Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall

We effect those around us. It's as simple as that. No matter what we do, we have an impact on our friends and neighbors. Often, this effect can be difficult to see. Sometimes we may think that our actions, good or bad, have no consequence. However, when we take a closer look we can see ourselves in the people around us.

I'm sure you've heard the common saying, "They've been married for so long they even look like each other."  Physically, that might not actually be true, but we do pick up mannerisms and attitude from those that we spend time with. Take a look at your own life. Think of who has influenced you and who you influence. Hopefully, we each strive to have a positive reflection.

Mormon Messages

Mormon Messages on YouTube provides short video clips that are uplifting, edifying, and important to society. It is a great place to learn about the values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I trust that you will be uplifted as you take 5 minutes out of your day to view just one of these messages. However, I find it difficult to stop watching after only one. The following clip is one of my favorites:

To view more messages like this please visit The Mormon Channel.

The Ripple Effect

A pebble dropped in a pond does not simply disappear.

Likewise, a person born into the world does not leave this existence without effecting those around them.

Throughout our lives we have the opportunity to make many decisions, millions even. Each decision we make has a consequence. Our choices effect not only ourselves but everyone around us. Some decisions seem to have a very small ripple effect while others are like dropping a boulder into a swimming pool. Hopefully we are aware of the effect that we have on others and strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

Textbook Tackle

Back in the day when I used to play football my coaches would often tell us to tackle by the textbook. I am not sure if there is any specific textbook that they were referring to. But I know I never read it. Actually I think they were just using the word "textbook" as a synonym for the words "original" or "proper". In a way, we should live our lives by the textbook. Unlike football, however, we can be sure which textbook we should refer to.

Our Heavenly Father has given us prophets who have written His word (aka the scriptures). Just as a good tackle is made up of certain components, our lives can be "textbook" if we live by the teachings of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Especially now, in the fourth quarter before the Lord returns, we need to live by the "textbook" more than ever. As a modern day Apostle has said, "Don't delay. It's getting late."1.