Home Improvements

I've been pondering about some specific goals I want to set for the year. I want to end 2009 a better person than when I started. I want my goals to be specific, challenging, and measurable. When I came across this quote from Julie B. Beck in this month's visiting teaching message, I knew it outlined exactly what I want the end result to be and would provide the framework for my 2009 goals. I remember hearing this talk when she gave it, but I was so grateful to have it right now.

"Latter-day Saint women must be strong and immovable in their faith. They can and should excel in living and sharing their testimonies of the Lord Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. We do this as we:
1. Make and keep covenants with Him.
2. Are worthy and worship in His temples.
3. Study His doctrine in the scriptures and the words of prophets.
4. Qualify for, recognize, and follow the Holy Ghost.
5. Share and defend His gospel.
6. Participate in sincere personal and family prayer.
7. Have family home evening.
8. Live principles of self-reliance and provident living.
These are essential things which must be done before nonessential things. No one can do these things for us - these are personal practices and habits."
("What Latter-day Saint Women Do Best: Stand Strong and Immovable," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 109-10).

I think every single thing I want to work on can be categorized under one of the topics she listed. Now I've just got to get to work!