Trials

Today did start off any different than any other Sundays. I got up, worked on a bit of homework, ate, got ready for church, then left for church....alone. This is a very regular occasion. I often sit by myself during all three blocks of church. However, recently I have tried a few new tactics in order to meet new people. Instead of sitting by myself, I ask someone new if I can sit by them. And I usually try to do this for each meeting. The goal is to meet three new people each week. By doing this, I have met a lot of wonderful new people!! I also have been attending ward prayer every Sunday night at 9. None of my roommates like going or want to go, so I yet again attend alone. It took me a few weeks until I made more of an effort to sit by different people at ward prayer, because I normally sat by the same people.
Now, regarding the title of this blog post "Trials." This was the title of our lesson today in Relief Society and boy let me tell you, I sure needed this lesson. It really helped me to think. Heavenly Father places many difficult trials in our lives for many different reasons. One of which, that I most appreciate, is so that once our trial and difficult times are passed, we are able to better appreciate those sweeter moments when life is wonderful and there are not any troubles. Another, is to better prepare us for Celestial Glory and to enter into the Kingdom of God. These trials are tailored to our daily lives in order to make us stronger.
                           "...He even indicates that some of the weaknesses and infirmities given to us can actually     become a strength to us. It is in our weakness and extremity that God’s power is fully felt. Only when, of ourselves, we are helpless is His help truly appreciated." Neal A. Maxwell

I've had quite a few trials of my own while living here. Up until my senior year of high school, I only planned on one university to attend, and that was Utah State University. Both of my parents graduated from there as well as many of my aunts, uncles, and cousins. It wasn't until February of that year that I began to feel differently. I remember after walking around the campus of Utah Valley University one day during a break of the Utah Wrestling State Championships (I was a wrestling manager for four years), I had a feeling and heard "voices" telling me that this is the school I needed to be at. I shook the feeling away and moved on with the rest of my day and eventually my week. Later I finally decided to talk with my mom about what happened. I distinctly remember crying to her as I told her that I was not supposed to go to USU, but to UVU. I never even considered moving south!! Especially to Utah County. Where I am from, we talk about Utah County almost in a negative way and how they live in their own "bubble." 
Now, after living here for eight months and away from home, I am here to say that it is a trial that I am supposed to endure. I will admit, I still call my mom every day, and if I don't, well....that never happens. I always call her without fail. While I have good days and bad days, one question always lingers on my mind that has not yet been answered; "Why am I here? I am unhappy here, yet I KNOW this is where I am supposed to be." Even though I have not gotten a sure answer to these questions, I know that by trusting in the Lord and leaning upon the leaders of my ward, it has sure been easier to get through some very rough times. 
Anyway, I hope your Sunday was as fantastic as mine and that you all learned something during your church lessons. 'Till next, 
       -Linsey