Such an exciting weekend! We had our stake conference today and yesterday, and Elder Dallin H. Oaks was our visiting general authority. I even got to shake his hand and find out that he has a great sense of humor. Too, too cool! He mentioned some really great things that pertained directly to our stake, and they called a new stake presidency. It happened to be particularly serendipitous because Elder Oak's daughter, Jenny Oaks Baker, will be here next weekend playing with the symphony, but more on that later.
Above all, conference just reaffirmed my commitment to living the gospel to the best of my ability everyday. The bottom line is, that when I live the gospel, I am happy. When I start to slide with my commitment, life just doesn't seem to go as well. Living in an LDS-minority area, I get asked a lot why I would choose to live the commandments when, to an outsider, they seem so restrictive. There is not a commandment out there that does not bless my life beyond any sacrifice it may take to keep it. Following the word of wisdom keeps me free from all addictions. Paying tithing has spiritual blessing attached, but it also makes me more aware of and responsible with my money. Keeping the law of chastity helped me find an amazing husband and still continues to bless my marriage and family. Attending the temple helps me receive spiritual insight and helps me stay on the same page with my spouse. Magnifying my calling allows me to serve my fellow man, which in turn makes me feel good about myself. All of Heavenly Father's commandments are for the blessing and safety of His children, and I am truly thankful for the boundaries He, as a loving and kind parent, sets for me.
So, going on from today, I'm going to try a little harder to read my scriptures, think a little more about my prayers, and try to find some more people to serve. I know what I get out of living the gospel, and to be honest, I wouldn't want to try and live my life without it. I think that's what true conversion is all about- wanting to live the gospel day by day because you've developed faith in Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father's plan for you as an individual. True conversion is knowing that you don't have all the answers, and submitting your will to the Father for further direction. It's a concept that's so hard for so many, but it has the power to bless and change lives.
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