"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Out deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us. It is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates other." - Nelson Mandela
I've heard this quote so many times, but I don't think I've ever really understood it, or what it meant to me - I'm not sure I ever will, or that it will ever mean the same thing to me in every situation. But for right now, I feel a connection with it, and I know if I don't write my thoughts down now, I won't remember them later.
I guess what I'm feeling is that I know who I am and I know myself very well. I love who I am. I have my flaws, but I love the strengths I've been able to recognize and that others have helped me see. I am passionate....about so many things. There are times, though, that I feel like my passions make me intimidating or cause me to radiate a vibe that says, "I'm intense. Just you try and keep up with me." I don't want to make people feel that way, and maybe I don't. Maybe I've just over-analyzed all of this, but I know one thing for sure - I should never be ashamed of who I am. There's nothing wrong with being passionate - I think it's what brings so much joy to my life. I think what I'm going to do now, though, is learn to "bridle my passions" (We've been told to "liken" the scriptures to us, right?) I want to be passionate and approachable. As I work on letting my own light shine, I hope it helps the people around me let their lights shine, too.
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Buenos Aires Temple Rededication Announced
The first presidency announced the re-dedication of the Buenos Aires Temple in three sessions on the 9 of September. Oh happy day! There will be a public open house from the 4 of August to the 25th of August with the exception of Sundays. Saturday, the 8th of August there will be a cultural event as part of the celebration.
December 2011 & January 2012
Hermana Litster is in Argentina!
MTC Photos September- November
Erin,
ReplyDeleteI think you are an AMAZING person. We have known each other for many years. And you have always had such a beautiful spirit about you. You still have a beautiful spirit. I love your example and your testimony. Yes, never be ashamed of who you are. I spent many years being ashamed of who I was, and only seeing my flaws. This whole experience has taught me to not do that. Just keep doing what you are doing, you are touching so many people's lives. And as an RS President, you are going to help so many sisters in the branch. Love you!