Thoughts of Gratitude

The secret of happiness consists not of having, but of being; not of possessing, but of enjoying. It is a warm glow of the heart at peace with itself.... It is the aroma of life, lived in harmony with high ideals. - David O. McKay

My Heavenly Father LOVES me! I am reminded each day by the blessings that I receive. This quote by David O. Mckay helped me remember to be happy and enjoy life. Thank you Ashley for posting this on your blog today, it was just what I needed to read. Another blog I read today that was so inspiring and just what I needed to read was thoughts by Angie, To all the mothers out there... I get it now! (before you read it, grab a box of Kleenex)

Aaron and I received a calling about a month and a half ago that has really blessed my life. We were called to be Gospel Doctrine teachers. We have had this calling before, so I was so excited to receive it again. It is so awesome to me to be able to learn more in depth about the scriptures and make them come to life and apply them to what we are doing day to day. It helps me really open my eyes and understand why Heavenly Father felt we needed this scripture on this earth at this time.

I absolutely love Sundays. When ever anyone has asked me what my favorite day of the week is, I have always said, "Sunday." Many people question, "why?" Knowing that I am LDS and that "restricts" me from doing a lot of things, such as shopping, sports, etc. I love this day because all of the clutter from the rest of the world is gone. I get to go to church for 3 hours and feel the spirit so strongly, and learn more about my Savior, Jesus Christ. Learn how he loves me unconditionally, and that he has atoned for my sins. No one is perfect, no one. Jesus knew this, so he made a way for us that we can return and live with him again.
I am especially grateful, that I am able to repent and to become clean. I know that the atonement works, and when I truly repent, I am made CLEAN again!

When I look at this picture of the Savior it brings tears to my eyes, knowing that he atoned for us willingly, even though it was extremely hard, he even cried to Heavenly Father, saying, "Abba." We know this was tough, but he still did it because he loves us.

A church Hymn keeps playing in my head while writing this.
I Stand All Amazed

I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,
Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.
I tremble to know that for me he was crucified,
That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.

I marvel that he would descend from his throne divine
To rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine,
That he should extend his great love unto such as I,
Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.

I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt!
Such mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?
No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,
Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.

Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me
Enough to die for me!
Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me!

I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father and Jesus for their love and continual blessings. I am grateful for the gospel in my life that helps me know how I should live, I am so grateful for my eternal family who is always there for me NO MATTER WHAT. I am grateful for my friends who are always there to help and lift and support me. I am grateful for the ward I am a part of.

THANK YOU, I am eternally GRATEFUL.