Mom's Advice

"And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours." —Doctrine and Covenants 78:18

"The scriptures counsel us to 'be of good cheer.' Don't think of it so much as a directive, but as good counsel for how to endure well. Being of good cheer will actually help you cope."

Just that morning, I had read, "Let not your heart be troubled; neither let it be afraid." [John 14:27] I was struck by the word "let." Don't allow your heart to be troubled. Worry and fear seem to be the defaults during hard times, so maybe the message is to be active in pushing back with faith and hope.

Instead of forcing myself to look at the harsher realities of life, maybe it's time now to be more gentle. I've always been one to delve into problems searching for understanding and solutions. I've figured it's best to confront the worst and thus diffuse it instead of letting it fester and magnify with neglect or escapism. But, I've realized that focusing too much on problems can backfire. Sometimes it's not necessary to dig so deep or for so long. It can be disheartening and cause undue focus on the worst of life. It can superimpose a negative filter on an otherwise happy, healthy life. It can warp my hope in and sense of the future.

"Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed." —Doctrine and Covenants 123:17

Thanks, Mom