My daughter and I are studying God's music this week. This is an area that triggers me A LOT so I already know that I need to lean into it and discover why I am struggling with this. There is much to consider and I haven't come out the other end of it yet. So far, what I am noticing is that it's opened Pandora's box. It seems impossible to ask yourself what God's preference is in regards to music without asking yourself what his preference is in every facet of my lifestyle. Truly, my life is being spiritually shaken and it's taken many years for me to even get to the point where I feel ready to learn these principles. This may seem like an odd request, but those of you who wouldn't mind, would you keep my family and I in your prayers? We would appreciate it.

What did you learn today?

Win: My goal was 10,000 steps today. I reached 10,045 so far. Win: I drank 60 oz. of water today so far (vast improvement so I'm counting it as a win.) Win: Logged all of my food today. Win: Day 4 streak of learning Español (Plus! I learned how to make that squiggly mark above my "n" on my cell.) Win: I spent about 30 minutes taking some time to nourish myself spiritually, emotionally and mentally. Win: Gained new awareness. Win: Did my best at work today. Win: Spent time with my daughter. Win: My son did the dishes. (Okay, he shares this win with me but in my house - it's definitely a win!) Win: Did all of my laundry. Clean clothes! Now for my "learning curves" which are still technically "wins" as long as I apply what I learned: - over-ate That's a lot of wins now that I'm looking at it. I think the difference between last week and this week is prayer and accountability. And... When I hold myself accountable, I tend to make better choices most of the time. When I make better choices, I feel better and am more productive, happier and confident. Last week I prayed for help to find hope. I wasn't in a good space. Here's the baby steps I took in order, based upon the answers to my prayers: Asked for help (prayer) Scriptures Journaling Uplifting music Inspirational book Gratitude awareness Meditation Self-help apps New skill (Spanish) Better habits There were lots of tears, hugs and "I love yous" sprinkled in-between each of those steps and they were equally beneficial. It wasn't a steady, straight line either. At times, I felt like I was in a deep pit and couldn't get out. Sometimes I gave in to feelings of depression, grief and anxiety. Some days I was a hot mess and I took my mess to God each time. Each time I found mercy, grace, forgiveness, hope, faith, comfort (not always right away but eventually) and a mega dose of perfect, pure love. Grief, depression, anxiety...they can be difficult to handle. Ask for help. All of those steps can be traced back to conversations with God. I know he loves me and I know he loves you. ❤ #WithGodAllThingsArePossible #AnsweredPrayers #HearHim

Quote in meme by Dahr Jamail

"What does it mean for you that the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth? It means that you and your family can be sealed together forever! It means that because you have been baptized by one who has authority from Jesus Christ and have been confirmed a member of His Church, you can enjoy the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. He will guide and protect you. It means you will never be left comfortless or without access to the power of God to help you." - President Russell M. Nelson I an grateful for the restoration. What a blessing it has been to be a part of God's restored church.

The Doctrine & Covenants is scripture that counsels us repeatedly to "be of good cheer." We also know that this book is the handbook (or playback if you will) for the building up of Zion. Our theme in our ward's women's organization, Relief Society, is "Finding Joy." This theme is beautifully interwoven in the fabric of "being of good cheer." With the adversity and challenges before us, I have been seeking to understand this principle more deeply. I am convinced that being of good cheer rides upon the shoulders of hope and faith. I am understanding the need for being cheerful as a skill needed to establish and build up Zion...G-d's city. If our counsel is to be of good cheer, than what does this reveal about our Savior and His city of Zion? I am grateful for opposition and the challenges that spur me on to turn to my Savior for guidance, understanding and assistance. I am grateful for the love and encouragement I receive daily. I am grateful for the many resources available to us, to help us in mortality. I am grateful for the understanding that we can "be of good cheer" and find joy amidst tribulation. Thank you to those who exemplify this principle and bring so much joy and beauty into my life. I love you. I am grateful for your positive influence in my life. Be of Good Cheer https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/10/36oaks?lang=eng

Question I'm pondering... How did our prophets heal from their trauma, their pain and anguish, their suffering and/or persecution?

It's hard to believe that you aren't here. I already miss you. I'm glad that you don't have to suffer anymore my sweet, soul sister and friend. I'll cherish our merries and always feel blessed to have had you in my life. Until we meet again.

This was this morning's devotional. It is 1 John 4:18. I've never understood it quite this way before.