Finding the JOY!!!

So, last week, when I finally opened up and spoke out about the things that were eating me up, I had an emotional breakthrough! I felt rejuvinated! Honesty is a good thing! I decided that I needed to connect with the many wonderful people in our area, and make a more concerted effort to make friends. Regardless of the fact that money is EXTREMELY tight for us right now, I began attending more events and planned a few get-togethers here in my home. Reuniting with people really helped me. I felt my burdens lifted.

Most importantly, I decided to take on Personal Progress again. Yes, I had already completed my goals as a teen, but since I am now working with the young women in our ward, I thought it would be a great way to help me and them with their current goals. And, HOLY COW!! My scripture time became so much more powerful, as I was focussing on certain subjects each time I read. I LOVE THE SCRIPTURES!!

I also continued journaling my feelings--more regularly, though. I realized how Satan was working me over! I could see from a more objective perspective how deeply depressed I had become and how quickly I had despaired. I felt frustrated with myself, yet--I felt excited to be happy again! Optimism--with a realistic perspective--is my re-found approach to life :-).

I've read a lot of conference talks on faith, and I've taken a lot of time to ponder over our gospel doctrine lessons (about Abraham and Joseph of Egypt--two dudes that were tried beyond belief!). If you, too, are being worked over by Satan, check these scriptures out: Hebrews 11, Alma 32:17-43, and Ether 12:6-22. These scrip's really helped me. They lifted my soul out of the duldrums.

It's amazing how terrible Satan can make you feel--even to the point where you don't want to go on another day. I think it was a good lesson for me to learn--tough as heck, but good to learn. Our situation hasn't relented yet, but I just feel more peace. I'm recommitted to living happily, faithfully, despite our trials.