" typically said in a snide, accusatory manner... despite the fact that I just barely turned 20. You, however, said it in a loving and sincerely shocked way- one that made me wonder the same thing. I then received dating advice which I fully intend in using. Watch out, boys... I am armed and ready C:
#5) Handicapped Van: I stopped to grab a bottle of H20 and I saw someone struggling to fit a walker-contraption into a van. Naturally, I rushed over to help. As I did I was blessed beyond belief because I was able to meet 3 women with disabilities and one very patient caretaker. I almost burst into tears when I realized that you wanted me in the picture that was being taken. I got in and you grabbed my hand and made me feel so at home. This experience heightened my knowledge that I am in the right major and on the right path. I love you- I don't know you but I love you.
... Last but definitely not least,
#6) Maggie: I was about to go on break and I got the impression to make one more round for people... when I turned the corner to the MOA, I saw you waving your arms to flag me down. Those simple words when you stepped into my car, "Well, those other van drivers thought I was crazy when I told them I was waiting for a specific driver," made my night. You hopped in my van and we drove off, just the two of us chatting away like old friends. I love the way you spoke about the experiences you had been having at Education Week. You spoke in such a sure manner that I could never doubt you, well, ever. We talked about our lives; mine just beginning and yours well on your way. You are so kind and patient... your example taught me something very important on Friday: though it is important to beat traffic, get home, get to the next class, etc... it is equally if not more important to take time to make a positive impact in another person's day. I constantly get wrapped up in my busy schedule... my work, my school, my this and my that... but there is always time to shine a little brighter and watch someone else walk a little taller.
Thank you, Maggie.
I'm only a beginner- but I cherish my time to be learning.
You made me feel loved, thank you. You brought light into my dimming day, thank you- I was tired, hungry, and on the verge of grouchiness when you waved my shuttle van down. I remembered you from before because I had made a mental note of your tan floor-length skirt. You were so kind as you assured me that you didn't need me to get out of the van to help you get in. I saw a sigh of relief on your face as you sank into the seat cushion; soaking in the air conditioning. The conversation we had changed my perspective and I continue to strive to live closer to your example. Thank you, Maggie. I desperately hope we will meet again- then this thankful heart can rectify.
I doubt that the woman this post is inspired by will ever read this, but I couldn't stay away. So many things have happened in my life this past year that should have prompted me to post... but I didn't... oops. Then, on a busy day in a busy week, a woman most likely in her 60s made my day which prompted me to share my good fortune. This past Thursday and Friday I was able to work as a shuttle van driver for BYU's Education Week. I loved it. I met some of the most eccentric, loving, and gracious people I have ever met. [I also met the most pessimistic person and it made me feel very blessed and loved that I am able to see beauty all around me despite the grey nature at times.] There are a few people I met that stand out and deserve a shout out:
#1) Man from the South: Thanks for making me laugh and calling me "pretty lady."
#2) Young Mother: This may sound weird, but when you broke down in tears in the passenger seat, it was exactly what I needed. You felt the Spirit so strongly and were not ashamed to share that Spirit with everyone in the van... including me. I am so grateful that you were able to share with me the blessings of your life because you truly helped me recognize the blessings in mine. You make me excited to be a mother; to have a loving husband that will rush to my rescue during times of stress and much needed "mommy time."
#3) Young Girls: HAH! We laughed about the fact that I had been holding in my desire to "Slug Bug" all of the passengers in my van. Thank you for being a breath of fresh air and fun. It was nice not having to hold a professional air for a few minutes. You let me be myself in my most natural element, and I loved it!
#4) All the Women in my last trip: Ladies, ladies, ladies... you truly were my favorite van-full. I have often heard from women, "How come you aren't married yet?" typically said in a snide, accusatory manner... despite the fact that I just barely turned 20. You, however, said it in a loving and sincerely shocked way- one that made me wonder the same thing. I then received dating advice which I fully intend in using. Watch out, boys... I am armed and ready C:
#5) Handicapped Van: I stopped to grab a bottle of H20 and I saw someone struggling to fit a walker-contraption into a van. Naturally, I rushed over to help. As I did I was blessed beyond belief because I was able to meet 3 women with disabilities and one very patient caretaker. I almost burst into tears when I realized that you wanted me in the picture that was being taken. I got in and you grabbed my hand and made me feel so at home. This experience heightened my knowledge that I am in the right major and on the right path. I love you- I don't know you but I love you.
... Last but definitely not least,
#6) Maggie: I was about to go on break and I got the impression to make one more round for people... when I turned the corner to the MOA, I saw you waving your arms to flag me down. Those simple words when you stepped into my car, "Well, those other van drivers thought I was crazy when I told them I was waiting for a specific driver," made my night. You hopped in my van and we drove off, just the two of us chatting away like old friends. I love the way you spoke about the experiences you had been having at Education Week. You spoke in such a sure manner that I could never doubt you, well, ever. We talked about our lives; mine just beginning and yours well on your way. You are so kind and patient... your example taught me something very important on Friday: though it is important to beat traffic, get home, get to the next class, etc... it is equally if not more important to take time to make a positive impact in another person's day. I constantly get wrapped up in my busy schedule... my work, my school, my this and my that... but there is always time to shine a little brighter and watch someone else walk a little taller.
Thank you, Maggie.
I'm only a beginner- but I cherish my time to be learning.
Monday, August 16, 2010
1991-Present Day
So... I figured since this is my first post, I will fill in my life up to date. This could take a while.
I am the middle child of 5... and I actually love being the middle child! My family is as follows... Dad, Mom, Spencer, recenly married to Ashley Anne, Valerie, Me, Grant, and Emma. We have one pet dog named Sookie....and she happens to be the cutest dog on the planet.
I was born in Salt Lake City, UT. I lived there for a few years, but I hardly remember any of it. Which in my family is odd because my oldest brother remembers EVERYTHING about his life. Anyways, after UT we moved to Oklahoma. After a few years there, we moved to Indiana where I lived for 11 years. I graduated high school and have been attending Brigham Young University! I'm going to be a Sophomore and I plan on majoring in Special Education... I am really excited!
Passions:
-Learning (I am a nerd.)
-Singing
-Dancing
-Acting
-Astronomy
-Church/Religion
-Family
-Friends
Dislikes:
-SNAKES!!!!!!!!!!
So... yep. That's a very short version of my life. C:
Much Love,
G
I am the middle child of 5... and I actually love being the middle child! My family is as follows... Dad, Mom, Spencer, recenly married to Ashley Anne, Valerie, Me, Grant, and Emma. We have one pet dog named Sookie....and she happens to be the cutest dog on the planet.
I was born in Salt Lake City, UT. I lived there for a few years, but I hardly remember any of it. Which in my family is odd because my oldest brother remembers EVERYTHING about his life. Anyways, after UT we moved to Oklahoma. After a few years there, we moved to Indiana where I lived for 11 years. I graduated high school and have been attending Brigham Young University! I'm going to be a Sophomore and I plan on majoring in Special Education... I am really excited!
Passions:
-Learning (I am a nerd.)
-Singing
-Dancing
-Acting
-Astronomy
-Church/Religion
-Family
-Friends
Dislikes:
-SNAKES!!!!!!!!!!
So... yep. That's a very short version of my life. C:
Much Love,
G
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