Sacrifice

Isn't it understood that sacrifice requires a bit of discomfort, even work? Why do we sacrifice then? What's in it for us?

Sometimes I make sacrifices because I believe it's the right thing to do. Other times, I sacrifice because I expect that I will receive blessings in return. Whatever the reason though, I know that it's not necessarily going to be convenient, fun, short-lived, or painless.

Teaching seminary is a sacrifice, but I do it because I know it's the right thing for me to do. My calling came from the Lord, not a church leader or parent. (This helps me keep perspective when I spend 5 hours planning a lesson, and only half of the students show up for class).

Yes, teaching seminary is a sacrifice, but I receive blessings in return. In fact, those blessings outweigh my offering. My testimony is stronger and my knowledge of the gospel is deeper.Hey - My capacity to function on very little sleep is greater too!

So, the next time so-and-so says that so-and-so isn't a "morning person" I will know not to come back with, "Well, who is?!" Instead, I will understand that so-and-so doesn't quite get the principle of sacrifice yet.

Temple Trip

It's official. I love working with the youth! When I heard our ward's mutual kids were going to the Columbus Temple to perform baptisms for the dead, I volunteered to go along too. My husband and son were already going, and it was neat for us to all be there together. Here's most of our group as we left that evening:

My husband and I decided to stay behind in Columbus so we could eat out at Pei Wei (a restaurant they don't have in Toledo). Before we left though, I got most of the seminary kids to take this cute picture:

I love these guys!