Young Women Medallion

Some drops of awesome occurred yesterday for me.  First, I was released as the Beehive advisor and called as the 2nd Counselor in Young Women, over the Beehives!!!  I've been acting in that capacity since December when the counselor was released not replaced, so it wasn't a huge surprise, but I'm deeply grateful to Heavenly Father for giving me the opportunity to continuing my work with the Beehives. There are seven amazing girls whom I've grown to love and appreciate.  It's a wonderful calling.

On top of the calling, I was set apart by our Bishop.  During the blessing, he mentioned that I have a lot of stresses and challenges in my life.  Mentioning two: our foster boy and Kedzie's back.  But, he promised me that if I did everything, that I've learned since I was a child, to follow the commandments and live the gospel, that I will be blessed and everything will work out.  He also said that because of the way I handle my stresses and challenges, there will be those who watch me and follow my example.  I hope and pray that I can be a good example to those around me, especially my children as I go through these challenges in life.  I was also blessed to be an example and a good leader to the Beehives.  It was a very special, spiritual blessing.  I'm grateful for the priesthood on the Earth.

Another drop of awesome was being recognized by the Stake for obtaining my Young Women Medallion for a second time this past year.  It was a wonderful evening.  I'm grateful that our YW President, Sister Brady was there to be "my mom" for the night, because I sure did need a big hug and kiss afterward in proxy of my mom.

As you can imagine, it was emotional and spiritual.  Each young woman, including my old self, was asked to bare their testimony or tell a story about personal progress.  Of course, I talked about my mom and her goal of obtaining her medallion and her mentoring of Makenna.  I told them of the fact that she was dying and wasn't finished and how ten people finished it up for her.  I told them about her receiving her medallion and how proud she was of her accomplishment.  I told them what an example she is to so many and especially to me as she exercised her faith and commitment to the gospel and our Savior.

I promise I didn't "ugly" cry!  It was close, but I didn't! It was a spiritual experience and barely a dry eye in the room.  I'm so grateful that I got to share my story and my testimony of the gospel.  I'm grateful that I can take my mom's example and apply it toward the young women in our ward and help them complete their personal progress.  It's a wonderful program to help strengthen our youth.  I'm grateful to be a part of it.  And grateful to my mom who has influenced and encouraged so many and continues to do so.  It's a blessing.

So, there you have it.  I had two wonderful spiritual experiences in one day.  I needed them both.  My Heavenly Father loves me and knows who I am.  For that, I'm so grateful.