Pornography

Yes I'm going to attempt to talk about this touchy subject. Why? Because there are way too many youth that I know that struggle with it. I'm not calling anyone out-it's not my place. But I will speak my own opinions about the subject. If you do struggle with this or any other sexual sin, please go speak with your bishop or branch president immediately. It's easier to receive help now, than put it off until right before something important like temple marriage or a mission.

First off, prophets and apostles warn about the dangers of it. That's a no duh. It's addicting, much like drugs or alcohol, it warps your brain. That's why it's so important to stay clear of everything that could even lead to it. Remember the venus fly trap looks like a normal harmless plant before it kills it's dinner. 

Secondly, I believe that since this is such a taboo topic no one takes the time to what pornography and sexual sins include. I have heard many stories from many of my friends that have stated that if someone had explained before hand that what they were doing was wrong, they wouldn't have gone there. The world will teach your kids what you don't (that goes for adults and teens). So many youth go to the internet to find answers to their questions, which is just like when the fly rests on a venus fly trap. They don't realize it but then it starts the downward spiral. Also having good communication between parent and child is key. Many of said friends above told me that if they could trust going to their parents with their questions, they would have. But they didn't. As taboo as it is, it needs to be discussed in the walls within your home.

I know most of my audience are teenagers, so to you I offer some advice. If you already have an addiction, go to your bishop. Just do it. It will be so worth it in the end. If you don't struggle with it but have a question, do go to your parents or leaders. They will give you answers that won't lead to a porn addiction. Of course the best advice I can give, is to stay away from all of that. But I know you go to movies and that you go to high school and there's filth everywhere. Even if you aren't friends with people who discuss it, you'll still hear it in the halls (mostly from obnoxious boys who are yelling). Curiosity killed the cat by leading it slowly to it's death. Ignore these the best you can.

Here's what the For the Strength of Youth says about all this fun stuff:

Do not allow the media, your peers, or others to persuade you that sexual intimacy before marriage is acceptable. It is not. In God’s sight, sexual sins are extremely serious.

Avoid situations that invite increased temptation, such as late-night or overnight activities away from home or activities where there is a lack of adult supervision. Do not participate in discussions or any media that arouse sexual feelings. Do not participate in any type of pornography. The Spirit can help you know when you are at risk and give you the strength to remove yourself from the situation. Have faith in and be obedient to the righteous counsel of your parents and leaders.
Wow it's like the prophets know what's up or something. Sorry my sarcasm is a little strong there. But on a serious note, follow their advice. I encourage you all to read the For the Strength of Youth on this matter.

Lastly, I want you to all know, I'm not blaming this on parents or kids. It's all Satan's fault. And if he can find one tiny crevice in the wall, he will slip in and work his way up throughout the whole structure and cause it to collapse without warning. We as members can all work together to prevent and stop the war against porn. For more info on the war against porn check out fightthenewdrug.org for ways to become a fighter.

Don't worry merry sunshines, next week will be a happier, more spiritual post. I felt the need to get this out of my system as it has been on my mind for the past couple of weeks. Stay classy fam.

Love,
Janae

Go & Do/Scripture Studying

I think one of life's hardest lessons is learning to trust the Lord. We know that He knows everything, but trusting in Him and His timing is hard. I'll admit, I'm not the world's most patient person, so trusting in the Lord's timing is especially hard for me. So waiting to receive an answer to my mission prayer was hard. One week I would feel like maybe He didn't want me to go and that's why I hadn't gotten an answer while the next week I would feel that it was a No Duh type of answer. I wanted to pull out my hair and scream WHY CAN'T YOU ANSWER ME??

Yelling and pulling out my hair wasn't considered a healthy reaction to the situation so I turned to the scriptures and of course, the General Authorities. Several scriptures helped me through this time and I knew they were the answer that I least wanted to hear: Be patient and wait; I'll tell you soon enough. 

1st Nephi 4:6- And I was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do. 

1st Nephi 9:6- But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of all his words. And thus it is. Amen.

These two have made it into my top ten of favorite scriptures (maybe a future post?). Heavenly Father knows everything. We had to be willing and patient to wait and look for His hand in our lives. I had to be patient in waiting for my answer to whether or not I should go on a mission. In fact, the answer came when I least expected it. But it took three months of praying, fasting, studying scriptures, and pondering to get my answer. I knew I had to be steadfast in doing those things so I would be in the right environment to receive my answer. In all honesty, I learned more about patience than I did receiving answers to prayers. 

Some people have asked me how I do it. How am I so spiritual and how do I have all these cool experiences? The answer is easy. I know you all know it. I read and pray everyday. Scripture study and daily prayers are the keys to getting yourself into a spiritual mindset. I often study in my room, with MoTab playing (I'm a musical person, so I learn best when there's music involved). I create an environment where the Spirit can come and reside and teach me. I approach studying with an open heart and mind with a willingness to learn. 

Then I study. Pretty simple. I start reading and I have my scripture markers handy because I like to mark everything I like, even if it means my scriptures end up looking like a coloring book. If I really love a scripture, I'll go find a nice picture of flowers or something nature and put it as the background to it. I like to have them on hand. I'm not saying this is the sure fire way of getting a good study session and feeling the Spirit- this is just what works for me. 

Maybe take the cookie cutter mold for studying and apply it to how you learn best. Maybe you're a visual learner- go get some pictures of the stories you read. Maybe you're auditory; listening to the scriptures is great (as long as you don't fall asleep). So many times we are told to just read our scriptures, but we are never told that we can adjust our study methods to best feel the Spirit and learn the most. The whole point of studying your scriptures is to learn from them. So do what you need to do so you can learn best. 

Sorry that this post was all over the place. That's what happens when I get the urge to write and it just comes out spilling all over the place with no real organization. I hope you all have a fantastic week. Remember your Heavenly Father loves you very much! 

Love,

Janae 

Is a Mission Right for Me?

Missions. It seems that since the age change, everyone and their sister have been getting their calls (haha appreciate my lame joke please). You may be in the whirlwind that has seem to capture many youth as to whether they should serve or not. Mind you, this applies to girls and boys. I, myself have been in that same whirlwind. I'm here to offer some help. Of course you will need to consult with Heavenly Father and listen to the prompting of the Spirit, but maybe you were in a place with no answers like I was. Well buckle up children, and let me shed some light.

One of the first things to do before even praying and fasting to decide whether or not to serve, is to realize that you don't have to be perfect to go on a mission. What? Crazy I know. The Lord doesn't want perfect people. He wants imperfect people that He can help mold and shape, through trials, into someone greater. Ask any RM. They will tell you that they have grown so much because of their mission.

Now that we got that misconception out of the way, lets get down to business to defeat Satan! Yes that little bugger will probably try every excuse in the book to get you to not even consider a mission. Worthiness, spirituality, maybe even financial, he will use all of theses as excuses for you to not go. Trust in the Lord and come to accept that if He wants you to serve, He will make it happen.

Many of you may be thinking, "Well this still doesn't help me." Let us clarify some more. D&C 4:3- "If ye have the desire, ye are called to the work." The Lord says that if you want to serve, He will take you and let you serve. However, He may have greater things planned for you. This is where it gets tough. My bestie/sister Dev told me to just make up my mind and say I'll go. That way I only have to get approval from the Lord instead of directions. He did put us on earth to make decisions of our own (agency).

That's what I personally did. I said, "Okay Heavenly Father. I'm gonna go on a mission." Now granted I have a year before I can even report. But I did it nevertheless. My answer took about 3 months to get. I prayed for an answer nightly and fasted for it. Nothing. Then one night I was walking to my room to go to bed and it hit me. "You're going to go on a mission." I was excited. I had finally got my answer!

You may have to wait months to get an answer. You may get one right away. The Lord knows what He's doing. While waiting for an answer, do your part. Read your scriptures everyday and say your prayers. It may seem small and simple but that's how you show the Lord your willingness. Another thing I did, was I read mission books. 10 Questions to Answer While Preparing for a Mission and 30 Ways to Love Your Mission are my favorites. These are more for anyone and everyone preparing or debating. Girls, Do Not Attempt in Heels and Sisters: A Modern Girl's Guide to Serving a Mission are my top two favorite ones. Even if you don't end up going, you have still learned.

If you are one of the ones debating between marriage and a mission, Dev has more words of wisdom for you. "Preparing for a mission also prepares you for marriage." I couldn't agree more. Now I am neither married, nor an RM, but I do not doubt the truth in her words. No matter how young you are, you are never too young to start preparing for a mission. Even if you do not end up going, you will be spiritually stronger (and that's not a bad thing).

I testify that if you earnestly want to serve and prepare to serve, the Lord will put your efforts to good use. He loves you and wants each of His children to hear the gospel. "Look unto me in every thought. Doubt not, fear not." He will guide you through the promptings of the Holy Ghost. And lastly, a quote to sum it all up.

He will always help you. In all of your decisions, and in everything, He wants the best for you. Until next week my dears.

Love,
Janae

Overcoming Anger, Fear, and Hurt

I've wanted to touch on this topic for quite some time, but I realized that first I had to overcome it myself. Which I recently have. It was a painful two weeks that included a lot of tears but it was so worth it. This post is for those of you, who have felt wronged in any way. I don't know your specific circumstance, but I hope this can help you come to peace with the inner demons that you're fighting.

Overcoming anger, fear, and hurt has three corresponding solutions. The Atonement, forgiveness, and letting go are the solutions that I've found to work with overcoming the underlying issues that come from whatever trial. If you truly want to overcome something, you can. I believe that without a doubt. 

Christ took upon all the infirmities of the world. He knows how to ease our burdens and sorrow. Alma 7:11-13 states:

 11 And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictionsand temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.

 12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loosethe bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.

 13 Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.

Because of the Atonement, Christ has walked our life. He knows how to succor, or help, us (in really simplified terms). The Atonement is not just for when we sin; it's for when we are sad, hurt, angry, and afraid.

Forgiving those who have intentionally or unintentionally hurt us is a difficult and often scary process. It means putting ourselves in a position the natural man doesn't like. It means becoming humble and submissive and saying that you won't hold a grudge against someone. I went through this process myself recently. I had realized that I needed to forgive my biological parents in order to feel at peace. They have never done anything wrong to me, but I felt like I was wronged by them. I had to come to terms that they hadn't done anything to me and that I needed to forgive them and let go of my anger and bitterness.

Letting go can be just as hard as forgiving. It's a process that will take some time to get through completely, whether it be days, months, or years. I'm still in the middle of it. There will be times where you will get angry or upset and want to still blame whatever happened that hurt you. That does you no good! It only sets you back father in the whole process. Take a deep breath and remember that it'll all be okay.

And finally I leave with you two great general conference talks. The first one is about fear and the second one is about forgiveness. I hope that this has been helpful to you in some way. Remember your Heavenly Father loves you greatly.

Elder Bednar, Therefore They Hushed Their Fears
Elder Sorensen, Forgiveness Will Change Bitterness to Love

Love,
 Janae

General Conference & You

General Conference was this past weekend and I hoped you all had the opportunity to watch it. I know I personally try to get the most out of conference and there are some ways I want to share with you! (Yes I know it passed but you can apply these when you go to reread or rewatch talks) :)

I personally like to start by having scripture study and then writing down whatever questions come to your mind. Spiritual or not! I've had both types of questions answered during General Conference.

Another thing I like to do, is watch conference by myself. Sounds ridiculous since it's just my parents and I at home, but they talk constantly and I find that I can feel the Spirit more when it's just myself in the room.

In between sessions, I try to get up and MOVE. I walk around the house, do jumping jacks, or whatever to get my blood flowing. I find it's a lot harder for me to fall asleep during the next session if I've got my blood pumping.

Lastly, my favorite thing to do is listen to hymns before. I feel the Spirit through music especially and I want to be in tune for conference.

These are some of the ways that I get the most out of conference! I hope they're helpful for you as you go back to ponder and explore the prophet's words. Also I hope you have had a happy Easter! Have a great week lovelies.

Love,
Janae

Praying is Magical

Sorry for having skipped last week and then being a day late this week. My missionary had his farewell last week so I was consumed with that.

Life has gotten tough. I will not lie to you. It's hard having someone you love leave. Granted he is out doing the Lord's work and I know he'll be safe, but it's still hard. So I decided that I would not be one of those missionary girlfriend's that mopes around.

I turned all of my efforts into bettering myself spiritually, as well as praying for my missionary and others. I've noticed that my heart has become softened to those all around me. I have also noticed that at night when I say my prayers, they have become more focused on others and less asking and more thanking.

I love this quote. It is so true. No matter what you're going through you can pray to your Heavenly Father and He will listen to you. He is like any other parent in the way that He is eager to hear from you and is excited about what's going on in your life. As you turn to Him for help, He will hear you and help you, whether it be through the Spirit or through His other children.

That is also why we need to have a strong relationship with our Heavenly Father. We are instruments in His hands! If we ask sincerely to help His children, He will present opportunities to help them. We must have willing hearts and open minds. Most people think of helping His children of missionary work, which isn't wrong! But we as normal members can help all, member and nonmember, man and woman.

I know that as you turn towards your Heavenly Father with open arms, He will be there to receive you into His own. I also know that you can make a big impact on this world. There are many souls who need your loving influence. Reach out to your Father to help you to reach out to them.

Love,
 Janae

Forgiveness

Forgiveness

I feel like this is a topic everyone talks about but is seldom truly understands. Forgiveness is simply 3 parts: forgiving others, asking God to forgive us, and forgiving ourselves. 

We all know that we have to forgive others, which that alone can be hard. But I want to focus on the last two parts of forgiveness. Forgiving ourselves and asking God to forgive us. 

After we sin, we go through the repentance process and part of that is forgiveness. 

I love this picture. It's name is very fitting. Forgive by Greg Olsen. Imagine yourself in the girl's spot, approaching Christ to ask for forgiveness. It takes a lot to humble ourselves enough to ask for forgiveness. However, God will always forgive us. That's why we have the Atonement. It is our way to repent and be forgiven. 

If we feel godly sorrow and approach Christ humbled and truly desiring to change, we will feel ourselves being forgiven and we will receive a conformation from the Spirit that we have indeed, been forgiven. 

This picture goes in hand with the one above. White as Snow by Greg Olsen. Once again, imagine yourself in the girl's spot. You have been forgiven. And now you have to forgive yourself. I'll admit it's not easy. I struggle with this concept also. Satan tries to use guilt on us even though we have been fully forgiven. 

Once we have forgiven ourselves, we can move on. We can forget about the past. If you struggle, you can ALWAYS pray for help. Your loving Heavenly Father doesn't want you to be miserable. Surprise! Your life is going to be hard, but it's not supposed to be hard forever. If you think it is, you might want to go consult your Father in Heaven. 

I know once we've been forgiven and have forgiven ourselves, then we can move forward with "one eye single to the glory of God." 

Love,

  Janae