A bit absent, but fully thoughtful

I've had a lot of thoughts on my mind lately. Ones that are hard to put into words though- or seem way too simplified once in writing compared to the depth of feeling they carry inside me... I wish I could though because all the feelings have increased my level of thankfulness.

In a very simplified form, here are a few thoughts of gratitude I've had lately.

1. Tithing. I have such a testimony of this. With all the crazy unexpected expenses we decided to re-examine our tithing contributions. We realized that perhaps we hadn't fully recognized all our "increase", and so made an adjustment. IMMEDIATLY our "bad luck" was replaced with good luck. Example? I was frustrated because our Tahoe didn't pass the required emissions test because of a check engine light reading and I had to take it to a mechanic. I found a mechanic who was rated well online (I'm always leary) and he tested everything only to find no problem at all, he cleared the light and told me that after a full drive cycle I should pass the test. Said that it was probably either from not keeping the gas cap tight, or a vent valve getting stuck because of debri (which he cleaned). His charge? ZERO DOLLARS! Yeah- I'll be taking my cars to him for all future maintenance needs. It wasn't as if we weren't paying an honest tithe before, but when you are generous with the Lord he is generous with you.

2. Small trials. I REALLY do not want to sound like I'm complaining too much about our "bad luck" as of late. It's true we've been through some challenges- but I know others who are going through so much more. Our really has a been a light burden. On Sunday we had ward conference. The stake relief society president spoke in RS and talked about self-reliance. She spoke about the needs in our stake and how the top three are employment, health and relationship issues. I've personally learned of these needs of some of the sisters in our ward, but also have friends and family members I know of going through such trials; and let us not forget those suffering in Haiti. As she spoke of the council we've been given surrounding tithing, budgeting, savings, emergency preparedness as well as education, emotional and spiritual well-being and then spoke of the promsises of peace that can come when we are doing our best to follow that council- I was washed over with the Spirit of testimony. I KNOW that we have been blessed because we have done our best to follow such council. We can make it through our own trials, and help others make it through theirs if we follow the council of our inspired leaders.

3. Small changes. I've recently tried to make some small changes in my attitude and in some of my personal spiritual goals. Again, my testimonty has been strengthened. It's amazing how the Lord magnifies our efforts, and how he blesses us for even the small efforts we make.