gratitude, glasses, gospel

I took off my glasses, they were covered in all sorts of smudges and in desperate need of a cleaning. As I took my shirt to polish those very cloudy lenses my eyes glanced upward. I was on a walk with Charlie enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Even with my limited eye sight I could still see the beautiful red leaves covering the mountains around me.

As beautiful as the scenery was, when i put my glasses back on, the details around me were so much more intense. I was reminded of how wonderful glasses are. For when I put them back on, I can see so much more! I can see the details of the trees, how they are separate and distinct. I can see houses hiding all over the mountains. I can see happy faces off in the distance. I can see signs of all sizes. I forget that my vision isn't 20/20...that is until i take my glasses off only to put them back on immediately. 

I know I often mention silly analogies but that's just how my brain works. It was drilled into me as a missionary. I remember my trainer, Sister Winn, giving me meaningless objects to relate to the gospel. I hated doing it! "Fire hydrant" she would say. Then i would stumble through words trying to make some sense of how the gospel was like a fire hydrant. ANYWAY...looks like i do it without thinking now (thanks Sister Winn).

As I was noticing how clear I could see with my glasses on I thought about how the gospel gives me clarity in this world of changing values. My glasses help me see this beautiful world but the gospel of Jesus Christ helps me have a clear vision of my purpose in this life. It gives me a clear view of where I came from, where I am going, and how to get there. It gives me a clear view of how to have joy. There are times where it's like I am taking my glasses off. I get caught up in worldly things, but when I go back to my roots and put those glasses on, my life has peace, hope, joy, love, and fulfillment. I am grateful for glasses and the gospel and how they both help me to see clearly :)

So speaking of things that help us see clearly...General Conference is coming up! The Prophets and Apostles have such a clear vision of our purpose and give so much great council and guidance. I look forward to hear their messages every 6 months!!