This past week has been BYU Education Week! The theme this year is The Life Long Journey of Learning. Anyone who really knows me and my family knows we check out of reality for one week a year and practically move into the Wilkinson Center at BYU. This year was my favorite so far, honestly. I have been going since I was 14 and loved every year, this year I have been "prepared" for learning like never before, so I was blessed with too many "light bulbs" to count. SO GRATEFUL.
My mom and I go "turbo" style. Early morning till late at night. This year we had Niki with us most of the time, her boy, Nick, came for a few classes, my aunt, Heidi, and of course James joined me for the night classes. I have dreamt of my husband joining me for classes for years, so I always ADORE the time we spend together there:)
Some classes we went to include: Joseph Smith's translation of the Bible (JST) fascinating details that strengthened my testimony immensely! And wet my appetite to learn more about this incredible man.
The Nativity: little-known details and background on the culture, meaningful explanation that makes a LOT mean a LOT more. Christmas, to me, will never be the same. Such as, I have a new respect for Mary and Joseph that I never would have realized. When you really think about it, Mary has an angel appear to her and tell her she will bring forth a baby boy being a VIRGIN. Then trying to explain all this to Joseph, having already been betrothed, (Their custom had VERY harsh punishment to the "unfaithful" betrothed, death by stoning) Having to deal with other's and their "judgments," knowing the truth, while realizing the true miracle in their midst. Fascinating.
Lots of classes about realizing our personal life's mission. Not just surviving in this life, but fulfilling an eternal mission that Heavenly Father has specifically given each of us to bless our lives and the lives of all those around each of us. For this reason he has blessed us with talents, gifts, passions etc that are meant to support us in our specific journey. Ultimately, to assist in building the Kingdom of God, each in our own unique way.
We found a couple about teaching our children leadership. One idea I loved, that my Dad always did to me (and freaked me out when I was little) is help your kids order their own food, hand the cashier payment, ask their own questions, get our kids talking to adults early on.
How to turn weaknesses into strengths,
How to more effectively study the scriptures,
Taking control in life instead of the blanket excuse, "I'm too busy for that." Which usually ends up being the MOST important aspects of life.
Zion, the pure in heart, and help in preventing our loved ones from being ensnared in Pornography-- This class was phenomenal. Bro. Packer talked about filling our kids minds, homes, with positive images, and thoughts to help POSITIVELY combat/replace the devastating effects of porn and all the sickening media. He had all sorts of beautiful and some funny images, coupled with catchy phrases to make a point. My favorite phrase he said was, "Find some of these pictures, create some ideas and slap these puppies up all over your house and bless your family!"
Recognizing the promptings of the Spirit, how to receive revelation.
The power of opposites in communication. How to be creative with this, honoring others' ideas, the four quadrants of ideas in communication.
Effective communication, gender differences, bridging the gap, appreciating differences.
Building confidence and trust (mostly from a business aspect).
The vision of Joseph Smith. I gained such an appreciation for this great man. It's exciting to realize how real he was, but how extraordinary his experience on this earth was, and how TRUE this gospel is.
But my favorite classes were the ones on The Savior. I had some indescribable experiences understanding the atonement, how intimate it is, and realizing how anxious our Savior is to bless us and strengthen us, regardless of how our lives go, IT'S OKAY. I love this gospel, and I ADORE My Savior. I feel so blessed and feel perspective coming into my life like never before. WE ARE SO SPOILED!!!! I want to share this gospel with the world.
This week for me is truly life-changing. This is just a drop in the bucket of my nuggets, Just think of the nuggets YOU could collect there.
So much love.
