to create

A leader of our church recently stated that women "sometimes undervalue their abilities—they focus on what is lacking or imperfect rather than what has been accomplished and who they really are."

Then he talked about how, if we want to enjoy God's happiness, we should do two things that God does: 1.) create. 2.) be compassionate. "He is a God of creation and compassion. Creating and being compassionate are two objectives that contribute to our Heavenly Father's perfect happiness."

When he said this, I thought, "what does he mean, create??" Well, here is the list of things that I created today (or helped to create):

• Carson's giggles.
• understanding in a church class, with a comment.
• a big bowl of popcorn, currently being devoured. Perhaps a Sunday night tradition?
• Rick's smiles. Along with his "smile wrinkles," which I adore.
• compliments to friends.
• an incredibly nutritious lunch for Carson: yogurt, flaxseed, and squash.
• the opportunity for someone to go to church, by giving him a ride.
• a dinner featuring 4 different colors.
• memories for my parents.
• another happy day for my sweet baby.

I know I could have done a lot more creating, but we're just focusing on what has been accomplished, right?

President Uchtdorf is right on when he says, "Creation brings deep satisfaction and fulfillment. We develop ourselves and others when we take unorganized matter into our hands and mold it into something of beauty."

I am glad that even those of us who aren't great singers or artists can still create things of beauty with our own unique talents. (Even if that talent is something as simple as making a baby laugh!)

Now, to work on that goal #2., of being compassionate...

a pillow obstacle course, created especially for Carson