Note to the World: On Body Image

Hey girl. I hope you're doing well. Life may be pretty dang good right now. It may not be, but it will get better soon. I just wanted to send you a note to remind of you something important.

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL.

Maybe not in the way that other girls are. Maybe you aren't blonde with blue eyes. Maybe you aren't a size 4. Maybe you don't wear chevron with every outfit, or you don't own chunky jewelry. I know how some of you hate to wear lots of make-up, and other girls put on full foundation everyday. Maybe you are all of those things. Either way, I want you to know something.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE LIKE ANYONE.

You are beautiful. Your eyes may be deep and dark or light and sparkling, but they all know how to see when someone is suffering and how to help. Your hands may be little, but they can play the piano, hold a child's hand, write killer essays, paint a picture, and reach out to dear friends and family. Your skin tells a story of people who came before, and their struggles and successes are what made you. Wear their story proudly. Your body is healthy. You are able to hike, swim, dance, and do anything else you put your mind to. (Plus, you look adorable in that sweater. You know which one I'm talking about.) Or maybe you're struggling with an illness. If so, you shine through your struggles. You are who you are. I want you to know:

IT IS OKAY.

It is perfectly okay to be who you are. You should celebrate and utilize your strengths. Rejoice in your triumphs. Be aware of your weaknesses only so you can improve. Do not live in them. They do not define you. You are person with the pencil. You define yourself. Sometimes you'll make mistakes or not live up to who you want to be. Know this:

SOMEONE ELSE IS HOLDING THE ERASER.

You know exactly Who that Someone is. If you are unsatisfied with something about yourself, look to Him. He can help you change it. He gave you your body. He made you the way you are. He expects you to take care of that gift. He does not want you to misuse that gift in anyway. He wants you to love it as He loves it. Another thing:

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL BECAUSE YOU ARE YOU.

As you develop your gifts and talents, that light inside of you will shine through your eyes. Treasure that. Other people do. They love your light, and they look forward to seeing it. I love you and your light. Don't ever think your light isn't enough. A spark is all it takes to break through the darkness. One day, maybe today, someone will realize that they can't live apart from your light. Don't do anything to dim your light. It's yours and you should wear it proudly, because:

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL.

Credit to B. Simmons

The Parable of the Tree

So, I haven't written in a while - I apologize. I'm writing now because I feel like I need to share something with the world, and what it is is this:

"Now, Sarah," you may ask, "Why the random picture of a tree?" I will explain, but let me tell you a story first.

There was a seed, planted in decent soil. It was a fair distance away from other plants, but still a part of the surroundings. It tried its very best to push through the soil to reach the sun. It was hard work! The seed was little, and the ground was thick and literally all-consuming. It often felt discouraged in the darkness. It saw the roots of other plants around it and thought "They are so much better than I am. They are strong. They made it. I wish I could be them. I will never see the sun." Still, everyday it soaked up the water that came trickling through the dirt, and kept pushing. "Why am I planted here?! This is the worst soil. It is hard and clay-like. There are roots everywhere that will choke me out, and I could get eaten by an animal! This is the worst place ever." The water kept coming and the seed kept growing.

One day, the seed finally broke the surface. It felt the warmth of the sun and the cool air blowing by. It had made it! "I did it! Wow, this is amazing! I wish I could've been planted over there, though. Then I could see the river better. That stinks." It kept growing from the water that came sprinkling down from above.

When it was a sapling, it experienced a heavy rainstorm. There was thunder that rattled its tender branches and the rain beat down on its little leaves. The little tree bent in the wind. It felt its roots being pulled against the ground. The sapling thought "Why is this happening to me?! This is so unfair. I am young still - I can't handle this. I shouldn't have to go through this." Eventually the storm subsided, and the sapling shuddered at how close its roots were to the surface. It knew it would take some time to recover from the trauma of the storm. The next morning, however, it found that dirt was mounded up around its base where its roots were weakest. "That's awesome! It must have blown there during the night. I'm so lucky."

A few years later, the sapling had become a young tree. It had a stronger trunk and many branches. It was proud of its height and sturdiness. Suddenly, it noticed a sharp pain coming from one of its branches. It was shocked to discover that the branch had been completely removed! "What is this?! I am perfectly healthy! I shouldn't be feeling this! This is painful! I don't like it! It needs to stop - NOW." Yet, it felt it again. A third time. A fourth. It resented the chopping of branches deeply.

Many years later, it had experienced many rainstorms, blizzards, and prunings. It had seen more beautiful plants than itself grow up around it. There were trees taller than it, and trees stronger than it. It saw plants struggle and die. It had been a home and shelter to countless birds and squirrels. It had seen its fruit be eaten by grateful animals, and also seen it sitting on the ground, going unappreciated. It had grown into what it was created to be.

One morning, an old man with kind eyes approached the tree. The tree noticed this man for the first time. "Hello, my friend," he said with a twinkle in his kind eyes. "Friend? Who is this man?" The old man sighed. "Don't you know me? I've known you a very long time. I planted you exactly where I knew you would do best. I cared for you. When you were struggling to sprout, I watered you. When you were tossed about by rain, I protected you. When you were growing, I pruned you to help you grow stronger. I've guided you on your journey from seed to tree. You have never been alone." The tree listened, stunned. "You are still that seed, but you have become something new. You are a tree - strong and beautiful. You serve others, as you were grown to do. You give, not only demand. You give even when others do not think they need it. I am proud of you and the tree you have grown to be." The gardener patted the trunk of the tree and whispered "I brought you to your potential with my sweat here in the garden. I worked very hard to support you when you needed me. You are very special to me." He stood in silence for a moment before turning and walking back toward his home. The tree looked back on its existence and realized all the times it had felt the hands of the gardener during its most difficult times. It was all true - the gardener had crafted it.

Now, I tell that story because I have been thinking recently about my own life. I have had trials and tests. I have been discouraged, stuck, called names, rejected, alone, and have torn myself down. Still, the hands of the Master Gardener have always been there, guiding, supporting, changing me. I have been pruned - weaknesses have been removed, fears and doubts have been silenced. It wasn't fun or easy, but it has happened. Sometimes, my burdens have been lifted, and other times I have been strengthened so I can bare them better. I have been blessed. I want to express my gratitude for that. I am far from perfect, but I have changed and grown. I hope I will be able to continue to grow into the woman that I am meant to be - a person that makes the Master proud.

Deer in the Headlights

There is another deer on the side of the road, slaughtered by its own daring. I imagine that it stood at the edge of the wood, eyeing the trees on the other side of the concrete river with longing. It saw the deer across feasting on flowers that seemed unending. That yellow line must be the boundary into a magical world. The poor thing must have begun to envy the way man envies. Like a Shakespearean tragic hero, he felt the tide of jealousy well up inside of him.

He must have the neighboring kingdom. He would stop at nothing to preside majestically over both realms. Why should he stop on this side of the stone creek? Even though the fast creatures with the bright yellow eyes came tearing down the smooth, grey surface, nothing would hold our hero back. He resolved to do what others warned against.

He knew it was possible to cross the road – he had seen it done. He has seen others rise to the challenge and complete it successfully. He is just as powerful as they are, just as strong, if not more so. He thought of his accomplishments, his women, his children, his territory. They are impressive by any standard. He had the record of excellence, why should he fear?

I believe that he stepped out into the road, not in a panic as he should have, but with his chest out before him. I believe that he did not look to see if one of those frightening beasts was racing toward him. I believe that he had forgotten reality in the moment of his self-validation. If only the prophets had warned the deer that pride cometh before a fall.

As a man going into debt, seeking the hand of a lover, or pursuing the ever elusive power and popularity, this buck sauntered onto the cement with his head held high, looking at those on the opposite side with contempt. Basking in the quickly oncoming light, he smirked in a self-satisfied way. It was all so easy.

Playing with Fire

There comes a moment in your life when you discover that there is a Katy Perry song that describes your dating experience. It is a sad, sad moment. There is also a moment when you are amazed at the resonance a P!nk song has with you. I don't know if you've ever had this experience before. I must confess that I have had this happen to me. I love the song "Try" by P!nk. The lyrics are as follows (The verses followed by the chorus at the end):

 

"Ever wonder about what he's doing?
How it all turned to lies.
Sometimes I think that it's better

To never ask why.

Funny how the heart can be deceiving,
More than just a couple times.
Why do we fall in love so easy
Even when it's not right?

Ever worried that it might be ruined
And does it make you wanna cry?
When you're out there doing what you're doing
Are you just getting by?
Tell me are you just getting by?

 

Where there is desire
There is gonna be a flame,
Where there is a flame
Someone's bound to get burned,
But just because it burns
Doesn't mean you're gonna die,
You've gotta get up and try"

 

 

So, why do I love this song so much? I'm not quite sure. It makes me want to dance in a way I haven't danced in a while. That is only part of it. I think that it is because of where I am right now. My high school experience has been amazing. I've loved it. Still, it has been a rollercoaster. I can think of three difference situations to apply to each of the three verses. I'm here, though. The chorus speaks a fundamental truth - wherever the stakes are high, there are high risks. High risks yield high rewards. Putting yourself out there is the only way you'll get what you want. You may fall, or get burned, sometimes, but it is so worth the risk. Even when you fail, you get the reward of learning from your mistakes! Isn't it amazing how that works? We got ourselves a pretty sweet deal.

 

I guess my point is that life is always good, even when it's hard. We have so much to be grateful for: our families, freedoms, faith, and friends. We can be grateful for our challenges, trials, failures, and successes. I think of "Meet the Robinsons." "That was a great failure!" Keep smiling - you are so loved. Don't ever forget that.

 

Happy Thanksgiving. I'm grateful for you.

 

S 

"An Apology"; also titled "Year of Joy: Update 2"

I'm sorry I've been awful recently... I've had a lot of thoughts worth sharing - I just struggle with putting them in order of priority. I'm going to go ahead and jump right in with a YoJ update.

Well, We are already at month four of my Year of Joy. Crazy. Since my last post, I've taken the ACT and SAT twice each. I've gotten into the swing of school and theatre. Op: Positivity has continue to grow. College apps are happening. I went to my first and last high school homecoming. We performed in the Variety Show. I've had some trials and I've been blessed.

Remember what I wrote about in my first two YoJ posts? The stuff about work and rewards? Yeah. I am going to repeat myself. IT IS SO TRUE. I have been so enormously blessed for my hard work. Let me tell you - it was HARD work. It was difficult to force myself to do what I knew I needed to. Our equation for joy was:

WORK + PLAY + FAITH = JOY

I want to add something to it. It should look more like this:

WORK + PLAY + FAITH(HUMILITY) = JOY

(I have a feeling we will be adding to this formula throughout the year.) I've discovered that when I am working hard, I need to remember to say "Thy will be done, o Lord" while going through "my" plans. I have to realize that my plans aren't mine at all. God's plan for me is better than any plan I could make for myself. Whether it means not doing as well as you could on a test the first time or drifting apart from friendships, it's in God's hands. Being blunt, humility can suck. But it is much, MUCH worse if you are prideful and Heavenly Father has to teach you to be humble. Make a choice for this week to not only be grateful, but to be humble. If things aren't working out the way you want them to, don't stress - He's got it covered.

Oh, and here's a YoJ picture for you. Talk about joy! (Hayride/bonfire/barn dance with church kids.)

September 12th

Today is 9/11. It is the eleventh anniversary of the horrific terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C. in 2001. It is a day for honoring the lives of those who died and the first-responders who ran into the collapsing buildings. It is a day to vow to "Never Forget" and "Always Remember." It is also Patriots Day, a holiday that get forgotten quite often.

That is the irony. We swear to never forget 9/11 and the legacy they left us, but do we? What do we do starting September 12th to change our lives? Those people who died did nothing to personally harm their murderers. They just happened to be on the wrong plane or in the wrong building. They were innocent individuals who lived American lives. They were killed for no other reason than they were American. They had mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives, children, friends, coworkers. They had likes and dislikes. They had dreams and goals. They had triumphs and regrets. They had chores to do and memories to make. They were just like you and me.  They were you and me. They are you and me.

We have a responsibility to them. It is our duty to live life the best that we can. We are to honor their lives with an America that follows Her values. We are to pay tribute to them with individual lives of dedication and respect to the country that allows us to live the way we choose. We should try to the best of our ability to remember them in the little actions we do. They died because they were in a place that was a symbol of freedom. It was a symbol of freedom of enterprise, to buy and sell. A freedom to travel and go to and from their homes without government involvement. Let's not forget that there are men and women who fight everyday to defend this freedom. They believe it is worth dying for.

Rising again is what we do.

So, starting tomorrow, let us all try to be a little better on our oaths to "always remember." Remember while your hand is over your heart during the Pledge of Allegiance. Remember while listening to the words of the National Anthem. Remember while you are driving to work on a freeway. Remember while you are sitting in church - or choosing not to go to a church. Remember while you are voicing your opinion. Remember while you are playing with your children, kissing your spouse, hugging your parents. Remember while you are reading the newspaper. Remember while you are laying down at night without fear. Remember the purpose of politics is to elect "good, wise, and just men" to be your voice. Remember when you see a serviceman in uniform. Thank them. Be grateful that you are here. There are so many millions of people who think that the risk of dying is worth the chance to live here. We have so much more than we realize. Be grateful today for the sacrifices of thousands of people who have made your life possible, even just with creating opportunities for you to seize.

Think of those who died eleven years ago today. Think of their families and friends. Tomorrow, think of the future. Think of those who have died since then to ensure that we may live without fear, and that our children will be able to enjoy those freedoms we are so used to. Let us "Always Remember" September 11th by changing the way we live on September 12th.



 I want to say for myself that I know I am one of many who takes for granted all the blessings we have here in America. I forget in my day to day life. I want to be better. I want to start by saying THANK YOU to those who defend our liberty "in all cases," like the stripling warriors. Whether they are military, police, politicians, good citizens - THANK YOU. I want to thank the Founding Fathers (and Mothers) who were inspired to write documents that have withstood the test of time, guaranteeing my personal liberty. I'm grateful to the my ancestors who left their homelands beginning in the 1600s to settle the "New World," a place of promise. Without their sacrifices and hard work, I would not be here today. I want to say THANK YOU to those in history who have defended my liberty from attack, either at home or abroad. THANK YOU. Most importantly, I want to express my thankfulness to my Father - THANK YOU for allowing me the opportunity to live in America. I pray that I will be able to make the most of this incredible chance to make a HUGE difference in this world. I'm SO proud and humbled to be an American.

 

God bless America.

Year of Joy in Action

So, how am I doing on my "Year of Joy" resolution? Well...

www.facebook.com/OperationPositivity

Pretty well, if I say so myself. This has been amazing for me thus far. I have tried very hard to refocus my energy and attention towards the positive and productive. I've been able to understand more, have more fun, and feel the spirit more strongly.

This doesn't mean that it's been easy. It's been anything but easy. We got some tough news regarding personal matters. It doesn't affect me as deeply as it does some dear friends, but it affects me. I have to watch while these wonderful people cope (and they're doing an excellent job, if you were wondering). I HATE watching people I love hurt. I mean, doesn't everyone?

Also, I've been placed in situations that require a lot of patience. I don't want to toot my own horn, but I've been blessed with a fairly high tolerance level. It takes a lot for me to get annoyed. However, the last month I've had to deal with people and situations that seem to enjoy "tap dancing on my last good nerve." (Twitches quote. I haven't seen that movie in AGES.) This includes some people who are on my "annoy the nice out of me" list. It takes a LOT to be on that list. I decided before I saw them that I was going to be nice. More than be nice, I was going to be truly kind. I was going to love them. I was going to let the comments that would bug me roll off my back. You know what? I had fun. It was a much better experience than I expected it to be. I learned to be more gracious. I have to admit that by the end, I was getting tired, and I slipped a little. I had less fun. I was the only one who was unhappy. But I got to see - and more importantly, feel - the contrast. I learned that to make the "Year of Joy" a reality, I've got to make the choice to be patient and kind to others.

Another thing I've encountered is the countless hours of preparation I've had to do for school and the upcoming ACT (THIS SATURDAY. Prayers would be greatly appreciated) and SAT. I started prep two days after I got back from the UK. It was the beginning of August. It was still summertime! I was home! I was supposed to be lounging on a chair by the pool with my girlfriends, sleeping in, watching TV, reading fun books, and going to movies and parties with my friends! Whatever I was supposed to do, it was NOT spend time at MC working on SAT vocab words or at home taking practice ACT math sections. Gross. I bet you can see where this is going. I have a dream of going to college and surrounding myself with knowledge and wisdom. That's not going to happen unless I score well on these tests. Being a homeschooler, there is more weight on your test score in your application. I want to go to a good school with lots of opportunities for developing my mind, talents, and testimony. So, I got down to business to defeat the College Board. I've worked SO hard, I'm ready for vacatio- wait. School starts tomorrow. Just kidding! In all seriousness, the blessings of this hard work have been evident. I'm not just saying this. My ACT math scores were in the gutter at the beginning of August, and I had my last practice test before the real deal yesterday. I jumped SEVEN points. That isn't all because of me. I've had awesome teachers/tutors, parents, and the Lord on my side as I've undergone this journey. I'm actually excited for Saturday so I can see the fruits of my labors and the power of the Spirit as a guide. I can now co-sign the mantra "Work like it all depends on you and pray like it all depends on Him - Because it does." (BONUS: I still got to do some of those fun things I had wanted to do! Yay for the blessing of multiplied time!)

Work + Attitude = Joy

Overall, as I've worked to keep my attitude positive, I actually have been happier. Things make more sense in school, my friendships are strong, and I'm able to feel the Holy Ghost with me more often. I've even lost some weight! Joy is contagious. All it takes is a smile. I'm thrilled with a new endeavor that some friends and I have taken on. It's called Operation: Positivity, and it's primary goal is to make people happier than they would've been otherwise. One of our "missions" (Well, it IS a special ops unit.), involves standing on a street corner with signs like the ones above, shouting things like "Have a great day! You deserve it!" or "Don't forget to smile - we need it!" or "You are awesome!" We look totally happy, because we are! You get the biggest rush seeing someone brighten up when they read your sign. Using O:P as an analogy, you can't be happy without work. It takes a deliberate decision to be happy, or start an organization. It requires some time figuring out what you want to do, making a plan of attack. It also needs some bravery and willingness to put yourself out there. It's scary making changes in your life, and it's scary standing on a street corner yelling. But it makes you so happy. It makes you joyful. It is legitimately the greatest feeling in the world. I hope that I will be able to keep this momentum going as I dive into my senior year. One month down, nine to go until graduation.

LET'S DO THIS.

It's in the Journey...

I'm learning something right now. I'm at a preparatory stage in my life. I am preparing for the ACT/SAT, senior year, college, life on my own, my last year in mutual/HST, everything. I am hitting the books. I've been doing some kind of school work pretty much every weekday, and most Saturdays, this summer. It has been a lot of work and a lot of effort. Yet, I'm learning that just because you've got something big ahead of you doesn't mean you should ignore the little things happening now. It is so interesting how some people focus on the result so much that they belittle it by removing the meaning of the process. What I mean is, someone once told me once to "Find joy in the journey!" She is so right. The Olympians in London right now are so full of joy and excitement. They have all worked incredibly hard for YEARS before this month to prepare and train for their events. Do you think that it would mean as much for Michael and Misty if they hadn't loved the meets or tournaments that they had in high school or college? Being at the Olympics is awesome, but it is the journey that they will talk to their kids about, not as much the 4 minutes in the pool or 10 minutes on the court.

So, I've decided something. As a lover of road trips, I'm going to look at this upcoming school year as one. I've got to work SO hard, but I've also got to enjoy everything around me more. I'm going to go to the movies, go to dances, do silly things with my friends, and spend time with my family. I am going to be the most involved, most enthusiastic person that I can be. I am going to look at graduation not as a destination, but as a mile marker along this high speed highway. I'm grateful for everything I've been given, and I plan to make the most of my life for the glory of my Father in Heaven.

I'm starting by posting a picture that pretty much embodies this concept for me. A paint fight in a friend's backyard may be silly, but it's something that matters to me. It was so fun, and it is a memory of my senior year that I'll be talking about for ages.

I don't want to be that kid who doesn't do anything fun senior year, and I also don't want to be the kid who goes around shouting "YOLO!" I believe that there is a balance between work and play. It's called "happiness." Throw in a handful of worship, and you've got "joy." Senior year for me is going to be called "The Year of Joy." Why?

...Because I'm finding joy in the journey.

"Why Didn't You Leave?!"

"Because... you said we were friends."

So, I start with a Community quote today. People have a limited vocabulary these days. In general, they don't know enough words to completely express their thoughts. They have to repeat words over and over again. The ironic thing, then, is the total lack of respect and reverence for words that should have meaning, such as "love", "promise", or "friend." One reason why there is so much drama in the world is that people don't know the meanings of these words. If people realized that words have meaning beyond the superficial, the world would be a better place. Friendship is worth more than just someone you hang out with. Love is more than just someone you make out with or have dinner with. A promise is more than saying you'll do something if it's convenient.

It is all a matter of simple economics. If you print too much money, the value of each dollar goes down. If you use a word too much, its value decreases.

The fact that we use the term "friend" on Facebook to refer to people we pass in hallways or met "one time at this party" belittles the real meaning of "friendship." I have friends I would die for. I have friends who have dropped everything to come be with me on a horrible day. I have friends whose Eagle projects I have worked HOURS on. I have friends with whom I exchange birthday gifts with even though we didn't have parties. I have friends who hate the guy who hurt me more than I do. THOSE are my friends. Can we please bring the term "acquaintance" back into everyday use? That what you call people you know from a dance, or a class, or someone you didn't really talk to at a summer camp.

Promises are another issue today. In the scriptures, you can see examples of times when battles ended because one side promised the other that they would never attack again. Another time, leaders of an army refused to make a promise that they would never battle the other again, because they knew their people would not be able to keep it. They did this even though their lives were on the line. Promises used to be a big deal. If someone promised something, they did it. End of story. There just isn't that level of integrity today. I've written a lot about honesty and integrity recently, so feel free to browse April's posts to find my two cents.

"Love". Jordan from Messy Monday has some great things to say in his video Like vs. Love. (He's a little excited in this video, so don't let it throw you off.) He's 100% right, though. People struggle with being able to distinguish when to use "like" and when to use "love." It's really too bad. It leads to all sorts of problems. How do you tell friends you actually care a great deal about that you love them when you just said that you "loved" that new gum you just tried? Yeah, not going to happen. Another problem is one that teenagers are facing now. How do you tell that special person that you care for them more than just "friends." Teenagers should NOT be telling each other that they are "in love." I'm sorry, but it leads to misunderstanding and confusion. I believe that real "teen romantic love" exists and happens, but that's the small minority of the time. The problem we have now is that they use the word "love" cheaply, and then have to resort to physical means to express deeper feeling. That leads to problems of its own. Can't we learn from Melville's "Billy Budd" and recognize that nothing good ever comes when words are taken away??

I wish everyone would read this and understand where I'm coming from. The quote in the title reminds me of a situation I was recently in. It was not the first time and it certainly won't be the last. That's the problem with trying hard to bring the true meanings of these words back - you sometimes get messed with by people who don't understand. But hey, you'll find people who are true friends, who love you dearly, and will keep the promises they make to you. I know that.

Think about it.

weorþnes.

Starting to see a theme this month? Entirely unintentional. Might as well make the most of it.

One thing I've learned in my life is the value of integrity. What is "integrity?" Well, dictionary.com says:




in·teg·ri·ty/inˈtegritē/

Noun:	The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. The state of being whole and undivided: "territorial integrity".
Synonyms:	honesty - probity - entirety - rectitude - wholeness

We'll focus more on the first one right now. "Having strong moral principles...." That reminds me of Merlin, and Prince Arthur. I think of the Knights of Camelot - willing to lay down their lives for the abstract concepts of justice, honor, loyalty, love. Arthur is willing to run straight into danger time after time. Lancelot is willing to sacrifice his life for the safety of others. Merlin lives a life of constant danger and secrecy because of a promise he made to Arthur, Giaus, the Dragon, and himself.



Enough being a nerd, the point is that they are examples of integrity. They believe something, and stand up for it, even when their lives are on the line.

I believe that integrity isn't just something in "a land of myth and a time of magic" (...And I said I was done being a nerd - DANG IT). I believe that it exists in our world. I believe that it is a talent that must be developed. I know that every person is on a different place on the journey. Still, I think that people should NEVER sell their integrity because of cowardice. The Abraham Lincoln quote I have in the previous post (titled I-N-T-R-O-D-U-C-T-I-O-N) declares that not only telling a lie is dishonest, but hiding the truth is as well. It's not only dishonest, but is immature and cowardly. Harsh? Maybe so. But I believe in telling people what they deserve to hear. Things are so much better when people are honest.

Think about it.


P.S. Is it ironic that "integrity" in Old English is a strong feminine noun? No.

I-N-T-R-O-D-U-C-T-I-O-N

I have so much to write about, and no idea where to start. Here's an intro to the next post:

"Silence makes cowards of the best men." - Abraham Lincoln

Ooo... Curious? You should be. Catch me next time with: "Why Silence Isn't Always the Key to Happiness."

I've Got A Dream...

I've been letting things go. I'm going to have totally different experiences. I'm letting go of some relationships that aren't working out. I'm picking myself up and "marchin' on." (Nod to OneRepublic.) And I started realizing things about myself that I never noticed before. Most importantly, I figured out dreams that I had not been acknowledging. Wow. That's a lot. Not that these people and things were holding me back, but I was holding myself to a certain direction for them.

A dream I realized: I want to start a school.

I want to buy an old estate with a big house and a stable and start a school. I want there to be "houses" like in Harry Potter and Anne of Green Gables. I want to teach the Classics.I want there to be music, art, geography, history, government, theatre - things that sometimes get overlooked. I want my science classes to be balanced, with opportunity to learn science without worrying about politics. I want girls to learn horseback riding, archery, and baking, and the boys to learn fencing, home-repair, and outdoor skills. Everyone learns basic cooking, ballroom dancing, and swimming.  I want to have respect, responsibility, and fun all on the same level of importance. I want to create a place where kids can run around and have fun, and think that learning is fun and exciting. (Which it totally is.) A place where they can think seriously about their futures without feeling pressured to take paths that aren't for them. A place where the trades are just as valuable as college. I want a place where kids are presented with information, and they can decide what to do with it, and learn how to form their own opinions. I love the dream of it. I hope I can create this place, even on a small scale for my kids or students.

See the things you learn about yourself when you move on? Sometimes it's painful, but it may be surprising what you discover when you shove off from the familiar shore.

Peace from the East,
S

A Beauty Secret from a Boy

I had an experience the other day. I was sitting there, talking to one of my guy friends, and he suddenly said something that surprised me. He said, "(Name of girl) is getting less pretty." It came out of nowhere. This guy is one of the sweetest young men I know. Plus, he was talking about a girl who I think is very pretty. I've often wished that I looked more like her. Now, when I responded with a startled "What?", he explained. "Her countenance. Her countenance has totally changed. She used to be a pretty good-looking girl, but she's changed. Countenance is at least 20% of a girl's attractiveness."

Wow. This was coming from a young man I totally respect. He has high standards and is a good example to me. His opinion is one I value. Countenance is at least a FIFTH of a girl's attractiveness?! Dude. This isn't something that I read in a book or heard in a conference talk. This is something that was said to me by a worthy priesthood holder. If that isn't enough reason to carry yourself with confidence, than I'm not sure what else you need.

What is this "countenance?" Dictionary.com says that a countenance is "someone's face or expression." In Mormonland, it means something more along the lines of "spirit" or (I hate to say it) "aura". We believe that every single person is born with the "light of Christ", or what the world calls a "conscience" or "moral compass". It's a guide to prompt people do the things that are right. By the actions we take, we can either brighten or dull the light of Christ within each of us. (P.S. The Holy Spirit is a constant companion to those who have entered into a covenant with Christ, not to be confused with the light of Christ.) When you see someone who has done something good or joyful, people may describe their looks as "glowing". THAT's their countenance.

Simply put, you can see someone's spiritual health in their countenance. It's that light in their eye and the sparkle in their easy smile. Of course, that doesn't mean we should go around judging people by how glittery their eyes are. You can tell when someone is happy and following the commandments of God. My friend is one of these people who is trying his best to do what he needs to. He is a teenage boy, so of course physical beauty is a factor in a girl's attractiveness, as well as how fun the person is, and how well they can actually converse. But at LEAST a fifth of a girl's attractiveness is what Sister Dalton calls "deep beauty".

"I was reminded of my divine identity, and I learned about what I now call “deep beauty”—the kind of beauty that shines from the inside out. It is the kind of beauty that cannot be painted on, surgically created, or purchased. It is the kind of beauty that doesn’t wash off. It is spiritual attractiveness. Deep beauty springs from virtue. It is the beauty of being chaste and morally clean. It is the kind of beauty that you see in the eyes of virtuous women like your mother and grandmother. It is a beauty that is earned through faith, repentance, and honoring covenants."

Wow! As young women, we are always told to look for a worthy priesthood holder, a spiritual partner, for a husband. We want a husband who can see our deep beauty, because that means he loves us for all of us, inside and out, what we are and who we can become. In order to attract that kind of boy, we have to do the things listed by Sister Dalton. She continues:

"The world places so much emphasis on physical attractiveness and would have you believe that you are to look like the elusive model on the cover of a magazine. The Lord would tell you that you are each uniquely beautiful. When you are virtuous, chaste, and morally clean, your inner beauty glows in your eyes and in your face. My grandfather used to say, “If you live close to God and His infinite grace—you won’t have to tell, it will show in your face.” When you are worthy of the companionship of the Holy Ghost, you are confident and your inner beauty shines brightly. And so “let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and … the Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion.”

There's our countenance we were talking about. It's true what they say about inner beauty. Your potential is divine and royal. Those young men whom you wish to spend time with will recognize that, and help you develop it. You, in return, will be a motivation and support for their development. They will agree with Sister Dalton when she said:

"Develop deep beauty. There is no more beautiful sight than a young woman who glows with the light of the Spirit, who is confident and courageous because she is virtuous."

Click HERE for a great video using a lot of the quotes I used, as well as a link to the full talk.

Think about it.


(Credit where credit is due: Elaine S. Dalton "Remember Who You Are!" April 2010. And of course, to my wonderful friend who inspired me to write this piece. Thanks, kiddo.)

COMMUNICATION

You know how totally EASY it can be to just TELL someone how you feel? This, I believe, is one of the main problems with high school: people never just talk about their thoughts and feelings. I guess it's hard to be that self aware all the time, the outcome is uncertain, and the way things are may change. Still, isn't it better to clear the air and deal with the consequences than be frustrated longer than necessary? You never know how well they may take it. They may totally understand, and if they can't, then maybe it's better that you know things won't work out. If someone is worth the effort, they'll try their best to understand, as you should do too. It's easier to talk to someone than to let it simmer inside you.

Whoa.

I had a moment today in which I was completely out of control. I was not in any position whatsoever to control what happened to me in that moment. I was in the hands of someone else, and I had to deal with it. I'm not a fan of those moments. I guess I can now relate to my mom when I drive. (Haha. Ha. ha.) Still, those moments come. We have to just take a breath and know that it'll be ok, and if it's not, we did something hard for us individually. Sometimes, we've got to let go and LIVE. It's hard. I like having things go my way. I like being in control. I know I probably come off sometimes as a stick in the mud, or as too intense, but it's because I want to avoid future regret. Valid, right? I obviously think so.

It's been scary for me to let myself form deep bonds with other people, because then I'm not in charge. There are more variables than I can control. But, you know what? It's been awesome. Sometimes, I've gotten hurt. I trust easily, and when I'm betrayed or mistreated, (which happens more than I'd like), it's harder for me to trust that person that easily again. Yet, I constantly find myself back where I started with some of these people. I think, "So-and-so has hurt me so many times before. They have used me and ignored me," but I end up forgiving and then getting hurt by the same person. Maybe I'm not vocal enough?? I'm not sure. But I love people. That's a good thing, right?

The reason it's been awesome is that as I lose control, I gain control. I am able to put my heart in someone else's hands, and then know how to respond if something happens. I'm trying my best to be able to discern who is trustworthy and who is not. I have been taught so many lessons by both types of these people.

(Let me clarify: losing control does not refer to control of my faculties or my behavior. One must always be able to make the best decisions and keep their high standards.)

So, basically, this super random ranting can be boiled down to two points:

1. Sometimes in life, we have to do scary things that deal with things and people bigger than ourselves, including what God wants us to do.

2. I'm still learning how to work with people when I do make myself vulnerable to them. I can't control what they do, but I can control how I respond.

I imagine driving down the road in the rain, and all of a sudden, the brakes lock up. "Jesus, take the wheel!" is the cry that goes up to Heaven. If you ask, he always will. You'll have several moments of uncertainty as you slide atop the pavement, but in the end, the Master is in charge - right where he belongs.

Getting What You Want... Wait, Actually??

The problem with life is that sometimes you don't get what you want.

But everyone knows that.

Sometimes, when people want something, it is assumed that it is "too good to be true", and it gets taken away. People just subconsciously expect it. It stinks, but I don't think that that's the REAL issue here.

The actual problem with life is that sometimes you get exactly what you want, and you can't believe it.

It's like "Wait, what?"

I am extremely religious. I believe in a loving God, Who knows me as an individual and knows what's best for me. He loves me. I am His daughter. He wants me to return to live with Him. I try to live my life according to His guidance for me, given through prophets and personal revelation. When I'm making a major decision, I work it out in my head or I talk it through aloud,  and when I come to my conclusion, I pray about it. When something's wrong, I'll know. I feel sick to my stomach, and I get confused and angsty about everything. I can't make up my mind. When something's right, however, I feel confident about my choice, and sometimes I'll get a strong positive feeling.

I have a situation that I've prayed about. It's one that seems to go against every sensible thought in me. It is totally something that I would otherwise think of as childish and unlikely of leading to much positive in the long-run. BUT. I want it REEEEALLY badly. I want this to work. Like I said, I've prayed about it often. It's been something that I would assume would be a "Forget about it. You know that it's not good for you right now" kind of answer, just because generally, that's the answer for this. But I keep getting "You're fine. This is good. You are supposed to pursue this." I kind of can't believe it. Now, I don't want to keep asking, because eventually God will be all "FINE! I'll take it from you if that's what you want." But I HAVE to be sure this is right. I don't want to confuse my desire for this with the Spirit confirming it for me. Still, I am getting more and more confident every day. I am being to realize that, yes, this is for me. It's pretty intense.

It got me thinking though. The attitude we approach Heavenly Father with when we ask for instruction is essential to the answer we receive. I was going into this looking for the "no" answer. I thought it was "too good to be true," "It happens to people, but not me. I mean, why would it? I'm not special," "This goes against my plans!" (I think the last one was a biggie. I have my plans, and why would anything stray from MY MASTER PLAN?! Oh wait, because it's God, and He's God. He knows everything.) I guess when we want things so badly, but we are willing to give them up if that is what is best for everyone allows us to be more perceptive than we otherwise would be. Example of me doing the opposite: summer before freshman year, I wanted to go to EFY at BYU. I would miss my Girls Camp, but I didn't really care. It was Brigham Young University! I made all my plans, and then... Everytime I time I thought about it, I felt sick. But I WANTED IT! It was EFY! Isn't that a good thing? Well, after much turmoil, God won, and I ended up going to EFY in Virginia with some girlfriends of mine. One would not have gone if I had gone to BYU. She later said that her testimony was struggling, and that EFY is what strengthened her. It was one of those facepalm moments for me. Of course, Heavenly Father knows better than I do what I can do as an individual. I didn't save my friend. It was between her and her Father in Heaven. I just was a way of moving her to the place she needed to be.

I wish I could be submissive and humble all the time. I love being able to know what my Father would have me do and become. It's hard though. That's a reason why we're here - to work on self mastery.

I want to just say before I close that I am SO thankful to my Heavenly Father for, well, everything. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given to learn and become more. Right now, I am extremely grateful for the fact that I have been given a blessing that I never would have imagined receiving now. (I feel kind of like I cheated the system. "AHAHAHAHA - I win.") In all seriousness, I really am grateful. Now, the real work begins. I get to enjoy the blessing, but I have to work to keep it. I am still just SO THANKFUL. I am so excited. You have no idea how excited I am. I love my Father in Heaven.

Wow. I am so lucky.

On a Swing At Dusk

(NOTE: I wrote this last summer. Some of you who have been with my writing for a while may remember this. I just felt like I should share this again. The lessons I learned that night are still vital to me now. I'm still a kite, but I hope that one day, I can be the plane I long to be.)

"On a Swing At Dusk" - 6/2/11

 Swinging on a swing at dusk, just thinking.

                Wow. I can’t believe everything that’s going on. I can’t believe that people have wronged me like this. I never imagined that I would be in this situation. I’ve just been numb. I’m through being angry. Sad. Confused. Lost. No more. Just numb. I need to leave it behind.

 I feel the breeze through my hair.

                I know my hair is a mess, but I don’t care. It’s just me, the wind, and the sky. The wind whispers consoling words. The sky beckons me into its arms. Maybe one day I’ll have the courage to let go of my swing and fly. But not today.

I see the sun set behind the rooftops.

                The colors draw me higher and higher. I know that the ground is just inches from my toes as I pass, but I feel weightless as I soar. I feel my worries pull me down, and I fight to break through.

I watch a plane fly high above me.

                I envy that plane. It has the strength to leave the ground. It has flown through thunder and snow. It has crossed oceans and continents. It is my role model.

I notice a kite flying and falling.

                I am not a plane yet. I am a kite. I fly. I taste the wind. I hear the sunset. I feel the silence. But I fall. I soar high, but sometimes I fall. It hurts, and I yearn to fly again. I can’t always do it on my own. But there is always someone to run alongside me and throw me to the wind. Thank you. I explore the feeling of flight, and all that comes with it, including falling. It is worth it.

I look up at the clouds.

                God is there. He made this all. The sky and wind and clouds and colors….the ground. He made the potential. He made the starting point. He knows me. He knows my limitations. He knows my potential. He knows my desires. He gave me my righteous desires. He knows my need to climb. To grow. To learn. To dance. ….To soar. He gives me strength to get up and break through gravity. Through low expectations. Through trials. Through fears. Through this.

I close my eyes and look inside.

Wow. I’m not numb anymore. I have a new feeling. It’s not anger. Not disappointment. Not sadness. Not self-pity. What am I feeling? It’s peace. It’s a love of God. It’s a love from God. It’s a courage for the future. It’s a new understanding. I left it all behind. I let it all go. I’m sky-high.  I’m elevated. I’m soaring. I’m free.

Swinging on a swing at dusk.

Austen-Style Plot Twist....

Am I living in an Austen novel? Sometimes I feel like Fanny from Mansfield Park - the best friend and confidant who is overlooked as Edmund is looking for his "dream girl", someone sweet and virtuous. "I'm right in front of your face, STUPID." Other times, I feel like Emma, trying to be smarter than I am, and sometimes making messes along the way. Or, I find myself in Elizabeth's place, from Pride and Prejudice. I think I've figured someone out, and then *POOF!* they do something totally opposite of what I thought them capable of. That can be exciting, to see someone be better than you imagined they were, (like discovering Mr. Darcy was actually a sweet guy), and it can also be disappointing, (like when Elizabeth learns that Wickham has run off with Lydia, even though he made advances toward her, or Emma discovering Frank Churchill has been secretly engaged and STILL flirty).

I've learned that Jane Austen is an incredible novelist. I've always enjoyed her works, but she is truly insightful. That she was able to write books that are applicable now too, is amazing. There is one theme that she discussed often in her books, and that is this: passing judgements.

All the SGA kids know I say often: "we don't judge people here." I must say though, I'm human, and have recently caught myself in a few judgments I have passed on people that did not deserve it. There have been a few young men I know who I have thought as obnoxious and full of themselves because of a friend's recounting of some stories. As I've gotten to know them better, I've realized that yes, they are teenage boys, but they are good people. I feel bad that I didn't let myself give them a chance. I am changing my ways, and I hope we can be friends in future. New Years is a great time to think about this. :)

Also, sometimes you'll think you know someone well, and then they change. This isn't meant to sound cynical, but people are fluid. They are constantly changing and growing and evolving. It's what we are suppose to do - work on making ourselves better people. Sometimes people change for the better, and sometimes for the worse. It's very interesting. But that's the root of drama and conflict - when people believe they know something, and then get swept off their feet by the rapids of change. Rapids are created when water flows over something constant. All friends have their times of smooth sailing, and their times of rafting class 5 runs. Good luck.

But, with every shocking reveal, there is a resolution of another relationship. Thank heavens for that! Although one person may disappoint you, there will always be another someone who makes you smile. Thank you Jane Austen for teaching me that! I want most of all is to avoid being Anne from Persuasion. I will not let people talk me out of being friends with people. I want my Captain Wentworth, but why should I make the mistake of rejecting him initially because of other people's judgements? I will take advice, but not will not allow others to press their judgements on me. I'm getting older, and I have to be able to make decisions for myself. This is one of those things I have to learn. (Yay.) I'm grateful for my Janes, Bingleys, Mr. Knightleys, Mrs. Westons, and my Edmund. I know I'll have to meet my Mary Crawfords, Henry Crawfords, Caroline Bingleys, Mr. Eltons, and Frank Churchhills (Hopefully I'll meet very few Mrs. Bennetts.), but I pray I will be able to assess people justly and fairly, and cultivate those relationships that will uplift and better myself and those around me.

I love you, Jane Austen. Thanks for your books - reading them is the ultimate girl talk.

2011

As this year creeps to a close, my mind turns naturally to the past year. This year has been quite a whirlwind. I want to share some things I learned and experienced this year. (These will be out of order, but put as they come to me.)

New York, New York! This year, my family had a huge change. My dad started a job in NYC. It has been totally different. He started in September, and it's been a blast. Still, having him gone in the City all week has been kinda weird. But we've had a ton of fun going back and forth, and I'm a total pro on the train now. :)

Maddie's journey and baptism!
This year, I met a wonderful girl who was investigating the Church. We became great friends, and I'm grateful for her friendship. She had quite a journey, and I was so excited to see her finally baptized by Anthony in December. I love you, Maddie!

Concerts, musicals, and more concerts! This year, I went to my first concert - Owl City (with Matt Kearney). Then it went crazy. I followed that up with "Night of Joy" at WDW, seeing many bands, including Jeremy Camp and Newsboys. Then, I saw Owl City yet again, and was introduced to Days Difference at that show. I LOVE THEM. In the musical sphere, I saw Les Miserables national tour and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and The Lion King on Broadway. I went to The Hit at the Hale in Orem with BYU. I also got to see Poolesville's Suessical the Musical, Shakepeare Troupe's Midsummer Night's Dream (Excellent), and the Junior and Gaithersburg Troupe shows. :) So fun.

Shady Grove Academy- All I Need to Say. This year was the last half of the first school year of SGA. It has been so amazing. We have an awesome group of kids, great teachers, totally fun classes that are a whole mess of work. I've learned so much. With SGA in 2011, I've studied US history, US government, chemistry, journalism, American literature, European history, European literature, Spanish, algebra II, human geography, environmental science, knitting, sewing, and baking. I've taken part in 5 AP classes, and gotten good scores on the 2 AP exams I took in the spring. I also took the US history SAT subject test and received a VERY satisfying score. I've gone to Philly, the Federal Reserve Board :), and the water quality testing lab. I've collected data at the cemetery. I've had all manner of chemicals in my garage. I've had kids do dissections in my basement. I've participated in a tavern debate about whether or not to ratify the Constitution, the trial of Louis XIV, an Enlightenment Salon, the trial of Nathaniel Bacon. I've played countless games on Bubbabrain. I've spent time with some wonderful kids. I've learned so much about life and the world.

I LOVE SGA.

SHOWS! I got to be a part of so many amazing shows this year. I already wrote a post a mile long about Little Women, but I'll give it a shout out: BEST SENIOR TROUPE SHOW EVER. I also was able to be a part of Dance Intensive, an auditioned dance troupe, with a focus on modern dance for the 2010-2011 season. THAT was a blast. We had 8 of the best kids I've ever met. Our numbers were a blast. (Especially the 13 minute one.) I was also a part of an Irish step class (soft shoe), a Broadway choir, and an amazing Advanced Tap class with an insane teacher who I love to pieces. I also went to Theatre Camp yet again, and was a part of Crazy for You (for the second time). This time I had Irene for a scene - which was an adventure. I learned so much about myself through  that experience. I'm grateful for that.

I don't have a picture for this, but I learned so much about myself in general. I had some really high highs, and some really low lows. I got kicked in the face, but I always had those amazing experiences to balance it out. This year, I loved with more than I ever thought possible, and I can honestly say I know I was loved in return. I actually learned better what that word means. I lost things, and people, I valued. I saw people move on, I welcomed people in. I was a helping hand, and for one of the first times, I let others help me too. I was taught. I felt the hand of the Lord. I'm so, SO grateful for all I've learned in 2011. I hope and pray that 2012 will be another year of growth, that I will be able to take the hits as they come, and that I will be able to recognize the blessings and lessons. I love my Heavenly Father. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ. I love my family, my friends. I love my teachers and leaders. I love you!

Blessings to you and yours for 2012,

S

Lessons from "Little Women"

I was just about to write about something totally different, but my iPod is on shuffle, and "Our Finest Dreams" from the Broadway musical Little Women just came on. I was blessed with the opportunity to be in that show last school year, and it was an amazing experience. The show is based on the book of the same title by Louisa May Alcott. It follows the journeys of four sisters growing up in Civil War America. It follows, in particular, the life of the second oldest sister, Jo, who "yearns to travel, and write great books." I played the role of Meg, the oldest sister. This show isn't your average musical comedy. Each and every character is deep and complex. It was awesome studying the book, the show, and the time period for character development. The characters were there. We just had to find them. We got to know each one, and they became our friends. When I was on stage with the girls, it wasn't Sarah, Laura, Paula, and Maria, it honestly was Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. It was the greatest thing ever. When we got in character, we became them. After rehearsals, we'd do and say things that were not our own. They belonged to the girls we were portraying on stage. It wasn't limited to the sisters. Ellen, who played Marmee, was a senior and became the one we called when we needed comforting. There were times when I needed a friend, and then I'd go to rehearsal and become Meg. I had a friend in her and her sisters.
Now, I don't want to sound all Jekyll and Hyde here. I wasn't assuming another personality. What was happening was something that every actor longs for. It was an absolution of character development. If you know your character well enough to be able to befriend them, you can embody them when you're on stage. If you are so much in character that your lines come naturally, as they are what the character would say anyway, you're doing it. (It also makes improv AWESOME.) I loved being a part of this show. It made me a better person. I learned so many lessons. Here are a few of them.

Family is the most important thing. The March family showed this to me on many occasions. The family is the central unit to society. If you have your family, you can do anything. Love them. They won't be here forever.

Letting people go is hard, but it's what necessary. I sang this song with Laura (who played Jo) after the show at the SGA graduation. I didn't get to sing this song in the Senior Troupe production, but singing it with Laura at the graduation was an awesome experience. It was SO emotional. I love the girls graduating, and I didn't want to see them go. But I sang the part of Beth, and that's the part asking to be let go. I was recognizing that Somethings Are Meant to Be.

You never know who your best friends are going to be. Even if they seem weird (or maybe even creepy) at first, do be afraid to Take a Chance on Me.

Sometimes things go wrong, and that's the way it has to be. This is something that I was taught very well the year of Little Women. Bad things happen, but it's up to you to pick yourself  up and move on. Days of Plenty is a song that Marmee sings to Jo about Beth's death. It wasn't included in our version of the show, but I love it anyway.

Love makes you a better person. Now, I did get to sing this one in the show. Funny story: Right after our last dress rehearsal (the day before opening), my friend Nick, who played John Brooke, broke his foot. Seriously. We didn't know what would happen, but after many prayers and a doctor, he was able to perform (in a black boot, but without crutches.) After we finished this song, we held the end while everyone clapped. It was AWESOME. Nick is my buddy, and I really love him. That song was a team effort - especially those shows.  Although we were friends before, I think we learned to have that Christ-like love for one another that Friday night performance. It is in a much different context, but I became More Than I Am.

Forgiveness is necessary. Amy does something dreadful to Jo, and Jo is FURIOUS. She refuses to forgive her. But when an ice-skating accident almost takes Amy away forever, Jo realizes something. "'I had let the sun go down on my anger; I wouldn't forgive her, and today, if it hadn't been for Laurie, it might have been too late! How go I be so wicked?' ...Neither said a word, but they hugged one another close, in spite of the blankets, and everything was forgiven and forgotten in one hearty kiss." (Little Women, pg 85)

The past is amazing, but people grow and change. Don't be afraid of the future.
This is something I struggle with. I hate letting go of the good times in the past. I hate seeing people change - especially for the worse. I pray that my heart will be softened to letting go of things that are in the past so I may look forward with a brightness of hope. The Fire Within Me makes me cry- Every. Single. Time.
Be brave. Sometimes it's scary. But we've got the Lord on our side, and we can really do ANYTHING. We can be Astonishing too!

Have fun. This whole show was a ball. From the giant trees in Volcano Press to the hoop skirts in Delighted, and the sword fighting in Finest Dreams to the two of us lovers limping on together after the ball, it was pure joy. This song captures it for me: Our Finest Dreams.

DO NOT let fear rule your life. Live, laugh, sing, dance, cry, paint, learn, read, write, act, work, ice skate, play, fly a kite, fall in love.

That mysterious hero may be your sister. Weekly Volcano Press. That's all I have to say

Let your light shine in the storm. Jo was not afraid to stand up for what she believed in. I love that about her. We shouldn't be afraid either because:


Sometimes when you dream, your dreams come true. In extraordinary ways, suddenly a day can be so amazing. And sometime when you yearn, you burn the air. And then, you are not the same, and the world is... Astonishing. Here's this song.

I LOVE Little Women. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life, and I'm grateful for the "March Madness" I got to be a part of. The "family" really became my family, and I love each one of them, as well as the rest of the cast and crew. I love the book, and my copy is one of my treasured items. I am so thankful for the lessons I learned from Little Women.

Peace from the East,
S