While studying my scriptures a few days ago, I came across this in my student manual, and just felt the need to share it. I love President Hinckley, and he said this to a group of religious educators in 1973 while he was a member of the quorum of the twelve apostles:
“I meet so many people who constantly complain about the burden of their responsibilities. Of course the pressures are great. There is much, too much, to do…
“Turn your thinking around. The gospel is good news. Man is that he might have joy. Be happy! Let that happiness shine through your faces and speak through your testimonies. ..
“I enjoy these words of Jenkins Lloyd Jones…
“’Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he’s been robbed. Most putts don’t drop. Most beef is tough. Most children grow up to be just people. Most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration. Most jobs are more often dull than otherwise.
“’Life is like an old-time rail journey – delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed.
“’The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride.’”
I am thankful for my ride here on this earth. It’s true there’s so much to do; sometimes discouragement sets in, and sometimes life does feels dull, as President Hinckley said. But I am grateful for the joy and happiness I feel through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, my husband, my children, my parents, siblings, and other family members, my friends, neighbors, in my job as a wife and mother, through nature, the knowledge of my identity, my talents, blessings, and gifts I’ve been given, modern conveniences and advancements, freedom, a home and food and the necessities of life, and so much more. I am grateful I can enjoy the journey, and that Heavenly Father sends me multiple reminders daily of His love, in the midst all of the dirty laundry, bad news, burnt casseroles, bills to pay, never-ending dishes, and toddler meltdowns. I am so very grateful for the many things I have and the time I have here on this earth!
