The Core

      Walking down the hall of your 7th grade class wondering what is going on with your body. Why is it changing, Why am I thinking that girls don't have cooties anymore? Or for the young ladies why am I thinking that boy's don't have cooties anymore?

    This my friends is called puberty. Everyone is different and it hits each of us at different times. Sometimes it hits younger then expected, and it can also hit you when you are older then expected. But, none the less it happens to every single one of us including your parents. Ew. Gross. huh?!

Why do I mention your parents? Because they have been exactly where you are, they know the thoughts, body changes, etc that you are going through.

 

With all of these changes comes big and heavy responsibilities. What you choose to listen to, decide to watch, look at on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Bumble, etc. Does impact the choices you make. If you think it doesn't you're in for some really tough times.

   The addiction that is spreading throughout the nation like a plague, is not what you seem to expect. It's not cigarettes, it's not alcohol, it's not cocaine, etc. It's an addiction that is one of the most silent killers of our day. That is of Pornography. What is pornography exactly?

     Before I go into this heavy topic I want to gear my thoughts and feelings towards parents of children. Especially teenagers.

First and foremost these chosen children of God were sent here at this time because they were valiant in the pre-existence.

They knew who Jesus Christ was and they stood with him! Because of the veil they have forgotten who they really are. They have forgotten their strength, and what they have come to earth to overcome.

    Heavenly Father entrusted YOU to help them to remember that they testified that Jesus Christ lives, to help them remember who they truly are! And that THEY WON against the adversary that was trying to take them with him. They were valiant then and they can do it again, with your help!


    So what is the core of this silent addiction that is sweeping the nation? Believe it or not it is LUST!

In the Merriam-Webster dictionary it reads "lust is usually intense or unbridled sexual desire"

This is what is capturing our young people.

So what is pornography? And how can we help?

There are three different definitions that are found in Merriam Webster Dictionary where it reads:

1. The depiction of erotic behavior (as in pictures or writing) intended to cause sexual excitement.

2. Material (such as books or a photograph) that depicts erotic behavior and is intended to cause sexual excitement.


3. The depiction of acts in a sensational manner so as to arouse a quick intense emotional reaction, such as video sexting and messaging girls or guys online.

This my friends is NOT a sin to be a part of. If you know someone that is dealing with this, seek help quickly!

It's better to conquer this addiction before it even starts. So how can you help your child, or teenager, to not even get into it?!

     Self Control and not being idol! Keep these teenagers so busy that they don't have time to be online.

Also, Parents you are not your child's friend at this point in the game. That comes later.

     Right now you are reminding them of who they were before they were born, who they stood with, and why they were chosen for this day and age, when everything around us is becoming darker and darker.

     Don't be afraid to get your teenager a flip phone instead of the "latest popular phone" They may not appreciate it now.

But, they will later. If your teenager has a social media account have ALL
passwords to it, if they change it take it away.

    Sit down with your child and really let them know why self control and not being idol is so important to gain right now in their life, and to control their thoughts NOW! Not later!

 
How do we learn to control our thoughts?

When I was a teenager I went to a conference where they told us, our minds are like a stage in a theater.

Only one act can play at a time. So if an inappropriate thought came into your mind and you let it play, one thing leads to another. As Margret Thatcher has explained: Watch your thoughts for they become your words. Watch your words for they become your actions. Watch your actions for they become your habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character.

   Now, when an inappropriate thought comes into your mind what can we do to redirect it?

Start thinking of those that love you so deeply! Who wants you to succeed. Think about your future family. Would you want your child to know what you are thinking inappropriate thoughts? No? Then stop it.

   Is it easy? Heavens no! But, it is possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

 
Get some hobbies that don't include electronics, this too will bless you!

  I know I talked about some heavy things today, though if you will heed to the advice given I can promise that you will avoid so much heartache and that, if you don't change so much disappoint and grief will be waiting for you.

   There is peace in Christ, when you turn to him. <3
 

Is it all really worth it?

Hello World!

It has been a little bit since I have written on here, the title of this blog is, "Is it all worth it?"

This is to those that are in there mid to late 20's and are still single. I hope this post brings comfort to you, and help you to feel God's love and admiration for you.

Background of me, I have had my share of dates. I have been on dates that I wish would have worked out, and I have been on MANY that I said no too.

Why? Why would I do that? When that was a chance to find someone. A friend of mine explained it this way, when you are going to the store and your looking at the steaks, chicken, or any kind of meat to feed your family would you just pick one and go home?

Many of you would say no. You would study the chicken, steak or whatever meat you are buying and  you would stay at the store until you found the perfect one for your family. She related this to dating and marriage. The person you marry is the one that will be the future mother/father of your children, your future spouse, And your future.

I have been in the singles ward, living the single life for a while now, and I would always see EVERYONE else getting engaged, getting married, and wondered what was wrong with me?

I would ask questions to myself why am I not getting picked by the guy's that I thought was worth my time.  I started to doubt myself thinking that I just wasn't worth it. Thinking that I wasn't pretty enough, educated enough, spiritual enough, fun enough, that I was not ENOUGH.

I really had these thoughts come to my mind ALL THE TIME. Little by little the devil would sneak into my life. Telling me things like I am not enough.

I want each of you to know that you are WORTH it! Their is someone out their for YOU! Someone who will respect, love, and cherish YOU! I know your thinking in your mind, Chelcy, I'm not worth it. You don't get it... You already found your guy, You don't understand how I feel that I will never find my eternal companion.

I am a living, breathing, energetic source that God does care and is mindful of our dreams. It took me 27 years to find someone that I was comfortable with, who accepted me for ALL that I am and LOVES me!!!

He is now my fiancee, And I literally feel like I am in a dream, I didn't think it would happen for me. I was hoping for it, praying, and preparing myself, but had no idea the plan God had in mind. The man God prepared for me is EXACTLY who I needed!

God is in the details of your dating, Why? Why would God care about the person that you date? Because, Marriage is ordained by him. And since Marriage is ordained by him and dating leads to marriage, therefore dating is ordained by God when done correctly.

I feel like we come up with this ideal person in our minds, of who we want to marry, and we get so set on it, and we MISS the person God is preparing. Their are many God prepares for us, but sometimes it seems in today's world we miss out on all of the opportunities presented to us. Cause we are stuck on perfection.

I hear a lot of my friends say well that person is too shy for me to date, their like 5 years older then me so I can't date them, their too young, too energetic, what ever the case may be we put a standard in our mind that seems to block what God tries to hand and offer us.

Don't regret one of the most important decisions of your life!!!


 Go on dates. When you get asked out make sure to go on at least one with them. This will help you know what you can handle and what you cannot handle with another person. Definitely follow the spirit, if you feel that this person is not who the Lord would have you date, by all means don't go.

If you are a young lady, don't be afraid to ask guy's out on dates. I know, I know! I know what you are thinking, and I am a southern girl and I definitely was taught that it's the guy's responsibility to ask, but sometimes they need just a little push to help boost their confidence.

If anything go have fun! Enjoy the time given to you, and focus on becoming who you are meant to be.

Be confident with who you are, don't change your personality to get a guy or girl. No one has time for that! Change for Christ, become more like him! And he will lead you to who you are supposed to be with. Much love, Chelcy

O be wise, what can I say more?

My Dear Friend, and to all of the other young adults out there.

This. This is for you. I hope through my post I am able to touch a few lives, and that I am able to help you understand your worth. Cause you were born for a reason! Happiest of Birthdays, sweet girl.

You are now 18 years old! When did time say let's fly? I don't know but, I remember the day you were born. I loved, made mistakes, learned, from being able to be apart of your life.

You have a strong spirit about you, that sometimes you don't recognize at times. God put you on this earth at this time because you were VALIANT before this life even became something. You knew Jesus Christ, and loved him.

He knew what you were 'called' to bear. He knew the challenges that were ahead of you. He placed you in situations to help you grow, and to lean on his sweet, fragile, and precious Atonement.

If I could give you something this birthday it would be the knowledge that Jesus Christ loves you. He does. He understands EVERYTHING! And for you to understand the Atonement.

Words of Wisdom from not just your aunt, sister, but someone who loves and cares for you deeply.

1.Be careful of your friends. As I tell all of my students that I teach, Show me your friends and I can predict your future. The people you surround yourself with will impact the REST OF YOUR LIFE! Choose wisely.

2.Gain a knowledge that you are a choiced Daughter of God. God has a purpose for your life. Trust him!

3.Commandments are there to protect you, not to hinder you. I was studying a talk this week where I was uplifted and reminded what these tender commandments are for. I was reminded that sin is fun. But, that's it. Fun. Not by any shape or form able to bring you JOY! Commandments are there to protect you not to hinder where you are heading.

4.Study the Scriptures. In them you will find peace, you will be able to find that you will not be as frustrated with life. I know sometimes you probably think God is not even aware of me? He is. He knows who he wants you to be. If you are humble enough, you will be able to become who you are meant to be.

5.Prayer. Pray to our Heavenly Father! He loves you, he is your Father. He wants to know your heart, he wants to know your desires, worries, EVERYTHING, he wants to hear from YOU. Cause he loves you! <3

6.Go to church every Sunday. Forget the cliques, forget the "i'm better then you are" people that are at church. That's not why we go to church. We go to church to draw closer to Jesus Christ. Ultimately the end goal is returning back to our Heavenly Father. All of ours.

The sacrament each Sunday gives us the strength to resist temptation throughout the week, it reminds us that we have made a promise with God to ALWAYS remember him. That is where true happiness is found.

One of my institute teachers Brother Thorpe, Every Tuesday night quotes this beautiful and true statement from President Howard W. Hunter "If our lives and our faith are centered upon Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing in this life can go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right."

7.Be a Righteous Leader. Lead others closer to Christ. As you deepen your own conversion.

8.Be careful the way you spend your time on Social Media. Remember that you are a daughter of God. And should be treated as such. If a young man isn't willing to do that, he is not worth your time.



9.Be the young woman your future husband is praying for. You had no idea he was praying for you did ya? Well, he is! He is hoping that you are making good decisions that will keep you close to the Savior. He is depending on you to be close to the spirit for that is what will lead you to this sweet young man. He wants and desires to take you to the temple and be sealed for time and all eternity. What a sweet experience. Why would you want to give that up, for something that is earthly, and just fun? He already loves you so deeply. Don't give up this precious opportunity that is yours, for something that is temporary.

10. Make Education a Priority You are so smart and bright. Make education a  priority, if you do you will be a better asset to the Lord. Your future will be brighter, and the Lord can use you more as an instrument.

11. Most importantly! You are so loved. Study the Atonement of Jesus Christ, This will help you to understand who you are. And that you are not alone. I hope whomever is reading this can feel the LOVE that God has for you. 💖 If you heed the council and the advice that this blog provides you will be so blessed! Promise!

A letter Home, from the mission field.

This letter was sent home 3 years ago today, to my Family.


Dear Family!
I have been very busy these past 2 weeks. Just a little bit inside my Missionary life these past 2 weeks. I went  on exchanges to middletown. The people there are so humble, the work there is blooming, and people are definately prepared to recieve the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.

I felt inside that Sister. Simnitt was going to leave, since it was the 6th week. and we were recieving transfer calls that saturday.  I struggled with that idea of her not being here anymore, and for me to lead an area. I have prayed so fervently and in my fast this last month, I fasted for the strength to lead this area. Not knowing the results of transfer calls. Sister. Simnitt because of her health issues, she finds out like 3 days before if she is being transferred. And she told me that she was.

It was definately a challenge for me to watch her pack up her stuff, and head to a different area. On Saturday we found out about transferrs and I have been called to train a new missionary, So on that monday I wasn't able to email. Because I was in training meeting all day, and that tuesday we came to our area. It's finally time for me to be able to sit down and let you all know what's been going on. Training is such a sacred trust from my Father in Heaven.

This week has definately been an adjustment for me, in leading this area plus training. We were in Santa Rosa, all day monday, and half of Tuesday. We then came home to petaluma, I got lost thinking I needed to go North, when I needed to go south. But, I did find my way home. My new companions name is Sister. Gubler, She is from Leverkin, Utah. And she is a EMT/Firefighter back home. She has 2 brothers and 3 sisters. And she is the middle child, and the first of her moms. I am so so so so so thankful for prayer, and the opportunity that I have to speak with my Father in Heaven. As I care for her, and  needing to know how to best help this sister. Through all of this I actually got sick, I want to say a cold or something, I have been coughing like crazy. And I feel that I have been stressed about all of this, but I know that my Father in Heaven wouldn't give me something that I can't handle. The elders in our district knew that I wasn't feeling well. And I was needing some sprite zero, so I wouldn't have that sugar in my system.

Well, they gave me the green bottle and just markered the zero on there. haha it was funny. I am feeling a little better today. This week we prayed for miracles a lady was riding her bike as we were walking and she asked us are you jehovahs witness? we said no, then she said are you mormons? We said yes, she turned around and set an appointment up with her. She is only here til tuesday so we will see how that goes. My companion has been having a hard time adjusting to missionary life, and adjusting not being around her family. She has been very homesick, Its been hard for me knowing how to best help her.

We were able to teach Ismael this week, he is so amazing. He knows exactly what to say, I am always uplifted from those lessons. The opposition is so intense but, it does not stop the work from progressing the way that our Father in Heaven wants it to go. I also have seen a lot of my weaknesses, and as I humbled myself then those things will become my strengths. This scripture has been such a strength to me this week. In Ether 12:6 it reads: And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that Faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.' We have shared this scripture to a lot of families this week. I know that our Father in Heaven knows us so perfectly.

And our Savior Jesus Christ knows everything that we go through. I am so greatful for this sacred opportunity that I have to share the gospel with others and to be able to be an instrument in his hands. I love you all, and know that you are not forgotton. Thank you for the Valentines day package! I love the stuffed animal, and all that ya'll put in there. My Love Always, Sister. Charles

*Trusting in the Lord*

Forewarning to everyone that reads this: raw emotion will be exemplified as I take you down this road of "Trust"

 
In the Webster dictionary the definition of trust says: a belief that someone or something is reliable, good, honest, effective, etc.

So what is trust to you? Think about it, do you have trust that your car will start? Do you have trust that there will be food for you to eat? Do you have trust that you will be taken care of in all areas of your needs?

When you want something to go your way, and it doesn't. It is so hard to have that trust in God.

God is the Father of our spirits, He is our Loving Heavenly Father, he loves us infinitely. Though when you want something it is hard to realize that God has a perfect plan for each of us.


Throughout the course of the year of 2014, There have been MANY moments of pure heartbreak that I have gone through...

Are they fun? Nope! There was one heartbreak that I was super devastated by, cause reality was I wanted to marry this kid. When it didn't happen I wondered REALLY!?!? I was on YouTube one day and came across a Katy Perry song, yes I know out of all people...... Haha

The name of the song is Firework, the part where she say's "If you only knew what the future holds, After a hurricane comes a rainbow, maybe the reason why all the doors are closed, so you could open one that leads you to the perfect road." That really stuck with me, If we knew what the future held for us would
we be stuck on that one guy that took our heart and tore it apart? Take a moment to be sad, and then pick yourself up and move forward!

There have been so many opportunities for me to trust in the Lord regarding relationships, in wonders what he has in store for me. I feel the strength from my faith in God in regards to these sacred opportunities to find "trust."

There was one recent heartbreak that I went through that I had to decide weather or not I was going to end the friendship or be mature enough to allow us to continue to be friends. I honestly was DONE! I was done with the hurt, sadness, and tears. Though through prayer and trust I was mature enough to continue to be his friend.

Thank Goodness cause this young man has become a blessing to me in a lot of ways. I can't imagine NOT having him in my life, especially with the wisdom that he possesses.


The knowledge that God is aware of each of us, and knows our desires is such a comfort to me.

Soooo, How do you trust in God?

I will share with you how I put my trust in my Heavenly Father. I strive to Keep the Commandments, Praying constantly to him, Studying the Scriptures, Serving others around me, Loving others unconditionally, Following the promptings of the Holy Ghost, as we follow the promptings of the spirit we learn to trust in those promptings that God gives to us.


A friend told me recently about a time where he was wanting something to happen immediately and it took more time then he expected. As he told me this I was thinking about the "challenge" that I was undergoing at that VERY moment and how I wanted everything to be immediate, I honestly wanted it right then!

My patients level was totally gone, it was non-existent in that moment. Though, as my friend was telling me this story. I had a calming assurance of the Spirit to be still. To be calm, and to be patient, that God is overall.

Trusting in the Lord can be very difficult, though as hard as it is to say it is totally WORTH it!

Be obedient to him. A scripture that comes to my mind at this time reads: I the Lord am bound when you do what I say; But when you do NOT what I say, ye have no promise. Doctrine and Covenants 82:10

The Teacher who made a Difference

Many people come in and out of your life, and can touch your life for the better. As my mind reflects on this last semester of college I can't help but, be brought back to a professor who changed my life FOREVER!

As you put your whole soul into getting an education, and sincerely loving your professors with the pure love of Christ it is inevitable to pray for them and there families. And I can testify to each of you who read this, when you pray for others your love for them increases. I can promise you it happens.

This is what occurs with me, as I continue to keep this professor and his family in my prayers. I know that God loves each of them so much, and has great plans for them! As I have prayed for this Family, I have felt the Love that God has for them, and I continue to see glimpses of how REAL that love is. God is our loving Heavenly Father and he loves this AMAZING family.

At the beginning of last semester I was super stoked to be in school, I felt that my classes would be more balanced, then the first semester I attended.

As the semester progressed, and I received my first test grade back in this one particular class, it was NOT what I desired. I was trying really hard to figure out how to study, and I wasn't really grasping the concept on what the best thing for me was.

After the next test came back, I was really down about how my test grades were coming, I was doing well on everything else but, that. I thought well, I need to go talk to my instructor.

As I went to him he took the time for me to talk to him, he looked over my test for me where he figured out where my weakness was in my study habits, and gave me advice that will benefit me for the rest of my educational pursuits, and helping me with getting good grades that I will make in the future.

Every time I think about this professor, I can't help but get choked up inside. He changed my life. Not only was he my professor, he was also my adviser where he was able to give me advice for my life. I will hold those times very dear to my heart<3

And I hope that I was able to return a little bit of something, for EVERYTHING he did for me. I don't think words, or even my actions can define the influence of this one professor, he by far get's the number 1 spot of teachers who made a difference in my life.

*IF Ye HaVe DeSiReS tO SeRvE GoD Ye ArE CaLLEd to tHe WoRk*

Therefore, O ye that embark in the ^aservice of God, see that ye ^bserve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand ^cblameless before God at the last day. Doctrine and Covenants 4:2

I am coming on my 1 year mark of being home, off my mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. As my mind reflects of all the things that have occurred in my life, the triumphs, tragedies, disappointments, lessons learned, strength obtained, I would like to take the world down a path of being a return missionary.

My last day in the mission field I was heading to Santa Rosa, California. Many thoughts were surrounding me, not knowing what the future held. Frazzled, if that's a word.....That's what I was feeling... Hard to explain, unless you have gone through it yourself.

Was I really prepared for what was to come, I remember a couple of days before my departure I was telling Heavenly Father how much I didn't want to go home, that I wanted to stay a missionary,
for forever! I remember grabbing a picture of the Savior and just held it. It was as if I felt him literally hugging me, and saying that everything was going to be okay!

The day I left the mission Heavenly Father blessed me in many different ways. I had the privilege of sitting by a sweet girl that was struggling with life, and I was able to testify to her the reality of the love that God had for her, and as a missionary you feel that love that much more that God has for others! It's true ask any missionary, and they can testify of that truth.

The air flight assistants were so kind and sweet

to me, they could see how anxious of how I was feeling. The moment of seeing my family was an amazing opportunity, Not everyone was able to make it to the airport. Though there love and support was greatly received from me<3 When you put your whole soul into serving the Lord the reality of not being able to serve in that capacity is hard to take in.

I remember being in denial, that I was home off the mission. I put my whole soul into serving the Lord, and my heart is still with the people of California. I can't wait for the day to go back! :)

 I remember the moment I went into the office of  my stake president, who is in charge of releasing missionaries. He talked to me for a while, I was just in this denial of being home. I really didn't want to go home off the mission.

I could always tell when he would try and release me, and I would try and get him distracted from it. I remember asking for a priesthood blessing. And in that blessing he released me! Sneaky, Sneaky! He allowed me to go home, and take off my badge. The. Hardest. Thing. To. Do. Was knowing that I wasn't going to be able to put that name tag on anymore :(

It broke my heart :(  Any missionary will tell you that taking off your name tag is the hardest thing EVER! But, I felt that my mission was not over it was just going to be different without the nametag.


Now here comes the roller coaster! I didn't know what to do with my life. Missionary Work was my life. I was living the dream, nothing will be able to compare to what I had just experienced!

I promised myself to NEVER go back to who I was before the mission!

I remember praying to Heavenly Father asking what I should do with my life. Where should I live? Where should I go to school? Where should I work? How am I going to afford a car? I was expecting to be listened too, like I was as a missionary! Should I stay at home? Or should I move somewhere else? Hmmmm.......

I quickly learned that God does hear me and answer my prayers. But, they are not answered as fast as they were as a missionary! Missionaries are very special to Heavenly Father, and has a special place in his heart!

As you can imagine, I was being pulled in many directions by people. People and there opinions............ Sheesh! Yes. I value them, though who's opinion matters more? Gods, or humans? Of course, God's opinion would be of the most importance. I love him so much! One of the hardest things for me is when God allows me to make a decision on my own, and after I have made a choice he then confirms if I am on the right track or not.

I felt like that guy in the picture. Being pulled in many different directions. I wasn't sure what to do. I learned that with whatever decision you make if you are striving to live righteous, God will bless the situations you are undergoing. And put people in your path that need you, and who you need as well.

A talk that Elder Jeffery R. Holland gave to the missionaries in the Missionary Training Center back in 2011, where he shared with them that when you signed up to be a missionary, it was for forever!

When I signed up to be a missionary, I signed up to testify to the world that I KNOW that Jesus Christ lives! That I know he is in the details of our lives! Even now that I don't have a name tag on, I am still needed in Gods plan. and I will testify even if I am the last one on the battle field!

These past 12 months have not been the easiest....... They actually have been quite hard! Satan definitely tries to get you to forget the experiences, he tries to tell you that you didn't make a difference. But, we know better!

I am still going strong! You may ask what keeps you going? Why continue to try when your plans haven't worked out, when you felt that a prayer was answered, and turned out to be not what you expected.Though difficult to bear, I put my trust in the Lord. He knows me, doesn't he? Why wouldn't I trust him. His plans are far greater then mine.

I want to be able to stand before God and tell him that I have done my best! When the people whom I worked with on my mission see me again, I want them to know I was real with them, when I taught them! That the commitments I gave to them, meant something to me not just doing my duty for just a time, but that I meant it and I will do it forever! I want them to know that I am striving to live those standards too! That they are not alone! I will continue to be there missionary for forever!

Though I don't have a missionary badge on anymore, I have to remind myself that I am needed as much here in this area as I was in the full time missionaries side of the line! The pace of post-mission life is much slower then the full time missionary life, which took some time for me to get used too. Cause I have a go-go-go personality.

A missionary in this area told me once, When you take care of your spiritual needs first, your temporal needs will be met. What wise words from a young man that didn't know me at the time, didn't know what I was going through. But, said exactly what I needed to hear! That's when I know for certain that God knows me and what I am going through.

Life has it's challenges but, how thankful I am to know that there is a bigger picture. That God is aware of me, and has a plan for each of us! Being a return missionary has it's pro's and con's and it is not easy coming home. You have to go through it, to understand. How grateful I am for the many people God put in my path to help me through these difficult times! When you serve with all your heart, might, mind, and strength it will be hard to come home.


The Atonement of Jesus Christ is REAL! I am evidence of that, I know that God is our loving Heavenly Father. HE. IS. In. The. Details. Of. Our. Lives!

My mission means EVERYTHING to me, I don't go a day without thinking about someone, an experience I had, Life changing events, something about my mission is always on my mind. I am in love with the people that I served! I will hold these memories close to me for forever!

Advice to the missionary who just got home? I'm sorry, it will get easier with time! Keep yourself busy! Don't forget the people! They love you, and YOU! You! are there missionary! Don't forget them! It doesn't matter how tough it gets, How did you endure hardships on the mission?!?!? Go about it in the Lords way and you will never be led astray.