This week we finished getting up Christmas decor, lights, and Andy and I even finished wrapping 99% of the presents. I have been listening to Christmas music and I just really feel a drive to celebrate to the fullest this year. We’ve been talking to our kids about why we get presents on Jesus’s birthday since it’s his birthday. They were a bit puzzled at first. It kind of hit them that it was weird that they get presents when it’s His birthday. We did some brainstorming and they understood that it is about us giving to each other that is the way we celebrate our Savior. For family night we wrote down a gift we were going to give the Savior this Christmas. I have to tell you, I wrote something simple and I’m still not perfect at it.
Last week in come follow me we read Ether 12:27. I feel like 2020 has really made my weaknesses known unto me, and now I am focusing in on making those weaknesses strengths. I’ve been trying to do a few things aside from scripture study and prayer (which are the most helpful, but I’ve needed a little extra help with the things I’m struggling with). I’ve been doing some meditation a couple times a week, journaling, exercising, trying to eat healthier, drink more water, and listening to uplifting podcasts. I’ve been listening to a “Better than Happy” podcast and the one I listened to this week talked about how a lot of times our weaknesses are heightened or over exaggerated strengths (the thought of moderation in all things came to mind). This has helped me in a few ways. 1)it’s helped me be a little less harsh on myself 2) it’s helped me appreciate the good in others instead of focusing on the negative. I find that journaling all the things I’m learning and the things that have been positive or blessings in my life have been the most helpful change. In a book I’m reading, I’ve also learned that if you write out your frustrations and then throw that piece of paper away it is a physical symbol of a change of heart— us members of The Church should understand the power of a physical action to symbolize a spiritual change.
I also downloaded an app called “Happify.” It has some good activities (and some that seem less helpful, but you can weed through them). One of the activities last week was watching a two minute video on managing stress and anxiety. It said to look for evidence against the anxiety. This has helped me focus on the positive things. I have also realized that this is a lot like physical exercise— I’m not going to get my mind “in shape” instantaneously, but as I do the exercises to lead towards building those mental muscles. I have noticed a difference and doing the right thought processes about life events has come a little easier each and every day that I practice.
And now a quick recap from my week in pictures. I hope you all have a great week!
I hope Harvey gets his teeth in soon. I’ll have to try that podcast out. Podcasts are how I endure doing the dishes. 🙂