This time of year has also brought to mind a quote from former Relief Society General President Barbara B. Smith: "Goals are stars to steer by, not sticks to beat yourself with." I hope to set my own course this year by that Eternal Star, our Savior Jesus Christ, and work toward becoming even as He is.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
New Year
The most profound moment so far of 2009 came on Sunday in my Primary class (I now team-teach the CTR 7s); we were talking about names - why we need them, what we want other people to feel when they hear ours, etc. I had gone to church hoping for some direction in setting my goals for the year, and as I listened to the other teacher direct the discussion I had this moment: when other people hear my name, I don't give a hoot if they think "She was such a good cook" or "She had a beautiful voice." I'd rather they say "She never said an unkind word about anyone" or "Her service came at a time when I really needed it." I'm so glad I get to spend time in the Primary as an adult, because there are some lessons I didn't learn the first time around.
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12 comments:
Sigh.
I love you, sweet Brittany.
Some people feel that Primary is banishment. I feel that you can learn some profound things there if you're looking, and sometimes even if you're not.
I like being in primary, too. I think sometimes people don't dare state the (supposedly) obvious truths in other classes because they're afraid they'll look bad.
Thanks, Brittany. I needed to hear that. For the record, you are really good at all those things you mentioned...
Some beautiful thoughts to start the year! I have been wanting and meaning to email you, but can never seem to "find the time." So I suppose I'll have to make it. ;)
Whenever I've heard your name in the past few years, I HAVE thought, "She had such a beautiful voice." But!--I've also thought, "She was such a positive influence on me." :)
Sharon
I like that quote, Brit. I definitely sway more towards the "beating" side than the "guiding" side with goals. That'll be one to keep in mind...Oh, by the way: When I think about you I just think "smart." Sometimes it's "smart alec" though. :)
CTR 7 rocks!
That is a really good thought. Thanks for sharing it. I love the quote too.
i love primary. i learn so much and the spirit can be so strong.
and if it means anything, i've never heard you say an unkind word ever.
Wait, I don't know what to do if I'm not beating myself with sticks. Give me some time to sort this out.
sounds like a good resolution. :)
but I'm so partial to sticks!
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