Lately, because of some conversations with other people, I've been thinking about life, my testimony, and the things that happen along the way to get you where you are. I remember often thinking that my life was rougher than normal, and wishing that I had some of the lives of my friends. Now, I am so grateful for the lessons my life taught me, how it shaped me, and how it changed me. I don't believe any of this is an accident. We all experienced trials and successes because it would make us who we are.
I am grateful for a religion that has deeply blessed me throughout my life. Without the knowledge and belief in a Heavenly Father and a Savior who love me, I would be lost. I don't have a knowledge of the hows and whys of the gospel, but I have a testimony of the principals of the gospel and know they are true and there. I want more than anything to watch my sweet children grow up faithful and diligent. I wish there was some magical way to ensure that, but I think it takes faith and diligence (and maybe the Palmer secret. Just kidding). A non-member friend and I were talking, and she mentioned the obviousness of people who preach their religion but fail to practice it; I hope to never be one of those people. I do not want myself nor my children to do any more than live the gospel we are taught, and I admire people who are genuine people. They are few and far between, but they are there. Many of you are these people, and I am grateful for your example.
I think that life is beautiful and hard. I am grateful to go through it with a husband who is kind, loving, and a leader by example. I am grateful for all of the blessings and trials I have been given. I am so grateful for four beautiful children. I find it humbling and frustrating to be a mother, but I also find it truly rewarding. I believe, I understand love when I look at them. They are my happiness. I love them and want nothing more than their happiness.
I am grateful for a life that has taught me how to love, stand up for what I believe in, not be oblivious to how it really is, and most importantly, a life that has taught me that this life just isn't perfect, but it's still wonderful.
I know this is a random post, but I felt it important to use this sort of journaling to remind myself of a few things. I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving. My mom, Chris, the kids and I are going to our friends' Amy and Jacob's house. She is the best hostess in the world! When I asked Chris if he wanted to go there, he replied, "Yes, she has the best food!" She really does! Have a great Thanksgiving!
15 years ago
8 comments:
Hey Ashley..
I think it's great you have such a wonderful testominy.. I feel like I need to work on mine everyday with everything going on in this crazy world right now. But your right it helps with great friends and Family along the way! Take care and I hope your family also has a wonderful Thanksgiving..
That was beautiful Ash, you really are an example of what we all should be. I mean i was raised in the gospel and really took it for granted until we became friends and got to take the discussions together, i really feel like that was my conversion too! you really are a great example and i am glad to call you a friend, and i know what you mean about how important it is that we have this gospel to remind us that Heavenly Father knows us and our needs and he will take care of us if we but ask, have a fantastic thanksgiving.
Thank you for sharing your testimony. I really need to be more grateful for what we have. I know there are so many people out there that are struggling and we are so blessed. Thanks for reminding me of these.
I am so-o grateful for BLOGS! I felt the spirit of your testimony and the beauty of your gratitude. I too have always cherished the gospel and my particular life experiences. My greatest desire is for all of my children and their children to embrace and enjoy living the gospel. Thank YOU for helping my dreams come true. I love you and miss you, Mamo
You are amazing Ashley. I feel so lucky that we are friends. You have taught me so much and have been a true friend. I know how much you've gone through and it amazes me how strong you are! Thanks for being such a great example to me :)
What a wonderful reminder of how blessed we all are. Thanks for sharing! :)
Hi Ashley!
I was blog surf and found your through amy allred. This is Amber SMith Tyrell Smith's sister-in-law! I just wanted to say hi and that I think that your family is adoreable. If you don't remember me that is ok too. HAHA! Anyway this posting was absolutely well done. I am so happy to see you doing so well. Lots of love for the smith family!!! AMBER SMITH
You have such a strong testimony Ashley, you are a great example to so many people. It's good to hear things like that every once in a while to remind us how blessed we are to have the gospel in our lives!
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