Gifts and Giving

December 30 – Gift Prompt. Gift. This month, gifts and gift-giving can seem inescapable. What’s the most memorable gift, tangible or emotional, you received this year?

I received several amazing gifts this year. One of these was the gift of time. I was able to have some of my "time" back. I didn't realize how much time I was putting into my classes I was teaching. Toward the second part of the year, I was able to make dinner each night for my family. I was able to keep up on the laundry and the cleaning and all of the "stuff" that needed to be done. It was a great feeling.

I received the gift of forgiveness this year as well. I was able to ask forgiveness from some and to forgive others. It is truly an amazing and freeing feeling to let go of the hurt and anger that I tend to like to keep.

Being able to travel was also a great gift this year. I love to be able to make my "little" trips to Utah to see my dear friend Dickie. Those trips are refreshing and help me come back to Nebraska and be the wife, mom and woman I know I should be. Being able to visit Colin at BYU and see how happy he is, was also included in the gift of travel. Far enough away but not so far.

I think having a family reunion with Daren's family was also a big gift for me. I really miss Daren's family and it was so wonderful to see them and to laugh, play, eat, talk, share and just generally enjoy a few days together. I hope to make seeing them more of a priority. What a wonderful gift!

Everyday I am reminded of what a wonderful gift I have been given as I teach adults how to speak English. Whether they are from China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Colombia or Mexico...and so many other countries....I love my job! I gain so much from them and their families! It is a blessing and a gift that I treasure so much!

I would never be the person I am without the gift I have of a knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for faith, repentance and the covenants I have made with my Heavenly Father. I consider the ability to pray, read the scriptures and attend church a real gift. I know places in the world where this is not allowed. I have friends from all different religious backgrounds. I am so grateful for them and what they add to my life. I am strengthened by them. So awesome!

Gifts! I love a great present! My life is full! Everyday is a gift! I am very aware of this!