(Manti Temple)
Although this blog of mine is a pretty honest reflection of my life, I decided to keep it mostly secular. My intentions were, and still are, to keep this a place where religious/political beliefs don't affect friendship, creativity, and growth. Because most of my readers (thank you!) aren't of my faith, I don't want to push anyone away by being preachy preachy about it. I have noticed that I have been a little afraid to bring up my religion here ,and anywhere else for that matter, because my faith is so misunderstood. I don't like confrontation. At all... and I have found that people become very forward with their opinions about my religion. Honestly it scares me. With that being said, I would be really ungrateful if I didn't talk about it at all, because I have been so incredibly blessed. By now your probably wondering what I am talking about....
I am a member of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints. Yes that's a mouthful. We are most commonly referred to as Mormons or LDS. I wasn't born into the church, my parents aren't members, I am the only one in my family, and this comes with it's own set of trials, but the blessings outweigh them. I was baptized three years ago today, and if you told me then where I would be now I wouldn't have believed you. In no way did I even dream of going to school in Utah, majoring in business, and starting a blog. It's funny to think about who I was back then, and who I am now. I often think about where I would be if I never joined the church. I honestly don't know what my life would be like. It's these little decisions that turn your life upside down and then back around again. Somehow you land on top.
With that being said, I can't begin to tell you how grateful I am for God's hand in my life. I know that all that I have done, and will do, is accomplished through the strength that Heavenly Father gives me. I know that we are created in the image of God, and someday we will live with Him once again. I am grateful for Jesus Christ and the atonement. I am grateful for the perfect example that Christ is, with his guidance I can be better. I am grateful for the trails in my life. They have helped me grow closer to God, and through them I have become stronger. Life doesn't get easier, but it does get better. I am also very grateful for choice and accountability. If three years ago I hadn't made the choice to be baptized my life wouldn't be on the road that it is. A road that only leads up. I may fall every now and then, but I can always count on the hand of God to help me back up again. With that knowledge I know that I can do anything.
If you made it through this post, thank you. I really do appreciate your support, love, and friendship. I hope that this hasn't pushed you away. My blog will continue on as normal, but every now and again I might post a little bit about my faith. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to comment here or email me (carli.randolf@gmail.com). All I ask is that you be respectful. If you would like to know more about the church here are some trusted links:
Carli
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