Learning to Dance Through the Downpour

Hello, my beautiful readers. I, like you most of you, am braving another one of life's torrential down-pours. BUT! Instead of blaring the melancholy music, pulling out my already thinning locks, crying so much I have to call a flood specialist, yelling at the heavens until my voice leaves me and eventually becoming comatose, I decided to write you a run-on sentence. Actually, I really intend to write a (hopefully) delight some list of things I'm grateful for to help me focus on what is, in the eternal perspective of eternity, 'but a small moment.'          ( D&C 121:7)     

 I am grateful for...

 1. Swings and bare-footed walks through long grass

2. The warm wind through my hair and sitting on park benches

3. Roof-top access from my room

4. Hearing of success stories from some of my 'kids' and knowing that I was able to impart something of value in their lives and make a difference. 

5. Fruit snacks and coca-cola.

6. The Priesthood and a caring ward family

7. Hard experiences that prepare you for something else- being able to look back and see the growth that you've made.

8. Music, my ability to sing, and old bugs bunny cartoons

9. Having my best friend know my heart and me, and be by my side every step of the way . It makes things better when earthly friends are far away or gone or aren't able to understand. 

10. The time I have been given here on this earth and the ability to share it with God's children around me. 

I've been trying to pinpoint specific lessons the Lord is trying to teach me as I trudge through the trails. I'm learning about eternal families, what it means to love and share my heart,  to sacrifice all of me,  how to work hard, the importance of  friendships- true ones and the opportunity to build the most important friendship I'll ever have with my Savior,  time clocks- mine and the eternal one, how to make the Lord's will my will, being consistent with my character,  patience...

I just need to remember that when my heart aches more than I can stand, it's just the refiner's fire purifying my heart, building character and helping me progress to where He knows I can be eternally. I am going to strive to keep looking for the silver beams of sunlight fighting their way to break through the heavy clouds pouring overhead, blurring my vision from the beauty that STILL surrounds me and the eternal blessings that I do posses here and now.  I need to remember that I am only 21, (even if it is only for a few more days) and now is the BEST time to embrace life and be the best me and find and make time to have fun too. To enjoy this journey...
 

I guess that is what I'm learning, and what we all are trying to learn...how to dance through the downpour.