When I see the stars

Last night, as we were out and about, I had a small moment to pause and look up into the deep blue sky and to see the sweet stars hanging in the crisp cool air. I've had many different opportunities and moments to look up and see just a few of the wondrous creations in the sky. I like to see them twinkle and shine and to look at each one and then to see the whole expanse; it's truly remarkable! Over Christmas, I thought more about the stars and the one star that meant so much and has remained a significant symbol of the Savior.

I was inspired by Elder Carl B Cook's Conference address this last October. He told a story about one day when he was feeling overwhelmed by his many responsibilties and as he was riding the elevator he stared at the floor reflecting on his difficulties, 'The door opened and someone entered, but I didn’t look up. As the door closed, I heard someone ask, “What are you looking at down there?” I recognized that voice—it was President Thomas S. Monson.

I quickly looked up and responded, “Oh, nothing.” (I’m sure that clever response inspired confidence in my abilities!)

But he had seen my subdued countenance and my heavy briefcase. He smiled and lovingly suggested, while pointing heavenward, “It is better to look up!”

For me, seeing the "big picture" is one of the most refreshing things in life. There are two options we have each day, to make it the best day ever! Or to get caught up in the routine, the motions and the seemingly mundane tasks we do over and over. But seeing the 'why' of what we do and seeking for the good in each moment can break us free and give life to the dark miserable chains that we place ourselves in.

When I look up, I feel free and light and there is excitement and meaning in each task. Whether literally or figuratively, when we see all that we have been given and all that is good in the world, there is little room for selfishness and pride. But when we are focused on ourselves, our burdens and our cares, our load is so heavy and weighs us down. There is then no time to help and love and give charity, not only to those that we want to serve, but to all who are in need.

President Uchtdorf said, "Never stop hoping for all of the righteous desires of your heart. But don’t close your eyes and hearts to the simple and elegant beauties of each day’s ordinary moments that make up a rich, well-lived life.

The happiest people I know are not those who find their golden ticket; they are those who, while in pursuit of worthy goals, discover and treasure the beauty and sweetness of the everyday moments. They are the ones who, thread by daily thread, weave a tapestry of gratitude and wonder throughout their lives. These are they who are truly happy."

I know that when we "look up", we find the guidance of a loving Heavenly Father; we find joy!

"Wherefore, men are ^afree according to the ^bflesh; and ^call things are ^dgiven them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to ^echoose ^fliberty and eternal ^glife, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be ^hmiserable like unto himself. (2 Nephi 2:27)." 

So if we are free to choose, choose to be happy! It sounds too simple, but I know from experience that it is true. Christ overcame all of our weaknesses to help us learn how we can overcome them. Be of good cheer; He is our guiding star!