The Speed of Change...

Standing in the 6 inches of snow

It seems that change is always an interesting thing to ponder and to view.  In the midst of it, it is nearly unnoticeable, and makes a gradual impact, to an eventual realization of what happened.  And other times, change can come so quickly, that we are shocked at what is found. One example, is something that I have found while being here on my mission, in Utah.  It is most quite often, far below freezing here during the winter months, but I am still shocked some days at the speed of change.  An example of that, was just a couple of days ago, wherein about six inches of snow fell during the night and into the morning, and come late afternoon, you would have never guessed, with there being nearly nothing left on the ground.  And what surprised me the most,
was I went into a building while it was snowing like crazy, and then a couple hours later, emerging back outside, there was barely the faintest evidence of the dealings the weather brought, just hours earlier. Change, however surprising or gradual it may be, is always a factor that plays into our daily lives.
     Now with this change that happens, there are a couple different choices for how you allow it to effect your life and the reactions you give.  Our Heavenly Father sent us here to the earth to learn and to grow, for us to be tested. Remembering that, has helped me to apply into my life the realization that being here on the earth isn't meant to be perfect. Through all that we experience, change is an inevitable thing. Now, we may not always or often be in control of those changes that come, but it is our agency, our choice, to decide what actions we do and how we choose to follow events that play into our lives.  At times, we may be wrapped up in the consistency and constancy of our lives, and when change does come along, we dwell too much on that fact and cease to move forward.  At times, because of change, people often decide to simply "survive" whatever life may bring, and seek not anything else to come of it beyond getting through it.  But we must not do that in our lives, and whenever we may have those tough times come, and begin to question, remember the wise words of Gandalf (haha, yepp, I am a nerd);

Snow gone, just wait for the sun

"So do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide.  All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us."
We can then add this to some advice given, through a prophet of God in our day, President Gordon B. Hinckley;
"In all of living, have much fun and laughter.  Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured."
"It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is.  It all works out.  Don't worry.  I say that to myself every morning.  It all works out in the end.  Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidience in the future.  The Lord will not forsake us.  If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."
"God forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, with great purpose in heart."
Life brings change, but that does not force us to change the view we may have on life.  It may at times be hard, but remember, happiness is a choice. It is something that can enrich your life, and bring joy through anything that life may throw at you.  Trust in our Father in Heaven, for He is mighty to bless, and loves beyond comprehension. Remember, when the snow melts, the sun comes out =)