grateful

This week my heart has been filled with so much gratitude. Heavenly Father has blessed me with so many wonderful people in my life whether they are family, friends, or coworkers. To live in a place surrounded with churches and temples is such a blessing. It brings me so much happiness to see the temple. When I was in New York, I was able to visit every cathedral there. They were all so beautiful inside and the workmanship was absolutely gorgeous, but it was interesting to me that I did not feel the spirit there even with so many beautiful carvings and windows. 

Later that day, I walked out of the subway, up the street when I saw the Manhattan temple. Immediately the Holy Ghost testified to me of the happiness and strength that comes from the work of the Lord. I was so overwhelmed with the peace that the temple brought me just standing outside of the doors. It is amazing to me that I was able to recognize and feel the Lord's spirit even before I saw the temple. To me, the temple stood out as a reminder of the Plan of Salvation  and the peace that the Atonement offers as it's brightness shone against such a big, dirty city. 

The Gospel of Jesus Christ, like the temple, stands as a beacon of hope and love and peace. I am so grateful to know that I have a Savior who atoned for not only my sins and faults, but also for my pains and heartaches. Although it might seem that no one understands the pressure I feel or the things I am going through, I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love me and are always aware of the righteous desires I have.

"...for I know that in him I shall rest. And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me: Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father..."

Cheers!

love, Maddie Violet