Of Things That Matter Most

I have always loved general conference! I love hearing the prophets and apostles speak to us and learning at their feet. Especially since I took a Teachings of the Living Prophets class at institute, and learned how to really effectivly study their words. However, this last conference I literally had a life changing experience due to one of the talks. And when I first listened to it, I thought it was a good talk, and I liked it, but as I reread it in my Ensign a few weeks ago, I had this huge epiphany (I love that word) and have literally changed my life because of these words. The talk was by Pres Uchtdorf and it is titled Of Things That Matter Most . If you haven't already, take the time to read it. I think the reason it means so much to me is because of so many things that are going on in my own life right now. And lately I sit and think how overwhelming it is to be a woman and a mother in the church. I have felt like we have so many responsibilities. not only do we care for our husbands and children (which in and of itself is a HUGE responsibility) but we have everything that goes along with being a saint. We have visiting teaching that needs to be done, we need to get to the temple more often, we have our callings to do, we should go to those Relief Society activities, we need to do service for our neighbors, etc etc etc. Then put on top of that I work part time and also want to be involved in my kids school, there is extended family things and the list goes on and on. And I feel like the things that I do never measure up either. Then I read this talk, and what I heard President Uchtdorf saying to me is KEEP IT SIMPLE! He even says "It is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions."

As I pondered this talk (and reread ad pondered it more) I thought, "Why do we make living the gospel so complicated?" Yes, I need to do my visiting teaching, but I don't need to make a cute handout and a treat in order to go. All the sisters need from me is a visit! Yes, I need to teach that lesson, but I don't need to do all the crafty handouts (that will probably go in the trash anyways.) Yes I need to spend time with my kids, but we don't always need to be crafting or cooking or going on outings. Some of the most fun times we have had as a family lately have been just sitting down and playing board games, or acting out scripture stories, or just being silly together!

So I guess that is my New Years resolution, to simplify my life. I know it's not a measurable goal, but it is something that really means so much to me. So if I don't put on the most elaborate PAck Meetings as Cubmaster, or if I tell you "No I can't be on your PTA commitee, or if my visiting teaching sisters don't get treats, know it's not because I don't care. It is just because I am doing what I can to reduce the clutter of my life and focus on my relationships, with my Savior and with my family.