Wholesome perspective

I remember someone telling me that the gospel is true and always will be, in spite of what people do. We are only affected by what others do in the way we choose to react. I, thus, got in the habit of doing the following every morning to help me be spiritually and emotionally independent:

• Praying.

• Reading scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon. One verse I turn to is 3 Ne. 14:12.

• Writing in my journal.

These three things helped me to maintain my outlook on life in a more wholesome perspective.

Now, to keep from turning inward and feeling sorry for myself, I work on looking outward for ways to show a little kindness to someone each day, rather than wondering, "Why does nobody ever help me?" It is not hard to notice little "tip-offs" to someone else's need for an encouraging word or kind deed, or simply a sincere compliment. After service like this, both feel better about themselves for the rest of the day. Sometimes it may be as simple as showing a little courtesy to other drivers on the road, instead of cutting in front of them or ignoring them. "Kindness begins with me" is a true principle of the gospel. — Elder Jerald Finlinson, Fiji Suva Mission

He answers prayers

We can become less dependent on others for emotional and spiritual needs by building a good and lasting relationship with our Father in Heaven. We need to know that He hears and answers each of our prayers regardless of our financial situation or the positions we hold in Church, etc. We are each a child of God. He knows and loves each of us in spite of our imperfections.

We can be aware of special blessings He has given us individually. Some may hardly be noticeable, while others may be very significant. Thank Him for each.

We will not always be in a situation where we can receive help from others. Therefore, we need to know that regardless of where we are, we do have a direct line to our Father in Heaven. We may have trials that are difficult, but we can discuss these in our prayers and know that a kind, wise Father in Heaven is listening. If we are to become heirs of God's kingdom, we must be able to do many things independently and of ourselves through faith in a living Father in Heaven. — Echo Allen, Vernal, Utah

Fasting and prayer

Since joining the Church, I have learned to love the Savior and follow in His footsteps. I have lived somewhat of a nomadic life, moving around the country. During the process of leaving friends and then trying to make new ones, I strive to live the standards of the gospel to the fullest. In addition, the scriptures have become reference materials, with fasting and prayer as guides to personal spiritual and emotional survival. — Peter Kaiser, Point Lonsdale, Australia

Choose the right

I went through a lifetime of searching for God and searching for me, of living through other people and allowing them to make my choices. Through Heavenly Father's mercy, I finally found the Church. To allow another to choose for us is to forfeit our claim to our divine inheritance. It is to deny the will and plan of God. No one else has the right to make the choices for my life but me, and, indeed, no one can. When I allow another to choose for me or when I choose to try and live "through" another person, I am, in fact, making the choice to give away my personal power.

Jesus said, "The truth shall make you free." (John 8:32.) We, as members of the Church, have the truth. Claim it, and claim our inheritance as children of Diety. When we stand before Him, we will be judged according to what we, as stewards, did with the gifts that we were given. The excuses, "I couldn't," "I didn't understand," "They made me," "I was afraid," will not matter. As the foolish stewards in the parable, we will stand without excuse and be condemned by our own choices. (Please see Matthew 25.) Each of us is the keeper of our own soul, whether we want that privilege or not. — Lynne Owens, Mt. Juliet, Tenn.

Attend temple

Get your life in a proper perspective. In my experience, I suffered the trauma of brain damage from a car wreck. At one time, I pled with my husband to let me go to a mental hospital to get some peace. Maybe then I could finally be emotionally stable. But then, later, I started going to a nearby temple regularly. I felt I was no longer alone and could feel the clean and refreshing joy of being there. At last, through attendance in the temple, my life got in perspective and I felt peace and calmness. I could be stable and emotionally happy. — Mary Ann Fackrell, Ucon, Idaho