Be an Example and a Light

Last month, I was excited to sit and listen to General Conference, and couldn't wait to hear from the prophet. In his talk, Be an Example and a Light, President Monson encouraged us to carry the light of Christ. He said, "We become examples of the believers by living the gospel of Jesus Christ in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, and in purity. As we do so, our lights will shine for others to see."

At first, I thought I was a pretty good example. I have pretty clean speech- at least compared to my husband. My testimony is solid. I have great friends that help me eat healthy.

... I could probably do better by adding some exercise, and taking the Gypsy Sisters reality show off my DVR. I figured my light could use some improvement, but I was already on the right path.

Then my brother, Elias- in all intents and purposes- died. I let the light President Monson referred to dim. His words still lingered, but I didn't know what to do with them.

I failed this month in the sense that I wasn't the example I set out to be, but I did gain perspective. I am surrounded by the light of many of God's servants. They have lifted me, and carried me, and I am grateful that they have touched my life. This is what I have learned in relation to the prophet's counsel:

In Being an Example in Word and Conversation: I learned this month that just because I don't cuss, I can be an example in conversation by bringing more love into my words, and less judgment. I spent a beautiful week listening to friends and family share their thoughts, and felt the spirit so strongly in their words. President Monson said, "May we follow the example of the Savior, who spoke with tolerance and kindness throughout His ministry".

In Being an Example in Charity: I learned that I need to be more open to service. I always know that I need to serve others, but I am usually only willing when it is convenient. When my world crashed this month, I was grateful for all those who sent meals, offered their homes, and helped us to send Elias off the best way we could. I realized that it is time to focus more on the priorities in my life, and set boundaries on my time so that I can serve my family and my fellowman with all my heart.

In Being an Example in Faith: I learned that I still have more to learn about the Gospel, and God's plan for me. I have spent many hours this month studying the Plan of Salvation. I have enjoyed the assurance of the Holy Ghost as my spirit recognized the truth's of the Gospel.

In Being an Example in Purity: I learned that my body needs spiritual AND physical care in order for me to achieve peace. After the services, I felt overwhelmed, forgetful, and unnerved... Possibly, because we spent a week eating some of Elias's favorite foods- not the healthiest- AND I ignored life's responsibilities entirely. Luckily, I have loved ones who are willing to feed me and exercise with me. Thank goodness! Their love has helped me to refocus, and let my body heal with my spirit.

In Being an Example in Spirit: I learned that for a couple weeks I "lost" my happiness, and I needed to choose to "find" it daily. One day, years ago, one of my friends mentioned that I was always happy. We had a long talk about why I would always be so happy- especially when I had really been feeling sad. The conclusion was just that I was a "happy Mormon".

This month I wasn't so happy, and the last couple of weeks I have had to decide that I was going to have a good day no matter what. I love this quote from President Monson's talk,

          Life is perfect for none of us, and at times the challenges and difficulties we face may

          become overwhelming, causing our light to dim. However, with help from our

          Heavenly Father, coupled with support from others, we can regain that light which will  

          illuminate our own path once again and provide the light others may need.

It's funny- When I first heard President Monson's talk I thought it would be an easy talk to live by, because I figured I was already doing my part. BUT, Heavenly Father taught me that I still have much to learn. Even more ironic, is that He gave me this lesson by the shining light of Christ that burned from within others.

I am grateful for their examples, and for the nurturing love these friends and family offered my soul and my testimony. I hope to share their light, as I work to make my shine more fervently.