The Happy Gardener

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

The Atonement (Dallin H Oaks)

The theology of the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is comprehensive, universal, merciful, and true. Following the necessary experience of mortal life, all sons and daughters of God will ultimately be resurrected and go to a kingdom of glory. The righteous-regardless of current religious denomination or belief-will ultimately go to a kingdom of glory more wonderful than any of us can comprehend. Even the wicked, or almost all of them, will ultimately go to a marvelous-though lesser-kingdom of glory. All of that will occur because of God's love for His children and because of the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, "Who glorifies the father, and saves all the works of his hands" (D&C 76:43)

The purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is to help all of the children of God understand their potential and achieve their highest destiny. This church exists to provide the sons and daughters of God with the means of entrance into and exaltation in the celestial kingdom. This is a family-centered church in doctrine and practices. Our understanding of the nature and purpose of God the Eternal Father explains our destiny and our relationship in His eternal family. Our theology begins withe Heavenly Parents. Our highest aspirations is to be like them. Under the merciful plan of The Father, all of this is possible through the Atonement of the Only Begotten of the Father, Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

FORGET ME NOT FLOWER (PRESIDENT UCHTDORF)

There is a German legend that just as God had finished naming all of the plants, one was left unnamed. A tiny voice spoke out, "Forget me not, O Lord!" And God replied that this would be its name. As daughters of God, we would be wise to never forget;

FORGET NOT TO: Be patient with yourself. We spend too much time and energy comparing our weaknesses to others strengths. Be happy with who you are and celebrate your small successes. They may seem tiny, but God notices.

FORGET NOT THAT: You are a daughter in God's kingdom. Never Forget that Heavenly Father knows you and loves you!

FORGET NOT TO: Find Joy in the Journey! Make the most of today! Find reasons to smile at everyone and be happy. Did you know a smile is contagious?

Ask yourself:
As a daughter of God, how am I able to find ways to remember who I am?
Do I smile at others? Am I a happy person? Do I think positive thoughts and make others happy?

California Fires

On May 14, 2014 my work building was evacuated due to some fires that were headed towards us. It was very scary. I posted this on my facebook page. The fact that there were 11 fires at once and that someone probably intentionally set most of them is very disconcerting. I am writing this post to express my heartfelt thanks to Heavenly Father. I am thankful that so few homes and businesses were lost. I realize that those that lost their homes may not be so thankful. There was only one human life lost in this tragic crisis. The firefighters and police and city officials all acted quickly and with humanity. I am thankful that our family has been practicing preparedness and that we were able to learn where we need to improve. I am thankful for family and friends that cared for us and called to make sure that we were okay. I am thankful for a loving husband that took care of me and made sure that I did not overdo it in the smokey air. I am thankful that the cool weather has followed and brought some small showers to relieve the smoke and heat. I am thankful that my fellow brothers and sisters are so resilient during times of trouble. I am thankful for all of the humanity that was shown to each other and to the animals. I am thankful for signs of gratitude that I see along the road home. Even though the hillside behind my work building is no longer lush and green but black and charred the birds are singing every day. I am thankful that we will be able to watch this area grow again just like the human spirit.