Thanksgiving

I didn't have a chance to publicly give thanks yesterday so I thought I'd post a few thoughts. I am so fortunate and I would feel selfish not to recognize my blessings.

Lately as I have been walking around campus I have been extremely grateful for the opportunity to go to BYU. It is one of the best schools in the world and after attending two other universities I can say it is the best school for me. There are many sheltered people here but their goodness and innocence make them a joy to be around (even if I don't relate to them very well). The professors here are nothing short of miraculous--all fusing their great enthusiasm and knowledge with a spiritual dimension that puts it all in perspective. As I walk with my tens of thousands of cohorts to the devotional every Tuesday I feel close to Heavenly Father.

I am also grateful to live so near two of my best friends: my siblings Jared and Brooke. They are smart, funny, and passionate. They always try to do what's right and their example and support has helped me as I try to better myself. I can't wait 'til Aaron moves to Utah!

I am grateful for my parents who are also two of my best friends. Mom helps me figure out girl problems and dad is there to share enthusiasm for my various pursuits. I'm thankful for their wisdom and their example.

I'm thankful for Jesus Christ and the genuine happiness He afforded me by performing the atonement. I'm not perfect but his sacrifice made it so I can let go of my mistakes--an essential step in improvement.

I'm thankful for the knowledge I have that Christ's church has been restored to the earth after centuries of being lost. I'm thankful to live in a time when God once again speaks to us through a living prophet.