Today.

Sorry in advance for my scatter-brained thoughts.

Today has been one for the books. I've said it before, but I love my major. Seriously, find something you're passionate about and do it. You will feel so fulfilled just learning about what you love.

I can't entirely explain why I am feeling this way, but I will say that I read this (among many other profound things) in my textbook today, and it just spoke to me.

"Consider the example of a young couple in the beginning of their relationship, when they are experiencing a Garden of Eden-like existence. In a metaphorical sense, the grass is green, the water is clear, and the sky is blue--everything in their relationship appears to be idyllic. At some point in their relationship, however, they (like Adam and Eve) are destined to experience opposition. It is a part of the Lord's plan for them to experience the Fall as opposition and adversity comes and affliction follows. Their challenge and opportunity then becomes, as individuals and as a couple, to actively seek reconciliation and healing through the Atonement of Jesus Christ."

How true is it that elements of the gospel are in every aspect of our lives? I love this analogy so much, and it makes me recognize the power of the Atonement, not only for my eternal future, but also in my everyday life.

Lots of other things happened in that class, but I honestly cannot remember them all! If you want to see a little bit of what I'm talking about, you should watch this series. You can get advice from scholars in Family Life, as well as come to an understanding, individually, of how these principles can change your life.

And then... I went to my next class. Boy, was it a heart-breaker. We talked about the consequences of underdevelopment in children. We watched a video about the orphanage system in Romania in the late 80's- early 90's, and it was horrendous (but has since improved). I saw images of neglected children living in inhumane conditions. At one point, the documentary mentioned that the orphanage did not have heat, and that 1 in 4 children froze to death that winter.

Wow. 

I have absolutely no words for the way that I felt, so here's a list of what went on in my mind:

1. This is the saddest thing I have ever seen.

2. I am so, so, so fortunate.

3. How can these film crews not be bawling their eyes out as they see this in real life?

4. What can I do?

Of those thoughts/feelings, only one is valuable to me.

What can I do?

Regardless of your talents, passions, etc. each of us possesses the power to change the world for good. We each have our own trajectories, and our influences in the world can be seen in many capacities. If we all just commit to helping the world become a better place, through our talents and interests, we can change the world.

I still am unsure of my role in the big scheme of things, but one thing I do know is that I can change the world, and I am willing to take the steps necessary to make it a better place.

Happy Friday, all!