Thoughts on the February Goal

Here are Monica Danner's thoughts on our February Relief Society Theme:

A Valiant woman is JOYFUL

I was asked to give some of my thoughts about this month’s challenge to become a more joyful woman of God.  We have been given some great counsel from general authorities in the church of how to live with joy in our hearts, regardless of our circumstances. 

I want to share about a time I wasn't so joyful and my thoughts on it now. My husband was deployed to a dangerous place, I was in living in a new area with no friends, I had two small babies, my mom was 3,000 miles away and it. was. HARD!  The worst part was that I felt guilty for not being happy. Although I was truly blessed, I couldn’t deny that I was feeling defeated. I felt like there were times that I was just doing what had to be done. I was in survival mode. 

You’ve probably all read or heard the words of the prophet Thomas S. Monson ‘Brothers and sisters, my sincere prayer is that we may adapt to the changes in our lives, that we may realize what is most important, that we may express our gratitude always and thus find joy in the journey’.  This was my inspiration and I’m so grateful for words of a prophet who loves us dearly.  In 2014, I decided that instead of a list of resolutions for the new year, I would choose one word that encompassed many goals I had for myself.  The word I chose was ‘enjoy’.  It was my goal to enjoy my kids, my life, my calling, my role as a mom, being a sister, a daughter, etc. etc. etc. To find joy in whatever situation I was in, even if it was the simplest thing.  I savored that year.  It was truly a reminder to me to live with gratitude.  I can look back now and realize that some of those trials I had were part of a refining process.  

I share my testimony with you that the gospel of Jesus Christ can give us true joy.  President Uchtdorf, who said ‘My dear sisters, I have a simple faith. I believe that as you are faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, as you draw closer to Him in faith, hope, and charity, things will work together for your good. I believe that as you immerse yourselves in the work of our Father—as you create beauty and as you are compassionate to others—God will encircle you in the arms of His love. Discouragement, inadequacy, and weariness will give way to a life of meaning, grace, and fulfillment. (Dieter F. Uchtdorf)

I hope that you may all find joy in your lives, no matter the season you’re in. May we be aware when someone is going through their own ‘refining process’ (or, ‘survival mode’) and lift them up.  I love my Savior.  I know He knows us, loves us and wants us to be happy.  I share these things with you in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.