Happy

Life is just so good. I can honestly say I've never been happier. Sometimes in life when we are going through a difficult time, we think we can never attain happiness or never reach what we once had. Well, I am here to say that it's possible. I learned a very important lesson this last year: You cannot spend time moping around and trying to fix the problem. You have to wipe the dust off your hands, get back on your feet, and BE HAPPY. Eventually everything falls into place. Sometimes the things we think are best for us actually aren't. God has a plan for each of us. When we are humble enough to submit to His will we find the treasures He has in store for us.
A big contributor to my happiness has been working for Especially for Youth (EFY) this summer. I've taken a lot of the time from focusing on myself and changing it by focusing on serving the youth and those around me. This job has been close to one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. Not only has my testimony strengthened, but I have the pleasure to see the changes the youth make when they apply the Gospel in their lives. Each week I personally testify to them how much their Savior loves them and how they can change, no matter what things are going on in their lives currently. I teach them about the Atonement, and how much they are valued by their Father in Heaven. It is overwhelming to see each week the youth in my groups change. It is the most rewarding feeling to know the power of the Spirit worked on them. When I first started my job at EFY I was so stressed and concerned with saying exactly what they needed to hear and plan the perfect lesson or play the perfect song during devotional. I learned a very important lesson though my first week: The Spirit speaks louder, more clearly, and more perfectly than anything I could ever think or say. As I've been able to teach by the Spirit and create environments where the Spirit can dwell, I've literally seen miracles happen. There are a couple youth that have been in my groups who have had such a profound impact on my life, whether it be their examples or willingness from some to change and apply the Atonement in their lives.
Although being an EFY counselor is all about the youth, along the journey I've also been able to make such good friends. I really do not think it was a coincidence I met the people I did. They've seriously been exactly what I needed. It's been so so great. Technically I only have one more week to work. I really hope it won't be the last week because it will be so hard to say goodbye to one of the best summers of my life.
While life has been so great the last coupla months, I have so much more to look forward to. This summer has allowed me to figure out for real what I'm going to be doing with my life and for once I'm 100% confident in my decision. I know it's what is right for me and I am so excited for what lies ahead. Life is good. Be happy and don't waste time away wishing for something else. Rather, make it happen. Take control of your life and go for what you want!
Also, here are some pictures from my adventures this summer :)