To Minister
Happy Easter! My thoughts have been with the Savior quite frequently as Easter has approached. A dear friend and I were visiting about the Savior's ministry, and what it means to minister. To minister means to give aid or service, to act as a servant. My friend is from France and told me she had a difficult time translating this word from English to French--there is not one word for it, there are many words for it. I had never thought about the complexity of the word before, but thinking about it was very instructive for me. I often dismiss ministering as service, but it is so much more than that! It is knowing the people you minister to, being a servant (not just performing service), being a teacher. It implies a deep love and respect for those you minister to.
Looking at the life of the Savior while trying to understand the meaning of what it means to minister is enlightening. He truly loved each person that crossed His path, just as surely as He loves me and you. And oh how He loves you! His life was a life of service--not begrudging service, but service because He chose it! His life culminated in the Atonement--a supernal act of love and service that never ceases to amaze me.
I sometimes envy the clarity of His mission and purpose in this life. We all have a mission and purpose; a reason for being here on earth, people we are divinely appointed to minister to. Are you on track? Is your ministry clear? I'm still figuring it out. There have been moments in my life when I know I am walking the path of my ministry. There is an indescribable clarity and joy that accompanies those moments. How grateful I am for the gift of the Holy Ghost that comforts, confirms, and instructs me on the path of my own ministry.
One piece of my ministry has always been clear--I know I will be blessed to be a mother, to minister to precious souls the Lord will entrust to me. I look forward to embarking upon this part of my journey. I know it will be the most blessed part of my journey, the most complete opportunity to truly minister. I often ache for it. Many of you know I had a miscarriage in September that heightened my ache. Yet, I know the Lord is in the details of my life. He has never left me. Although I could not have said this then, I can say it now: I am grateful for that miscarriage. It has been excruciating, yes. But it has also been instructive, blessed my marriage, and brought me ever closer to my Savior.
He too had to wait for His ministry. I have learned much from studying His ministry while in my own holding pattern. He did not sit and wait for the day to come when He would complete the Atonement. He was active! He was learning and growing, strengthening His relationship with God the Father, teaching everyone He came across, loving and serving and ministering as He waited.
What am I doing while I wait? I am not perfect. I had to work through some anger, questions, and sadness. But now, as I stand on the other side of those emotional battles, I am determined to wait for my ministry as the Savior waited for His. As I wait upon the Lord and His perfect timing, am I doing all I can to prepare for my ministry? Am I doing all I can to learn, to grow in my strength and power so that I may perform my ministry admirably? As I love, teach, and serve where I stand, my aching lessens. I will actively prepare for my ministry. I will strive to learn the lessons the Lord would have me learn from my period of waiting. And who knows, perhaps the waiting is part of my ministry! It certainly was part of the Savior's ministry.
April 2015
Looking at the life of the Savior while trying to understand the meaning of what it means to minister is enlightening. He truly loved each person that crossed His path, just as surely as He loves me and you. And oh how He loves you! His life was a life of service--not begrudging service, but service because He chose it! His life culminated in the Atonement--a supernal act of love and service that never ceases to amaze me.
I sometimes envy the clarity of His mission and purpose in this life. We all have a mission and purpose; a reason for being here on earth, people we are divinely appointed to minister to. Are you on track? Is your ministry clear? I'm still figuring it out. There have been moments in my life when I know I am walking the path of my ministry. There is an indescribable clarity and joy that accompanies those moments. How grateful I am for the gift of the Holy Ghost that comforts, confirms, and instructs me on the path of my own ministry.
One piece of my ministry has always been clear--I know I will be blessed to be a mother, to minister to precious souls the Lord will entrust to me. I look forward to embarking upon this part of my journey. I know it will be the most blessed part of my journey, the most complete opportunity to truly minister. I often ache for it. Many of you know I had a miscarriage in September that heightened my ache. Yet, I know the Lord is in the details of my life. He has never left me. Although I could not have said this then, I can say it now: I am grateful for that miscarriage. It has been excruciating, yes. But it has also been instructive, blessed my marriage, and brought me ever closer to my Savior.
He too had to wait for His ministry. I have learned much from studying His ministry while in my own holding pattern. He did not sit and wait for the day to come when He would complete the Atonement. He was active! He was learning and growing, strengthening His relationship with God the Father, teaching everyone He came across, loving and serving and ministering as He waited.
What am I doing while I wait? I am not perfect. I had to work through some anger, questions, and sadness. But now, as I stand on the other side of those emotional battles, I am determined to wait for my ministry as the Savior waited for His. As I wait upon the Lord and His perfect timing, am I doing all I can to prepare for my ministry? Am I doing all I can to learn, to grow in my strength and power so that I may perform my ministry admirably? As I love, teach, and serve where I stand, my aching lessens. I will actively prepare for my ministry. I will strive to learn the lessons the Lord would have me learn from my period of waiting. And who knows, perhaps the waiting is part of my ministry! It certainly was part of the Savior's ministry.
April 2015
Waking Up
I think it's safe to say we have all had some body part fall asleep. Well, you know the tingly, slightly painful, feeling when it starts waking up? That's where I'm at.
It has been an incredibly challenging year for me physically. Due to circumstances outside of my control, I have been a wee bit (ok a lot) more stressed this year than I ever have been before (for a sustained period of time anyway). Stress kills. It landed me in the ER at the beginning of the year after a stress-induced seizure, and also resulted in some other rather difficult experiences later in the year. I have spent more time in doctors offices and hospitals in the past year than I have in my entire life...combined. And I don't deal well with things outside of my control affecting my life, which ironically added more stress to what was already mounting.
And then hubby and I went into the wilderness. I always heal when I'm out amongst God's creations, and this time was no different. I could see myself and my choices more clearly, and I made a few. With the support of my wonderful husband, I will stop working in January and will pursue some education I've been wanting to pursue. I'm going to take some time to get my feet back under me, and go from there. I feel free.
I still bear some of the stress that has plagued me over the past year, but it is beginning to lift from my shoulders. I still struggle with some emotional and physical burdens, but I am healing. Every lab/test doctors have performed has come back normal. I get stronger every day. I don't particularly like the tingly feeling, but it feels good to start waking up.
November 2014
It has been an incredibly challenging year for me physically. Due to circumstances outside of my control, I have been a wee bit (ok a lot) more stressed this year than I ever have been before (for a sustained period of time anyway). Stress kills. It landed me in the ER at the beginning of the year after a stress-induced seizure, and also resulted in some other rather difficult experiences later in the year. I have spent more time in doctors offices and hospitals in the past year than I have in my entire life...combined. And I don't deal well with things outside of my control affecting my life, which ironically added more stress to what was already mounting.
And then hubby and I went into the wilderness. I always heal when I'm out amongst God's creations, and this time was no different. I could see myself and my choices more clearly, and I made a few. With the support of my wonderful husband, I will stop working in January and will pursue some education I've been wanting to pursue. I'm going to take some time to get my feet back under me, and go from there. I feel free.
I still bear some of the stress that has plagued me over the past year, but it is beginning to lift from my shoulders. I still struggle with some emotional and physical burdens, but I am healing. Every lab/test doctors have performed has come back normal. I get stronger every day. I don't particularly like the tingly feeling, but it feels good to start waking up.
November 2014
Ouch
I used to believe that when people became engaged they changed. Suddenly, almost in the blink of an eye, that person would become aloof and it would happen again—yet another good friend lost to the name of marriage. Isn’t it funny how we think we have a clear picture of something even though we’ve only seen one side of it?
Now I’m on the other side.
It should be noted that I have many dear married friends who started as single friends. They seemed to me to be the exception. Somehow they were different—in spite of the changes happening in their own lives, they were able to see single people as real people with whom they shared memories and commonalities.
Ever since I started dating seriously, I was determined to be counted as one of those exceptions.
I have intentionally been spending time with friends in an attempt to make them feel loved and appreciated. Yes, my life is changing. By default, my priorities have changed. But I still love you!
In spite of my efforts, I still feel some relationships slipping away from me. I hate it.
Something happened the other night that hit me right between the eyes. Some of my single friends were talking about the challenges of being single. I walked into the room and one of them explained the topic of conversation to me. I acknowledged what she had said, but didn’t say anything else. And then another friend looked at me and said, “You can’t relate to this conversation anymore.”
Ouch. I didn't even say anything!
I’ll admit it hurt a little bit. I may have even shed a few tears. I certainly could have become defensive and explained how I could relate better than most because I was single for 30 years before God led me to my sweetheart. Instead I just walked away.
Perhaps it looked like I was aloof. After all, I was the one walking away. Perhaps they thought, “Here we go again. One more friend lost to marriage.”
As I walked away it hit me. I have been a hypocrite for so many years and owe countless friends apologies! Relationships are never one sided. Yes, lives change when people get married. The engaged person is not the only one who changes. Perhaps I am the one who has become aloof when friends get married. Or perhaps we both did. If I ever accused you of this (to your face or to another friend or even just in my head), please accept my apologies!!
Lately I have felt at times as if I am a stranger in some relationships. People look at me as if I have betrayed them. Or at least it feels that way. Maybe I am the aloof one. Maybe I’m not. The point is, I’ve been humbled. And I’m sorry if my pride has ever hurt you.
Funny how these kinds of experiences are sometimes required in order to open our eyes.
God grant me the strength to allow people room to grow and change. God grant me the strength to be kind and loving regardless of how the circumstances in their lives inspire them to treat me. God grant me the strength to stand as a witness of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at all times and in all things and in all places. I do not have the strength on my own.
November 2013
Now I’m on the other side.
It should be noted that I have many dear married friends who started as single friends. They seemed to me to be the exception. Somehow they were different—in spite of the changes happening in their own lives, they were able to see single people as real people with whom they shared memories and commonalities.
Ever since I started dating seriously, I was determined to be counted as one of those exceptions.
I have intentionally been spending time with friends in an attempt to make them feel loved and appreciated. Yes, my life is changing. By default, my priorities have changed. But I still love you!
In spite of my efforts, I still feel some relationships slipping away from me. I hate it.
Something happened the other night that hit me right between the eyes. Some of my single friends were talking about the challenges of being single. I walked into the room and one of them explained the topic of conversation to me. I acknowledged what she had said, but didn’t say anything else. And then another friend looked at me and said, “You can’t relate to this conversation anymore.”
Ouch. I didn't even say anything!
I’ll admit it hurt a little bit. I may have even shed a few tears. I certainly could have become defensive and explained how I could relate better than most because I was single for 30 years before God led me to my sweetheart. Instead I just walked away.
Perhaps it looked like I was aloof. After all, I was the one walking away. Perhaps they thought, “Here we go again. One more friend lost to marriage.”
As I walked away it hit me. I have been a hypocrite for so many years and owe countless friends apologies! Relationships are never one sided. Yes, lives change when people get married. The engaged person is not the only one who changes. Perhaps I am the one who has become aloof when friends get married. Or perhaps we both did. If I ever accused you of this (to your face or to another friend or even just in my head), please accept my apologies!!
Lately I have felt at times as if I am a stranger in some relationships. People look at me as if I have betrayed them. Or at least it feels that way. Maybe I am the aloof one. Maybe I’m not. The point is, I’ve been humbled. And I’m sorry if my pride has ever hurt you.
Funny how these kinds of experiences are sometimes required in order to open our eyes.
God grant me the strength to allow people room to grow and change. God grant me the strength to be kind and loving regardless of how the circumstances in their lives inspire them to treat me. God grant me the strength to stand as a witness of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at all times and in all things and in all places. I do not have the strength on my own.
November 2013
Lessons from a Disciple of Christ
I am blessed to visit with some pretty cool people through my work at Aspen Grove. We often have people visit camp with their families who own well-known companies or who have served in significant church or civic positions. I'm accustomed to visiting with these people. They're just like everyone else! One such conversation a few weeks back, however, really gave me pause.
Elder Christofferson called to ask me a question. This wasn't the first time I had visited with a General Authority of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I know it won't be the last. We visited for a few minutes as I answered all of Elder Christofferson's questions about Aspen Grove. It felt like any other conversation, other than how familiar his voice was. The way the conversation ended was different though. I told him to have a great day and thanked him for his call. Typically people tell me to have a great day too and then hang up the phone. Instead, Elder Christofferson took the time to thank me for the valuable time I spent answering his questions that day. When he called back a few weeks later to follow up it was the same.
I was struck by how this man who has a million more things on his plate than I do so sincerely thanked me for the valuable time I spent with him. What an example of how a disciple of Christ should act! I have much to learn. My time is never more valuable than another's, and gratitude can turn a day around. Really, it can turn a life around. That simple act of kindness made me feel incredibly valuable! I'm on a mission to follow Elder Christofferson's lead and help others to understand their value and worth!
We spend so much of our time with other people--do they know how much you value their service? I hope in our interactions you have come to understand how much I value you!
August 2013
Elder Christofferson called to ask me a question. This wasn't the first time I had visited with a General Authority of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I know it won't be the last. We visited for a few minutes as I answered all of Elder Christofferson's questions about Aspen Grove. It felt like any other conversation, other than how familiar his voice was. The way the conversation ended was different though. I told him to have a great day and thanked him for his call. Typically people tell me to have a great day too and then hang up the phone. Instead, Elder Christofferson took the time to thank me for the valuable time I spent answering his questions that day. When he called back a few weeks later to follow up it was the same.
I was struck by how this man who has a million more things on his plate than I do so sincerely thanked me for the valuable time I spent with him. What an example of how a disciple of Christ should act! I have much to learn. My time is never more valuable than another's, and gratitude can turn a day around. Really, it can turn a life around. That simple act of kindness made me feel incredibly valuable! I'm on a mission to follow Elder Christofferson's lead and help others to understand their value and worth!
We spend so much of our time with other people--do they know how much you value their service? I hope in our interactions you have come to understand how much I value you!
August 2013
Adversity
This tree is super cool! The original tree appears to have fallen over. The branches then became strong trees. I love it! Nature knows how to handle adversity. Sure the tree didn't grow like it was supposed to, but now 4-5 trees have grown from one, offering more life giving homes, shade, food, etc. to the creatures it shares the forest with. Very cool.
Fact: none of us will grow like we expect to. Life will throw us curveballs. Hard things will come our way, and even the good things will almost never look exactly like we expect them to. The question is what you will do with this adversity when it comes your way. Will you just fall over dead giving in to the trial and heartache and difficulty of change, or will you become something bigger and greater than you ever expected to be able to become? God willing and only with His help, I will become something great and unexpected!
July 2013
Fact: none of us will grow like we expect to. Life will throw us curveballs. Hard things will come our way, and even the good things will almost never look exactly like we expect them to. The question is what you will do with this adversity when it comes your way. Will you just fall over dead giving in to the trial and heartache and difficulty of change, or will you become something bigger and greater than you ever expected to be able to become? God willing and only with His help, I will become something great and unexpected!
July 2013
Forget Me Not
We came across these flowers on our adventures across the state of Missouri. Forget me nots. I didn't even see them until Mom pointed them out to me. Such beautiful flowers! So small though that they're easy to skip over. The fact that I missed them made me think of President Uchtdorf's talk to the sisters entitled "Forget Me Not." In his talk he reminds us that we are truly beloved and precious daughters of God, and that we are never forgotten.
The fact that I just skipped over these flowers made me ponder how often I skip over the people around me. Do I really see them for the beautiful sons and daughter of God that they are? Do I see them at all? Or am I so busy with my own little world that I miss the beautiful people all around me? I am resolved to see people more clearly! July 2013 |
Sacrament Talk
The Blessings of Obedience
21 April 2013
Hello! Bro. Peterson asked me to tell you a little about myself before I jump into my talk, so here goes. My name is Taralyn Clark and I hail from Iona, ID, a little town just outside of Idaho Falls. I’m the 2nd oldest of 4 children and have 5 nieces and a nephew who I spoil every chance I get. I have an Associates and Bachelors degree from BYU-Idaho in International Studies and Sociology respectively, and a Masters degree from BYU in Youth and Family Recreation. I am the Office Manager at Aspen Grove and love it! I love the people I get to meet and serve and I love what we do at Aspen Grove.
My path to where I am now has been a winding road with plenty of detours, roadblocks, and bumps along the way. Yet I am incredibly blessed and cannot deny God’s hands in my life. I had a plan when I was younger. I knew exactly who I would be, where I would live, what I would study in school, where I would work, how many kids I would have, etc. You get the idea.
God had other plans. My 30th birthday is sneaking up on me this year and I am not doing anything I had planned to do!! Nothing. I studied something unexpected in college and have worked at places I never imagined I’d work at. I’m not married. I don’t have kids. I could continue, but I’ll spare you the details. Suffice it to say God’s plans for me were different than my own!
In my patriarchal blessing, I am promised that “As [I am] obedient to the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the windows of heaven will open and [I] will receive the blessings that are held in reserve for [me].” It goes on in three more places to detail the blessings I am promised if I am obedient.
I have always had a desire to be obedient. I am happiest when I am obeying God’s commands. I have certainly made my share of mistakes, but have also held tightly to my desire to be obedient and live my life in accordance with God’s will. I have learned I stumble much more frequently when my hand is not in His hand.
I know I have a long way to go yet. But I have also come some distance in this mortal journey—far enough to be able to look back. And as I look back I cannot deny God’s hands in my life or the blessings He has poured upon me. Yes. My life is different than I planned, but it is so much better than I ever imagined! As I have followed the promptings I have received, I have been blessed immeasurably! The Lord has granted me opportunities to learn and grow, to bless and serve others, and to become more like Him—opportunities I would have missed out on if I had stubbornly followed my own plan for me.
I hope and pray each and every one of you, young and old, can see the blessings you receive as you are obedient to God’s commandments and follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost. If you can’t, come sit down with me. I’ll do my best to open your eyes and help you see!
I firmly believe the promise in my patriarchal blessing applies to each of you just as it applies to me: As each of you are obedient to the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the windows of heaven will open and you will receive the blessings that are held in reserve for you!
We live in a crazy world, rife with trials and heartache. Of course, the bombings at the Boston Marathon have been on our minds this week. Such unexpected tragedies touch all of us in one way or another. On top of living in a war-torn world, we also face the heartache and fear caused by natural disasters, illness, death, and addiction. We experience loneliness. We are often hurt by the actions of others. We sometimes do the hurting. With so much pain and fear surrounding us, how can we be happy? Where can we turn for peace? Where is our solace? [1]
Brothers and sisters, the answer is simple. So simple, in fact, it is often overlooked. I was blessed to visit some Church History sites a few weeks ago while in Nauvoo for my baby sister’s wedding. My parents and I were the only people at Liberty Jail and got a personalized tour, which was a sacred experience. What incredible trials the Prophet Joseph Smith and his companions experienced there! In this moment of intense suffering, his mind turns to the Saints. He knows they are being driven from their homes while he sits in jail, unable to help them. As he pours his heart out to God for the welfare of his brothers and sisters, the Lord provides this response:
“My son, peace be unto they soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all they foes.” [2]
If thou endure it well. If we keep the commandments and obey God’s will in spite of our troubles and trials. If we do our part, then we shall be exalted, then we shall triumph.
Elder Quentin L. Cook said this: “Peace is not just safety or lack of war, violence, conflict, and contention. Peace comes from knowing that the Savior knows who we are and knows that we have faith in Him, love Him, and keep His commandments, even and especially amid life’s devastating trials and tragedies.” [3]
I love knowing that the Savior knows who I am. It is important for me to remember, however, that Satan also knows who I am. He knows my strengths and weaknesses. He knows what I am foreordained to do, and does everything in his power to thwart me. He wants me to fail. He wants you to fail. And he does everything in his power to cause us to stumble and thwart God’s ability to use us to further God’s kingdom on this earth.
I always know when something good and powerful is going to happen in my life because I feel Satan’s armies attack. During my last big battle with Satan I came across some scriptures I’d like to share with you. I had been feeling like the forces of evil were swirling around me and there was nothing I could do about it. People were engaging in activities that made me feel weak and vulnerable, but I couldn’t escape the people or the things they were doing. As I pleaded with the Lord for direction and strength, He led me to this scripture in Ether:
“Wherefore, I, Moroni am commanded to write these things that evil may be done away, and that the time may come that Satan may have no power upon the hearts of the children of men, but that they may be persuaded to do good continually, that they may come unto the fountain of all righteousness and be saved.” [4]
During my time of trial, this scripture seemed to jump from the page and reorder itself for me. Listen to the phrases reversed: “…that they may be persuaded to do good continually…” “…that the time may come that Satan may have no power upon the hearts of the children of men…” In an instant an incredible realization struck me. I can have my millennial peace now. You can have your millennial peace now. It’s a choice, and the power is ours.
As we choose to obey the commandments of God and to do good continually, Satan is bound. He no longer holds any power over us! There is safety and power in obeying the commandments of God. When Christ asked the Three Nephites what they desired, they were given the ability to remain on the earth. In 3 Nephi we learn “…a change was wrought upon them, insomuch that Satan could have no power over them, that he could not tempt them…” [5]
Brothers and sisters, I testify this change and this power are ours to claim. God wants us to be happy. He is on our side! He wants to protect us from Satan—from every heartache and every temptation. The source of such protection is clear and simple. Have you missed it? The source of this power comes simply from obedience to the commandments of God. As we choose good continually, as we choose to obey, Satan is bound. We can have peace in our lives. Even in this tumultuous world, individuals and families can be at peace. I know this to be true!
Elder Cook points out an important doctrine: “…it is as individuals and families that we achieve the kind of peace that is the promised reward of righteousness. This peace is a promised gift of the Savior’s mission and atoning sacrifice.” [3]
Amen! Without the Prince of Peace, such an incredible and powerful gift would not be available to us. Yet it is! I stand before you and witness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I testify that His Atonement enables us to be obedient and obtain promised peace. During a devotional address at BYU in October of 2001, Elder David A. Bednar explains that most of us are familiar with the “redeeming and cleansing power of the Atonement,” but not with “the strengthening and enabling power.” [6] It is this power that will help us achieve our millennial peace now!
Elder Bednar goes on to say, “Individual willpower, personal determination and motivation, effective planning and goal setting are necessary but ultimately insufficient for us to triumphantly complete this mortal journey.” He then goes on to say that “The journey of mortality is to go from bad to good to better and to have our very natures changed.” [6]
I love this principle. It gives me hope for my future because I know change is possible, and it helps me to see my past more clearly. If you were to ask my roommates or coworkers what I do when I’m angry, they would tell you I don’t get angry. I don’t raise my voice. Nothing ruffles my feathers. Yet if you asked my family about my teenage years, you will hear a different story. Somebody would look at me wrong or say the wrong thing, and I would blow my top. I was rude and sarcastic. I often raised my voice. People who never knew me a s a teenager don’t believe this description is accurate, but it is!
When I went to college a good friend told me she couldn’t tell if I was being mean or making a joke because I was so sarcastic. I decided sarcasm wasn’t funny.
When I was teaching English at a boarding school in China, I raised my voice at my 9-year-old students and could see the pain and fear on their faces. I decided I never wanted to raise my voice in anger again.
When I worked with at-risk teens in a wilderness rehabilitation program I realized there was always an emotion behind their anger. I decided I would never express anger without understanding why I was feeling angry. When I understood why I felt angry, the anger disappeared.
These were hard changes to make! One doesn’t go to bed with a raging temper and wake up as a person who is kind and patient. But, step-by-step I saw problems and sought solutions and turned to Christ. With His help I went from bad to good to better. My very nature was changed. As I have relied on our Savior and the power of His Atonement, my very nature has been changed time and time again. I am not perfect in anything. I make mistakes. I disobey. But I keep trying, moving toward good and better with His help.
Elder Bednar teaches, “The enabling power of the Atonement of Christ strengthens us to do things we could never do on our own.” [6]
I testify this is true! If you struggle with being obedient in one way or another, turn to Christ. If you are weighed down by this world, turn to Christ. As you are obedient and exercise faith in Him, I testify to you that He will enable you to be more obedient. He will strengthen you against Satan’s temptations. He will fill your heart and soul with peace.
Elder L. Tom Perry states, “In a world where the moral compass of society is faltering, the restored gospel of Jesus Christ never waivers, nor should…its members. We must not pick and choose which commandments we think are important to keep but acknowledge all of God’s commandments. We must stand firm and steadfast, having perfect confidence in the Lord’s consistency and perfect trust in His promises.” [7]
And President Monson teaches, “Life would be simpler for all of us if we would obey…” [8]
I would like to add my testimony to theirs. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints contains the whole and complete truth. I know God loves us and wants us to return to Him. I stand as a witness of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. I testify of the strength, power, and blessings that are ours to claim through obedience to God’s commands. It is simple! I testify that we can be enabled through the Atonement of Jesus Christ to make needed changes in our lives and to have our very natures changed. I invite each of you to honestly examine your lives, to make needed changes, and to claim all of the blessings of obedience, especially that of peace in this world! And I do so in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
1. “Where Can I Turn for Peace?” LDS Hymnbook, No. 129
2. Doctrine and Covenants 121: 7-8
3. Quentin L. Cook, “Personal Peace: The Reward of Righteousness,” Ensign, May 2013
4. Ether 8:26
5. 3 Nephi 28:39
6. David A. Bednar, “The Atonement and the Journey of Mortality,” devotional address given at BYU, 23 October 2001, Ensign, April 2012
7. L. Tom Perry, “Obedience to Law is Liberty,” Ensign, May 2013
8. Thomas S. Monson, “Obedience Brings Blessings,” Ensign, May 2013
April 2013
21 April 2013
Hello! Bro. Peterson asked me to tell you a little about myself before I jump into my talk, so here goes. My name is Taralyn Clark and I hail from Iona, ID, a little town just outside of Idaho Falls. I’m the 2nd oldest of 4 children and have 5 nieces and a nephew who I spoil every chance I get. I have an Associates and Bachelors degree from BYU-Idaho in International Studies and Sociology respectively, and a Masters degree from BYU in Youth and Family Recreation. I am the Office Manager at Aspen Grove and love it! I love the people I get to meet and serve and I love what we do at Aspen Grove.
My path to where I am now has been a winding road with plenty of detours, roadblocks, and bumps along the way. Yet I am incredibly blessed and cannot deny God’s hands in my life. I had a plan when I was younger. I knew exactly who I would be, where I would live, what I would study in school, where I would work, how many kids I would have, etc. You get the idea.
God had other plans. My 30th birthday is sneaking up on me this year and I am not doing anything I had planned to do!! Nothing. I studied something unexpected in college and have worked at places I never imagined I’d work at. I’m not married. I don’t have kids. I could continue, but I’ll spare you the details. Suffice it to say God’s plans for me were different than my own!
In my patriarchal blessing, I am promised that “As [I am] obedient to the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the windows of heaven will open and [I] will receive the blessings that are held in reserve for [me].” It goes on in three more places to detail the blessings I am promised if I am obedient.
I have always had a desire to be obedient. I am happiest when I am obeying God’s commands. I have certainly made my share of mistakes, but have also held tightly to my desire to be obedient and live my life in accordance with God’s will. I have learned I stumble much more frequently when my hand is not in His hand.
I know I have a long way to go yet. But I have also come some distance in this mortal journey—far enough to be able to look back. And as I look back I cannot deny God’s hands in my life or the blessings He has poured upon me. Yes. My life is different than I planned, but it is so much better than I ever imagined! As I have followed the promptings I have received, I have been blessed immeasurably! The Lord has granted me opportunities to learn and grow, to bless and serve others, and to become more like Him—opportunities I would have missed out on if I had stubbornly followed my own plan for me.
I hope and pray each and every one of you, young and old, can see the blessings you receive as you are obedient to God’s commandments and follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost. If you can’t, come sit down with me. I’ll do my best to open your eyes and help you see!
I firmly believe the promise in my patriarchal blessing applies to each of you just as it applies to me: As each of you are obedient to the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the windows of heaven will open and you will receive the blessings that are held in reserve for you!
We live in a crazy world, rife with trials and heartache. Of course, the bombings at the Boston Marathon have been on our minds this week. Such unexpected tragedies touch all of us in one way or another. On top of living in a war-torn world, we also face the heartache and fear caused by natural disasters, illness, death, and addiction. We experience loneliness. We are often hurt by the actions of others. We sometimes do the hurting. With so much pain and fear surrounding us, how can we be happy? Where can we turn for peace? Where is our solace? [1]
Brothers and sisters, the answer is simple. So simple, in fact, it is often overlooked. I was blessed to visit some Church History sites a few weeks ago while in Nauvoo for my baby sister’s wedding. My parents and I were the only people at Liberty Jail and got a personalized tour, which was a sacred experience. What incredible trials the Prophet Joseph Smith and his companions experienced there! In this moment of intense suffering, his mind turns to the Saints. He knows they are being driven from their homes while he sits in jail, unable to help them. As he pours his heart out to God for the welfare of his brothers and sisters, the Lord provides this response:
“My son, peace be unto they soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all they foes.” [2]
If thou endure it well. If we keep the commandments and obey God’s will in spite of our troubles and trials. If we do our part, then we shall be exalted, then we shall triumph.
Elder Quentin L. Cook said this: “Peace is not just safety or lack of war, violence, conflict, and contention. Peace comes from knowing that the Savior knows who we are and knows that we have faith in Him, love Him, and keep His commandments, even and especially amid life’s devastating trials and tragedies.” [3]
I love knowing that the Savior knows who I am. It is important for me to remember, however, that Satan also knows who I am. He knows my strengths and weaknesses. He knows what I am foreordained to do, and does everything in his power to thwart me. He wants me to fail. He wants you to fail. And he does everything in his power to cause us to stumble and thwart God’s ability to use us to further God’s kingdom on this earth.
I always know when something good and powerful is going to happen in my life because I feel Satan’s armies attack. During my last big battle with Satan I came across some scriptures I’d like to share with you. I had been feeling like the forces of evil were swirling around me and there was nothing I could do about it. People were engaging in activities that made me feel weak and vulnerable, but I couldn’t escape the people or the things they were doing. As I pleaded with the Lord for direction and strength, He led me to this scripture in Ether:
“Wherefore, I, Moroni am commanded to write these things that evil may be done away, and that the time may come that Satan may have no power upon the hearts of the children of men, but that they may be persuaded to do good continually, that they may come unto the fountain of all righteousness and be saved.” [4]
During my time of trial, this scripture seemed to jump from the page and reorder itself for me. Listen to the phrases reversed: “…that they may be persuaded to do good continually…” “…that the time may come that Satan may have no power upon the hearts of the children of men…” In an instant an incredible realization struck me. I can have my millennial peace now. You can have your millennial peace now. It’s a choice, and the power is ours.
As we choose to obey the commandments of God and to do good continually, Satan is bound. He no longer holds any power over us! There is safety and power in obeying the commandments of God. When Christ asked the Three Nephites what they desired, they were given the ability to remain on the earth. In 3 Nephi we learn “…a change was wrought upon them, insomuch that Satan could have no power over them, that he could not tempt them…” [5]
Brothers and sisters, I testify this change and this power are ours to claim. God wants us to be happy. He is on our side! He wants to protect us from Satan—from every heartache and every temptation. The source of such protection is clear and simple. Have you missed it? The source of this power comes simply from obedience to the commandments of God. As we choose good continually, as we choose to obey, Satan is bound. We can have peace in our lives. Even in this tumultuous world, individuals and families can be at peace. I know this to be true!
Elder Cook points out an important doctrine: “…it is as individuals and families that we achieve the kind of peace that is the promised reward of righteousness. This peace is a promised gift of the Savior’s mission and atoning sacrifice.” [3]
Amen! Without the Prince of Peace, such an incredible and powerful gift would not be available to us. Yet it is! I stand before you and witness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I testify that His Atonement enables us to be obedient and obtain promised peace. During a devotional address at BYU in October of 2001, Elder David A. Bednar explains that most of us are familiar with the “redeeming and cleansing power of the Atonement,” but not with “the strengthening and enabling power.” [6] It is this power that will help us achieve our millennial peace now!
Elder Bednar goes on to say, “Individual willpower, personal determination and motivation, effective planning and goal setting are necessary but ultimately insufficient for us to triumphantly complete this mortal journey.” He then goes on to say that “The journey of mortality is to go from bad to good to better and to have our very natures changed.” [6]
I love this principle. It gives me hope for my future because I know change is possible, and it helps me to see my past more clearly. If you were to ask my roommates or coworkers what I do when I’m angry, they would tell you I don’t get angry. I don’t raise my voice. Nothing ruffles my feathers. Yet if you asked my family about my teenage years, you will hear a different story. Somebody would look at me wrong or say the wrong thing, and I would blow my top. I was rude and sarcastic. I often raised my voice. People who never knew me a s a teenager don’t believe this description is accurate, but it is!
When I went to college a good friend told me she couldn’t tell if I was being mean or making a joke because I was so sarcastic. I decided sarcasm wasn’t funny.
When I was teaching English at a boarding school in China, I raised my voice at my 9-year-old students and could see the pain and fear on their faces. I decided I never wanted to raise my voice in anger again.
When I worked with at-risk teens in a wilderness rehabilitation program I realized there was always an emotion behind their anger. I decided I would never express anger without understanding why I was feeling angry. When I understood why I felt angry, the anger disappeared.
These were hard changes to make! One doesn’t go to bed with a raging temper and wake up as a person who is kind and patient. But, step-by-step I saw problems and sought solutions and turned to Christ. With His help I went from bad to good to better. My very nature was changed. As I have relied on our Savior and the power of His Atonement, my very nature has been changed time and time again. I am not perfect in anything. I make mistakes. I disobey. But I keep trying, moving toward good and better with His help.
Elder Bednar teaches, “The enabling power of the Atonement of Christ strengthens us to do things we could never do on our own.” [6]
I testify this is true! If you struggle with being obedient in one way or another, turn to Christ. If you are weighed down by this world, turn to Christ. As you are obedient and exercise faith in Him, I testify to you that He will enable you to be more obedient. He will strengthen you against Satan’s temptations. He will fill your heart and soul with peace.
Elder L. Tom Perry states, “In a world where the moral compass of society is faltering, the restored gospel of Jesus Christ never waivers, nor should…its members. We must not pick and choose which commandments we think are important to keep but acknowledge all of God’s commandments. We must stand firm and steadfast, having perfect confidence in the Lord’s consistency and perfect trust in His promises.” [7]
And President Monson teaches, “Life would be simpler for all of us if we would obey…” [8]
I would like to add my testimony to theirs. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints contains the whole and complete truth. I know God loves us and wants us to return to Him. I stand as a witness of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. I testify of the strength, power, and blessings that are ours to claim through obedience to God’s commands. It is simple! I testify that we can be enabled through the Atonement of Jesus Christ to make needed changes in our lives and to have our very natures changed. I invite each of you to honestly examine your lives, to make needed changes, and to claim all of the blessings of obedience, especially that of peace in this world! And I do so in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
1. “Where Can I Turn for Peace?” LDS Hymnbook, No. 129
2. Doctrine and Covenants 121: 7-8
3. Quentin L. Cook, “Personal Peace: The Reward of Righteousness,” Ensign, May 2013
4. Ether 8:26
5. 3 Nephi 28:39
6. David A. Bednar, “The Atonement and the Journey of Mortality,” devotional address given at BYU, 23 October 2001, Ensign, April 2012
7. L. Tom Perry, “Obedience to Law is Liberty,” Ensign, May 2013
8. Thomas S. Monson, “Obedience Brings Blessings,” Ensign, May 2013
April 2013
Like a Child
As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are often taught to become like a child. "For the natural man is an enemy to God...and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit...and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father." (Mosiah 3:19)
And then the same question is always asked: Why should we become like little children? You'll often hear the same great answers. Children are so humble and teachable. We should be humble and allow the Lord and others to teach us that which we do not know. Little children love with open hearts, we should love and forgive as little children do. Little children are so often happy regardless of what is swirling around them, we should be so happy. All true, and all perfect reasons to strive to become like little children.
The Lord taught me a new reason recently, and I just wanted to take a minute to share it with you because it is POWERFUL. Well, at least it is for me. In Doctrine and Covenants 29: 46-47, we read, "...little children are redeemed...through mine Only Begotten...they cannot sin, for power is not given unto Satan to tempt little children." Let me emphasize, Satan CANNOT TEMPT little children. He does not have the power to do it. Think about that. Think about the power of becoming like a child. As we become increasingly childlike, Satan's power over us is increasingly lessened. As we become "submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, [and] willing to submit," we also become increasingly immune to the temptations of Satan. Wow!
In a world rife with trial and temptation, I want that power!
March 2013
And then the same question is always asked: Why should we become like little children? You'll often hear the same great answers. Children are so humble and teachable. We should be humble and allow the Lord and others to teach us that which we do not know. Little children love with open hearts, we should love and forgive as little children do. Little children are so often happy regardless of what is swirling around them, we should be so happy. All true, and all perfect reasons to strive to become like little children.
The Lord taught me a new reason recently, and I just wanted to take a minute to share it with you because it is POWERFUL. Well, at least it is for me. In Doctrine and Covenants 29: 46-47, we read, "...little children are redeemed...through mine Only Begotten...they cannot sin, for power is not given unto Satan to tempt little children." Let me emphasize, Satan CANNOT TEMPT little children. He does not have the power to do it. Think about that. Think about the power of becoming like a child. As we become increasingly childlike, Satan's power over us is increasingly lessened. As we become "submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, [and] willing to submit," we also become increasingly immune to the temptations of Satan. Wow!
In a world rife with trial and temptation, I want that power!
March 2013
What do I Radiate?
I am blessed to serve as an ordinance worker in my local LDS Temple, and to be taught by people so much smarter than I am! Last night we met with a member of our Temple presidency and his good wife to be taught before we began our work that evening. They asked some questions that have really caused me to ponder my life and the choices I make every day.
They spoke about how we radiate who we truly are all of the time, whether we mean to or not. Every interaction we have with another person radiates something--teaches them something about who we are and what we stand for. What do you radiate? What do I radiate? Who am I really, and how does that influence the people around me on a daily basis?
They then spoke about the heart, and how many scriptures mention the heart. They spoke about purity of heart and asked a question that really penetrated mine. Is your heart pure enough that it could be opened to the world and you wouldn't be ashamed?
And then we went to work. As my evening came to a close, I ran into a good friend and visited with her for awhile. As we visited about the things happening in our lives, another friend came up in conversation and she said something that again spoke to my heart: "He is such a good person. He is without guile. I've never heard him say an unkind thing, and I don't think he even has unkind thoughts." What a thing to be said about a person! And a true thing to be said about him. Would people say such a thing about me? Perhaps not. I certainly have room to grow!
Food for thought.
February 2013
They spoke about how we radiate who we truly are all of the time, whether we mean to or not. Every interaction we have with another person radiates something--teaches them something about who we are and what we stand for. What do you radiate? What do I radiate? Who am I really, and how does that influence the people around me on a daily basis?
They then spoke about the heart, and how many scriptures mention the heart. They spoke about purity of heart and asked a question that really penetrated mine. Is your heart pure enough that it could be opened to the world and you wouldn't be ashamed?
And then we went to work. As my evening came to a close, I ran into a good friend and visited with her for awhile. As we visited about the things happening in our lives, another friend came up in conversation and she said something that again spoke to my heart: "He is such a good person. He is without guile. I've never heard him say an unkind thing, and I don't think he even has unkind thoughts." What a thing to be said about a person! And a true thing to be said about him. Would people say such a thing about me? Perhaps not. I certainly have room to grow!
Food for thought.
February 2013
Taught by my Father
I have been thinking a great deal lately about how my Father in Heaven instructs and directs me. I know I have much to learn and have yet to reach my full potential. That being said, the Lord has expanded my vision of late, enabling me to see and understand where I'm going and why I've been where I've been. As I've pondered on these things, I have felt both humbled and incredibly loved. I know I have a loving Father in Heaven who has a plan for me. I know my life will be successful and happy as I strive to live my life in accordance with His will. I know He can make more of me than I can ever do on my own.
While pondering these things I've come across a few messages that have caused me to reflect on my personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. I invite you to watch the videos below: one is a Mormon Message comparing earthly fatherhood to our Heavenly Father, and the other is a recent BYU devotional address that caused me to reflect on the Father as my master and myself as an apprentice.
I am so grateful for my earthly father! He is an incredible man who is close to the Lord, who cares for our family, and who loves me unconditionally. I love the comparison between him and my Heavenly Father. Just as my earthly father wants the best for me and gives everything to ensure I am cared for, our Heavenly Father wants the best for us and gives everything to help us succeed. After all, He gave His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, so we can return Home to Him through the power of the Atonement. I am grateful for opportunities to know Him, to learn from Him, and to become like Him. I am an apprentice, studying at the feet of the Master, hoping to become a Goddess.
February 2013
While pondering these things I've come across a few messages that have caused me to reflect on my personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. I invite you to watch the videos below: one is a Mormon Message comparing earthly fatherhood to our Heavenly Father, and the other is a recent BYU devotional address that caused me to reflect on the Father as my master and myself as an apprentice.
I am so grateful for my earthly father! He is an incredible man who is close to the Lord, who cares for our family, and who loves me unconditionally. I love the comparison between him and my Heavenly Father. Just as my earthly father wants the best for me and gives everything to ensure I am cared for, our Heavenly Father wants the best for us and gives everything to help us succeed. After all, He gave His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, so we can return Home to Him through the power of the Atonement. I am grateful for opportunities to know Him, to learn from Him, and to become like Him. I am an apprentice, studying at the feet of the Master, hoping to become a Goddess.
February 2013
Amen Sister Dalton!
People are up in arms.
Sister Elaine S. Dalton, General Young Women President for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently gave a devotional address at Brigham Young University. She gave a beautiful, spirit-filled address to the young adults of this world, those who will usher in the final days. Those who must remain virtuous and strong in a world filled with trials and temptations. Those who will rear families in a world where families are under attack. She was talking to me. She was talking to you. She was speaking truth. Take some time to watch her address, you can feel the truth and power of what she says.
“Young women, you will be the ones who will provide the example of virtuous womanhood and motherhood. You will continue to be virtuous, lovely, praiseworthy, and of good report. You will also be the ones who provide the example of family life in a time when families are under attack, and being redefined, and disintegrating. You will understand your roles and your responsibilities, and thus will see no need to lobby for rights. Young men, you will be the ones who will know that Priesthood power, the power to act for God on the earth, is to be accessed only through purity. You will use that Priesthood power to bless generations. To each of you, the very purity and virtue of your lives will attract the gaze of all the world in these latter days."
People are up in arms. I am a strong and virtuous daughter of God. I am well-educated, have a great job with the potential to turn into a career, and have opportunities to publish in academic journals and through other venues. Nobody would look at me and think I was oppressed. Yet, I understand my divine roles and responsibilities and have no need to lobby for rights. I understand men and women to be divinely unique and different from each other, and have no need to fight against my divine nature. I love being a woman and am grateful for my God-given feminine gifts and abilities. I am grateful for the opportunity to stand tall and strong, a defender of gender and family, in a world where these things are under attack.
"One virtuous young woman or young man, led by the Spirit, can change the world." Watch me!
February 2013
Sister Elaine S. Dalton, General Young Women President for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently gave a devotional address at Brigham Young University. She gave a beautiful, spirit-filled address to the young adults of this world, those who will usher in the final days. Those who must remain virtuous and strong in a world filled with trials and temptations. Those who will rear families in a world where families are under attack. She was talking to me. She was talking to you. She was speaking truth. Take some time to watch her address, you can feel the truth and power of what she says.
“Young women, you will be the ones who will provide the example of virtuous womanhood and motherhood. You will continue to be virtuous, lovely, praiseworthy, and of good report. You will also be the ones who provide the example of family life in a time when families are under attack, and being redefined, and disintegrating. You will understand your roles and your responsibilities, and thus will see no need to lobby for rights. Young men, you will be the ones who will know that Priesthood power, the power to act for God on the earth, is to be accessed only through purity. You will use that Priesthood power to bless generations. To each of you, the very purity and virtue of your lives will attract the gaze of all the world in these latter days."
People are up in arms. I am a strong and virtuous daughter of God. I am well-educated, have a great job with the potential to turn into a career, and have opportunities to publish in academic journals and through other venues. Nobody would look at me and think I was oppressed. Yet, I understand my divine roles and responsibilities and have no need to lobby for rights. I understand men and women to be divinely unique and different from each other, and have no need to fight against my divine nature. I love being a woman and am grateful for my God-given feminine gifts and abilities. I am grateful for the opportunity to stand tall and strong, a defender of gender and family, in a world where these things are under attack.
"One virtuous young woman or young man, led by the Spirit, can change the world." Watch me!
February 2013
Terminal Illness
I am turning 30 this year, and am still single. No this is not a hard thing for me! I am HAPPY. I have an incredible job I wake up excited for every morning, an incredible support system of family and friends, and rock solid faith that God's promises are sure and He has a plan for me. How could I be anything but happy?
Yet, people look at me like I should be falling to pieces. After all, I am turning 30 and am not yet married. Surely I must be carrying around hidden hurts I have to go home and nurse. Surely I must ache for a husband and children of my own. Surely every happy family I see and new marriage I am blessed to celebrate must reopen these wounds. The majority of the time, when people find out my age and marital status in the same moment, they look at me as if I have been diagnosed with some terminal illness with a terrible prognosis. I know this because I've been in the room when such diagnoses are given. It's the same look. It never helps.
When my grandma was diagnosed with terminal cancer, she would become frustrated when others would look at her that way. She didn't need their eyes to constantly remind her of what she was already painfully aware of. Granted, it was not fair for her to expect loved ones to hide initial reactions when they were just trying to express love. But still she didn't want to see her pain reflected in the faces of those she loved. I feel the same way.
Really, honestly, truly, I am happy. I go months without even thinking about my age and/or marital status. I feel joy and excitement when loved ones get married or have babies. No, I haven't given up, but I'm not worried about it. That is, until somebody looks at me like I should be. I know they love me and want me to be happy. I know marriage and children are incredible blessings, and they just want me to have those blessings. I am touched by their love and concern for me.
But I hate the constant reminders. I hate seeing hurts that have healed reopened in the faces of those I love. It makes me feel as if I should walk around unhappy and miserable, even though I know I shouldn't. I know I cannot control reactions or dictate how people love me. Nor would I want to! I will keep smiling and reassuring others of my own wellbeing. And I will pray they can develop the faith and trust in God that I have developed, the faith and trust that heal all hurts.
January 2013
Yet, people look at me like I should be falling to pieces. After all, I am turning 30 and am not yet married. Surely I must be carrying around hidden hurts I have to go home and nurse. Surely I must ache for a husband and children of my own. Surely every happy family I see and new marriage I am blessed to celebrate must reopen these wounds. The majority of the time, when people find out my age and marital status in the same moment, they look at me as if I have been diagnosed with some terminal illness with a terrible prognosis. I know this because I've been in the room when such diagnoses are given. It's the same look. It never helps.
When my grandma was diagnosed with terminal cancer, she would become frustrated when others would look at her that way. She didn't need their eyes to constantly remind her of what she was already painfully aware of. Granted, it was not fair for her to expect loved ones to hide initial reactions when they were just trying to express love. But still she didn't want to see her pain reflected in the faces of those she loved. I feel the same way.
Really, honestly, truly, I am happy. I go months without even thinking about my age and/or marital status. I feel joy and excitement when loved ones get married or have babies. No, I haven't given up, but I'm not worried about it. That is, until somebody looks at me like I should be. I know they love me and want me to be happy. I know marriage and children are incredible blessings, and they just want me to have those blessings. I am touched by their love and concern for me.
But I hate the constant reminders. I hate seeing hurts that have healed reopened in the faces of those I love. It makes me feel as if I should walk around unhappy and miserable, even though I know I shouldn't. I know I cannot control reactions or dictate how people love me. Nor would I want to! I will keep smiling and reassuring others of my own wellbeing. And I will pray they can develop the faith and trust in God that I have developed, the faith and trust that heal all hurts.
January 2013