Of course, we all want our hopes and dreams to come true. We sincerely want to achieve our goals and attain our greatest desires. At times when we see someone reach that ecstasy when she is sweet, humble and deserving, we are both inspired and touched.
It can be a wonderful moment that can change your life and that of others.
But we live in a broken world and face obstacles that seem to take our breath away and destroy the possibility of reaching all our hopes and dreams. In some cases we deal with obstacles that quickly take our eyes off the goal. And instead of waiting on the edge of our seat for a chance to dive into the opportunities before us, we pull back and doubt our possibilities. Perhaps we have to deal with other emotions that sew doubt, fear, and other reactions in our mind and heart.
Sentiments like “I can’t do this” or “Good things never happen to people like me” are far too often voiced by regular folks like you and me and especially those in the throes of adversity and hardship. But God didn’t put us on this earth to fail. He provided a plan and a purpose that empowers all men and women to achieve their potentials. And because of the Savior Jesus Christ, all our fondest dreams can come to fruition.
When life’s challenges seem to get us down and threaten to overcome us, we must remember who is on our side. In the middle of the storm, when a battle is raging, we are not alone. Our cast is a team, captained by the supreme Creator himself, and we’re on the same side. We are assured victory if we align ourselves with the King. Our role models exemplify divine characteristics, and we come to know and appreciate Him more every day because good leaders guide us and teach us about his true nature.
When my son was just a boy, he learned to play the piano at the persistence of his mother. Later he took on the percussion and excelled at drums. In high school, he learned to play the guitar. He used his gift to produce a number of songs. His thought-provoking lyrics and catchy tunes still cheer our home with fun and harmony. I am amazed at his talent.
This passion continued into college, and his abilities were noticed by others. The gigs where he played let him pursue his passion and have fun doing it. Upon sharing his music with the family, his grandfather would ask for a copy of the lyrics so he could read the words and follow along the verses and chorus lines. I think the words made the songs even that much better, and Grandpa didn’t want to misunderstand any one of them.
The following are some phrases about you and your potential to make a difference in others’ lives:
You were preserved to come to the earth in this time for a special purpose. Not just a few of you, but all of you. There are things for each of you to do that no one else can do as well as you. If you do not prepare to do them, they will not be done. If you will let Him, I testify that our Father in Heaven will walk with you through the journey of life and inspire you to know your special purpose here.
You can read the entire address from Bishop H. Burke Peterson online Your Life Has a Purpose.
This is just the beginning. I am totally convinced that you are not even aware how amazing you are.
What we need now is the greatest generation of young adults in the history of the Church. We need your whole heart and soul. We need vibrant, thinking, passionate young adults who know how to listen and respond to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit as you make your way through the daily trials and temptations of being a young, contemporary Latter-day Saint.
In other words, it’s time to raise the bar not only for missionaries but also for returned missionaries and for your entire generation.
Living in a world
That’s constantly changing
All of the lines are blurred
Between right and wrong
In the middle of a storm
A battle is waging
But I already know
Which side I’m on
Pre:
I will fight for my king
Cause he is fighting for me
Chorus:
I want to be . . .
Firm as the mountain
Stretched to the sky
Strong as a fortress
Sure as the night
I want to be . . .
Straight as an arrow
Deep as the sea
That’s how He lived
So that’s how I’ll be
Following the One
Who’s leading us onward
Right there by His side
Wherever He goes
Running to the aid
To read more of Walter’s articles, click the picture.
Of those who are wounded
To lift them off the ground
And carry them home
Pre:
He has given everything
So I will give Him all of me
In 1989, Walter Penning formed a consultancy based in Salt Lake City and empowered his clients by streamlining processes and building a loyal, lifetime customer base with great customer service. His true passion is found in his family. He says the best decision he ever made was to marry his sweetheart and have children. The wonderful family she has given him and her constant love, support, and patience amid life's challenges is his panacea.
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