“If you are regretting lost opportunities of learning, start learning now. If you are mourning about something you did not accomplish, start working and planning something you can accomplish now. Some of the greatest books have been written, some of the finest paintings painted, some of the most wonderful inventions worked out by people well along in years, or seriously handicapped, or both. Milton was past fifty and blind when he sat down to complete his world famous epic. Benjamin Franklin was past fifty when he started the study of science and philosophy. Michelangelo said, "Yet I am learning," when he was past seventy. He finished the huge painting called the "Last Judgment" in the Sistine Chapel when he was a very old man. He died at eighty-nine. Tennyson wrote his favorite poem, "Crossing the Bar" when he was eighty-one. We can always do something worthwhile, no matter what our age or condition.” (“Look to This Day” by Nona H. Brown)
Dallin H. Oaks (a general authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) taught: “As Latter-day Saints we believe in education, and we have a philosophy about how and why we should pursue it. Our religious faith teaches us that we should seek learning by the spirit and that we have a stewardship to use our knowledge for the benefit of mankind….. An education is not limited to formal study. Lifelong learning can increase our ability to appreciate and relish the workings and beauty of the world around us. This kind of learning goes well beyond books and a selective use of new technology, such as the Internet. It includes artistic endeavors. It also includes experiences with people and places: conversations with friends, visits to museums and concerts, and opportunities for service. We should expand ourselves and enjoy the journey...The acquisition of knowledge is a lifelong, sacred activity, pleasing to our Heavenly Father.” (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, “Learning and Latter day Saints,” Ensign, April 2009)
I've been thinking a lot about my dreams lately. What really "feeds my soul". We talked about dreams and fulfilling our potential in Relief Society this past Sunday at church. I was really grateful for the lesson. I had a friend tell me that once she became a mom, she had three personas that she was trying to figure out how to balance. The "Mom" her, the "Wife" her, and the "Her" her. I don't know if that makes sense to you, but these days it's making perfect sense to me. Trying to find the right balance and who I am now as a Mom/Wifey/Ashton is a new realm for me. It's exciting! But like navigating anything new, it comes with its ups and downs...and that lesson in church on Sunday really spoke to me!
I have dreams. Big dreams. My children will have dreams. Big dreams. I hope they do anyways. I want them to shoot for the stars without fear of failure. I want to teach and show my children that their dreams are possible. Their BIG ones. That they have so much potential! If I want them to believe that, I have to be brave and set an example. Following your dreams can be scary and intimidating! But I pray that with the guidance of Heavenly Father, I can navigate those dreams of mine.
Even the big ones.
Cheers to following your dreams!
XOXO
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