Carrot Juice, Among Other Things

Today, as is occasionally the case, I am grateful for several things. I am grateful for the exciting game of soccer (my school won tonight!), I am grateful for the ordinance of baptism by immersion as a way of formally beginning a new life devoted to the teachings of Jesus Christ, and last but not least, I am grateful that my mom had the foresight and the insight to send me off to college with a bottle of cold carrot juice. I never thought it could be so refreshing until tonight. :)

A New Planner

With the approach of a new year, I got a new weekly planner. I spent some time writing my class and work schedule in it and such. It feels good to have a new planner with which I can review my goals and plans for the week or the month. I am also grateful that as I improve my ability to manage myself and my time, I also improve my ability to focus on what matters most.

Serving as a Freshman Orientation Leader

Taking the time to volunteer to help incoming freshman get acquainted with their new school is quite rewarding. One of these rewards was unexpected: Fresh reminders of why I am in college, and considering how well I live the principles and expectations given to the freshman. My commitment to learn and serve is renewed as I help the new students understand those principles and expectations.

Washing Dishes

I washed a couple sets of dishes today. Strangely enough, sometimes I enjoy that chore. Not only do I enjoy the end result of a clean sink, it's kind of relaxing for me while I'm doing it. Maybe it's the sounds of running water or the satisfaction of seeing food melt away off the surface of a plate. I am grateful for the opportunity today to wash a few dishes for some friends.

Looking Out for Me

Sometimes I worry too much, perhaps because I feel the full weight of my problems on my shoulders. But, it doesn't have to be that way. I am never alone. Today, I had dinner with more extended family and they told me they were willing to help me with anything I would need. Today, one of my roommates helped me to identify and begin to solve a small pest problem in my part of the apartment. Each and every day, I know we all have a Father in Heaven who watches out for me and for you so we never have to be alone in any problem or disappointment. I am loved, we all are loved, by many wonderful beings, seen and unseen.

A Tour for My Sister

Today, I am grateful for the opportunity to help my sister move into her new apartment and give her a tour of her new school. I am looking forward to sharing this school year with her.

Spontaneous Service Opportunity

It has been a nice, relaxing Sunday with extended family. I also enjoyed today's church meeting. After church, my uncle asked me if I was available to go with him right then to visit a family in the neighborhood and administer the sacrament to a sick son. I had never met this family before, but I am so glad I came with my uncle to help serve them. We ended up staying for about an hour and a half talking with them about some tough things the family is going through and encouraging them to continue to have faith in Jesus Christ. It was an unexpected opportunity for me to do good for someone else. When we left, the family expressed their appreciation for our visit and our service. It has indeed been a good Sunday.