Grateful God Organized So Many Souls

What is the difference between having a trial and learning by experience? Is there a difference between living with differences and learning from others? What is the difference between eating the bread and water and partaking of the sacrament? The difference is all in how we feel about it, the value we place upon the result. I have felt that lately with everything I do it is easy to get discouraged. Being far away from home is difficult, and the pressure of working in another country with humidity and heat is never an easy feat. I live with 9 other girls and one bathroom. Pair that with one air-condition that only gets turned on at night. Yikes. Let me tell you something REAL. It is very VERY hot. I have found that overcoming these trials has to do with a similar mindset that helps us get the very most out of the gospel. The same attitude that helps us get over certain trials is the very same one that brings the gospel to life, gives it meaning, shape, and makes it into a way of happy living rather than just a set of rules. We can see it as too hard, too hot, too much work. We can see the gospel as too restricting, too limiting, too rigid, or we can see it as guiding, freeing, and enlightening. I like to take this perspective when meeting people as well. I have been extremely grateful for the girls (and guy) I work alongside here. They are all so kind, so accommodating, and have a spirit of adventure that keeps me roaring with laughter as I never have before.  Throughout my traveling these last couple months I have been constantly living within a tight schedule, going from one place to another when the schedule says so and when the plan indicates. I’ve been with people 24/7, making decisions together, planning together, paying together. I have learned a lot about myself during this time of having to work with so many different personality types. I’ve learned what I really love to do and what is worth of my time. I’ve learned I’m not always right, even when I’m sure I am (shocking I know). My reality isn’t always “reality”. I see things different than other people, which often helps me, but sometimes hurts me. I’ve learned what upsets me and what excites me, what pushes me to my limits and what pushes me over. I’ve always seen myself as more as an introvert because of my love for books and learning, but I’ve discovered the best kind of exploration and innovation is with others. I have a long way to go still, understanding that I will have the blessing to always share life’s experiences with others, and that that is what truly gives us the joy and happiness we desire most in this life. People are amazing, and I am grateful I can learn from so many intelligent people here.