The last couple of years, I have joined some of my blogging friends and chosen one word or phrase that encapsulates all my goals and ideals for the new year.
Last year I took the phrase "Law of the Harvest" and began applying it to my life, especially in our homeschool. We definitely made some strides, and I am grateful for the lessons I learned about being more consistent. I still have a long way to go, but I can see that we have improved. And improvement is progress, right?
I feel like 2014 held some of my biggest, most difficult trials, and also some wonderful blessings. I've seen several people online saying how glad they are that 2014 is over-- and I kind of agree.
Two children serving as missionaries: one in a part time service mission, one in a full time proselyting mission.
The birth of our beautiful and beloved thirteenth child.
Being cast as the Narrator in a musical program for our church based on the parable of the Ten Virgins.
Welcoming home one of our missionaries.
Learning more about high school transcripts, preparing my high schoolers' transcripts, and teaching other homeschool parents about keeping records for their homeschooled high school students.
Giving my very first keynote address to a winter homeschool convention.
The last few days, I have discovered something that I am not proud of; gradually, imperceptibly, I have let a huge amount of cynicism into my heart this past year.
As an optimist, dreamer and idealist, I am astonished at how much negativity has been able to sneak into my soul. It scares me, in fact!
But in the winter of my trials, I have forgotten who I am. And WHOSE I am. And that in the midst of the "cold and snow," light and happiness can still be found.
And so, I am looking up this year. I am gazing into a much brighter, lighter future-- not because I think all my problems will disappear with the power of positive thinking.
It's because I have HOPE in salvation because of my Savior, Jesus Christ.
And so that is my word for 2105.
What a wonderful word! I think it is the very one I need too. Mortal life is challenging, and meant to be so. Thankfully we have the Savior and his Atonement to give us the hope to be faithful and endure to the end of our time at this boarding school away from our heavenly home.
Thank, Rozy! I love that analogy!
I love the word Hope. We all need hope. I think we in a negative world that needs more hope.
You are amazing! Being a mother of 13 children is a just so awesome. I do think Hope in Christ is the only way to get through this world. Blessings for you and your family in this new year.