Mental Illness

There's Light at the End of the Tunnel

Usually I like to make readers think I'm funny through Harry Potter jokes or something, but today's post is going to be a little more serious. I struggled and struggled to find something to write about. I really wanted to do something that would help people, not just inform them. And this morning, it finally dawned on me. I wanted to write about something that afflicts many around the world. Something that afflicts me. Depression.

I remember being in my early teens and not knowing what was wrong with me. I didn't enjoy life anymore. I was scared of what I would do to myself. And this went on for months.
  
"Let me... concentrate on MDD—“major depressive disorder”—or, more commonly, “depression.” When I speak of this, I am not speaking of bad hair days, tax deadlines, or other discouraging moments we all have. Everyone is going to be anxious or downhearted on occasion... But today I am speaking of something more serious, of an affliction so severe that it significantly restricts a person’s ability to function fully, a crater in the mind so deep that no one can responsibly suggest it would surely go away if those victims would just square their shoulders and think more positively—though I am a vigorous advocate of square shoulders and positive thinking!" -Elder Holland

After a relatively happy normal high school career, I went off to college and felt the all too familiar feelings of hopelessness creeping back up again. I was scared. I had gotten through it once by pure support from family and just going day by day, but I wasn't sure I could do it another time. Days were hard to get through. I was always tired and could barely get myself up to do the things I needed to do. I brought my Book of Mormon around with me because that was the only source of comfort that I could find. But still, it was starting to not be enough. I knew something needed to change; quickly.

I remember sitting in the hallway before chemistry, and I overheard a conversation between two kids. "It's National Depression Screening Day.They're doing free screenings in cafeteria." one of them said. I didn't even know such a thing existed! The next thing I knew, I was walking past the office with the sign for the screenings, and my legs walked themselves right into that office. I had no idea what I was doing. Sure enough, I had depression. This normally would have been a bad thing to hear, but I was ecstatic! It explained so much! And maybe now I could get help and get better! The next few months were the hardest of my life and included putting in mission papers, continuing to get worse until I took a psychiatric blow, and being put on depression/anxiety medication.

It's now been almost a year and a half since that time of my life, and I'm feeling so much better. The medicine was the way that Heavenly Father had prepared for me to become healthy again and it was one of the biggest blessings of my life.

Mental illnesses can change a person and their families life in the blink of an eye. They can make every day seem like a Mt. Everest you need to get over. And they can afflict anyone at certain points in life. The hardest part is that theses illnesses are understood by doctors, but rarely by the general public. I found a wonderful article called "Myths about Mental Illness" by Alexander B. Morrison. These are the 7 myths he describes:

1. All mental illness is caused by sin.

2. Someone is to blame for mental illness.
3. All that people with mental illness need is a priesthood blessing.
4. Mentally ill persons just lack willpower. 
5. All mentally ill persons are dangerous and should be locked up
6. Mental illness doesn’t strike children and young people
7. Whatever the cause, mental illness is untreatable. 

Mental Illnesses exist in so many forms. And sometimes they can last long periods of time, or be over with after we have adjusted to a certain circumstance. But either way, they are scary. And to all of you that are suffering from one, or know someone who is suffering from one; listen very carefully. This too shall pass! My companion and I recently listened to a talk by Elder Uchtdorf where he talks about how we aren't made for this world. We are made for the Heavens. This means that our earthly bodies are, well, earthly. They have disabilities, illnesses, and faults that aren't existent in the next. This is the most comforting thing to me. Everything that we have ever struggled with is "but a small moment." We have to do our part though. We have to "endure it well." If we do so, we will be free from every ailment that binds us during this life. 

But that doesn't mean that we have to endure ever trial in this life without help. Heavenly Father expects us to use the righteous resources available to us. And don't you ever think for one minute that you have "brought this upon yourself." Mental illnesses are a combination of experiential factors, genetic factors, cognitive factors, and biochemical factors (When Your Child Is Depressed-Ensign). There are so many things going into why you feel like this. 

So HOW do I fix my illness? HOW do I make myself feel better? HOW do I change my life around and start fresh? Well I will be the first to tell you that the answer is different for everyone. But there is an answer for you! Based on all the articles I've read, this article "When Your Child IS Depressed" sums them up the best. 
 
1. Remember that you are a son or daughter of God. You are inestimable worth!
2. Remember prayer. Every day!

3. Apply the lessons of the scriptures into your own life. 
4. Seek counsel from the bishop.  
5. Master skills that will give you confidence and help you to keep trying. 
6. Engage in service. 
7. Develop a positive, proactive view of life. 
8. Develop a healthy way of life which includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep, a nutritious diet, and regular social interaction. 
9. Understand that you can choose how to respond to life's challenges. 
10. Seek assistance from qualified medical or clinical personnel if necessary. 

I know this is a lot of information and if you are anything like me, you're nervous about working down that list. But I can promise you that Heavenly Father only gives you trials that He knows you can deal with. I know that with all my heart. I know that the road ahead of you might seem too long, too hard, or too hopeless; but YOU CAN DO IT. You will be given the tools you need to get better. You might still struggle throughout your life, but that's because Heavenly Father trusts that you can do it. He knows you're strong and He wants you to prove that to yourself. I know that mental illness can seem like the end of one's life. But don't ever let it be. You are of so much value, you can't even imagine it. You have a purpose in this life and never let the adversary tell you otherwise. You are loved. NEVER forget it. 

 Articles About Depression

"Like a Broken Vessel"
https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/like-a-broken-vessel?lang=eng

"When Your Child Is Depressed"
https://www.lds.org/ensign/2004/08/when-your-child-is-depressed?lang=eng  

"Myths about Mental Illness" 
https://www.lds.org/ensign/2005/10/myths-about-mental-illness?lang=eng

 

A Fly on the Wall in a Mormon Home

The Family

Today I want to write about something that has been on my mind a lot lately. No not food or how I'm going to get to Harry Potter World. It's been my family. If there has been one thing that I've learned on my mission, it's been that the family is under attack. Have you ever wondered how you can strengthen your family? Well I have a very strong testimony that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints focuses their entire teaching around the family. Here's a little view into what the church teaches on how to raise "Christ centered families."

It's 6:30 am I hear dad's footsteps coming down the stairs. He knocks quietly on each bedroom door, then returns to the kitchen and sits down at the table. Struggling to open our eyes, we all shuffle to the table, scriptures in hand. Family scripture study. The church has been advising families, for years, to make this a daily routine in our homes. I am a firm believer that my family became stronger and more united because of this. We ended each study with a family prayer and rushed off to school or work. But not before our parents had given us the "spiritual armor" we needed to get through the day. 

LDS (Latter-Day Saint) families are also advised to do "Family Home Evening." It is a night, set-aside each week, where the family gathers and has a spiritual lesson, council, activity, etc. In my house we knew that this was Monday night and that we should make sure we were home with the family to be able to take part in "FHE." We weren't always consistent in doing it, but I know that Heavenly Father blessed us the weeks that we did.

"And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of the,
And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye e converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 
Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kindgom of heaven. 
And whoso shall receive on such little child in my name receiveth me. 
But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea." 

If that doesn't show you how important children are to God, then I don't know what does! The emphasizes this so well! They actually have a class that you can take that helps you become better spouses, parents, and disciples of Christ! I'm pretty sure that my parents memorized this book, because I've been going through it and they did so much from it that really worked!

My favorite part of the whole book is where it lays out what the roles are for each spouse.

Fathers- You are to be the breadwinner, lead the family spiritually, love your wife, and make sure your family has the necessities. This isn't where it ends though. The church also highly encourages fathers to go on daddy daughter/father son dates, give your family blessings (if the Priesthood is held), have one-on-one interviews with your kids to see how they are doing, teach your kids to work, hold scripture study and prayer, serve happily in church callings, attend the temple, encourage good music etc, develop family traditions, and do good activities with the kids.


This might seem overwhelming, but these things are emphasized and taught every week in church! I know that it can be done. I have an incredible father that somehow managed to hold 2 jobs and be an incredible dad.

Mothers- You are the nurturers. Mothers are advised to stay at home (if financially possible) with their children. They are raising the next generation! This is looked upon as one of the most important jobs in the entire church! They are encouraged to play with their kids, teach their kids the gospel, help them to learn good values and to do well in school, teach them talents and skills that will be useful to their lives, read to them, love them, encourage them, build them up, and help them to know they are sons and daughters of God. THIS is one intense role. And that's not the end of their duties.

My mom. I have no idea even where to start with her. All the days I came home from school and she just sat there and listened to my complaining, then went and cleaned the house, then taxied us everywhere, then made sure we had a nice meal to sit down to together as a family, then got all our homework done, helped us get ready for bed, read us stories and said prayers with us, then got up continually throughout the night when we had bad dreams or just wanted to see her. That takes some serious awesomeness. There's a very special place for mothers in Heaven.

Family is central to God's plan. Central. Like, as important to God as a wand is to Harry. God gave a  commandment to Adam and Eve that they were to "multiply and replenish the earth." Being a parent is the most rewarding thing that Heavenly Father says you can do. It's the only thing that will continue to bless you for the rest of your life. It must be hard! I don't know, I've never done it. But I do know that through the teachings of the gospel, we can learn how to raise our children with God. We can help them become the next generation of disciples. We can prepare them for salvation.


"Marriage and Family Relations" manual
http://www.lds.org/manual/marriage-and-family-relations-instructors-manual?lang=eng

"The Family: A Proclamation to the World"
 http://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation

How to do Family Home Evening
http://www.lds.org/topics/family-home-evening?lang=eng
 

Departing Missionaries: January 2014

Departing Missionaries: January 2014

Transfer meetings hold every single emotion imaginable, for a missionary. The new elders and sisters, fresh from the MTC in Utah, are questioning what in the world they did to themselves; the new missionaries are still questioning what in the world they did to themselves; the older missionaries are starting to panic, thinking about life "not as a missionary"; and the departing missionaries are planning escape routes and are thinking "no one is making me go home!"

Toward the beginning of the meeting, President Andersen has all the departing missionaries line up and gives them time to give the rest of the missionaries advice. This has always been my favorite part of the meeting. Standing in front of 100 or so missionaries, these elders and sisters are the greatest examples to us. They've served a faithful 18 months or 2 years. They've gone through depression, losses, disappointments, sickness, scary experiences, snow, ice, and almost everything else imaginable. But as they look over this crow of younger missionaries, they always have a look of wisdom in their eyes. They know that this was the only thing that they were supposed to be doing with their lives during this time. They know that they have experienced that joy only seeing someone accept the gospel can bring. They've changed others lives, and they've changed the younger missionaries testimonies. They've been the Lord's faithful servants, and they've endured to the end.

This transfer meeting was special to me because I had a lot of good missionary friends leaving to start a new chapter of their lives. I'm so grateful to everything they taught me. I'm grateful for the time they took away from their lives to bring others to Christ. I'm grateful for the loving example they were to me, and for how Christlike they had all become. A mission didn't change them. They truly changed their mission.


A huge thanks to the departing missionaries. Elder Bethers, Elder Brewer, Elder Pulsipher, Elder Neville, Elder Riley, Elder Heiner, Elder Dempsey, Sister fowler, Sister Hill, and Sister Means.

You elders and sisters are incredible and the Lord is going to bless you so much. Thank you for everything you have done. Stay close to your Savior, and never forget these experiences you've had! We love you!

Self-Esteem

 Become a Queen With Self-Esteem!

I struggled and struggled trying to think of something to write this week. For some reason the only thing that I could think about was Dove Chocolate... and I could write pages about that stuff. But my goal this week is to "be more missionary minded" so I had to think of something else.

Finally I realized what I needed to write about. Sister Ellis and I got asked to teach the Young Women about "self-esteem." This completely shocked both of us because we felt like we were the absolute wrong people to be talking to others about this. The week before we taught, we could not think of ANYTHING to say to these girls. We were at a complete loss. But after some excess "lds.org" searching and a headache, we found a wonderful talk by President Faust about self-esteem.

He says, "Self-esteem goes to the very heart of our personal growth and accomplishment. Self-esteem is the glue that holds together our self-reliance, our self-control, our self-approval or disapproval, and keeps all self-defense mechanisms secure. It is a protection against excessive self-deception, self-distrust, self-reproach, and plain old-fashion selfishness. After a lifetime of observing, I have found the greatest respect is owed not necessarily to the rich, or the famous, but to the quiet, unsung, unknown heroes whose true identity, like the unknown soldier’s, is known only to God. The unsung often have little of status, but much of worth"

There are 6 main ingredients into making a "self-esteem cupcake" (Sister Ellis used her artsy skills to make them the cutest cupcakes).

1. Keep Your Free Agency- When we give up our agency, we are at the mercy of our addictions. There are many addictions in this world and ANY of them can cause us to lose all self-esteem. When we are free from them, we have our agency and we are able to rely on ourselves for more things in life. "In Proverbs we read: “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls” (Proverbs 25:28)."

2. Humility- "It is the humility that can accept and live with one’s own warts without cosmetics to hide them. It is important to learn to live with our uncorrectable physical and mental defects without comment and without explanation" Elder Faust says, as he explains what kind of humility helps self-esteem. Humility to listen to other people's suggestions can make us better people! I know that is something I DEFINITELY have a hard time remembering

3. Honesty- Being honest with ourselves, and with others. When we are truthful to others, they gain our trust and come to us in times of need. We are serving them, and that helps us to feel better about ourselves. When we are true to ourselves, we accept ourselves as we are and move forward with trying to make correctable things, better in our personalities/lives.

4. Love Work- Growing up, I didn't think that these two words belonged together in a sentence. But the older I get, the more I learn that working gives me such a sense of accomplishment! My mom is an avid runner, and I started trying to be like her (impossible because she's amazing) and I realized that the initial "running" part was not my favorite. But the success I felt after was incredible! I've still yet to get to the point that she's at, where she loves the running part too. She's crazy!
"An ordinary, garden-variety talent can be nurtured and nourished into a great gift through hard work" Elder Faust says. So start practicing something that you've always wanted to be good at, today! It will make you self-esteem sky rocket.

5. Love Others and Yourself- We asked the girls "which one of these is harder to do?" when we were teaching them, and almost all of them said "themselves." But as we come to love others more, we end up loving ourselves more as well! It's a win-win deal. The best way I've found to love others, is through service. When you are serving someone, it's really hard not to like them.

6. Love God- This one is the most important ingredient in our recipe. The first great commandment is to love God with all our hearts. When we do so, Heavenly Father blesses us beyond anything we can imagine.


And there you have it folks. That is Elder Faust's recipe for self-esteem. I know that these days, it's so hard to feel good about yourself. I spent hours and hours staring at pictures of models that I wanted to look like and feeling like I wasn't good enough. But I know that I am a daughter of God and that he has made everyone EXACTLY as they are supposed to look. He has given us each unique talents, and gifts to share with others. He loves us more than we could ever fathom. As long as we try to do our best and follow the commandments, we will one day rest from all our sorrows. We will be perfected and we will be with those that love us completely. I'm so excited for that day!

So next time you look in the mirror and have an inkling of  self-doubt, remember this formula. I know that it will bring you closer to Christ and, in turn, help you to love yourself more! Try it today! (Free of charge.)


Elder Faust's Talk
http://speeches.byu.edu/?act=viewitem&id=852

Be As a Little Child

To Become Childlike

Hibernation: to spend winter in close quarters in a dormant condition, as bears and certain other animals.

This is the only explanation I could come up with for why I haven't posted for a couple months. I thought it was cold in Utah, but man! It's freezing in Kentucky! Okay it's not a good excuse but my companion was playing with the dictionary and that ended up being the one we used...

Have you ever heard someone described as an "old soul?" My companion describes it as someone who has the wisdom as though he's experienced a lot, but is young in age. Well I've learned throughout my life that I have an old, grumpy, grandpa-like soul. Now this is by no means has the positive connotation that "old soul" has. Ever heard of being "childlike?" Yes, that, my dear friends, is what I'll be writing about today. My journey to try and become childlike.

Recently I was noticing that no matter where my companion and I went, the children were the same. Whether we were in a small house, with cockroaches running up and down the walls; or in a giant house with a maid cleaning in the background, the kids had the same desires, and reactions toward the gospel. They get so excited when you talk to them about Jesus, they want to share their candy with you, they give you best friend bracelets and do your hair, they climb all over you just wanting a hug and attention. But most of all, they listen intently when we talk about the gospel and they absolutely light up.

“Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

“Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3–4).

I'll always remember my mom coming home from church one afternoon and saying that my little brother (then 5 years old) had been crying during a song they were singing in primary. She asked him what was the matter and he replied "that song just makes tears come out of my eyes." Little children are the prime examples of the kind of disciples we need to be. They are so close to the spirit that they don't question any feeling they have. 

I struggled with my testimony and having faith for a lot of years. My brain would go into analytical mode and I'd come up with every excuse under the sun for why the gospel wasn't true. I couldn't just say, "I know it's true because I feel it in my heart and I've prayed about it." I needed proof. Rarely do children need proof for things. They accept the answer, without reasoning, and go on with life. They see another child that's cold outside, and they want to help them! They cry when they've done something bad and realize that they shouldn't have done that. And they love unconditionally.I was having a really hard time voicing my testimony at a family's house the other day. I ended up just breaking down and the whole lesson was a mess of blubbering tears. Their little daughter came and just stroked my head while I talked and asked why I was crying. It made me cry even more! Yes because I miss my mom, but also because I know that was a small act of Heavenly Father showing me what HE would do if He were here.

Jean A. Stevens says, "Have some of life’s experiences taken from you the believing heart and childlike faith you once had? If so, look around at the children in your life. And then look again. They may be children in your family, across the street, or in the Primary in your ward. If we have a heart to learn and a willingness to follow the example of children, their divine attributes can hold a key to unlocking our own spiritual growth."

 

 Becoming childlike is not easy. Especially when we feel hardened from the world, like Jean A. Stevens talked about. But it is doable! It is something that God has asked of us! I know that our lives will become so much easier when we just accept the things of the Lord and do His will. When we love those around us, as children do, and we give our self to Him. Follow your children's example!

"If we have a heart to learn and a willingness to follow the example of children, their divine attributes can hold a key to unlocking our own spiritual growth."

-Jean A. Stevens

http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/become-as-a-little-child?lang=eng

 

Departing Missionaries

A HUGE Thanks!

You've seen them on the road, you've seen them in your neighborhood, you may have even seen them on your front porch trying to talk to you about the gospel! Mormon missionaries. As missionaries we spend 18 months (girls), or 2 years (boys) serving the Lord and telling people about the good news. We believe that God has restored His church to the earth once more and that everyone should know!




Currently there are over 80,000 missionaries in the world. We serve in almost every country and love what we do. I am serving in the Tennessee, Nashville Mission. I love it so much. There are so many spiritual giants that I've gotten to work with and I wouldn't have spent this last year in any other way. Every six weeks, a new batch of missionaries comes out. They're brand new to the mission-field and filled with the desire to spread the gospel! At the same time, a batch of missionaries goes home. They've come to the end of their service and are completely different people from when they came out. They have stronger testimonies, humble confidence, and a desire to continue sharing the gospel for the rest of their lives.



I'm so grateful for the elders and sisters that are serving around me. We recently sent home an incredible group of men and women.

Elder Matthew Horner, Elder Jacob Clark, Elder Joshua Heath, Elder Freeze, Elder Brandon Bollschweiler, Elder Anthony Bassett, Tyler Duffin, Elder Cody Miller, Hermana Courtney Smith, Sister-Hollie Vandenberg, Elder Worthen, Elder Joshua Nield Elder Paul T. Farrell, Elder Chris Gwilliam, Elder Poulsen, Elder A. Miller, Elder Huntington, Elder Allen, Elder Steineckert

I want to thank all these elders and sisters for serving with their whole hearts. They were my leaders and examples and I know they were to everyone else as well. They truly changed the lives of many people here in the South, and their influence, no doubt, spread far beyond those boundaries. As they get to spend their first holiday at home in 2 years, I'm sure their families are so grateful for the blessings they brought. The Lord truly blesses those that are willing to consecrate their time to Him. Thank you elders and sisters for your service. We love you and we'll always remember you.

The Word of Wisdom

Your Body is a Temple!

It's a late chilly night and the Potter family flies on their Nimbus 2000's to the nearest waffle shop. They're fingers are numb, and their noses are cold after brilliantly fun, snowy game of Quidditch. The family sits down happily in a booth and start searching the menu. A waiter walks up and asks "could I interest you in any coffee?" All the kids shake their heads. "No thank you" says Harry kindly. "Alright, any tea?" The kids all shake their heads again. "No that'll be alright" Harry answers again. "Well any alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs?" Shaking of the heads. "Nah I think we'll just have 5 hot chocolates and waffle dinners please. Thank you very much though." The waiter is stunned. "Who are you people?" he whispers. "Us? Well we're just your average Mormons! We treat our bodies like temples because our Lord bought them with a price."
  

Ok so maybe this a little dramatic, but it's straight to the point. We all know you've heard those crazy Mormons don't drink soda, or have any fun in their lives. Rumors have spread that they'll turn you into their police if you drink around them. Well my friends, lets put all these rumors to rest and figure out, together, the real reason why Mormons follow a strict health code.  (Also sorry it's in italics... the computer apparently wants to look pretty.)

"Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation" D&C 89:4

When we are addicted to substances we have a hard time focusing on other things; especially the spirit. Think about the last time you were hungry; starving! You know that the only thing you could focus on was the nearest McDonald's. Maybe the person on the side of the road that needed help, was not even noticed! Maybe you were short with your child who just needed "to tell you somethin' daddy!"  This is the same with addictive substances. The famous 5 that I talked about at the beginning: coffee, tea, alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco. When these things are in our lives, the spirit is not. God has told us this in the scriptures. Addiction to these things also results in a very hard time hearing the spirit!

The word of wisdom not only focuses the things that we shouldn't have, but the things we should have! The Lord explains that we need to use meat sparingly, and that fruits, vegetables, and grains are for our benefit. How lucky are we to have this! We know exactly what's healthy for us and what isn't.

Heavenly Father promises us so many blessings if we obey the Word of Wisdom:

 "And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones;

And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures;

And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.

And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen."   D&C 89: 18-21

Aren't those amazing blessings? I can give up a trip to the local coffee shop for "great treasures of knowledge". Maybe that will help me with my chemistry! I think the coolest thing is that these revelations came in the 1800's, before there was scientific evidence to show how harmful coffee, tea, tobacco, and illegal drugs were. The only explanation is that Heavenly Father saw what was coming, as He always does. He knows exactly what is best for the bodies that He gave us. I am so grateful for that. 

What is the Word of Wisdom?

http://www.lds.org/topics/word-of-wisdom

Revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants-

http://www.lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/89

Becoming Gods

Becoming Gods?

Each area that I'm transferred to, the first concern that I hear about the Mormon church is almost always the same. Ok the second one.. (they all wonder what number of wife we are). The second thing they ask is "Don't y'all think you can become gods?" At first this question shocked me a little bit. This was doctrine that I didn't think was something people knew right off the bat, yet it was something everyone seemed to be wondering.

"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." -Romans 8:16-17 

Paul testifies that we are to become like God in this life, and the life to come. We are joint-heirs of His kingdom! What do you think of when you hear the phrase "joint-heir"? I think of learning how to be just like my Heavenly Father. Of Him teaching me how to be like Him and how to be a loving parent.
  

"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." 
-2 Peter 1:4
In 2 Peter, Peter talks to the saints about the promises that God gives us.We are to be partakers of His divine nature! Isn't that the most amazing promise? To be divine is to be like God. We will be like Him! He wants this for us. He wants us to become like Him because He is perfect.

Do Latter-day Saints believe they can become “gods”?
Latter-day Saints believe that God wants us to become like Him. But this teaching is often misrepresented by those who caricature the faith. The Latter-day Saint belief is no different than the biblical teaching, which states, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together” (Romans 8:16-17). Through following Christ's teachings, Latter-day Saints believe all people can become "partakers of the divine nature" (2 Peter 1:4).

I can understand where the miscommunication comes from. Some people have explained to me that they believe we aren't supposed to become like God because He is OUR God! That is completely right! We are only supposed to have one God that we worship, so is it offensive that we believe we will become like Him? Well here is a little analogy.

Harry has two wonderful parents. They love him and cherish him and want the best for him. Harry's parents each have a good job, and are able to provide well for their son. Well, Harry is now entering the young adult stage. He must make choices on where to go to school, what career he wants, who to marry, and how to raise his children. Harry's parents have done that already! They want him to make good decisions so that he can one day have a loving, well-functioning family too. Harry makes all the right decisions (with the wonderful support from his parents) and 10 years late he has a family of his own. Harry is now a parent! But.... he still has parents of his own. They will always be
his parents. They will always be the ones that raised him and helped him through life. But now he gets the chance to do that for someone else. And his parents are so proud that he does.

This is the same idea as us becoming gods and goddesses after this life. Heavenly Father wants us to become like Him. He wants us to become perfect! If we become like Him, then we will be royalty as well. But He will always be the one that we worship. He will always be there for us. Us becoming gods and goddesses will never diminish the fact that He is our King, our Father, our Lord. 

I know that Heavenly Father loves us so much. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints know that He will always be our God and that He deserves to be worshiped with every fiber of our being. We do not obey so that we can become Gods. We obey because we love our Lord and we will never be able to repay Him. I know that the reason we are on this earth is to be tested. If we make the right decisions, we will be able to live with our family and Father in Heaven for eternity. He will teach us to become like Him. We will become joint-heirs!


Mormon Newsroom Article
http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/mormonism-101#C13

What Happens When I die?

Life After Death?

Happy Halloween! Ok yes it's November now, but that's what happens when tornadoes hit. The Mayor claims November 1st to be Halloween instead! Yay for safety! So in honor of Halloween, I decided to pick a topic about ghosts! Sort of... well mostly about death. But the happy side of it!

"Picture your hand inside a glove. The glove moves only when your hand does. Take your hand out and the glove sits lifeless on the table. This is an easy way to visualize what happens when you die. Imagine your body is the glove being operated by who you really are—your spirit. When you die your body gets left behind, lifeless like a glove, but your spirit lives forever." And there you have the glove analogy my dear readers. This is the most comforting thing in the world to me. Life does not end after we die! In fact, death is just the beginning. So what does a spirit look like? "Spirit beings have the same bodily form as mortals except that the spirit body is in perfect form (see Ether 3:16). Spirits carry with them from earth their attitudes of devotion or antagonism toward things of righteousness (see Alma 34:34). They have the same appetites and desires that they had when they lived on earth. All spirits are in adult form."

Where does the spirit go when you die? Well it goes to the spirit world. In the spirit world, there is a place for the faithful followers of Christ, and there is a place for those that did not follow Him. Alma, a prophet in the Book of Mormon, explains the spirit world to us.

“The spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow.

“And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of the wicked, yea, who are evil—for behold, they have no part nor portion of the Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they chose evil works rather than good; therefore the spirit of the devil did enter into them, and take possession of their house—and these shall be cast out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth, and this because of their own iniquity, being led captive by the will of the devil.

“Now this is the state of the souls of the wicked, yea, in darkness, and a state of awful, fearful looking for the fiery indignation of the wrath of God upon them; thus they remain in this state, as well as the righteous in paradise, until the time of their resurrection” (Alma 40:12–14).

 

Can you imagine living in Paradise? This isn't even Heaven yet and it sounds wonderful. I want to do all I can to be able to get there and rest from all my trials. "But Sister V.! You said that isn't Heaven yet! When do I get to go there?" Well why didn't you ask sooner? I would love to tell you!

 

While we are in the spirit world, we will be learning about the gospel. We will still have the choice to accept or reject it at this point. We will have the same desires, addictions, personalities, doubts, beliefs, etc. that we did on Earth. For those that do accept the truth, the gospel, and didn't have an opportunity to be baptized or go to the temple during their life, they will have the chance to have their work done for them by someone acting in place of them that is alive still. This is why we do work for the dead.

 

Then comes resurrection. This is a gift that is given to everyone, no matter what choices you made on earth. Isn't that wonderful? Our bodies are restored to their perfect state. That is something that most people would give a lot for. The deaf will hear, the blind will see, and limbs will be restored. Once we are resurrected, we go to judgement. Here our Heavenly Father judges us for everything that we did on Earth and in the spirit world. We give an accounting of our lives basically. This is where I hope I can stand in front of God and tell Him I tried my best.

After we have been judged, we will be sent to one of three kingdoms.
"There are three kingdoms of glory: the celestial kingdom, the terrestrial kingdom, and the telestial kingdom. The glory we inherit will depend on the depth of our conversion, expressed by our obedience to the Lord's commandments. It will depend on the manner in which we have “received the testimony of Jesus” (D&C 76:51; see also D&C 76:74, 79, 101)."

The celestial kingdom (the top kingdom) is where we can be with our family and God forever. It's where happiness is eternal and sorrow is go! I imagine there's a never ending supply of waffles and Harry Potter books there. THAT is where I want to be.

I know that was a lot of information in a short time, so I encourage you to go and research it yourself! Tell me what you think! Ask missionaries in your area if you have any questions. I know that God's Plan of Salvation is true, and I am so grateful that there is a     plan for us. And that we can look forward to living with Him and our families for eternity.

http://mormon.org/beliefs/plan-of-salvation

Mental Illnesses

A Mental Battle

 

"I wish to speak to those who suffer from some form of mental illness or emotional disorder, whether those afflictions be slight or severe, of brief duration or persistent over a lifetime. We sense the complexity of such matters when we hear professionals speak of neuroses and psychoses, of genetic predispositions and chromosome defects, of bipolarity, paranoia, and schizophrenia. However bewildering this all may be, these afflictions are some of the realities of mortal life, and there should be no more shame in acknowledging them than in acknowledging a battle with high blood pressure or the sudden appearance of a malignant tumor". You can imagine that this caught a lot of people's attention when Elder Holland began his talk, in the most recent general conference, with this paragraph. I'd be lying if I said  that I didn't instantly put down my Ramen Noodles and sit up straight to listen.

 

As I sit here, trying to think of what to write for this post, I can't help but think it would be better to just post Elder Holland's whole talk on here then call it quits. The spirit was so strong as he connected to millions of viewers around the world who knew the exact feelings he was talking about. We've all at some point either experienced, or known someone close who has suffered from, a mental illness. In this world today, it's not uncommon for someone to tell you they have depression. I've struggled with it throughout my life and I know that many of my friends and family have as well. 

"I have seen it come to an absolutely angelic man when his beloved spouse of 50 years passed away. I have seen it in new mothers with what is euphemistically labeled “after-baby blues.” I have seen it strike anxious students, military veterans, and grandmothers worried about the well-being of their grown children. And I have seen it in young fathers trying to provide for their families. In that regard I once terrifyingly saw it in myself."

1. Never lose faith in your Heavenly Father who loves you more than you can comprehend.
2. Faithfully pursue the time-tested devotional practices that bring the spirit of the Lord into your life.
3. Seek the counsel of those that hold keys for your spiritual well-being.
4. Ask for and cherish priesthood blessings.
5. Take the sacrament every week, and hold fast to the perfecting promises of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

6. Believe in miracles.
7. Remember the Savior’s own anguished example: if the bitter cup does not pass, drink it and be strong, trusting in happier days ahead.
8. Watch for stress indicators, and when required TAKE A BREAK! Slow down and remember that fatigue is the common enemy of us all.
9. If things continue to be debilitating, seek the advice of reputable people with certified training, professional skills, and good values.
10. Remember to PRAY to your Father in Heaven. He listens.

"We are infinitely more than our limitations or our afflictions!" Holland says. I know that for sure. Depression can debilitate us at the most important times. I know that Heavenly Father knows when we are feeling this way. Christ suffered for not only our sins but all our sadness as well! Never think that you are alone in this world. You WILL get better if you turn to the Lord. That is a promise he has given us. Remember that depression, or any other mental illness does not define you. It shows that God believes you are strong enough to get through this trial. You can do it. Keep yourself busy in the service of the Lord and never give up home. The light will break through!


Elder Holland's Talk
http://bcove.me/z72c8hkc

Here's a link to a Mormon who struggles with a mental illness. Read her story!
http://mormon.org/me/9YMW/Krista

Other Depression/Mental Illness Links
http://www.lds.org/topics/disability/list/mental-illness
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/like-a-broken-vessel?lang=eng&query=depression




 

Why Do I Need to be Batized With Proper Authority?

Baptism: Proper Authority

"But I've already been baptized. Are you saying my baptism wasn't good enough?" Kevin says.
"No, no that wasn't what I was trying to say!" I quickly say. "We are just offering you the chance to be baptized by someone holding the authority of God."  Have you ever had this conversation with a Mormon missionary before? Have you ever wondered why they are asking you if you want to be baptized AGAIN? Why are they saying that your previous baptism wasn't of God? Why would they think that? Well, let's take a little stroll through the foggy streets of London (I wish) and we'll talk about it, shall we?


The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was restored by the prophet Joseph Smith in 1830. This was quite a bit of time after Christ walked the earth. When Christ was on the earth, he gave the priesthood authority to baptize to a select few.
"In 1829 Joseph Smith received the priesthood authority to organize Christ’s Church from Heavenly Messengers who had held this authority anciently including the prophet John the Baptist and apostles Peter, James, and John. In 1830 the same Church of Jesus Christ that existed centuries ago was organized and restored to the earth." (Mormon.org)

After the last apostle died, God's authority was taken from the earth. "Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a ^afamine of bread, nor a ^bthirst for water, but of hearing the ^cwords of the Lord." Amos 8:11

Through out time, we have seen the gospel be restored to the earth through different prophets. When the people are wicked, God takes his power off the earth so that it doesn't get misused. This is what we believe the previous scripture is speaking about. If God's power was taken off the earth, then it needed to be restored to the earth. When Joseph Smith restored Christ's church back to the earth, he was given the authority to baptize "in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost." This authority is so important to have. Not everyone is able to receive it because it is so precious. You must be worthy.

"We are baptized by someone who has God’s priesthood authority for the remission of sins. (Acts

2:38, Acts 22:16). We are also baptized to become members of the Church of Jesus Christ, and to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:5).
Through the ordinance of baptism, we make a promise, called a covenant, with God. We promise to accept Christ, to become His followers, and to keep His commandments to the end of our lives. In return, our Heavenly Father promises to forgive our sins and let us return to live with Him, provided we keep our covenants."

A very smart man once explained the concept of "proper authority" to me in terms I can understand. In other words, he dumbed it down to a food story. That gets Sister V.'s attention. "So you're speeding down the road, going 30 miles over. All of the sudden you see lights behind you! But it isn't the flashing red, white, and blue lights; it's an ice cream truck! You pull over wondering what all of this is about. The ice cream man walks over to you and very kindly hands you a $200 ticket for speeding, then walks away. You sit there dumbstruck. He can't give you a ticket! He's an ice cream man! He doesn't have the authority to do something like that!"
Well see, my good friends, authority matters. God's authority ESPECIALLY matters. When He gave Joseph Smith the authority to baptize in His name, He made sure that they knew authority was given by God and not by going to church school or other things.

 "He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto ^aJohn’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of ^arepentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.When they heard this, they were ^abaptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with ^atongues, and prophesied." Acts 19: 2-6

 

After baptism by the proper authority, someone holding the priesthood of God will lay their hands upon you and give you the gift of the Holy Ghost. Baptism is not complete without it as we learn in the scriptures. With this incredible gift, as long as you remain worthy you will always have the spirit with you. You will be able to discern right from wrong, and you will be told truths by the Holy Ghost. It is a wonderful gift that has helped me remain safe and worthy countless times. I'm so grateful that this gift was part of my baptism.

So you've come to know that the Book of Mormon is a true book of God; another testament of Jesus Christ. You want to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! The missionaries have set a baptism date for you. You've already been baptized! Your previous baptism was not of correct authority, but your heart was in the right place. That's why we want to give you a chance to be baptized by someone holding the power of God! Isn't that amazing? I can testify that my baptism was one of the most amazing steps toward God and eternal salvation. I'm so grateful that I was baptized by my dad who worthily held the priesthood of God and baptized me with proper authority.