Perfect in my Mind

Perfect in my Mind

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Lessons Learned

When my husband does this
I sometimes do this
He doesn't really play video games that much--so when I'm faced with these situations, I don't always know how to handle myself.

I probably could do something way productive, like get a start on my research paper {due tomorrow}, or something . . . but let's face it:  I'm really into procrastinating.

***
Heavenly Father has taught me a lot of lessons in my short little life.  Lessons I haven't quite understood--or fully comprehended until recently.  Like most everyone, my spirituality has had it's peaks and valleys.  I've felt really close to the spirit, and sort of distanced during various phases of my life.  Lately, I've feel like I've become complacent.  This is something I do not want.  I need to give myself a little kick in the bum, and strive to be better.  To try harder.

My contemplation on the matter has caused me to review the most important things I've learned during the past year or so.

Lesson 1:

If you were perfect, you wouldn't need to be here.

I've spent too much time trying to be flawless.  Trying to be perfect has caused me so much stress in my life.  Far too often I've felt like I'm just not good enough.

I've recently come to realize that this mentality is destructive, and a powerful tool used by the adversary.  Sherri Dew put it best when she said, "The adversary would have us hung up on perfection and stymied by the commandment to become perfect. . . . We should not expect to achieve perfection in this lifetime. The goal instead is to become pure, so that we are increasingly receptive to impressions inspired by the Holy Ghost."

Lesson 2:

Life is much sweeter when you stop beating yourself up over imperfections.

When I look in the mirror and focus on blemishes and fly-a-ways, I feel depressed.  When I look in the mirror and say, "Hey.  You're getting really good at doing your make up."  I feel happy.  Recipie for success, no?

Compliment yourself.

Lesson 3:

Bertrand Russell once said, "Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time."

I like to blog.  I like to watch crappy television shows.  I like to social network.  

For a while I would feel guilty after spending time on Facebook, or looking at blogs, or watching Secret Life of the American Teenager--but I've come to recognize that it's fine to do these things as long as they do not consume my life.  Having down time is okay.

Lesson 4:

"When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God"  (Mosiah 2:17).  

The most sincere form of happiness comes from selfless living.  I have found that I am far happier when I do small acts of service throughout the day.  Sometimes the smallest acts are the most rewarding.  

Being more service oriented is something I really want to work on.  I definitely could stand to be more selfless.  But, I am getting a start.  

Lesson 5:

"You're about as happy as you choose to be."  Abraham Lincoln

I control my emotions.  No matter the circumstances.  I have power over myself--and my attitude.  Sometimes the 'fake it till ya make it' mentality is all it takes.  

I'm happy, and it's because I let myself be.



This was a fairly productive video game playing session.  Mista T., if your hobby leads to this much self-reflection, play away.

7 comments:

Annette said...

Sounds like you're busy with papers and finals and such. Ugh. Hang in there!

Anonymous said...

Insightful musings, dear daughter-in-law. I like the quote by Elder Bednar that we should not consume our time with the "thick of thin things". Also, that we should not be too caught up with fried froth. Pres. Monson is a wonderful teacher of this principal. He counsels us to look heavenward, walk foward and feel inwardly. Pretty good advice from a very good man/prophet of God. Hope you and James have a great week and we look forward to seeing you this next week on Thurs.
Dad T.

Courtney B said...

I am SO with you Chelsea! I've been feeling very complacent (perfect word) and have been trying to figure out what I'm going to do to give myself a litle kick in the bum :)
Thank you for posting!

MicheleBryant said...

I love this post. Life is interesting. . .We work to teach our children, and they grow up and teach their parents.

You're an angel and I love you!

James said...

In my defense, Portal 2 is one harsh mistress.

Andrea Stevenson said...

Oh wow, I love these lessons. Seriously, I think everyone can relate. Especially once you're married. Thank you so much for sharing what you've learned:)

pics-o-andrea

tifsong said...

i REALLY like you.