Hard Things

I had a particularly difficult Sunday that left me pretty overwhelmed with feelings of inadequacy. I have a demanding calling and sometimes, I just can't do everything that I want to accomplish, or feel like I should be able to do for the children in my primary. There have been many times over the years when I had a feeling that someday I would be in this calling. I did not expect it to happen during a time when I was so busy at home that I'd struggle with making enough time to fulfill both callings.  This calling has stretched me as a leader, a peacemaker, and humbled me right out of both my smarty pants and my bossy pants and onto my knees begging The Lord to help me. I am so aware of weaknesses that I did not know I had before. I am also finding new strengths and talents through this humbling service. 

I wanted to prepare my children for this little cycle so that when it happens to them, maybe they won't have to experience the same disappointment or pitiful frustration on their path to humility and self awareness. I wanted to teach them to accept and expect weaknesses. 

Tonight's FHE lesson was about overcoming trials and finding strength in our weaknesses. 

We read Ether 12:27

And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and mygrace is sufficient for all men that humblethemselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.

We discussed some of each of our weaknesses or current trials that we are each experiencing. I pointed out that each of our problems are different, and our specific trials are often given to us by Heavenly Father to stretch us, make us stronger, and help us recognize the abilities and potential that He already knows is within us. 

Our scripture for the month is Phillippians 4:13,  "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." 

Our trials have purpose. 

It is only under a great deal of outside stress, heat, pressure, and time, that the rock develops the crystals.  The rock looks the same on the outside, but a great change occurs as beauty develops within. 

Together, we smashed open a geode and each child kept a piece to remind them of the potential beauty and strength we can gain through overcoming trials and perfecting our weaknesses. 

I think the geode is how The Lord always sees us. He knows our potential. We are already precious gems to Him. 

Challenges will always be there. 

You can do hard things, children. 

Accept the challenges, embrace your weaknesses, ask for help, and be strengthened as you develop more sparkle. 

Hard things are good for us. 

Love, Mom