"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Friday, May 23, 2008

Count Your Many Blessings

Whenever I need a quick pick me up, I open up the book "Way to Be" by Pres. Hinckley. It is full of wonderful advice that really puts things in perspective. Today I came across a quote that was just what I needed to hear.

"Cultivate an attitude of optimism. Know that God is watching over you, that He will hear your prayers and will answer them, that He loves you and will make that love manifest."

What a great reminder. And, I have found this to be so true. When I make an effort to "cultivate" optimism, I am overcome with gratitude for all of the good in my life.

The past few weeks have been so hectic and crazy. There have been moments I really thought about check'n myself into a loony bin. Then, just when I thought I was at the end of my rope, my sweet son Johnny posted his 11 year old testimony on his blog. God truly is watching over me and IS manifesting His love. I just need to open my eyes.

Count your many blessings name them one by one, and it WILL surprise you!

20 comments:

Cecily R said...

Thanks Lynell. I needed that. You have no idea how much.

An Ordinary Mom said...

So very true!

Susan said...

You are busier than anyone else I know and yet you pull it off with grace and always a smile! You are are great example for optimism!

Mo said...

I love reading your posts. I cant imagine where you find the time.
I know I have told you a hundred times - but you are a great mom. We dont talk as often as we used to - but I love having you for a friend as well as a cousin. I am so happy we live close.

Misty said...

I love that quote, so much in fact, I may stick it in my side bar.

LOVE.IT.

Tricia said...

One of my very favorite scriptures is Matt. 10:29-31; Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. FEAR YE NOT THEREFORE, YE ARE OF MORE VALUE THAN MANY SPARROWS. Hang in there Lynell!

Danielle Christiansen said...

How wonderful! Doesn't it make you feel so good that you teach your kids the gospel and right from wrong, and they make wonderful choices on their own? You are doing a great job raising your kids!!

Grammy Staffy said...

I agree dear. I am thankful for that testimoney.
By the way, when I count my many blessing, you are ALWAYS ON THE LIST!!!

KATE said...

What a great reminder! I love it, thanks!

Anonymous said...

I read Johnny's blog, and, well, how do you do it? My oldest is 14 and sometimes I just get so very overwhelmed. Thank you for being such a great inspiration and light.

Are You Serious! said...

♡ What a sweet boy! I love President Hinckley and all his words of wisdom! :)

Marie Rayner said...

Wonderful post Lynell. I try to count my blessings every day, even on the days it's that it's really hard to see them. I know they're there if I look hard enough. Loved reading your son's testimony. That is probably one of my greatest sorrows in life, that I was not able to bring my babies up in the church and now they must find their own way to the gospel. Now there's a co-inky dink. In reading through your comments I see that Tricia has used the very scripture that I based my journal entry on today! WOW. Isn't life amazing! Great minds and all that!

steve and lisa said...

I am sure the ward & neighbors are going to MISS you guys a ton! We missed going to the new churchouse by a month! We don't miss the blue church though!
Your insight gets me moving with every new post! Thank you!
Went VT yesterday & talked about that two degree difference & then the airplane crashed - talk from conference. How easy it is to read about positive decisions, but very, very hard when you are smack in the middle of a change or crisis! Just keep moving! That is my quote of the day!!! Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! Lisa

Wendi said...

Thanks for the reminder.
I just started counting and what do you know?
Blessings.
Many more than I am deserving of.
I read Johnny's testimony.
You have much to be grateful for. What a special boy.
He must have an amazing MOM!

Marla said...

So true Nell...I have felt like checking into the loony bin too as of late. Wanna be roomies??

Ellie McFreaken said...

Lynell..thank you for reminders that I need to be reminded of. I love your blog and your optimism. I loved your post about Mother's day. I never looked at that big picture like that before and what a great idea.
A new adventure will be so fun for your family. I didn't want to move from our old house 2 years ago and now I can't imagine not knowing all these wonderful neighbors and friends I've met.
I am going to have to get out the " Way to Be" book man, I forget how simple and to the point his messages are.
I hope you don't mind me coming to visit your blog every so often. It has been so fun to get to know you and know that others are experiencing Motherhood like myself. I think this Blogging has really helped me be a better mother whether it's ideas, quotes, encouragement or just knowing that others are supporting me.
I went and made my MommyMoments365 private. I just started getting nervous and my other blog is already private.
If you want an invite my email is Jakeangellie@yahoo.com

Melisa said...

I trully have alot ot be greatful for and I know I dont take the time I should to reflect and give thanks. So thank you for the reminder.

SuperCoolMom said...

We've been busy with end of year activities too! I can just imagine how busy you are with dance classes, moving, and the rest on top of it! Sounds like your new house will be a fun adventure!

I'm with you one the gift receiving: I give Dad and the kids the sales fliers and coupons for my favorite stores, then I circle the things I'd like. They can choose any or all, then everyone's happy!

Randi said...

Very true. And a good reminder!

Shannon said...

You are so great at searching out how to have optimism. I hadn't really thought about it specifically until I started reading your blog. You are guided to great quotes. I love to read what you have found or how it has helped you through a day.