Weathering the Storms

I seem to be aware of a lot of people lately who are going through some really tough times. I know a 15-year old who was recently diagnosed with cancer. Almost 200 employees at the university where Jeff works are receiving layoff notices this week because the state hasn't come through with any funding this year. A friend of mine struggles with debilitating depression. I could go on. 

Adversity is part of life. What makes me sad is when trying times cause people to turn away from God instead of relying on Him to see them through. I was impressed by a message I read recently by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf that addresses this issue. I've included part of the message below. It was comforting for me! :)

Imagesource

"Experienced pilots understand that they can’t always control the things that happen around them. They can’t just turn off the turbulence. They can’t make the rain or snow vanish. They can't cause the wind to stop blowing or change its direction.

"But they also understand that it’s a mistake to fear turbulence or strong winds -- and especially to be paralyzed by them. The way to land safely when conditions are less than ideal is to stay on the correct track and glide path as perfectly as possible.

....

"We can’t always control the storms that life puts in our path. Sometimes things simply don’t go our way. We may feel shaken and blown about by the turbulence of disappointment, doubt, fear, sadness, or stress.

"During those times, it is easy to get caught up in everything that is going wrong and to make our troubles the center of our thoughts. The temptation is to focus on the trials we are facing instead of on the Savior and our testimony of truth.

"But that is not the best way to navigate through our challenges in life.

"Just as an experienced pilot keeps his focus not on the storm but on the center of the runway and the correct touchdown point, so too should we keep our focus on the center of our faith--our Savior, His gospel, and the plan of our Heavenly Father--and on our ultimate goal--to return safely to our heavenly destination. We should trust God and make staying on the track of discipleship the focus of our efforts. We should keep our eyes, heart, and mind focused on living the way we know we should.

"Showing our faith and trust in Heavenly Father by joyfully keeping His commandments will bring us happiness and glory. And if we stay on the path, we will get through any turbulence--no matter how strong it may appear--and return safely to our heavenly home."