Act Well thy Part

Today I am extremely excited by what is coming up so shortly! I talked about it a few days ago, or was it yesterday? Any ways! Some of you may still be wondering what General conference is all about welll..... This is one of my favorite talks from the last session!  For any Females (or males too) out there give this a look! I promise it is worth 11 minutes of your time!
















More talks like this will happen over the next few days, and next weekend! If you haven't had the opportunity to see any of these types of talks I would again invite you to watch this magnificent WORLD wide event!

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird

Aspire Higher

Just wanted to share a few neato bandito pictures with all yall today!  To me they are incredibly beautiful and meaningful too :)




Oqurrih Mountain Temple

 

 

Salt Lake City Utah Temple

 

 

Cardston Alberta Temple

 

 

Draper Utah Temple



Laie Hawaii Temple

(My very most favorite one!!)

New York Manhattan Temple

 

Manti Utah Temple

Mesa Arizona Temple

Nauvoo Illinois Temple

 

Wellington New Zealand Temple

San Diego Temple

 

 

I have had the wonderful opportunity to see many of these temples. Every time that I go and spend time in them I am overwhelmed with a sense of peace that I cannot even describe. In these temples and others all around the world many people are brought unto Christ. My parents were married and sealed in the Salt Lake Temple for time and ALL eternity. Because they have done so I am sealed to them for time and all eternity as well. I know that I will continue to be with them long after our time here on earth is over. Because of these wonderful and sacred places and the priesthood power I know that my family is forever. Not just until death do us part. You too can have this opportunity with your family find out how here! Or ask these people to come and explain it! Have a lovely day y'all!

 

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

 



The Conference

About six months ago I was walking around the streets of Honolulu. The ocean breeze flipped my hair around and the sun kissed my skin. I am sure I had a smile on my face. I was so incredibly happy. You may say well "duh" you were in Hawaii! But I can tell you It was not my physical destination that was making me beam- I was simply happy because I had just finished watching

General Conference   (go ahead click the word)


As I were walking around I began to think of what I had learned and how I felt after watching it... My mind was invigorated and my whole countenance felt light like I could accomplish anything handed to me! I took a step back and just reflected. I watched the people around me- some of them were smiling and some of them were upset. They were in paradise yet they didn't feel happy and that is when it hit me and my soul was sadden ... In that moment I realized that ALL those people at the beach and in the stores and on the busses and all around me

DIDNT KNOW ABOUT GENERAL CONFERENCE. they had not watched it. they didn't even know it existed.

Realizing this I then began to  pondered how much it truly meant to me to be able to receive personal revelation, and to be able to hear the words of the prophet. I thought about what my life would be like without the knowledge of this magnificent event...

And ladies and Gents
you know what??  I came to the conclusion that my life would be a very sad place. I wouldn't be able to find the happiness that I had with out it! I don't think I would have the strength that I do or know the purpose of my life if I didn't have this opportunity to hear from a Modern Day prophet. At general conference last October I was effected by the announcement that our dear prophet Thomas S Monson said over the pulpit. I became a representative of Jesus Christ and was called to serve a mission for this remarkable church!  It was something that changed my life completely. Because of General Conference I now have this opportunity to share this message with the world- so that all those people around me, on the busses, at the beach, in the stores, my neighbors and friends and everyone!!!

CAN KNOW ABOUT IT!!

 

To all those people out there reading this- If you have time (and if you don't please make it) Watch General Conference. I promise that all those questions that are in the deepest caverns of your mind can be answered through this magnificent event! I bare my testimony that this is true, that this is the SAVIORS church. That this event- General Conference- is completely centered around the Doctrine and Principals of our savior and is what God needs us to know at this time for ourselves, our family, and our friends around us! Watch it. I promise it is worth all the time in the world!

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird

Did you think to pray?

I remember the first time that I really did it.
I remember the exact spot that I felt his love.
I remember the first thing I saw when I opened my eyes.

I remember the first time that prayer meant something more than just an action to me.

The first time that I truly and sincerely prayed to my Heavenly Father, is a moment  in my life that I will never forget. And never want to forget.

My mind was frantic and my thoughts had raced around in my head, making me dizzy from the movement and struggle of what life had served to me that day. I walked into the house aftera terribly long day of school and I tried to forget what had been said to me. I felt weak. I felt alone. I felt defeated. I threw my backpack off and trudged up the stairs. My eyes streamed endlessly and my tears watered the carpet. I closed my door desperate for something to sooth my aching heart and my tired mind and body. No one seemed to know what to do or what to say to me to make it all "magically go away". I tried music and thinking a bit, but I realized that I needed more.

The thought hit me right between the eyes.

Pray

And before I could even realize what I was doing I was on my knees. Not like any other prayer I had prayed before. I had grown up in a home my WHOLE life praying. Praying morning and evening, praying before dinner and at church... but I had never done it with such sincerity before. I had never REALLY reached out to my Father like I should have...

The moment I finished that prayer one fall day- I had never felt the saviors love more abundantly in my life. I KNEW for MYSELF that he had heard me. I knew that no matter what had happened or what was going to happen that he loved me more perfectly than I had ever imagined. His loved filled my aching heart and seamlessly healed my broken soul. I could have reached out and felt him. I never even knew that feeling this was a possibility before.

Since this moment in time I have had many conversations with my daddy in heaven. He is someone that I love to talk to and I know that he hears me. He is with me every step of the way and I know that he will never leave me.

Often times I feel that we  get too caught up in the act of doing something and that we forget the meaning behind why we do it. It simply becomes something that we just do, or pencil into our days because we are supposed to. Its purpose is lost in the business of it all.

Today I challenge you to sincerely get down on your knees and really converse with your Father in Heaven. He LONGS to know how you are. He wants to hear it from you. And I promise that you will be able to feel his love surround you more fully. This is one of my most cherished possessions: the knowledge that he is always there with me and hears my prayers. Each and every time.

“When I was a little child, my parents taught me by example to pray. I began with a picture in my mind of Heavenly Father being far away. As I have matured, my experience with prayer has changed. The picture in my mind has become one of a Heavenly Father who is close by, who is bathed in a bright light, and who knows me perfectly.”

—Henry B. Eyring

“Exhort Them to Pray,” Ensign, Feb. 2012, 4

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird

Tug Boat

I have always loved the ocean. I visited it yearly all growing up and when it was time for me to leave the bird nest I flew west and went to school in the middle of the pacific ocean. ALOHA! There is always something about the ocean that makes me feel so, at home. I love the sound of the waves and the impressive watercolor sunsets that are found there. I love to play and splash around in the water and experience that gift we have been given. It is exciting and always an adventure.

Well in the sea of life some days I feel like I am a little teeny tiny tug boat barely hanging on in the middle of a HUGE ocean storm.

We have all been there right? Just barely making it to shore and the end of the day. You start off and it may be a little over cast, a little bit rainy and before you know it you are surrounded by waves that could topple your little tug boat and drown you in the sea of life.

This can be a little well... intimidating. Let me tell you I understand how it feels! We get drenched and tossed about at the mercy of waves and wind... Its exhusting and frusterating at times but as I have really tried to figure out how to get through these days I have really only one way that truly helps me.

Ether, a prophet says it best to me:

  4 Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with ^asurety ^bhope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which^chope cometh of ^dfaith, maketh an ^eanchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in^fgood works, being led to ^gglorify God.

Some days we don't or wont make it to the safe harbor that heavenly father has in store for us, and while we are facing the waves and the winds of life, we need something to tie us down.

I can say that my Faith in my Savior and  Redeemer, is the only thing that allows me to make it through on these days when my tug boat doesn't seem to want to tug anymore, or when I feel too drenched from the waves that have hit me and slow me down. I know that as I rely on him and make him the anchor to my soul- as Ether states- that all things WILL become a better world in the lords timing. It is only the waves that can toss us too and fro but the Savior will Anchor us and allow us to stay the coarse that is in store for us. He will ALWAYS allow us a safe harbor, even among the storms of life. I bare testimony of that.

I know that it will work for you as well, if you allow him to anchor your soul and your faith today.

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

p.s. He says it really well check it out! Click me!

The WHY of it all

Has it really been 12 days?? Wow. I need to do some serious repenting people. My apologies! time flies when you are having fun... right? RIGHT.

Well dear readers this one is for you.

It has always been a very interesting concept to me.

The sun would not be as lovely if it weren't for the moon.
A hug would not feel as special if you hadn't felt alone.
Your sleep would not have felt as restful if you had not worked
The clean plate you eat off of would not be a nice if you hadn't have seen it dirty
Quite would not be as welcome if you weren't first bombarded with sound
A cool air conditioned home wouldn't feel as nice if you first hadn't been in the heat.
A laugh wouldn't be as fulfilling if you hadn't needed to have one.
We wouldn't be able to define "good" without the knowledge of what "bad" is.
White would not be as pure if you had no idea what black is.
Being warm is much better after you have been freezing


The list goes on and on.

Often times I find myself wondering WHY so many "bad things" happen to me, or why they have happened to those around me that I love. But this concept -when I remember it- it is truly one that changes my whole out look on life and changes the Why of it all. When we stop to think about it- with out the opposition of the "bad" things in life the good things would just simply be okay. We would never be able to experience the joys if we had no idea what the sad times were. I know that.
It goes with anything. We would never be able to fully understand the meaning of anything.

Sometimes we may wonder why, but I can say that I know that it is to allow us to enjoy the good times and to be able to remember all those wonderful things that we do have. I know that without the concept of opposition this life would be extremely dull, and we would not be able to have the joys that we do.

This is Gods plan for man. I know this. I know that, however I do not understand everything, or may not even understand the "why" completely, I know that Heavenly Father has created this gift for us that we may be able to experience more fully joy. He allows us to feel opposition everyday so that we can choose to have the goodness, or that we may be able to see the goodness in a different light. It keeps us grateful and humble when we can see the bad coupled next to the good.

You may feel differently but I know that this is an eternal principal. That as I have thought about it and treasured this up in my mind, I have had the spirit tell me it is the truth. And to me, that makes me so happy! It expounds my mind and allows me to feel at peace even amidst the darkest times. I promise that as you study and ponder this concept as well that you will be able to feel the same, and maybe you- like myself- can have an altered view about the "why" of it all.

 

 

Read about it from a prophet of god :)

2 Nephi 2:11

http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2.11a?lang=eng

 

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird

Redeemed

I am an extremely visual person.

And I appreciate good art.

SOO

I don't claim any of these, Obviously, but I think they are beautiful and say more about the grace, and character of Christ than I ever could in words. 

I hope that you all take a moment to ponder them, and him. 

I know that I have come closer to my Savior while finding these. 

My favorite paintings of Christ:

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Bird

P.s. I know that my Redeemer lives, and loves me, and loves you too. 

Almighty Author

I've always been one who loves to write. I enjoy the bouncing of my fingers on the keyboard and the clickity clackity noise that it makes. I flourish to find the perfect placement of words that can seamlessly flow into one another, and create a symphony of nouns, verbs and adjectives, that ring in your ears and echo in the furthest corners of the human mind. 

I love to do this because I am in control. I can create whatever I want. I can write. Choppy. Or I can create cascading sentences that empty into a deep pool of thought. I am the master of the concepts and the story. I create the good guys and the bad, and it is all done with my fingers. On the keyboard. And it sets me free. 

However, unlike writing, life doesn't always go like that. FORTUNATELY. 

Life can be very, well choppy. And understand, hard to do. But I can tell you- This is part of the reason we go through life. 

Before we came to earth, before earth even existed - our Father in Heaven had a plan. He wanted all of us to be able to come like him. But we couldn't do that while in His presence. We wouldn't know HOW to grow. So because he loved us, he created this earth. This magnificent, beautiful and complex earth. This earth as we all know is packed full of trial and complications, but the truth is we all rejoiced to know that we would have the opportunity to come. It was the only way that we could grow. It was the only way to become perfected like our father.

And He is the master writer of our "story".

 Now, as someone that likes to create and be in charge this can be a bit difficult sometimes but, let me just tell you- our life stories would be so minuscule if it were not for the story that has ALREADY been written for us by the Hand of the Lord. 

Often times we try to write our own chapter and forget to ask him what really is supposed to happen in this part of our story, and in turn we become lost in the words and the pages of lives. Our personal story becomes something that has lost the story line and purpose because we don't know where we are going. Or where we need to be. We CANNOT write it. And if we do we shouldn't expect the story to come out the way that he wants, or has planned for us. 

This is a lesson I am learning. And I believe that many people are learning this as well. 

Trust in God. In him, and HIS story for you. Let him write your character. The quirks, trials, traits and adventures. Your book will become something magnificent, a cliff hanger and something that is interesting and fulfilling, one that you enjoy and desire to "read" more of. A masterpiece in his eyes... and once you become that- in turn your story can be read by many. It will be a story he is proud to share.

He created you, and all things for you. He knows where you are going and where you need to go. Ask him where you need to be. He will tell you, because he wants you to become the BEST you can. That is his plan. He loves us so much- and wants us to become like him, only through him. 

Put down your pen, and let God write. He knows how to get us to the "Happily ever after". And who wouldn't want that?

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Bird

F is for Friends

Soooooo (enough 'o' s for you?) Ladies and Gents boy and girls!!!

I am back. :)

Isn't it interesting how Heavenly Father is the master of all things and how he knows EXACTLY what we need and how we can get it!? Well it is, btw. And just in case you didn't know, Heavenly Father does this really neat thing for us also- He gives us friends. People that we can rely on and love and have when we need them. They are a gift from our Father to us. I know that my life would be completely different if I didn't have the support and love from those individuals. Would yours? Probably, right? Well, let me tell you I know that Heavenly Father created his plan. His perfect plan for you. And he knew that it would not always be easy, so he made sure to send people into our lives at exactly the right time. He made sure that you would receive the support that you would need at every point in your life. I know that is true, It is an incredible concept when you ask me. He KNEW who you would need and what you could learn from them at a specific time.

And can I just say that I have had many wonderful and instrumental people in my life, but at this time in my little life Heavenly Father has blessed me with this crazy incredible companion here in this area of my mission. Her name is Sister Luscher. Now let me just tell you, I learn a lot from her. She is one of the strongest and most dedicated people I know. PLUS she is basically a walking quote book... and well, I just figured "WHY NOT share all the wealth of one-liner pick me ups that she shares with me with to the rest of the world!" SOOOOOO without further adieu: the words of my dear friend Sister L... (written by me, but spoken by her) ((maybe one of these you can ponder on and learn from like I have)) (((ps. she is REALLY great))) ((((also, she doesn't claim some of these, but she says them all the time))))

"Be okay with where you are, even if you want to change."

 

"I know doesn't mean I do"

 

(this next one is my favorite)

"Believe

  there is

good in the world"

 

"Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of Heaven"

 

"Some are born great, some die great, some dream great, some achieve great, and some have greatness thrust upon them"

 

"You can either be happy and smart or miserable and stupid"

 

"Do or do not there is no try"

 

"You fail 100% of the shots you don't take"

 

"Do not ask for a light load, rather ask for a strong back"

 

"Happiness isn't a destination it is a road of travel"

 

Now, dear readers, some of these may be silly and some may really help you today but if anything, I know that when I take the time to appreciate those people around me, and remember that I have been blessed with them, that my life becomes more full and fulfilled. In turn I become a more happy and loving person. I desire to do more good for other people... which is part of his plan. We are those people that need to be there when others are having their times of trial. This is what it is about. When we stop to take the time out of our busy lives. We find what has been lacking, and that is the service and divine role we all plan in Heavenly Fathers plan.

 

 

Today I invite you to look outside of yourself and look for one person that has done something to help you. Thank them! They just helped you! And in turn they have fulfilled heavenly fathers plan for us on this earth! Then, turn around and do something for someone else. Pay it forward. I promise that as we do this, we will be able to feel more love and joy. We will be able to come closer to our Savior, and feel more charity for our fellow man, as we fulfill our purpose, to help others come unto Christ and be able to live with our Father again. That is his plan. And he loves us so much... Sister Luscher and I love these quotes, and they are certainly true.

 



"We are his hands"

 

"What is this life for if not to make it better for every one else?"

 

 

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Bird

 

P.s. When we stop to find the joy in others, we start to find the joy in life. (that one was mine;)

 

LOVE Y'ALL!



 



Refiners Fire

I want to be a real person out here on the world wide web. Not everything is sunshine and flowers... so I'm going to admit- today I have felt down. Really down. I have felt alone, sad, and frustrated. And to be perfectly honest I have wanted to just go and eat ice cream in a corner. Truth. 

Lets face it kids. This life is hard. It isn't fair, the things we go through wear us down and make us buckle under the pressure of the circumstance. We cry and try to carry on, we pray and ask for things to be taken from us. We ask that our lives become easier and more worth while- and let me tell you, from experience- sometimes we just don't get the answers right away... It takes time. It has a purpose. It is part of his plan- and it can be hard to not wonder "why??" 

Well, this is why:

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/1995/10/trust-in-the-lord?lang=eng

and he says it just SO MUCH better than my little fingers can type today.

Listen. Please.

This is exactly what I needed to hear at a hard time, maybe it can help you today as well. It is absolutely incredible what is said, and it has helped my spirit and my mood more than any hug or carton of ice cream could have. Give it a try. What is there to loose?

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird

All the (____) ladies!

Well let me just tell you, today has been an EXCELLENT day. Just because. :)

This post is for you guessed it- all the girls out there! Cause girls just want to have fun right? ;) Well welcome to this "fun" little post just for you lovely female homo sapiens out there.

(Now let me just say- there are SEVERAL men out there that have helped with this growth process as well- but this post isn't for that and shall be written another time.)

I want to just take a second and thank those lovely females out there who have helped me become who I am today. I KNOW that I would not be who I am today if I didn't have the strong ladies in my life. Why you may ask? Because they have shown me through example the way to be happy, strong, faithful, trustworthy, dedicated and Christ like. I have been so blessed to have the good fortune to be around so many of these women. Unfortunately, not everyone has that opportunity to be around as many, and I have noticed that many women out there are searching for happiness and for self worth through things such as body image, social status, wealth, career, and media. This really has been on my mind as of late as I have noticed that many women and young girls are not finding the joy that they thought it would bring. Now, let me tell you, there is nothing wrong with pursuing any of those things but let us remember... Heavenly Father created a plan, a BEAUTIFUL plan where man and women work together to become like him. And as we focus on his plan for us, THAT is where we find the true happiness that has been intended for us.

Women have the amazing calling here on earth to nurture. To comfort those that stand in need of comfort and mourn with those that mourn... To be mothers and friends and daughters, and stand united for one cause: to help people feel loved but more importantly to allow them to feel HIS love through them.  When I think back at all the women I have looked up to in my life they have EXUDED Christ like attributes such as patience and kindness and forgiveness, so on and so forth. They have loved and cared and nurtured me and helped me through the hard times. This is our calling. It is not to be the most liked person on the web, or to have the best cookie recipe in life, it is not to have the most glamorous home, or the cutest outfit. I know how important those things are sometimes and yes they make us part of who we are... But I know that as I come closer to my Savior, and as the women in my world have done the same- THAT is when I find the most joy, purpose, and peace in my life. I know that women have a great power that can lead and nurture many to the gospel and this is our divine and sacred calling. I am so glad that I am a woman and that there are many people out there that can benefit from this. We need more women who help. We need more ladies out there that can lead children to Christ, that can direct the path of those behind us and lead them to our Savior as this world is becoming more and more dark. We need more mothers and sisters and daughters and friends who know who they are so they can help others know themselves!

Be the light in someone else's world. Ladies, we have the calling to do so from a KING.

I promise that as we all strive to be that shoulder to cry on and that extra set of hands, in doing so we will find who we are, and in doing that will become closer to each other and to him.

I invite you to grow into your divine potential today. Help others, and nurture them back to the health of his world. Share your light with those that need it. As you do so you WILL feel so much happiness and purpose to your life. I promise and can testify of that. He loves you and loves who you are becoming, now help someone to become more too!

On the count of three:
One...
Two...
THREE!

Go women! ;)

All my (womanly) missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird

P.s. I am not a feminist. Just one happy lady :)

Let Go and Let God

Good morning out there! Nice to see you again! 

There has been a topic on my mind as of late, one that I have had the pleasure of coming up against in my own life- one that I know everyone faces at one point or anther- and one that can be extremely hard to over come, but let me tell you it has been the biggest blessing in my little life. 

Let's just get right to it. People are imperfect. They mess up. They do things they shouldn't. They say stuff they don't mean and they may even do it rashly or on purpose. AS a result- someone gets hurt. Whether it is in their heart or actually physically... when someone does something wrong it often can effect those around them. Lets be honest. That is probably one of the worst feelings that a human soul can feel- hurt. Or betrayal. Distrust. Unkindness. Anger... the list goes on and on... So what do we do about it? 

I may not be an expert, nor will I pretend to know ample amount of knowledge but what I do know is this- It happens to everyone. And we all must find somewhere deep within us to learn to let go. 

Once upon a time... someone I knew very dearly had made some unwise choices, and as a consequence I ended up feeling very hurt. My life seemed to have been taken from me, and I found myself getting lost in the details and my own depressing feelings... Wondering "how could they EVER do such a thing!"... I clung to the "justice" of making them feel as miserable and hurt as I was feeling. I thought that that was the only way to make the situation feel right. I needed to make them know HOW much they had really effected me.. right? WRONG. The longer this went on the more and more bitter I became. I lost who I was and found myself upset all the time. Why? because I was not exercising the concept of Forgiveness. 

One day after several months of this, I decided that I was done with this whole thing. I did not want that one choice that someone else made to rule me any more- but I had dug myself so deep I didn't know how to escape it... I began to pray and began to read my scriptures again- I began to talk to my mother and ask how I could let this stop! I was so exhausted from being mad ALL the time. I pondered and pondered and began to realize that the closer I came to Christ the more this all seemed to fade and dissolve into the background... 

What happened dear readers is something that I am so grateful for. I am so grateful for the opportunity to "carry my own cross" for just a few months. Why? because I was able to feel closer to my Savior. Looking back I could have and Should have let him carry it sooner but through it all  I realized that I needed to let it go and forgive them... And when I realized that Christ- the one and only person who was perfect- could

forgive those who killed him

I suddenly snapped out of it. I realized how silly I had been... This story may not mean much to you but it means everything to me. When I learned how to Forgive as the Savior did my world opened up again. I became who I was before and through it all- I became closer to my Savior. I learned just a speck more of what he went through when he carried that cross for me.. I can say today that this lesson that took some time to learn has helped in every day situations. 

If you are struggling to forgive someone right now, know that I know how hard it can be. But also remember that our Savior forgives us EVERYDAY. He loves us and wants us to let him carry that load. We do not need to. I promise that if you allow him to come and take that load- through prayer and scripture study you will become free and be able to find yourself once again. 

I know that it is true and that Jesus Christ died for us and for this purpose- so that we could learn to be like him, so we could be with him. I love you all and invite you to forgive those around you who may have done you wrong today. It will be the biggest blessing. I can testify of that.

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

Please keep your arms and feet inside the...

If you could be in my head today, you would need to be strapped in!

What a roller coaster ride!

To sum up what I have learned this lovely Florida Day- I have learned the importance lesson of Patience.

Isn't that a funny word?

It means: the ability to take real life situations, and not get annoyed, or depressed by them- but to accept them as they are and move forward with hope. (yes that was a self definition- I don't have a dictionary- so for the purpose of this post lets just go with it? thanks :)

As I have learned today more how to do this I have also realized a BIG factor in this attribute. That Patience is coupled with hope and led by God. When we truly think of it- when we are truly a patient person- we are able to accept the life circumstances and trust that God has his hand in all things. Some days this is easier than others but today I was able to learn a very valuable lesson: Patience with myself.  Isn't it interesting that we are all taught to have patience for one another? that it is deemed as a valuable and vital personality trait- yet how many times do we apply the principals of patience  to ourselves?  Maybe some of you out there are really good at this- but for myself, I have learned today that I have failed quite miserably with this.

If God- who is perfect- can be patient with me... Why can I not be patient with myself?

My excuse would be because I know myself- I am actually with myself 24/7... we are quite good friends..

But let me tell you something I realized today.

God knows us better than we even know ourselves. He knows our weaknesses, our strengths, our joys, and our sorrows. He knows the in's and out's of your every thought and action. He knows EVERYTHING... about YOU.

And if he knows that much about us and is STILL patient with us-  should I not be more patient with myself as well? Isn't the goal to become more like him anyways?

Today, or whenever you get down on yourself- remember that Heavenly Father created us to succeed and without our weaknesses we would never be able to grow strong and to become like him. We need the oppositions. He loves us. Let him lead us, and allow yourself to be freed from your own negative thoughts. Allow him to embrace you with his love. He will come. I know he will because he came to me today. I love this gospel and the peace it offers to me. Today I invite you to allow it to change your perspective on yourself... and to be able to see yourself as god sees you:

A wonderful child of his -whom he loves very much.

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

P.s. Ether (a prophet) talks about this too- Check it out :)
http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/ether/12.27?lang=eng

Kolob

Where I am from I would often go up into mountains- a place where I have always felt the quite peace and tranquility of God. There is just something about the earth and the stars that has always captured the beats of my heart and made my mind soar to fleeting and exciting thoughts. One specific night I had much on my mind but I knew where I could turn. I put a little blanket in my car and I headed up to the top of the nearest mountain. It took quite some time to get up there, but I knew it would take me to a place where I could be alone and away from the crazy world around me. I gazed out into the endless night sky. Trillions and trillions of stars twinkled above my head. A cool breeze brushed my face and I could hear the rustle of the leaves in the Forrest around me. As I snuggled in my blanket and felt the earth and worldly worries melt away I began to get lost in the thoughts that consumed my mind. I began to ponder the power that created the spectacular painting in the infinite night sky hanging above me. I began to realize that each one of those stars could potentially be a "sun" in another universe that provides the light to another earth. Another world. And that took me to thoughts of those beings in the other worlds doing exactly what I was. I wondered how all of this was even created, and how my life was truly something so small in contrast to the vast amount of space and matter in the whole of this entire plan. I began to realize that the power was from god. That there were billions upon billions just here on this earth, my mind was even more expanded when i thought of all the other worlds that were out there, and all the billions of billions of people in their own worlds... It is a humbling thought... As I prayed that night on top of a mountain in the comfort of my own car, and blanket and began to realize all that I had and the knowledge that I had as well- and when I gained that eternal perspective my worldly problems began to be placed in the back of my mind as I realized that he knows me. He knows the speck that I am in the vast galaxies and universes. I know that he heard me. I know that it was him the cooled my heated heart and infused my mind and heart with peace. He provided a plan, a PERFECT and I may not understand all of it. But I will tell you this. I did know, right then and there, that he exists. He is in the details. He hears us, and that he is God. He created all things for us, so that we may become like him... I will never forget that brisk October night- for that was the day when I realized my creator truly knew a speck in the sea of stars and planets and universes, across trillions of light years and through the black holes. He knew me. And loved me. And still does.

 I know that he hears you and loves you too. He cares more than we can even comprehend. 

All my little teeny tiny missionary love,

Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

 

Surfs up!

Top of the morning!

I think I have stared at the computer screen way longer than I would have liked to by now with NOTHING coming out my finger tips... Just one of those days I suppose. I have been thinking of things to write today, and WELL let me tell you- SERIOUS writers block this afternoon. Grr.. so all I got today is well a quote that I think has a very deep and beautiful meaning.

 

 

 I know that we are all having many different trials, I know that sometimes we wish that they would subside. But I also know that this statement is true. This earth life is not just supposed to be easy- and I often think that if it was where would the sense of accomplishment be?? I believe that although we go through many troubled waters over the course of our life, that they are there to help us see who we truly are and to help us become who we need to become. To reach our fullest potential and to allow us to feel confident in who we are and why we are here. I love this picture and quote coupled together. I don't know about you but to me it makes me feel like My father in Heaven really does see us as our divine potential and that all things- including trials- are given to us to make us that person that he knows we can become.

Have a lovely day!

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

 

 

 

Ever changing

Something I have always loved.

Writing, and photographs.

We live in the most beautiful world, I MEAN SERIOUSLY. I will always be in awe of the artwork that Heavenly Father Creates for us in the sky every night. Goodness he spoils us!










Often when I truly stop to think of the things that I love, nature is behind a lot of my gratitude. When I stop my busy schedule and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the earth I cannot help but realize that he does really care. He is in every detail. Why else would he create such a beautiful place for us to live? I feel closest to my Savior and his all mighty power when I take a moment to appreciate this world. I invite you to do the same today as well. It is extremely rewarding. Pinky Promise :)

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

We are just one little speck in this existence, what are you doing today to make the most of it?

Walk

Howdy Yall :)

Ill just get right to it- Peter. Yes Peter.

Have you heard of him? He is kinda a big deal- well, he is just kinda mentioned alot in a pretty famous book... Its called The Bible.

I just wanted to take a second and tell yall about the cool thoughts I had about him a few days ago.

We read in Matthew 14 about Peter and his incredible faith... Now i know what you are thinking...

"Wait, about his Faith?? The Savior himself said ' thou of little ^afaith, wherefore didst thou ^bdoubt?'.. so how can he show faith? "

Well I think as I have been learning that really faith is ACTION. Not just words or beliefs.

Peter WALKED on water. That is a pretty big action if you ask me.

I love to study this man and all the valuable things learned from him but I think this has been my most recent favorite lesson of his; He acted in Faith. He walked on water. The ONLY other man recorded to do so besides Christ himself. And it was only through his faith that he was able to do so... Yes he did sink- do we not all sink? Wasn't the savior the only person with perfect faith? But I think the lesson best learned from this ordeal is that he was able to walk on the water

Only when he was focused on the savior.

As soon as he stopped watching him and watched the waves and the storm and the sea instead- that is when he fell, but as long as he stayed foused on Christ he could walk on the water that no other man attempted to.

Just a little food for thought.

As we stay focued on our Savior, and ACT in your faith -YOU yes YOU can walk on water just as peter did and do the things that are so-called "impossible"...

All my missionary Love,
Sister Steffany Bird

Lies within

Your head hits the pillow.

Body exhausted, feet aching, mind racing.

No one told you what you were signing up to do.

You feel like you have spent all day racing around,

but you know you wont see a finish line for a long time.

You ponder the conversations, invitations and motivations of your day.

Did you do enough?

... I frequent this pattern many days a week. Seven to be exact. Many a nights are full of questions, concerns and outbursts of emotions as I converse with my father in the evenings... and often I find myself wondering... Why? Why Put myself through all of this?

We find that most people don't want to hear, or that they have "already learned" what there is to be taught.

We find that the days plans get changed or they fall through completely.

We find that we don't know where to go, or how to get where we need to be.

We find that we are really doing this by our-self, in an unfamiliar place with a person you have known for maybe 3 weeks.

We find that we try to do the best we can, but we know that no matter what we do we still fall short...

The life of a Mormon missionary is not what I thought it was going to be. Now that is a fact. 

But you know what else is a fact? 

We do it because we know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints is Jesus Christs church AGAIN restored to the earth today. And that EVERYONE should hear his message!

We do it because we hope that just one person will hear our words and accept the happiness that is attached to his holy name.

We do it because we have been so blessed in our lives it is our turn to give.

We do it because we believe in being good.

We do it to become better examples and members of our faith. 

We do it because it is a privilege that we have been given.

We do it to help people become who they can truly become through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

But quite simply, we do it because we love our savior. 

That is why.

That is why I am here. That is why there are thousands of other 18-26 year old people putting their life on hold. We do not do it for the fame, recognition, experience, travel, language, money ect. We simply do what we do because we love our Savior and our Heavenly Father. 

What do you do to serve your father in Heaven? What have you gained because of the love of Christ in someone else? 

So often I find myself wondering why, and am slowing trying to change the "why" into the "because"... it is a process, but I have learned that every time we are blessed with that question it makes us grow closer to our Savior.  I have found that the answer to all our questions can be found- ALWAYS- through his Holy name, even Jesus Christ.

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Laurel Bird

"With his stripes we are healed"

Treasure Hunting

Aloha internet surfers! 

So nice to see you all again... okay, okay I cant really see you but if I could just know that I have a big ol smile on my face sitting there just for you!  :) (like that) I just can't help but have one there today!

Today my life has been really a blessed one. We had a zone meeting this morning and it was more than what Heavenly Father knew I needed. Goodness me, he spoils this little Florida missionary! A few thoughts have been rolling along in my mind as of late and I would just be a fool if i didn't share what I have been taught in the past few hours. 

First let me ask a question to you all. 

How grateful are you?

But really. When you wake up in the morning what is your first thought? Is it "Wow, I am so incredibly blessed to have another day!" or is it something to the effect of "uuuuggghhh it's so early, why cant I sleep just a bit longer?"... Now let me admit that may not be the best example for me... as I am naturally NOT a morning "Bird"... BUT that should not discount this valuable lesson that I am still in the process of learning... 

 

Coming on a mission has been one of the Craziest things I think I have ever had the good fortune to do, however, I think I came out all in the wrong attitude! As I have come to be out here now for almost four months (What the??) I have come to realize that the way to find true happiness is not by wishing things to be thrust upon me but more by having an attitude of Gratitude! By finding Joy in my journey and being where my feet are.

Ehm Ehm... Let me list a few things that I have realized I have had in my life that have helped me to become a more happy and more content Homo-sapien... (spelling, dear readers, has NEVER been a strong point of mine btw)

• I have a Heavenly Father who loves me SO much that he has blessed me with the message of the restored Gospel.
• My family has been supportive of my choices
• I have friends that love me for who I am and really care how I am doing
• I live in the United State of America- the one country that has the most freedom and ability to live my life under God. 
• I speak English! probably one of the weirdest and hardest languages in the world
• I have had an education and have experienced culture that has helped me become who I am
• I live in a BEAUTIFUL world and get to see the sun every morning and evening create a majestic watercolor painting across the sky.
• I have a place to live, food to eat, money in my bank account, and shoes on my feet
• I know that my Savior loves me and that he has provided a plan for me to RETURN and live with him again. 
• My body works properly and I can walk, talk and do most everything I would like to.

Now i could go on for years BUT I think you are getting the point SO let me pose the question again.

How grateful are you truly? Are you in a place in your life when you are humbled by the things that HAVE been provided, or in a place wishing other things would be done...

In my life I have done a bit of both I suppose, but I would like to urge you all to think of the things that you DO have and not the things that you do NOT have. Write them down and refer to them frequently, it is incredible the list that you will have!  When you do this, your mind truly becomes a canvas of peaceful contented thoughts and in return that is who you become. You CAN become a beacon of light in this dark world. Someone who exudes graditute and happiness to others.

When was the last time that you knelt in prayer strictly in gratitude for the things that you have from your father?

 Do you think that you would want to grant MORE to someone who is never appreciative for the things that you have already given them?

 Neither does our Heavenly Father. 

May I offer some advice that has worked for me- and I don't know everything- but I do know this:  Heavenly Father has blessed us more than we can ever comprehend. Listen to him, and acknowledge the good that has already been had. In doing so I know that you will become closer to your savior and you will find MORE peace, happiness, and joy than you ever have before. He loves you and wants you to have the joy that you are created to have. 

I love you all and am so glad that you have come back for a second visit. I love this gospel, I know that it is the only way to truth and happiness, and that as we strive to become more grateful we will become more Christ like. And as we become more Christ like, the world is at our feet- for he over came the world for us! His Atonement was not only Infinite but it was more importantly intimate...  And how Joyous is that gift we have been given? 

All my missionary love,

Sister Steffany Laurel Bird 

"Peace, Be still, and know that I am God" -Psalms 46:10

(insert welcome mat here)

Welcome to my little corner of the internet. I hope that you will find your stay here satisfying to some extent at maybe one of your little visits.

I start this blog so that you can see the way the lord blesses our lives and the miracles and blessings he provides to us in our every day lives. This author ain't perfect, but know that your Savior is. He loves you and wants you to know of his love! How incredible is that? I hope that when you come and visit here you will be able to see more clearly his love for you.

I will post weekly of the things I am learning, and the love that I find my Savior, Jesus Christ has for me. I invite you to do the same thing- share your love for one another and in turn you will find more peace joy and happiness in your life! I love you all and hope that you have a lovely day :)

All my missionary love,
Sister Steffany Bird