Monday, August 25, 2014

(-) x (-) = +

"It’s remarkable how much we can learn about life by studying nature. For example, scientists can look at the rings of trees and make educated guesses about climate and growing conditions hundreds and even thousands of years ago. One of the things we learn from studying the growth of trees is that during seasons when conditions are ideal, trees grow at a normal rate. However, during seasons when growing conditions are not ideal, trees slow down their growth and devote their energy to the basic elements necessary for survival. At this point some of you may be thinking, “That’s all very fine and
good, but what does it have to do with flying an airplane?” Well, let me tell you. Have you ever been in an airplane and experienced turbulence? The most common cause of turbulence is a sudden change in air movement causing the aircraft to pitch, yaw, and roll. While planes are built to withstand far greater turbulence than anything you would encounter on a regular flight, it still may be disconcerting to passengers. What do you suppose pilots do when they encounter turbulence? A student pilot may think that increasing speed is a good strategy because it will get them through the turbulence faster. But that may be the wrong thing to do. Professional pilots understand that there is an optimum turbulence penetration speed that will minimize the negative effects of turbulence. And most of the time that would mean to reduce your speed. The same principle applies also to speed bumps on a road. Therefore, it is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions."
"The wise understand and apply the lessons of tree rings and air turbulence. They resist the temptation to get caught up in the frantic rush of everyday life. They follow the advice “There is more to life than increasing its speed.”In short, they focus on the things that matter most.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks, in a recent general conference, taught, “We have to forego some good things in order to choose others that are better or best because they develop faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and
strengthen our families.”
"There is a beauty and clarity that comes from simplicity that we sometimes do not appreciate in our thirst for intricate solutions. "For example, it wasn’t long after astronauts and cosmonauts orbited
the earth that they realized ballpoint pens would not work in space. And so some very smart people went to work solving the problem. It took thousands of hours and millions of dollars, but in the end, they developed a pen that could write anywhere, in any temperature, and on nearly any surface. But how did the astronauts and cosmonauts get along until the problem was solved? They simply used a pencil."
As we turn to our Heavenly Father and seek His wisdom regarding the things that matter most, we learn over and over again the importance of four key relationships: with our God, with our families, with our fellowman, and with ourselves. "
-Of Things That Matter Most by President Uchtdorf

This week has been been great! They teach us in school that a - times a - always equals a +. This week has turned out a +! I couldn't be happier!

I have a new companion, Sister Gibbons! She is from Cache Vally, Utah! Two Aggies together= a good time! She is 22 tomorrow! She has 5 weeks left on her mission! And so far...she is a great companion! :) I plan to keep it that way! We have some great new plans to try with the ward
so I'm excited to see what comes the next few weeks!

The Ss are doing great! Last night we were over visiting them and A asked for a lesson. I decided to read the Book of Mormon with her. K wanted to join in too. K had been skyping a friend and the friend asked " hey is that the Book of Mormon?" K said "ya". Her friend got her's out and read it with us. I asked K after if her friend was a member. She said "no". Then I asked her how she knew
about the Book of Mormon and how she got one. Kayla told me "she kept asking me tons of questions so I gave her one and told her to read it." How awesome is that! If a brand new member can be a missionary we better be!

FYI-It only took Sister Gibbons two days too pick up on my "hick" accent and ask me where it came from! Haha.
I hope you all have a great week! Love you all and remember.....just use a pencil:)
Love,
Sister Reber

 LIFE IS GOOD!
 Sister Gibbons and me.

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