Prisoners

by Shauna Brown

                                             

                

 During church today I was impressed as the speaker spoke of  the importance of not only having a testimony of Jesus Christ, but the value of sharing it often and openly with others. That was really interesting as last night I dreamed I was giving a talk about Jesus Christ to a congregation of prisoners. They were all dressed alike in cranberry jump suits.  Some were clean shaven while others had distasteful words tattooed upon their faces, which was most disturbing.  

          Now, in real life I have spoken in prison.  During those experiences  I  was shown great respect by those in attendance. However, in my dream last night, as I looked at this ‘very real congregation,’ I could feel a brewing of hatred, eyes that despised. Sadly as I spoke I had to endure, and even pause to regain composure, as a few of the group voiced aloud filthy language that made me anxious. So disruptive they became that several times a couple of inmates were removed from the room.          

        I had prepared my talk well I thought, and as I sought to testify of Jesus and my love for him, a young man yelled out, “What do you really know of Jesus Christ?” It was then that my heart took hold of the stirring moment and I felt my heart pound heavy. I couldn’t talk, and for a brief time my emotions freely let go, and the tears rolled down my cheeks. Before my eyes a flood of tender mercies paraded through my mind. I placed the pages of my prepared talk upon the podium, and stepped closer to the congregation. A guard drew closer, but I didn’t feel afraid.  

        “What do I really know of Jesus Christ?”  I answered slowly, while looking directly at the inmate who hosted a smirk on his face.  

        “I know that Jesus Christ knows me perfectly. Knows my name, knows what I fear. He knows what I feel in my heart. Knows what makes me happy. I then shared some personal, real life experiences that had drawn me to Jesus Christ. Moments when I had stretched forth all of my heart and soul to heaven for answers, and for help.   

     I remember feeling, like I had a great power to testify to those incarcerated. My dream was so real, so poignant and purposeful. 

Was it coincidental that the speaker talked of bearing testimony today? Was it by chance that I dreamed of such an experience last night? Could it be important that I look closer at my feelings, and the strength of my testimony and belief in God, in the plan of salvation, in a life after this. Am I doing all that can to fortify it, and define it? 

      Prior to my Mother’s 80th birthday celebration. I put together a book about her life. I asked her to share her testimony for her posterity. I smile, just remembering how she would call me on the phone several times a day prior to her party, and say something like this, “Shauna, will you add this to my testimony?” “I have a few more thoughts,”  “Can you add this as well?”   I finally had to give her a deadline. As I reviewed her written words concerning her love for Jesus Christ, and her belief in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints I felt such a warmth, and  brightness of her words.  

      Even though Mama has been gone fourteen years her words are powerful and true, and shall be forever a bright light and testimony.  

       When I think of my Savior, Heavenly Father, and the Holy Ghost I am humbled, grateful that I know and feel that I am of great value to them. I learned for myself of their love and interest in my life and eternal purpose.  

        As far as my dream, it was timely. Perhaps there are those who are prisoners of their thoughts, held hostage by their past, afraid of the dark, and afraid of the light. I need to stand ready to reach out, light the candle of faith and open their imprisoned beliefs--to testify and let the light of Christ warm their souls. 

OPEN

         by Shauna Brown 

          Years ago my sweetheart and I were blessed to visit China. We marveled at all of the ancient sites. We saw the 

Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall of China, The ForbiddenCity, Imperial Gardens, Panda Bears in their natural habitat. We floated down the Yangtze River, we stood in Tiananmen Square, we visited numerous Pagodas which symbolize the nuance of Buddhism.  My mind was flooded with interest as I observed the people, their homes, their sacred idols, statutes and learned of their beliefs. 

Traveling by bus we were greatly blessed to have a young female tour guide, Mei-Hua, who was very interesting, informative and eager to share her culture with us.  

   There were hundreds of temples and pagodas. When discussing Buddhism she shared that it was mainly a philosophy or ‘way of life’.  When asked about God she made a statement that I must admit took me by surprise. She pointed to her head and simply said,  “I have no space for God.”  

     “No space for God ?” Those seated around her were clearly  interested and attentive.  She then shared that she had never heard of Jesus Christ, or a Heavenly Father. The space within her mind concerning God was simply -- empty.  She had been raised to live by the teachings of  Taoism and Buddha. Her statement. ‘No space for Jesus Christ,’ has forever rested upon my mind and heart.

        Here was a young Chinese girl who spoke clear and fluent English. She was well educated and made a good living being a tour guide. I admired her abilities and skills. Yet, in our conversation I must admit I was taken back as she had little interest, if any, in even learning of Jesus Christ.  Her mind was closed and empty to the possibility of truth.

Prior to going to China I had traveled to Japan and Korea several times. I studied the beliefs of Buddhism, Tao, and Confucianism. These three beliefs constitute the “three teachings”, or philosophical framework which shaped Chinese culture.  Some of their own scholars suggest that “thought systems”, is a more appropriate term than ‘religion,’ as to what the people believe and follow. I must admit I like some of Buddha’s thoughts.  

       Another ancient and famous story also speaks of ‘no room’ for Jesus,--  no room in the inn. Was Mei-Hua, another kind of innkeeper in today’s world?  Quickly closing the window or door to any kind of discussion, interest or understanding of Jesus Christ? 

        I noted in my journal and wrote in bold letters concerning this experience:     “Seek His face, to fill your space.” 

Oh, how grateful I am that my heart is full, my mind filled with love and appreciation for Jesus. My door to Jesus Christ is open. I want to invite him in each and everyday. Jesus, himself said:

“Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness 

of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me” (D&C 19:23).

I have thought frequently upon that experience with the young tour guide, Mei-Hua, and have wondered how many people are walking the face of this earth and are ‘empty’ or closed to any thought of him. How many are content to remain in darkness? 

I am sure there too, are those who are eagerly waiting for the light. Waiting for someone to share it with them. 

Grateful I am for the greater light that pierced the darkness and brought truth to follow.  I rejoice in Christ. I know He is the gift for all mankind. 

Open up your heart, your mind, and rejoice along with me, that He lives, our Savior lives!  

“Each of us is an innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus!” 

  ~ Elder Neal A. Maxwell

Enjoy your Sabbath!

Love Always,

JOY

by Shauna Brown 

              

               Digging to the bottom of a plastic Christmas box I was excited to see them once again. Years ago I purchased three large letters - YJO.  When the letters are mixed up they don’t make sense, but when the letters are placed in the correct order=JOY, it can mean so much more.  Within minutes I had them placed them in a predominant location for all to see. JOY!  

       JOY!  I smile as a parade of thoughts march through my mind. What brings joy to me? Dancing in the kitchen with my sweetheart, peanut butter kisses, pigtails, crystal prisms, sunrises, praying children, peaches, sunsets, rainbows, daisies, giggling children, red patent leather shoes, pictures of my posterity, pom poms, star stickers, bumble bees, full tank of gas, yellow balloons, hugs, hankies to name just a few. Why, we even nick -named one of our daughters “BJ” meaning “Brings Joy.” She has lived up to that name foresure.  

           However, in case you think I have forgotten, and leading the parade, is Jesus Christ. He continues to bring JOY. 

        Last Sunday I spoke in church and started off by singing a hymn, one that Rick sings around our home on occasions. He learned it when he was a Methodist boy. It makes me smile when he bursts into singing it. I rejoice in the message of JOY that it brings to me, and those within our home, and those throughtout the world. 

        Oh! say, but I’m glad, I’m glad, 

        Oh! say, but I’m glad; 

        Jesus has come and my cup’s overrun; 

        Oh! say, but I’m glad. 

        Wonderful, marvelous things He brings, 

        Into a heart that’s sad; 

        Through darkest tunnels a soul can sing, 

        Oh! say, but I’m glad.  

         

                   My cup is full and bursting over with JOY because of Christ. He has come, and I rejoice.  

           In the scriptures Ammon shares his feelings of joy:  Alma 26: 11 

    “My JOY is full, yea, my heart is brim with JOY and I will rejoice in my God. Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my god, for in his strength I can do all things..” 

                  ‘Brim with joy,’ ‘ for in His strenght I can do all things!’ 

          Let me stand and clearly testify that I love Jesus Christ, and I too have learned that nothing is impossible when it comes to turning one’s life over to him. My cup is over flowing with gratitude for Jesus Christ, my Heavenly Father and all that continues to pour into my life.  

                I was watching an interview of a talented violinist, Lindsey Stirling, LDSface2face, when she made a comment that touched my heart.   ‘Jesus Christ was rejected by his own. He is still rejected to this day.’ 

          Wow! When everyone of us should stand, shout praises that Jesus has come...bringing eternal joy and possibilities.  

        Have you checked your cup lately?  Is it full?  Brimming over?  You think it is empty? 

I say, “Look again!” 

               

“Man is that he might have JOY!”

EnJOY your Sabbath

Love Always,

Shauna 

                                 As a young mother I tried to be fun and inventive with my children. Helping them learn

the value of work was at times challenging, and even daunting.  Over the years I created an array

of job charts, incentives and motivational materials with all hope to generate success in completing an assigned responsibility. I would use fun names such as, Kitchen Kaptain, Bathroom Butler, Duster Buster, Family room Phantom, in hopes they could use their imagination while learning how to implement the skills within the jobs expectations. One can’t imagine how many stickers, stars and stamps I used.  We had “Gold Rush Days,” “ Golden Turtle Awards,”  “ Swarming,”  

“ Friday Night Specials”  and such, to add a little variety.         

        While taking my “shower- power time”, this morning I pondered upon the incentive chart that I am in need of at this time of my life. There’s got to be more than a Golden Turtle at the end of the road for me.  What kind of incentives must I use as my motivation to complete tasks, and goals, and even to set them?  I wonder, ‘shouldn’t I have outgrown the need’ ? Evidently not, as I continually find myself jotting down ideas, and starting new goals, and it isn’t even New Years.         

“Dust Buster” doesn’t seem nearly as pressing to me today, as I allow the spiders to make their creative web designs in the corners of my rooms.  However, I find I am more concerned about the cobwebs in the corners of my mind. I wonder have I let dust gather, are my talents lying dormant, or sadly undiscovered?  Let me give you a clearer visual:   

        I remember sitting on the church bench, as a young child on a Sunday Morning. The speaker was sharing the Parable of the Talents found in Matthew 25. I listened as he talked about the two servants who used the talents that the master had given them. I felt sorry for the third servant who was lazy and did not work and wasted the talent while the others multiplied their gifts.  I envisioned the third servant digging in the dirt and burying his talent.  I thought how foolish he was. I didn’t want to become  a person who merely dug a hole and hid the talent so that it wouldn’t be lost.  

        I frequently ask myself if I am developing the talents that God has placed within me.  To know, to do, and how I might become a usable instrument for God for good has been important to me.   You see, I still believe as I did as a child that I don’t want to return to my maker and realize that I totally overlooked, and even in some cases buried my gifts, perhaps even the talent that He needed me to use the most.   

         Years ago I read a great quote of Erma Bombeck, who was a skilled and creative writer, and humorist. Her thought hit my heart.    

        “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.”   ~ Erma Bombeck 

     

        So this day I am going to make another job and talent chart.  Upon it I will highlight those talents I believe that matter most to God.  Love my neighbor, Love myself, Serve others, Spread sunshine, Listen more, Hug more, Pray more, Believe more, Learn more, Stand up more often. ..  I can see it’s going to be a big chart, even a poster board size this time around. I’m going to use stars, glitter stars, to show my success, and if it sparkles by the end of the month I’ll get a tattoo. [ just kidding!]   

                Knowing that each of us has been granted gifts from God to make life better, I want to untie the bows, pop the lid and eagerly discover and use each one. No time for cobwebs!

   “Our talents are the gift that God gives to us... What we make of our talents is our gift back to God” ~ Leo Buscaglia

Have a great Sabbath

Love Always,

Shauna  

               

           In my home I have a room that is decorated with decor and pictures of lighthouses, ships, and lanterns.  

           For years I have been fascinated with stories about lighthouse keepers, and sea captains.   

       Centered upon one wall is a picture painted by Norman Rockwell, it is entitled, Sea Captain.  I loved it when I saw it hanging in a gallery. I have studied it and with imagination I have created my own stories around it. I have found several themes within the picture, probably never imagined by Norman Rockwell.  Hope, trust, love, faith, courage, family, wisdom, listening, fatherhood, Godhood, are but a few I have tied to the picture and used in lessons. 

It is easy to  imagine the old captain telling the young lad about his adventures upon the sea. Perhaps he was teaching how to study the conditions of the ocean. Surely there were salty stories laced with tears of a shipwreck and losing some of his crew.  

     I believe some pictures can be worth a thousand words, and at least a thousand lessons or stories. Let me share one of my favorite stories of the sea. 

      “One night at sea, a captain saw what looked like the light of another ship heading toward him. He had his signal man blink to the other ship: “Change your course 10 degrees South.” The reply came back, “Change your course 10 degrees North.”  The ship’s captain answered,” I am a captain. Change your course South!” To which the reply came, “Well, I am a seaman first class. Change your course North.”  This so infuriated the captain, he signaled back, “I say change your course South. I am on a battleship!” To which the reply came back, “And I say change your course North. I am in a lighthouse.” Hope Publications, Kalamazoo, Michigan 

 

       Life can give us moments when the waves wash over us, and drowning worry takes us on a rough and sea sick course.  It is then we need to seek the eternal lighthouse keeper to guide us to safety and security. 

      We were on a family campout when my daughter Brooke, who was eleven years old at the time complained about a mysterious pain in her tummy. Knowing we were on vacation she didn’t want to spoil the fun for everyone. I tried to comfort her and gave her every remedy that I could think of, with no success.  She sought to convince us that she would be all right. But, call it Mother’s inspiration, parent’s intuition, prompting, we decided to pack up the family and head for the doctors. Prescriptions were given. Hours passed and Brooke wasn’t getting any better and grew steadily worse. We prayed again and again. I was worried even though the doctor didn’t seem concerned.  I suggested “Could it be her appendix?”  He looked at me, and shook his head, “No probably an infection, it will be gone in a few days.”  

I still had a lingering feeling that it was her appendix.  After a whole day and a very restless, painful night, we went to the hospital. We asked for another doctor’s opinion. This time the doctor listened.  Long story short, and a $4,000.00 surgery later... it was her appendix! Brooke’s appendix was not in the normal location, and had enlarged like a balloon, and within moments it ruptured within his hands, as he was removing it. He deemed it a ‘miracle’  that it hadn’t ruptured much earlier, threatening her life. Clearly our prayers had been heard, and we had listened. Gratefully this doctor listened as well.  The course was changed and a sweet life was spared.   

        Our Heavenly Father is a lighthouse to us all.  His desire is to bring us safely home. Thomas S. Monson says it in a way that brings me peace. 

        “Anxiously you ask, ‘Is there a way to safety? Can someone guide me? Is there an escape from threatened destruction?’ The answer is a resounding yes! I counsel you: Look to the lighthouse of the Lord. There is no fog so dense, no night so dark, no gale so strong, no mariner so lost but what its beacon light can rescue. It beckons through the storms of life. It calls, ‘This way to safety; this way to home.”    ~ Thomas S. Monson 

Enjoy Your Sabbath, 

Love Always, 

                        Please, Pilot Me Lord

by Shauna V. Brown 

           A couple of days ago  I was observing a small airplane in flight.  I watched as it circled and changed directions. From my point of viewit looked like the airplane flew effortlessly, gliding through the clouds. I imagined how fun it would be to sit at the controls and fly here and there, overlook cities and neighborhoods, while observing  life below.  

         My mind shifted to thoughts of Orville and Wilbur Wright, who were credited with building the world’s first successful airplane.  Inspired as young boys by a toy helicopter that their father had brought home to them.  They played with it until it broke, and then built their own. That little toy was the initial spark that set them forth to create a flying machine.  

        Imagine how excited they must have felt when after years and years of tests, trials, unmanned kites, gliders, mishaps, dashed dreams, and crashes they finally succeeded. Their constant efforts to improve their craft and creation was finally realized. Surely hope and faith were resting on the wings. Today air travel has evolved, from a first flight that lasted 12 seconds to airplanes today flying round the world.  

        I shared a story at a woman’s conference which fits perfect here: 

   “On a remote airstrip almost a half century ago, a small plane was preparing to taxi into position for takeoff. An unexpected storm system was approaching with heavy rain and gusty winds. It had already started raining and the wind was picking up. Suddenly a lone figure, with his coat over his head ran from the terminal to the plane, his silhouette outlined by lightning. Upon seeing the man on the runway the surprised pilot shut down the twin engines and opened the door. The man came on board, had a rather heated exchange with the  pilot, and then turned to the eight passengers. “My name is Walter Beech,” I am the designer of this airplane and I supervised its construction.  I know what it can do and what it can’t do. This plane is not designed for weather this severe and I urge you to get off with me now. I know your destinations are important and this represents an inconvenience, but please don’t remain on this plane.” 

        The pilot interrupted angrily. “I have been flying this aircraft for years and I, too, know what it can do and what it can’t do. If we avoid further delay we can get ahead of this storm. I urge you to stay on board. I will get you to your destination.” 

        One woman stood and walked forward to get off the plane with Walter Beech.                     The two watched as the plane left the ground, climbing several hundred feet. Then what began as a slow roll quickly became an ugly, uncontrollable spin as the aircraft fell from the sky. All aboard were lost. The woman standing with Walter Beech was Eleanor Roosevelt. She would later tell reporters, “I felt it wise to take the advice of the designer and builder of the airplane.” ¹         

        I am impressed that Eleanor quickly following the advise of the designer of the Beechcraft Airplane, and probably the prompting from above.                  

        “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding, In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”  Proverbs 3:5-6 

        Pilots are expected to create a flight plan, check fluid levels, routinely inspect their airplanes. These procedures are intended to be completed prior to lift off, hopefully insuring safe travel.  

We too need to implement procedures and plans to our life. Shouldn’t we, as well, seek council, and direction from our creator?  Our Father in Heaven knows our limits. He knows how we can withstand the turbulent storms, sudden wind shifts and moments of distraction that shall surely come.   Do we know where we are going? What is our intended destination? What do we routinely check to make sure we are on course? 

At times our life controls seem beyond our reach, yet we must stretch, and take hold of the throttle while seeking  a higher attitude as well as altitude. ‘Look to God and Live, and develop faith unwavering.   

“With God nothing is impossible, for He is very much aware of the details and complexity of our making.   

        I often ask Heavenly Father, “What is the purpose of my life? What was I created to do here on earth?”  I want to know. I want to see as He sees, become all that He designed, and crafted within me.    I like to imagine that He held me. Then with a gentle push He sent me on my way - gliding into life.   

        Enjoy Your Sabbath, 

        Love always, 

        Shauna

1 - Dan Stuecher, (When I’m Needing a Fresh Start, pg 78)

I am thankful for my eyes. What a wondrous gift created for us. 

Our eyes and the ability to to see is such a blessing.   

           When my mother lost most of her eye sight I began to have an increased appreciation for my eyes. I watched as my mother took  a large magnifying glass and held it up above each word in order to read. She could barely read it, but word by word she tried. You see, mother loved reading. For as long as I can remember mother was surrounded by books. Watching her struggle to see the words on the page was truly painful. 

Mother had always been one to appreciate the sunsets, cloud formations, trees, tulips and lilies, butterflies and, well, everything. My heart broke as she no longer could see to sew, or write.  As her vision diminished she would say frequently, “Appreciate your eyes Shauna.”                     

        While visiting the library as a young girl, and looking for books  that might be of interest, the librarian suggested that I might enjoy reading biographies and autobiographies. Together we walked to the section that contained them. She reached up upon a shelf and pulled down a book. “I think you’ll enjoy her,” she said with a smile. It was Helen Keller’s autobiography.  It was then I was sent on an adventure of a life lived in true darkness, yet lived in light. Something within her words touched me profoundly, and continues to invite me to seek and appreciate more.  Let me share just a particle of her words that have forever made me look a little closer to those that influence my life.  

             “If by some miracle, I were granted three seeing days, to be followed by a relapse into darkness, I should want to see the people whose kindness and gentleness and companionship have made my life worth living. First, I should like to gaze long upon the face of my dear teacher, Anne Sullivan, who came to me when I was a child and opened the outer world to me. I should want not merely to see the outline of her face so that I could cherish it in my memory, but to study that face and find in it the living evidence of the sympathetic tenderness and patience with which she accomplished the difficult task of my education.  I should like to see her eyes. . . 

             I have often thought about Helen and her three day adventure of sight. To see a little baby’s face ....  “So that I could catch a vision of the eager, innocent beauty.”  Or the moment when she walked “ in the woods and intoxicate my eyes on the beauties of the world of Nature, trying desperately to absorb in a few hours the vast splendor that is constantly unfolding itself to those who can see. And I should pray for the glory of a colorful sunset.” 

        ‘Glory of a colorful sunset.’ I wonder just how many of us take daily a moment to appreciate it. I remember my parents rushing to the back gate of the yard while encouraging and inviting us, “Come see the beautiful sunset!”  Somehow I always felt that sunsets are like heaven’s goodnight kiss.  

             Because I can see: I love bursting sunrises, polka dots and pink balloons, I love lady bugs and butterflies, white Shasta daisies and yellow ones too. I love watching Autumn’s leaves float to the ground, and giggle as children jump into piles of crunching wonder. I love my sweetheart’s blue blue eyes and forever love those six pairs of eyes that looked to me in motherhood. I am so blessed to see the ‘glory’ of it all. Today I shall embrace the blessing of sight, and savor, and store all the memories of glorious creations around me. My sweetheart smiles as he holds me tight, he says  “I’m imprinting.”  I pray that by some miracle I shall have archived enough pictures in my mind to last an eternity.   

         Yet, above all the wonders of this earthly existence, I pray that some day I shall be blessed to see the face of God.  ... and like Helen expressed... “to study that face and find in it the living evidence of the sympathetic tenderness and patience - patience with me.   

Helen found God in her dark and silent world and He opened her life to all the possibilities. 

                “It’s wonderful to climb the liquid mountains of the sky. Behind me and before me is God and I have no fears”  ~ Helen Keller 

        I love my life! I only get but one moment to step upon this earth, so I am embracing it! Grateful for liquid mountains and tender feelings of the heart that allow me to see more clearly, perhaps the way God wants me to see.  

        So for this moment, I draw back the curtains and look at the sky. It’s a cloudy day. The wind is blowing the leaves from the trees.   It’s a perfect day, planned, and prepared just the way God wants it to be.  You see, I believe that God is in the details of our lives.   May we all find the ‘glory’ within the walk. 

        Enjoy your Sabbath 

        Love Always, 

              

                   Take My Breath Away!

                                                                                        by Shauna Brown 

        One of my very favorite memory moments of life was when our babies took their first breath. We held our

breath until they took theirs.  Gratefully it was followed by tiny cries, as well as our own.  I was blessed to have six of those delightful -heavenly, breath taking experiences.  As we take that brand new baby home, bundled in blankets, and long anticipated love, we worry. We are always checking to see if they are breathing.  I would watch their little tummies rise and with each breath would feel relief, peace and gratitude. 

There is a popular quote, that reads...  

“Life is not measured by the breaths we take,  

but by the moments that take our breath away.”  

        Now, don’t think poorly of me while I tell you, that in order to get my baby’s attention at times, to distract them,  most often when they were fussy,  I used to blow gently upon in their face.  They would blink and gasp, and frequently a smile would surface. Then, they would look to me for reassurance.  With my little gust of wind, and a returned smile, they would forget what they were crying for.  It worked time after time. 

        I realize at times our Father in Heaven needs to get our attention as well.  If we were always bundled up in fleece and flannel experiences... we wouldn’t appreciate the needed warmth when the cold chilly winds blow and intense storms are pending.  Life will be made of experiences that will at times take our breaths away. I have had gasping, heart wrenching, air sucking moments, but interestingly [ looking back ] they can refresh and renew our spirit of faith.  

                “It was meant to be that life would be a challenge. To suffer some anxiety, some depression, some disappointment, even some failure is normal.  Teach our members that if they have a good miserable day once in a while, or several in a row, to stand steady and face them. Things will straighten out. There is great purpose in our struggle in life”         ~ Boyd K. Packer     

  

        A good Bishop, while giving me a blessing once said,  “You  will come to understand long suffering, but there will come an end to it.”   I have held onto those words like a rainbow promise.  

            As part of God’s plan each of us came to earth to face different challenges, it’s part of our learning and Earthly education.  According to carefully scheduled and timed experiences we learn that some of us will swim in deep waters, wondering if we can maintain our head above the water. Frequently we observe that others are carelessly floating beside us, almost relaxing.

        I think about how often I blew in the face of my little newborn. Our Heavenly Father too, allows blowing gusts of wind into our faces to get our attention and ultimately His wish is to have us turn to Him. Once He has our attention He then cradles us with renewed love and whispers peace unto our minds. Gratefully I have felt heaven’s beathe upon my wet cheeks when anxiety found way to creep into the corners of my soul.  I know that Heavenly Father can lift any heart that is heavy and burdened. 

Years ago I came across an  Irish Blessings:

May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow. 

May the soft winds freshen your spirit. 

May the sunshine brighten your heart. 

May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you, 

and may God enfold you in the mantle of His love. 

I like that-- ‘God enfolds you in the mantle of His love.’

  Or how about His very promise: 

“Wherefore, be of good cheer and do not fear,

for I the Lord am with you and will stand by you.  D & C 68:6.  

Since it’s Monday - Enjoy your Week!

I guess I should say - “Let it Blow”

Love always,

Shauna 

            Snap Happy        by Shauna Brown 

               Last night my grandson, Jamison, came up and asked, “Grandma Sunny, can I please have some Snapdragons?  Then he added, “ And can I get some more seeds too.”  I smiled, as I have clipped numerous bouquets of snapdragons upon each visit.   Last time we loaded up Ziploc bags with seeds, millions of seeds, shaking them from the dry buds.  I’m sure there will be dragons popping up in their yard next spring. Imagine all the possibilities.  

               When I was young I watched as my own mother, gently picked the flowers and harvested the seeds. We placed the seeds in large manila envelopes.Then in due time and season she planted them. With each little sprout and spear she smiled, eager for the bloom. It was magical to me to watch it grow. Ours was an incredibly beautiful  garden. One might call it a ‘cottage garden’ for within was planted varieties of flowers and shrubs. Bluebells, Lilies of the valley, Baskets of gold, Roses, ferns, Daisies, Iris, Pansies, Carnations, Snap dragons, Tulips, Peonies, Chrysanthemums, and on and on.   

              One would have marveled at my mother’s green thumb, and green it was. With effort, knowledge and love , our garden grew and thrived. I often thought it must have been much like the Garden of Eden, it was that beautiful to me.   

             It is of little wonder why digging deep into dark earth and planting seeds and bulbs I find a sense of joy and satisfaction. Perhaps one would say this feeling was handed down to me.  I am one who talks with my flowers, who cheer leads, and encourages their sprouting time and thrill with each bloom or blossom, just like Mama did.  I’m sure my mother must be tickled, as she watches me  from heaven as I demonstrate the incredible workings of the ‘snapping dragon’ to another  grandchild--her great grandchild.  We gather seeds just as she did with all hopes that we too can enjoy red, yellow, pink, white bouquets and scents from heaven.  I marvel with each delicate blossom.  

             Life is, seed upon seed, generation upon generation, which stretches back to our divine creator.  Did we know where and when we were to be planted?  

        Don’t you ever wonder how we were taught in heaven? Did we watch as creation tasks were begun, as seeds were plucked and planted? Did we listen closely as glorious possibilities were explained? Did we echo smiles of hope and trust? I like to envision stepping within the presence of our creator and realize that I grew where I was planted. Then, I would see all who urged and cheered me on, as my life’s purpose rose towards the sun.   

        C.S. Lewis was inspired by a fellow writer whom he even once praised with a compliment of  “master”, so inspired by his writing.  I love this thought as it captures each one of us on such a personal level.   

        “I would rather be what God chose to make me than the most glorious creature that I could think of; for to have been thought about, born in God’s thought, and then made by God, is the dearest, grandest and most precious thing in all thinking.”  ~ George MacDonald 

       With so many years now, in my growing season, I have come to appreciate that I was made by God- I am His seed. By a miracle and love I was planted deep within the dark earth of the gospel.  Gratefully, there are many moments when I know He has whispered words to encourage my growth. Words that warm my soul and make me burst with joy and color.  In all truth I want to grow and thrive and forever bloom - just the way God intended me too.  

       I love snap dragons, and memory moments in my childhood garden. Once again, in my garden I can cherish the time when young hearts bounce with enthusiasm and ask, “Can I please pick some a snapdragons from the garden.”  We pinch it’s face and make it talk, and snap away. I giggle, for I know that the seed has been planted once again, and the love will continue to grow. Perhaps I shall have memory moments for my seeds, and seedlings. I’m sure there must be snap dragons in heaven, for they beckon me to squeeze. 

Enjoy your Sabbath 

With Love Always, 

Shauna

               Power to Heal 

     

                      by Shauna Brown 

                     There was a time in my youth that when an unsightly pimple irrupted on my face and I didn’t want to be seen in public. I was self conscience, constantly aware, imagined that everyone was looking at it, poor me. Then I heard a talk given by a young man, Peter Jeppson. He shared that one day he too awoke with a big pimple on his cheek.  He had a date planned for that night. He didn’t want his date to see the pimple so he went to the    Maitre d and asked to be placed in a dark corner of the restaurant so that the pimple would not be as noticeable or distracting. 

    We all laughed aloud as we clearly understood his sensitivity. 

    Then he told of a horrific car accident he was involved in. It happened not too long after that night.  He had filled the car up with a full tank of gasoline, and later that evening was involved in a head on collision. Upon impact the car exploded. He was so badly burned that he was unrecognizable, and even pronounced dead. He then told about the years of surgeries to construct a new nose,mouth,  eyelids, lips, and ears. He described how looking in the mirror for the first time rendered him faint. It must have been horrific.  Peter experience a full year in the hospital, dozens of operations, countless nights of pain, endless prayers. Then he thought about the pimple, the simple pimple. I listened intently as he described the many experiences where people stood frozen and stared at him, children screamed and called him a monster. The accident had launched Peter into trusting in God and years of patience and pain.  Purpose and possibilities mixed together to create a humble, teachable young man.  I was mesmerized as he took us deeper into his experience of learning. His scars seemed to testify of the many miracles, he had experienced. 

    One thought I remember, and it is written in his story,  is that Peter “prayed to have the feelings of ugliness leave him, which changed his life. He learned how to handle adversity and was given peace of mind.” Peter came to realize and appreciate that it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Yes, Peter has scars, but in their own way they testify of courage and trust. 

    Another person who inspires me is a young mother, Stephanie Nielsen, who was burned in over 80% of her body when the airplane in which she was traveling crashed. She too has faced years of painful reconstructive surgeries. I have followed her blog of healing . I have marveled with her courage and faith. It is clear as she writes of her humble love of God and His will. She once was beautiful, a model, but listening to her words, I clearly see that her beauty is deeper than what man can see on the outside. 

If Peter prayed to have the feelings of ugliness leave him, what then can we pray for? What do we need help with? Is anything too small for God? Can God move mountains, heal the blind, bind the wound, mend broken things?  Forgive? Peter and Stephanie, would answer yes to all, for theirs has been a personal witness of the power to heal. Peter and Stephanie, are each a miracle. To many they are a living, walking testimony of answered prayers.  

     May we each take a moment, review in our hearts and minds what we would like to change or remove from our life.  

Stephanie shared,“Use the power of prayer in your daily life. Have faith and hope, and remember people love you.” 

        “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most 

massive  characters are seared with scars.”  ~ Khalil Gibran 

Enjoy your Sabbath.  

Love Always,

Shauna 

       

Spray on! 

by Shauna Brown 

I love spray paint!   

I continue to be amazed at how quickly a good coat of enamel can take something rusted and worn, and bring it back and make it look new again!  Today the terminolgy used by many in this procedure is called “repurposed, recycling or upcycled.”  Amazingly it can be a realitively quick fix that brings about an incredible and sometimes even dramatic change. You’ve seen it I’m sure, a simple coat of paint can cover, conceal : scratches, remove discoloration, change colors, even give it a new texture and appearance.  Whala!  I usually stand back, admire the work, and give myself a pat on the back for even thinking about “saving it.” 

    ‘Renewing’, upcycling, an old rusty light fixture yesterday has led my imagination to contimplate how wonderful it would be if something so simple as applying, spraying, rubbing, a spray of “renewing” to my soul would be.  The thoughts of an upcycling procedure to my spirit on a daily basis makes me smile.   I mean, personally I am hard on myself. I frequently give myself dings and dents, rusty spots and scratches:  “Why couldn’t you,”  “You should have”  “Come on! “ “You can do better.” “What were you thinking.”, etc.  My  expectations of self can sometimes be difficult and daunting.  

Imagine the Ozone levels, if such a blessed can of spray even existed. Opening a cupboard, and reaching for the can on a shelf would be fantastic! ...or possibly too simple of a process or quick fix for God’s perfection? 

A couple of months ago I came across a thought by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin that is like a can of renewing spray to my soul.  

           “Perseverance means to continue in a given course until we have reached a goal or objective, regardless of obstacles, opposition, and other counterinfluences...Perseverance is a positive, active characteristic...It gives us hope by helping us realize that the righteous suffer no failure except in giving up and no longer trying.” 

Our Father in Heaven is aware that our lives will be full of bumps, bruising, dings and dents.  We will encounter countless smudges, scars and stains. Yet, gratefully I have learned that my Savior is the master of renewall. He is the ultimate in refreshing, upcycling and mending seemingly useless things.  He clearly knows our value, our worth, for He is our redeemer.  He renews us personally and declares it so, as He clearly focuses on the possibilities within each of us. His touch is perfect. He can mend all things, making them even better. 

“Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God’s love encompasses us completely. ... He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken.”  Pres. Dieter F. Uchtdorf

So, this Sabbath day let’s think about the incredible healing art of the master. Time and time again He is there with grace and peace. Instilling within our matter the reason to matter. 

SPray on! 

Love Always

Shauna 

“You can always,always give something, even if 

it is only kindness!” 

by Shauna Brown 

     Last night,  while my sweetheart and I tended five of our grandchildren, my grandson Reed, informed me: “We need a story now.” Evidently a closing story for the day is one ritual his family holds tightly to.  We had read scriptures, said family prayer, and I thought I had shared a good story, but evidently not good enough.  So,  sitting on Jamison’s bed I told them about Anne Frank.  How she and her family and a few others lived in a secret room above an attic for two years. Anne and her family were Jewish, and Hitler was a evil ruler who wanted  to cleanse the world from Jewish, people.  Her family was forced to go into hiding. 

     Anne had been given a small book for her thirteenth birthday.  She wrote within it’s pages her feelings, fears and moments of hope. It later became known as, The Diary of Anne Frank.  Because of her writings, many people have a better idea of how it must of been for those who were hunted down by Hitler and his Nazis Party.  I  asked the boys to imagine living in their bedroom and never leaving it for years.  The Franks and a few others survived for two years before someone reported them to the Nazis. Despite her limited opportunities and restraints, it seems that Anne appreciated the simple things of life, and counted her blessings. I told my grandsons  how Anne found joy around her. Looking through a window she could see the sky and use her imagination. I’m sure Anne was filled with hopes and dreams for a better future. Anne had shared with her written word her appreciation of life and her outlook of it.  It would have been wonderful if I could have remembered a few of her thoughts.

“As long as this exists, this sunshine and this cloudless sky, and

as long as I can enjoy it, how can I be sad?” Anne Frank

Then I asked my little boys what they were grateful for.  We talked about our blessings and how grateful we are for that which we sometimes take for granted.  We talked about our eyes and Helen Keller, or fingers and legs that let us walk. I told of Nick Vujicic ,who lives without arms or legs and yet appreciates his life.

Oh, I am grateful that a young girl of thirteen wrote within her little journal.  She always dreamed of being a writer someday. Without knowing she was, and lives on.  

“How noble and good everyone could be if, every evening before falling asleep, they were to recall to their minds the events of the whole day and consider exactly what has been good and bad. Then without realizing it, you try to improve yourself at the start of each new day.” 

“How lovely to think that no one need wait a moment, we can start now, start slowly changing the world! How lovely that everyone, great and small, can make their contribution toward introducing justice straightaway... And you can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness!” 

     So this Sabbath day might we all look around us and imagine how we can improve ourselves and become all that we are meant to become.  

I hope some day I can meet the girl call Anne Frank, for she has made such a marked difference within my soul.  I believe that God planted within her heart the will to live, and share eternal purpose. I am thankful that I know Anne lives on. 

Love always,

Shauna 

                                          Take Note

by Shauna Brown 

          I can’t remember when I started, but I have  carried a notebook or journal with me  for years.  

I probably have a hundred of them. Whenever I attend church, firesides, seminars, etc. Taking notes helps me concentrate on the meeting. Allowing me to listen and hope for a great idea or motivating thought.  I know some people have order in their journals, dates and times, but in looking within mine, one will find notes, sketchings, doodling, random thoughts, key words or phrases that might not make sense to anyone. To be honest even after a few months they might seem strange to me.  Anyway, I continue to take notes.  One never knows what stories, or some incredible book might be triggered from something scribbled on a page. I write in hopes of remembering a moment valued.     Let me give you an example of one of my jottings:   

        Today the bread used for the sacrament was forgotten. 

        Miscommunication. 

        Waiting for it to arrive. 

        Music plays on.  

        Red faced young man enters  

        Music plays on, as bread is quickly broken in to pieces. 

        Extra time for thoughts to focus upon Christ. 

        Remembrance. 

        Imagine. 

        The young man will never forget the bread again. 

        But do we?  

        Do we think about Christ enough?  

        The loaf of bread left on the kitchen counter- 

        Forgotten. 

        Do we willingly partake of His love? 

        He never forgets us. 

        Perhaps the note speaks to my heart alone. Yet, even in the recalling of the moment I can feel and relive the moment.  Gratefully it is renewing to my soul.  

        How about this one: 

                                My little Granddaughter Paige,is an artist. To the dismay of her parents she is leaving her two year old signature on many surfaces throughout the house.  Many walls have had to be scrubbed. Even, Mr. Clean Super Eraser has been employed in their house. Anything that is stationary for more than thirty seconds has received of her artistic touch. Couches, chairs, tables, and doors.  Listening to Brittany (my daughter ) describe her frustration in this matter, brings an instant remembrance for why I wrote a song.   “Crayon marks will disappear.”   

         

        Life is filled with random jottings and colored markers moments.  

        Each of us has an empty page to fill each day. Let’s write down that thought provoking idea, look for those ‘aha’ moments. Doodle a bit, perhaps even take a bright orange marker and draw a sunflower. Maybe today I will use crayons and draw a rainbow as I remember it--  just because I can.   I love remembering, but I love living!  

        Albert Einstein shared:  

        “There are only two ways to live your life.  One is as though nothing is a 

miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”  

        So this Sabbath - let’s look for the miracles. 

        Love Always, 

        Shauna