Dear Trey and Kajsa,
These last few weeks have been periods of growth and understanding for mommy. I was also recently called to teach Relief Society and have been able to really dive into some gospel topics. I've had a lot of things on my mind and these are some quotes that I've been thinking about and wanted to share with you and hope you will love when you get older.
There are so many things that you will learn in your life but I truly feel that none are more important than these two things. First, that you know your relationship with God and the purpose of your existence, and second to Serve or have Charity. You will find as you study that these two things are inter-related. :)
Speaking of Life and Death and the Plan of Salvation Joseph Smith said, “It is a subject we ought to study more than any other, we ought to study it day and night, for the world is ignorant in reference to their true conditions and relations. If we have any claim on our Heavenly Father for anything it is for knowledge on this important subject.”
Study and Pray hard to develop a relationship with your Heavenly Father. He WILL reveal truths to you about your existence as an eternal being. It will make all the difference in the choices that you make and your happiness in this life!!
President Thomas S. Monson, stated: “I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish—and in effect save their lives.”
From Ashley Sullingers Blog
www.patrickandashley.blogspot.com "That's what being a mother is, it's service. That's why it brings so much joy. So tonight, when you've had a long day and your kids are on your nerves, realize how much different you would be without them."
I really want you to gain your own testimony that when we serve others we serve God and ourselves because we have god-like joy. Our greatest happiness comes in our families. That is why God sent us down here. To have spouses and children who will help us get back to his presence.
I want to preface this quote by saying that there will be many times in your lives when people will let you down. Get used to it. Even your closest friends and family will let you down. We are not perfect beings. But that is not the point. The point is how YOU choose to respond.
Marvin J. Ashton said:
"Real charity is not something you give away; it is something that you acquire and make a part of yourself. And when the virtue of charity becomes implanted in your heart, you are never the same again. Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don't judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone's differences, weaknesses and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn't handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other."
Mommy and Daddy love you so much and feel so blessed to be your parents!!
Love you,
Mommy
