Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Monday, May 23, 2016
Story of Chris: Service
Story
I almost wrote a post a few weeks ago about a man I saw on the bus. He's Korean and I have seen him around on BYU campus. He is blind and carries a pole/stick with him. However, I have never talked to him.
A few weeks ago when I saw him, I was overwhelmed with compassion because he reminded me of my dad. I thought, "What if my dad were in the same situation as he is?" In a foreign country, no one to help him and so helpless. I am ashamed to say that I didn't talked to him that day.
Last Saturday, Alysha and I went to Smith's and I saw the same man going into the store guided by a security man.
Alysha and I didn't have much to buy but since we were used to Smith's in Murray, we had no idea where anything was so it took awhile before we found everything we needed. In the meantime, I kept watching that Korean man, and he took his time walking around and looked for things. According to Alysha, there were people who would get frustrated with him because he moved so slow. He moved slow because he had to examine things. No one stopped to ask him if he needed help. His quiet excuse me's to people who passed by him seemed to be only heard by me.
When we finally found everything we needed, I told Alysha that I feel bad for just leaving. She is so sweet, kind, and always supportive of me. She urged me to go help him and told me that she would be in the car changing Emma's diaper. I am so grateful for her and her support.
I finally walked over to him, who was at the produce section of the store, and asked him if he needed some help. He was very grateful and told me that he needed some mushrooms. By this point, he told me that his name was Chris Lee. When I took him where the mushrooms were, I asked him if he wanted them already cut or whole. He wanted them cut. I thought to myself that that would be easier to cook with and that he wouldn't have to cut them himself. He then proceeded to ask him if they were $1.99. When I told him that they were $3.99 and the cheapest ones were still over $1.99, he returned them to me and told me that he didn't want them.
Upon returning the mushrooms back on the shelf, I asked him if he wanted something else. Tofu. That was in his price range so he decided to get it. When I asked him if he needed anything else, he told me that was it. All he wanted was tofu and mushrooms. I couldn't just let him leave with tofu so I offered to pay for the mushrooms. He asked, "Really?" Yes, I would. After we got them, I turned to him and said, "Do you need anything else? I will pay." He thanked me profusely as we went to get some things that he wanted. When we were almost done, I realized that Alysha had the keys with Smith's card on the key ring. That's when I asked her if I could pay for Chris and she was once again supportive of helping him.
We gave him a ride to his apt. When I helped him carry his groceries inside, I saw his apt. His tiny apt that was smaller than my bathroom. A small stove, small counter top with a small sink, a fridge, a lounge chair, a plastic table, and other random things filled up his apt. He never stopped thanking me. I wish I could help him more but my own circumstances doesn't allow me to help him more than I did unfortunately. However, I am glad that I was able to help him as much as I did.
When I got back in the car, I apologized to Alysha for taking so much time and money but she told me that there was no need to apologize for doing a good deed. How can I not love this girl! I married the most wonderful girl in the world!
Today, I have sent a referral to the missionaries to go visit Chris. From what I could tell, he has been to the Korean ward, has been in the US for five years, doesn't go to school, doesn't really work, gets money from his family in Korea, and is all alone. If you see Chris (he is Korean, is tan, wears sunglasses, and has a pole that is wrapped), please offer to give him a ride or give him any kind of service you can.
Lesson
There are so many people we can and should help. There are refugees, homeless people, and people who are in need. This particular man is dear to my heart, perhaps, because he is Asian and reminds me of my dad.
We talk a lot about service and helping others. However, how many of us (both you and I) pass by people like Chris in the aisle of a grocery store frustrated that he is going slow? How many of us pass by him without asking to help?
Perhaps, we are too busy with our own life that we do not look around us and do not see others who are in need. Perhaps, we are too focused on our own problems that we don't notice others who are in need.
Today, stop what you are doing and look around you. Is there someone who clearly needs a ride? Is there someone who doesn't have enough money to pay for a small amount of groceries? Is there someone who needs help carrying groceries? Let's look around and serve.
I almost wrote a post a few weeks ago about a man I saw on the bus. He's Korean and I have seen him around on BYU campus. He is blind and carries a pole/stick with him. However, I have never talked to him.
A few weeks ago when I saw him, I was overwhelmed with compassion because he reminded me of my dad. I thought, "What if my dad were in the same situation as he is?" In a foreign country, no one to help him and so helpless. I am ashamed to say that I didn't talked to him that day.
Last Saturday, Alysha and I went to Smith's and I saw the same man going into the store guided by a security man.
Alysha and I didn't have much to buy but since we were used to Smith's in Murray, we had no idea where anything was so it took awhile before we found everything we needed. In the meantime, I kept watching that Korean man, and he took his time walking around and looked for things. According to Alysha, there were people who would get frustrated with him because he moved so slow. He moved slow because he had to examine things. No one stopped to ask him if he needed help. His quiet excuse me's to people who passed by him seemed to be only heard by me.
When we finally found everything we needed, I told Alysha that I feel bad for just leaving. She is so sweet, kind, and always supportive of me. She urged me to go help him and told me that she would be in the car changing Emma's diaper. I am so grateful for her and her support.
I finally walked over to him, who was at the produce section of the store, and asked him if he needed some help. He was very grateful and told me that he needed some mushrooms. By this point, he told me that his name was Chris Lee. When I took him where the mushrooms were, I asked him if he wanted them already cut or whole. He wanted them cut. I thought to myself that that would be easier to cook with and that he wouldn't have to cut them himself. He then proceeded to ask him if they were $1.99. When I told him that they were $3.99 and the cheapest ones were still over $1.99, he returned them to me and told me that he didn't want them.
Upon returning the mushrooms back on the shelf, I asked him if he wanted something else. Tofu. That was in his price range so he decided to get it. When I asked him if he needed anything else, he told me that was it. All he wanted was tofu and mushrooms. I couldn't just let him leave with tofu so I offered to pay for the mushrooms. He asked, "Really?" Yes, I would. After we got them, I turned to him and said, "Do you need anything else? I will pay." He thanked me profusely as we went to get some things that he wanted. When we were almost done, I realized that Alysha had the keys with Smith's card on the key ring. That's when I asked her if I could pay for Chris and she was once again supportive of helping him.
We gave him a ride to his apt. When I helped him carry his groceries inside, I saw his apt. His tiny apt that was smaller than my bathroom. A small stove, small counter top with a small sink, a fridge, a lounge chair, a plastic table, and other random things filled up his apt. He never stopped thanking me. I wish I could help him more but my own circumstances doesn't allow me to help him more than I did unfortunately. However, I am glad that I was able to help him as much as I did.
When I got back in the car, I apologized to Alysha for taking so much time and money but she told me that there was no need to apologize for doing a good deed. How can I not love this girl! I married the most wonderful girl in the world!
Today, I have sent a referral to the missionaries to go visit Chris. From what I could tell, he has been to the Korean ward, has been in the US for five years, doesn't go to school, doesn't really work, gets money from his family in Korea, and is all alone. If you see Chris (he is Korean, is tan, wears sunglasses, and has a pole that is wrapped), please offer to give him a ride or give him any kind of service you can.
Lesson
There are so many people we can and should help. There are refugees, homeless people, and people who are in need. This particular man is dear to my heart, perhaps, because he is Asian and reminds me of my dad.
We talk a lot about service and helping others. However, how many of us (both you and I) pass by people like Chris in the aisle of a grocery store frustrated that he is going slow? How many of us pass by him without asking to help?
Perhaps, we are too busy with our own life that we do not look around us and do not see others who are in need. Perhaps, we are too focused on our own problems that we don't notice others who are in need.
Today, stop what you are doing and look around you. Is there someone who clearly needs a ride? Is there someone who doesn't have enough money to pay for a small amount of groceries? Is there someone who needs help carrying groceries? Let's look around and serve.
Monday, April 18, 2016
Hymns: Peace to Our Little Emma
Not too long ago, Alysha told me that she plays some of Mormon Tabernacle Choir songs to calm Emma down. I can't remember if it was her idea or I just decided to do it but I started singing hymns to Emma at night so that she would fall asleep.
I started with "I am a Child of God" and she loved it! She became very calm and started to fall asleep in my arms. Perhaps, it's just because she is tired. However, last night for some reason, she just started wailing! It was as if she was really scared/terrified of something. I just took her and do the same thing that we always do to put her to sleep: bouncing on the exercise ball and turn off all the lights.
 |
| She becomes more and more Asian when she gets tired. |
She was still crying and very fussy but when I started singing "I am a Child of God," she was calming down but still fussy. I continued singing hymns for a while and she fell asleep (not for long but she wasn't fussy anymore.) I think it is so cool that this little human would feel the Spirit and would receive peace from it. Some may argue that it's the sound of the song that she enjoys. I doubt that. I don't enjoy my own voice when I sing so I don't think she is enjoying it either. However, it really is the Holy Ghost that she feels when I sing and I feel it too.
"The singing of hymns is one of the best ways to put ourselves in tune with the Spirit of the Lord." -Elder Dallin H. Oaks-
Thursday, August 1, 2013
The Worth of Souls
"Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God." -Doctrine and Covenants 18:10-We forget that the worth of our souls is great when we make mistakes or trials come our ways. I remember thinking that I was not good enough to receive blessings from the Lord when things didn't work out the way I would like them to. It is one of the worst lie that Satan uses to convince us that we are not good enough for our Father in Heaven.
The worth of our souls is always great in the sight of God because the worth is the Only Begotten Son's life. Our Savior has suffered and died for our souls that we might break "the bands of death" and that we might return to our Heavenly Father through repentance and receiving forgiveness (Doctrine and Covenants 18:12). Because He loves us and because He cares for us, He was willing to make the greatest sacrifice of humankind by sacrificing the only person who was without sin, Jesus the Christ. The Son was also obedient to His Father and willingly gave up His life for His brothers and sisters. He was tempted, suffered, and was afflicted so that He could take upon Himself our pains, sicknesses, infirmities, and sins (Alma 7:11-13). What They ask of us is simple: be obedient. All we need to do is keep the covenants that we have made when we are baptized and at the temple.
To change the shift from ourselves to others, I want you to now apply to this principle to others. It is very true that the worth of souls is great because the price was Christ. However, I would like to believe that the worth is also great because we all benefit from having people around us. Let me explain clearly. Think of a friend of yours. Now, imagine that you have never met that person. What would have happened if you have never met that person? Would you have benefited the same way as you have been? Another example is missionary work. People say that if you didn't go on a mission, the person/people who would have received the gospel would have needed to either wait longer in this life or wait till the next life to receive it.
The point I want to make is that we need to work harder to bring everyone to Christ. Help them realize that they are important and are needed in all of our lives because they can help others come unto Christ even if they don't think they can. It's one of Satan's lies that you can't help others or no one will benefit from you. It's a lie that you are not worth as much as others. Everyone needs to know that they are worth every effort that we can put forth to bring them back to Christ and that they can help others do the same.
Our lives are intertwined and not having one person could lose some, if not a lot, meaning of our lives. I truly believe that our lives would be full when we have everyone participating in each other's life. If I weren't here, would you have read something like this? Would you have had time to think about the worth of your soul or of others'? Perhaps. However, because I am writing this you are reminded to appreciate your life and help others appreciate their lives also.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Home
What is home? Home is where you have your family and people you love. Home is where you feel security, comfort, joy, peace, love, and belonging-ness. Home is a place of refuge and shelter.
Where is your home? Where do you call it home? Where is my home?
I do not have a physical home that I could call anymore. My parents live in Sacramento but I do not feel that Sacramento is my home. I usually tell people that I am from Macomb, Illinois because I loved the people there and got baptized; however, I have not lived there for a long time. I was born in South Korea but the only ties I have with Korea are my relatives; other than that, I got nothing.
So where is my home? Is a home a place? Do I not have a place that I can call "home" then?
What if a home is not a physical place but in someone's heart? What if you can call it "home" when someone makes you feel secure, comfortable, happy, peaceful, loved, and belong? Does anyone make me feel all those things? Who is this person? My best friend.
My best friend should be able to make me feel this way. Who is my best friend? I talked about this before but I do not believe that I have "best" friends except one. Christ. He is the only One who has constantly been with me. He's the only person who would not disappoint me and would always keep His promises. He makes me feel secure, comfortable, happy, peaceful, loved, and belong. He is my home.
Where is your home? Where do you call it home? Where is my home?
I do not have a physical home that I could call anymore. My parents live in Sacramento but I do not feel that Sacramento is my home. I usually tell people that I am from Macomb, Illinois because I loved the people there and got baptized; however, I have not lived there for a long time. I was born in South Korea but the only ties I have with Korea are my relatives; other than that, I got nothing.
So where is my home? Is a home a place? Do I not have a place that I can call "home" then?
What if a home is not a physical place but in someone's heart? What if you can call it "home" when someone makes you feel secure, comfortable, happy, peaceful, loved, and belong? Does anyone make me feel all those things? Who is this person? My best friend.
My best friend should be able to make me feel this way. Who is my best friend? I talked about this before but I do not believe that I have "best" friends except one. Christ. He is the only One who has constantly been with me. He's the only person who would not disappoint me and would always keep His promises. He makes me feel secure, comfortable, happy, peaceful, loved, and belong. He is my home.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Journal Excerpts #1
It's been a while since I have blogged so what I am going to do is I am going to copy what I have been writing in my journal because there were a lot of things I would have posted here but I've just been lazy. A lot of thoughts will seem disorganized but if I am listening to talks or something like that, my ideas just jump from one to the next.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
"Something I've been thinking about is how when people think about their families, most would imagine every member of their family. But what if I told them to imagine one member, a father for example, gone from the picture? That's my family. I don't know how everything will work out in the end; however, I do not want anyone to have that. I want everyone to have the desire to share the gospel and bring others to Christ so that there would be no "empty seats." All the seats will be full and so will their joy.
"Sometimes we are not open to share the gospel with others when they come looking for the truth. Are we ready to share? Are we ready to bless the lives of others?
"Be not afraid but let charity fill your heart and invite others to come unto Christ. Think about what they desire, what they need, and what their concerns are. Listen, listen to them and listen to the Spirit. Speak, speak what they seek and what the Spirit tell you to speak.
"My new motto is, 'I will go where you want me to go. I will say what you want me to say. I will be what you want me to be.'
"What everyone needs is the feeling that they are needed. They want to be a part of something. There are people who are ready and when we read out to them. They will know that God's watching over them and will come back to His fold.
"Kyoo, do you remember when you were young, recently baptized, how everyone in the ward was welcoming and how they supported you? Without them, you would not be here. They welcomed you and made you a part of the family. You can do the same for others. You can help others be a part of this great family. Just remember what you have gone through.
"All the callings I had...did they not build on top of each other until I got this calling as a ward mission leader? Because I cared about those who passed on and temple work, I am not able to serve people to come unto Christ so that they could have eternal families. I had to learn and grow until now, and I will continue to learn.
"It's not just inviting people which we must do but have faith that they will return to the activity. Believe in God's power and in them. They all have accepted the gospel before. All they need is a reminder."
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
"Conversion is not either 'you are converted' or 'you are not converted' but a degree or a process. You could be converted enough to come to church every Sunday but you might not be converted enough to pay tithing. However, once you are converted (in one aspect), you are asked to 'strengthen your brethren.'
"Second of all, you have to remember that the gospel is all about others. The two greatest commandments are: love God and love your neighbor. All the other commandments or responsibilities are founded upon those two. You should always remember that it is about helping and serving others."
Thursday, June 27, 2013
"Christ had to learn and grow in the gospel and receive knowledge as we do. I may falter and do not know everything but as Christ did, I can continue to grow and become stronger. I just need to figure out how I can do it and always do my best.
"Wisdom is not only applying what you learn but also being able to see the consequences of your choices and applications thereof. Someone who is wise makes choices understanding what kind of consequences would come about when you make a choice. For example, King Solomon knew how great the love that mothers have for their children so he commanded that a baby to be cut in half to satisfy two women arguing over the baby. He knew that a real mother would want the other woman to take the baby rather than see the baby die. This is true wisdom.
"A new goal: stop thinking about myself but think about what others need. I should write down everyone's name that I have stewardship over then pray for them individually to know their needs, desires, and struggles. Once I start thinking about them, I will receive more revelations on how to help them.
"'Faith stronger than sight, looks up thru the skies.' (From The Lord is My Light) This teaches that when we have faith, we look beyond what we see physically. We hope for a better world. We would see what God would see."
That's all I am going to post at this time.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
"Something I've been thinking about is how when people think about their families, most would imagine every member of their family. But what if I told them to imagine one member, a father for example, gone from the picture? That's my family. I don't know how everything will work out in the end; however, I do not want anyone to have that. I want everyone to have the desire to share the gospel and bring others to Christ so that there would be no "empty seats." All the seats will be full and so will their joy.
"Sometimes we are not open to share the gospel with others when they come looking for the truth. Are we ready to share? Are we ready to bless the lives of others?
"Be not afraid but let charity fill your heart and invite others to come unto Christ. Think about what they desire, what they need, and what their concerns are. Listen, listen to them and listen to the Spirit. Speak, speak what they seek and what the Spirit tell you to speak.
"My new motto is, 'I will go where you want me to go. I will say what you want me to say. I will be what you want me to be.'
"What everyone needs is the feeling that they are needed. They want to be a part of something. There are people who are ready and when we read out to them. They will know that God's watching over them and will come back to His fold.
"Kyoo, do you remember when you were young, recently baptized, how everyone in the ward was welcoming and how they supported you? Without them, you would not be here. They welcomed you and made you a part of the family. You can do the same for others. You can help others be a part of this great family. Just remember what you have gone through.
"All the callings I had...did they not build on top of each other until I got this calling as a ward mission leader? Because I cared about those who passed on and temple work, I am not able to serve people to come unto Christ so that they could have eternal families. I had to learn and grow until now, and I will continue to learn.
"It's not just inviting people which we must do but have faith that they will return to the activity. Believe in God's power and in them. They all have accepted the gospel before. All they need is a reminder."
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
"Conversion is not either 'you are converted' or 'you are not converted' but a degree or a process. You could be converted enough to come to church every Sunday but you might not be converted enough to pay tithing. However, once you are converted (in one aspect), you are asked to 'strengthen your brethren.'
"Second of all, you have to remember that the gospel is all about others. The two greatest commandments are: love God and love your neighbor. All the other commandments or responsibilities are founded upon those two. You should always remember that it is about helping and serving others."
Thursday, June 27, 2013
"Christ had to learn and grow in the gospel and receive knowledge as we do. I may falter and do not know everything but as Christ did, I can continue to grow and become stronger. I just need to figure out how I can do it and always do my best.
"Wisdom is not only applying what you learn but also being able to see the consequences of your choices and applications thereof. Someone who is wise makes choices understanding what kind of consequences would come about when you make a choice. For example, King Solomon knew how great the love that mothers have for their children so he commanded that a baby to be cut in half to satisfy two women arguing over the baby. He knew that a real mother would want the other woman to take the baby rather than see the baby die. This is true wisdom.
"A new goal: stop thinking about myself but think about what others need. I should write down everyone's name that I have stewardship over then pray for them individually to know their needs, desires, and struggles. Once I start thinking about them, I will receive more revelations on how to help them.
"'Faith stronger than sight, looks up thru the skies.' (From The Lord is My Light) This teaches that when we have faith, we look beyond what we see physically. We hope for a better world. We would see what God would see."
That's all I am going to post at this time.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Eternal Family
At the temple during a sealing ceremony, I was reminded of the importance of the temple and of the eternal family. I thought about my own family and then all those whom I serve.
There is a less active girl in my ward. I have heard that her mom has contacted bishop to help her come back to church. All of you are probably born under the covenant, sealed in the temple, or will have an eternal family one way or another. How would you feel if you would not have this eternal family? How would you feel when you knew that a member of your family is not keeping the covenant? You would do anything you can to bring that person back into the gospel because you love that person. Therefore, I felt the love of God for this girl, I felt the love of her mother for her. I would not want anyone to find an empty seat when their family gather at the last day. As it would be tragic for you, it would be as tragic for anyone.
There is a less active girl in my ward. I have heard that her mom has contacted bishop to help her come back to church. All of you are probably born under the covenant, sealed in the temple, or will have an eternal family one way or another. How would you feel if you would not have this eternal family? How would you feel when you knew that a member of your family is not keeping the covenant? You would do anything you can to bring that person back into the gospel because you love that person. Therefore, I felt the love of God for this girl, I felt the love of her mother for her. I would not want anyone to find an empty seat when their family gather at the last day. As it would be tragic for you, it would be as tragic for anyone.
My entire soul was burning with this love of God and I want everyone to feel it also. When you are filled with the love of God, you would see others differently and would want them to succeed. You want them to be with their family forever. You would treat them as you would treat your parents, children, and other family members.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Kyoo's Life: Job Search and a Calling
It's been a long time since I have written. It is not because I have been busy. I have just been lazy.
I am done with school. I graduated from BYU with a BS in Psychology but now what? I have been looking for a job and I actually got an offer at the West Ridge Academy in West Jordan. However alas, my life is so complicated. I had to turn the offer down. So now, I am still jobless. When will I be able to work? I will never know.
During this job hunt, I realized that the Lord must have something in store for me. When a new chapter started in my life, I always come to a complete stop until I find a way to go around or climb over a roadblock. It happened every single time without fail. Yes, I would like to complain. Yes, I just want to give up. However, I have been warned by the Lord that that I will have roadblocks in my life. It's not easy. It's always so hard but at the last moment, things fall into places perfectly. I have faith that it will be the same this time.
On top of this, I got a new calling on Sunday. I have not been sustained yet but I am really excited and overwhelmed already. This will demand most of my time right now because of all the planning I have to do and I have to take over from what the last person did. Interestingly, though, when I moved into this ward, I decided that I was going to know everyone by name even if I don't hang out with them. Well, with this calling, I will really have to know everyone by their names. This calling is "ward mission leader."
I have never had such a calling. Most of my callings were co-chair for Temple Committee, Activity Committee, Indexing Committee, or Service Committee. The only non-co-chair calling I had was FHE leader (so a "father"). WARD MISSION LEADER! I am freaking out!
I am not too worried. I am just nervous with this calling and feel overwhelmed with everything I will have to do. However, as Bishop R. told me, I need to rely on the Lord and be patient with my job situation. Everything happens for a reason and it will be all right.
I am done with school. I graduated from BYU with a BS in Psychology but now what? I have been looking for a job and I actually got an offer at the West Ridge Academy in West Jordan. However alas, my life is so complicated. I had to turn the offer down. So now, I am still jobless. When will I be able to work? I will never know.
During this job hunt, I realized that the Lord must have something in store for me. When a new chapter started in my life, I always come to a complete stop until I find a way to go around or climb over a roadblock. It happened every single time without fail. Yes, I would like to complain. Yes, I just want to give up. However, I have been warned by the Lord that that I will have roadblocks in my life. It's not easy. It's always so hard but at the last moment, things fall into places perfectly. I have faith that it will be the same this time.
On top of this, I got a new calling on Sunday. I have not been sustained yet but I am really excited and overwhelmed already. This will demand most of my time right now because of all the planning I have to do and I have to take over from what the last person did. Interestingly, though, when I moved into this ward, I decided that I was going to know everyone by name even if I don't hang out with them. Well, with this calling, I will really have to know everyone by their names. This calling is "ward mission leader."
I have never had such a calling. Most of my callings were co-chair for Temple Committee, Activity Committee, Indexing Committee, or Service Committee. The only non-co-chair calling I had was FHE leader (so a "father"). WARD MISSION LEADER! I am freaking out!
I am not too worried. I am just nervous with this calling and feel overwhelmed with everything I will have to do. However, as Bishop R. told me, I need to rely on the Lord and be patient with my job situation. Everything happens for a reason and it will be all right.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
A Dream and Christ's Love
When it comes to dreams and interpretations of them, I have mixed feelings. My mom has dreams that show her if any of my relatives are sick or if we are going to have a bad day. She calls me time to time to caution me to be careful. However, I don't believe that all dreams are like this. I think dream interpretations are so personal that you can make a meaning out of them the way you want them to be. If you have seen therapists or are familiar with how they do it, they ask questions to influence their clients to relate some aspects of their dreams to people or situations around them, then clients make connections. Therefore, there could be multiple interpretations of a dream or none at all; however, I believe that it is up to that person to decide what it means.
Well, last night, I had a dream. In the dream, it was night and I was at some kind of a football stadium. I was going to leave then my mom came to pick me up. As she was driving, it was really really dark outside but the headlights weren't working properly. They were way dim! They didn't light up the road at all! I was so scared that she was going to hit cars around us or go off road so I literally took the wheel from her (it's a dream so I can do that). However, it obviously didn't make the situation any better. I decided to stop at a little run-down store to see if they had headlights. When we walked in, I could tell that this place would rip us off for sure but we really needed new headlights. When I asked the owner if he had any headlights, he told me that he had to order them and then mail them to us which would take few days. I was impatient and wanted new ones now but he proceeded to make an order for new headlights and gave me a price that was way more than they needed to be. I was so mad that I started to walk out but my mom was paying the owner with a $100 bill! I told her to stop but she didn't listen to me so I walked up to her and the owner and pull the bill out of one of their hands. Then I woke up.
I was so frustrated when I woke up because of the dream. It was 5:00 am. I had to get up in 30 minutes to go to work. I thought that it was going to be one of those days when I get frustrated with patrons at work. However, when I thought about the dream more, I got something different from it.
I may not know and see where I am going right now. I am graduating with nothing planned afterwards. All I know is that I need to stay in Provo. The path that I am on is so dark that it's impossible to see what's ahead of me. I need new "lights" to guide me and let me see what's in front of me.
What I didn't realize before is that Christ has always been "driving" my life but I took the "wheel" from Him. Now I can't go anywhere. Christ knew where to go and how to get to the destination but I didn't trust Him. I trusted myself more than Him. Although I was too stubborn to let Him take control of my life and wanted what I thought was the right thing, He was willing to pay the price, which is so great, for something I wanted. The price was His life. He gave His life so that I could get what I thought I needed. He didn't even scorn me for taking the wheel nor for wanting something that wasn't necessary to Him.
I was so impatient to get what I want. I need to be more patient with things that are happening in my life. I know that things will work out. I may not know where I am going but I have to realize that I am not by myself. I am with my Lord, my God who should be the one "driving," not me. I need to let Him drive but I know that he has paid the price for me to see clearly. It will just take some time before I can see clearly where I am going and why these trials happened and are happening.Well, last night, I had a dream. In the dream, it was night and I was at some kind of a football stadium. I was going to leave then my mom came to pick me up. As she was driving, it was really really dark outside but the headlights weren't working properly. They were way dim! They didn't light up the road at all! I was so scared that she was going to hit cars around us or go off road so I literally took the wheel from her (it's a dream so I can do that). However, it obviously didn't make the situation any better. I decided to stop at a little run-down store to see if they had headlights. When we walked in, I could tell that this place would rip us off for sure but we really needed new headlights. When I asked the owner if he had any headlights, he told me that he had to order them and then mail them to us which would take few days. I was impatient and wanted new ones now but he proceeded to make an order for new headlights and gave me a price that was way more than they needed to be. I was so mad that I started to walk out but my mom was paying the owner with a $100 bill! I told her to stop but she didn't listen to me so I walked up to her and the owner and pull the bill out of one of their hands. Then I woke up.
I was so frustrated when I woke up because of the dream. It was 5:00 am. I had to get up in 30 minutes to go to work. I thought that it was going to be one of those days when I get frustrated with patrons at work. However, when I thought about the dream more, I got something different from it.
I may not know and see where I am going right now. I am graduating with nothing planned afterwards. All I know is that I need to stay in Provo. The path that I am on is so dark that it's impossible to see what's ahead of me. I need new "lights" to guide me and let me see what's in front of me.
What I didn't realize before is that Christ has always been "driving" my life but I took the "wheel" from Him. Now I can't go anywhere. Christ knew where to go and how to get to the destination but I didn't trust Him. I trusted myself more than Him. Although I was too stubborn to let Him take control of my life and wanted what I thought was the right thing, He was willing to pay the price, which is so great, for something I wanted. The price was His life. He gave His life so that I could get what I thought I needed. He didn't even scorn me for taking the wheel nor for wanting something that wasn't necessary to Him.
I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,
Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.
I tremble to know that for me he was crucified,
That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.
I marvel that he would descend from his throne divine
To rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine,
That he should extend his great love unto such as I,
Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.
I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt!
Such mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?
No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,
Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.
Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me
Enough to die for me!
Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me!
Thursday, March 28, 2013
The Issue is...
There is a huge issue of gay marriage going around the US and also in the Church. Members are split on pro-gay marriage and anti-gay marriage.
I am not going to talk about gay marriage. All I will say about that is I sustain and support prophets, seers, and revelators.
"What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." -Doctrine and Covenants 1:38-
"Sustain" means: to give support or relief to, to supply with sustenance : nourish, keep up, prolong, to support the weight of : prop; also : to carry or withstand (a weight or pressure), to buoy up, and to bear up under.
We sustained and will sustain our prophets, seers, and revelators during each General Conference and in local meetings time to time. I think we all need to figure out what that means.
"So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." -Revelation 3:16-
I am not going to talk about gay marriage. All I will say about that is I sustain and support prophets, seers, and revelators.
"What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." -Doctrine and Covenants 1:38-
"Sustain" means: to give support or relief to, to supply with sustenance : nourish, keep up, prolong, to support the weight of : prop; also : to carry or withstand (a weight or pressure), to buoy up
We sustained and will sustain our prophets, seers, and revelators during each General Conference and in local meetings time to time. I think we all need to figure out what that means.
"So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." -Revelation 3:16-
On the other hand, I also believe that Satan is trying really hard to heighten the conflict in the world and within the Church. This issue is getting so intense that people of the Church are getting divided. God doesn't want that. He wants His people to be united as a Zion, one heart and one mind. If we let this issue get to our heads too much, we will start to judge each other and start having contention against one another.
The issue is not gay marriage, politics, or who's right and who's wrong. The issue is "are we loving God and love our neighbors (the two greatest commandments)?".
"If ye love me, keep my commandments." -John 14:15-
Friday, January 11, 2013
Relationships
This is a very under-developed thought.
This semester, I am taking few interesting classes like Intro to Sociology and Marriage Prep classes. The reason why I think they are interesting is that I have been thinking a lot about relationships that we have not only with people but with objects.
I have talked a lot about holistic monism (everything is one). That is all about relationships also because you only exist in a relation to something else. You know something because of something else that is not (dialectic reasoning). For example, you know that there is a table/desk somewhere around you because of the space that it does not occupy. Another example, you know that I am a guy because you know that I am not a girl (or because existence of females make me a non-female; therefore, I am a male).
Now, we live our lives through these relationships that we have. If you were all by yourself (all alone and let's say, for the argument's sake, that there is no such thing as God), then what are you? You are nothing. You would say that you could exist because you can still think. Well, that means that you have a relationship with your thoughts. You exist through your relationship with your thoughts. If we were to get rid of any senses, do you exist? You can't touch, smell, hear, see, or taste anything. All you have is thoughts. Do you exist? Or do you not exist? If my assumption that you have a relationship with your thoughts are true and we were to get rid of the ability to think, do we exist at all?
Holy brain explosion!
Anyways, what I am trying to say is that we need relationships. We exist through relationships. I have read that people who commit suicide lack the feeling of belongingness. It makes sense to me because people want to be validated and want to exist somewhere. When they feel like they are alone and feel like they do not exist, what's the point of existing without people validating their existence?
If you are wondering about when I said "relationships with objects," what I meant is that we have relationships with objects also. Let say your shoes for example, when you buy a new pair of shoes, you might take care of them better than when they are old and torn. Also, you wouldn't just put your shoes in fire or somewhere they would get dirty because you have "feelings" for them. Obviously, it's a different relationship than people who can reciprocate those feelings but you still do have relationship with them. If you treat them poorly, they would not last long.
I am done talking.
Related Posts
My Existence
Holistic Monism Part 2
Holistic Monism
This semester, I am taking few interesting classes like Intro to Sociology and Marriage Prep classes. The reason why I think they are interesting is that I have been thinking a lot about relationships that we have not only with people but with objects.
I have talked a lot about holistic monism (everything is one). That is all about relationships also because you only exist in a relation to something else. You know something because of something else that is not (dialectic reasoning). For example, you know that there is a table/desk somewhere around you because of the space that it does not occupy. Another example, you know that I am a guy because you know that I am not a girl (or because existence of females make me a non-female; therefore, I am a male).
Now, we live our lives through these relationships that we have. If you were all by yourself (all alone and let's say, for the argument's sake, that there is no such thing as God), then what are you? You are nothing. You would say that you could exist because you can still think. Well, that means that you have a relationship with your thoughts. You exist through your relationship with your thoughts. If we were to get rid of any senses, do you exist? You can't touch, smell, hear, see, or taste anything. All you have is thoughts. Do you exist? Or do you not exist? If my assumption that you have a relationship with your thoughts are true and we were to get rid of the ability to think, do we exist at all?
Holy brain explosion!
Anyways, what I am trying to say is that we need relationships. We exist through relationships. I have read that people who commit suicide lack the feeling of belongingness. It makes sense to me because people want to be validated and want to exist somewhere. When they feel like they are alone and feel like they do not exist, what's the point of existing without people validating their existence?
If you are wondering about when I said "relationships with objects," what I meant is that we have relationships with objects also. Let say your shoes for example, when you buy a new pair of shoes, you might take care of them better than when they are old and torn. Also, you wouldn't just put your shoes in fire or somewhere they would get dirty because you have "feelings" for them. Obviously, it's a different relationship than people who can reciprocate those feelings but you still do have relationship with them. If you treat them poorly, they would not last long.
I am done talking.
Related Posts
My Existence
Holistic Monism Part 2
Holistic Monism
Thursday, December 27, 2012
How I Met Your Mother
This is not depressing at all. This is not necessarily about dating, friends, family, gospel, philosophy, life, or mission. This post has little bits of each.
I have been watching a show called "How I Met Your Mother." It's not super hilarious nor always appropriate. However, the reason why I like the show is the thought provoking quotes and how much I can relate to Ted Mosby, the main character. In the show, Ted is telling his kids how he met his wife. The past Ted is always looking for "the one." However, the future Ted always reminds his kids that all the stories/events that he tell them somehow lead up to how he met his wife.
(I will come back to the show in a little bit) Yesterday, I went to Panda Express and got a fortune which said, "A sudden change in plans will lead to good fortune." It was very fitting because I had made a decision about something and felt like that is the way it's supposed to be. OK, it's about asking someone on a date but I decided not to (and I am glad I decided not to).
The fortune I got was like the show "How I Met Your Mother" because the whole show is about how different events that Ted goes through somehow lead to meeting his wife. I believe that this is true for me and for others as well. We are constantly choosing, changing, and going through life with different events. Whatever decision we make prepares us for the moment when we meet our spouse or even anyone in our lives whom we will impact one way or another.
All the experiences I had, whether be good or bad, lead me to that moment when I will meet my future wife. The moment that I am waiting for. When that time comes, I will be prepared to meet her, talk to her, and get to know her. (Does that mean I believe that there is "the one"?) Or I will be prepared to choose who that person will be as I meet many girls, talk to them, and get to know them then we will start to trust each other, respect each other, and honor each other. Eventually, we will develop love for each other.
In other posts, I wrote about how we need to prepare to serve others. You can't go back in time to change things but you can always change the past right now. If you made a mistake in the past, choose to become a better person through your mistakes. You don't need to go back in time to correct your mistakes but choose now to do what is right. Don't make the same mistake again. Always choose looking forward in the future. Prepare now. Prepare for the first moment when you will meet your spouse. Prepare to serve others when God calls you to serve.
"For that moment..."
Instrument of God
A Privilege to Know God
If You Could Go Back in Time...
I have been watching a show called "How I Met Your Mother." It's not super hilarious nor always appropriate. However, the reason why I like the show is the thought provoking quotes and how much I can relate to Ted Mosby, the main character. In the show, Ted is telling his kids how he met his wife. The past Ted is always looking for "the one." However, the future Ted always reminds his kids that all the stories/events that he tell them somehow lead up to how he met his wife.
(I will come back to the show in a little bit) Yesterday, I went to Panda Express and got a fortune which said, "A sudden change in plans will lead to good fortune." It was very fitting because I had made a decision about something and felt like that is the way it's supposed to be. OK, it's about asking someone on a date but I decided not to (and I am glad I decided not to).
The fortune I got was like the show "How I Met Your Mother" because the whole show is about how different events that Ted goes through somehow lead to meeting his wife. I believe that this is true for me and for others as well. We are constantly choosing, changing, and going through life with different events. Whatever decision we make prepares us for the moment when we meet our spouse or even anyone in our lives whom we will impact one way or another.
All the experiences I had, whether be good or bad, lead me to that moment when I will meet my future wife. The moment that I am waiting for. When that time comes, I will be prepared to meet her, talk to her, and get to know her. (Does that mean I believe that there is "the one"?) Or I will be prepared to choose who that person will be as I meet many girls, talk to them, and get to know them then we will start to trust each other, respect each other, and honor each other. Eventually, we will develop love for each other.
"Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen?Related Posts
"Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson—
"That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man.
"Hence many are called, but few are chosen." -Doctrine and Covenants 121:34-35, 37, & 40-
"For that moment..."
Instrument of God
A Privilege to Know God
If You Could Go Back in Time...
Wedding, Graduation, Adventures
My mom and I arrived at Nauvoo around 3 on Friday (12/14) and thought that we will have to hang out until 5:30 but we ran into a friend, J., who informed me that Lia's endowment session is at 4 not 2:30. So we got to do an endowment session with Lia who was so surprised when she saw us in the Creation room. She was so happy that we were able to make it to her endowment session.
The sealing ceremony was so fantastic. The entire time, I was thinking about how this new family is going to be together for eternity. Even if my family (my parents and us) will not be together forever, Kwan and Lia will be and I was so ahppy for them. They will be all right. :)
Saturday was Kwan's graduation.
My brother's wedding was in the morning then in the afternoon, I went to my friend, C.'s wedding with A. We all grew up together in Macomb ward but we weren't able to hang out for a while. Also, C. stopped coming to church but we are still friends and love him.
Around 4, I went over to the church building to set things up for the reception. After setting things up, I wandered around and got to the chapel where I felt so much at home. I almost cried because this is where everything started. This is where I learned the gospel. Is this what it would feel like to return to Heavenly Father?
At 5:30, there was a baptism which made me think of my own baptism in Macomb almost 11 years ago. This really is my home and everyone in Macomb is my family.
The reception was so amazing. the food was so good! Sister T. prepared so much food and had a ton of leftover. The center piece that Lia made were really cute too. She had different items that represent the number of years Kwan and Lia have known each other, years they dated, months that they had been engaged, etc. Super cute! :) The entire time, though, I followed them around and took pictures of them with guests.
Sunday was so awesome because I got to see all the familiar faces! These are they who encouraged me, taught me, and led me to become who I am now. I will always be in debt to them. Many complimented (?) me saying, "You look so different!" Thanks...I guess? They are used to seeing me with a long hair. I told Sister A. White that it's the suit. :) In a serious note, I am different because I have changed over the years and many things have changed me for good.
On Monday, my mom and I flew out to the Denver airport. Both of our flights got delayed but mine eventually got cancelled so I had to go to an information center to figure out what was going on. While I was waiting in line, I started talking to a girl behind me. It turns out that she was going into the MTC the next day and going to Washington D.C. on her mission. Her name was Evelin from Estonia but spoke perfect English.
The airline put us in 11:30 am flight the next morning and gave us some vouchers to stay at a hotel and for free meals. Even though my mom's flight was going to leave in an hour and half, I decided to help Evelin with her travel so I said good-bye to my mom then Evelin and I rode a shuttle to the hotel where we had dinner together and then breakfast together the next morning.
On Tuesday, I finally arrived at SLC and got my luggage that arrived the night before. I said good-bye and good luck to Evelin and we went our separate ways.
What an adventure!
 |
| A detour |
On Monday, my mom and I flew out to the Denver airport. Both of our flights got delayed but mine eventually got cancelled so I had to go to an information center to figure out what was going on. While I was waiting in line, I started talking to a girl behind me. It turns out that she was going into the MTC the next day and going to Washington D.C. on her mission. Her name was Evelin from Estonia but spoke perfect English.
 |
| The hotel room |
 |
| My dinner |
On Tuesday, I finally arrived at SLC and got my luggage that arrived the night before. I said good-bye and good luck to Evelin and we went our separate ways.
What an adventure!
Friday, December 21, 2012
Dear Future Wife,
I don't know who you are...
But I bet you are beautiful...
You wouldn't need to change a thing at all...
I would do anything for you...
When the time is right...
Until we meet...
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Realizations
Realization #1
In my psychology class, my non-LDS professor talked about whether God matters (in psychology, of course). He said that professors here at BYU who are devout Mormons do not pray before they start their research. Then I started to think about my life. Do I involve God in everything I do? I do not. Do I believe that God matters in my life? I do.
So this is what I should do. I should involve God in everything I do: taking tests, doing my homework, going to work, going to classes, asking a girl out on a date, etc.
Realization #2
In my psychology class, my non-LDS professor talked about whether God matters (in psychology, of course). He said that professors here at BYU who are devout Mormons do not pray before they start their research. Then I started to think about my life. Do I involve God in everything I do? I do not. Do I believe that God matters in my life? I do.
So this is what I should do. I should involve God in everything I do: taking tests, doing my homework, going to work, going to classes, asking a girl out on a date, etc.
Realization #2
In one of my classes today, a professor showed this video. As I was watching it, I couldn't help write down some of the thoughts/inspirations I received. It is true that no one knows how long you are going to live. You might have a disease that you don't know about like Powers's mother. Maybe, you will get in an accident tomorrow.
What I realized is that I have to seize the day (carpe diem); however, it's more than a day that I need to seize. I need to seize my life. Seize the life!
There are things you can control and things you can't control. I can't change the direction that clouds move. I can't control a lot of things. However, what I can control is what I should do. I should act instead of reacting or being acted upon. I am an agent of my life.
So I am going to ask a girl out on a date.
Realization #3
There are so many things that a girl can benefit from going on a date. I am not saying that in a boastful or prideful way. I think we all can benefit from each other. It could be from learning what each other is interested in to learning to be more patient. I don't care how I benefit this girl I want to ask out. I know that she will benefit and that's all I want her to get out of. If she's not willing to go on a date with me, she won't benefit from whatever I have to offer. I don't know what I have to offer but I know that there are things I can offer.
The same goes for all of you. We all have a lot to offer to each other. That's why relationships (e.g., friendship, parent-child relationship, romantic relationship) are so important in our lives. We can't survive without having a relationship with someone.
Learn from others. Teach others. Live in a world where relationship matters. Where God matters.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Kyoo's Parenting 102
I guess this isn't exactly what I came up with but it's always good to listen to an Apostle of the Lord. I really like the fifth one.
Kyoo's Parenting 101
"First, parents can pray in earnest, asking our Eternal Father to help them love, understand, and guide the children He has sent to them.Related Post
"Second, they can hold family prayer, scripture study, and family home evenings and eat together as often as possible, making dinner a time of communication and the teaching of values.
"Third, parents can fully avail themselves of the Church’s support network, communicating with their children’s Primary teachers, youth leaders, and class and quorum presidencies. By communicating with those who are called and set apart to work with their children, parents can provide essential understanding of a child’s special and specific needs.
"Fourth, parents can share their testimonies often with their children, commit them to keep the commandments of God, and promise the blessings that our Heavenly Father promises His faithful children.
"Fifth, we can organize our families based on clear, simple family rules and expectations, wholesome family traditions and rituals, and “family economics,” where children have household responsibilities and can earn allowances so that they can learn to budget, save, and pay tithing on the money they earn."
Kyoo's Parenting 101
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Heaven Is...
I had many friends who encouraged me and let me know that they care about me. I realized that I can't let them down.
It is true that I felt like there was nothing that motivated me to go on; however, if the Celestial Kingdom is filled with families and friends who care about me, I think it's worth it.
Heaven is filled with people whom you love and care. Heaven is filled with people who love you and care about you.
That's all I need.
Friday, November 23, 2012
God's Plan
It is true that I might not reunite with my family after this life. It is true that I have really hard time with my family. My heart aches and I am sad that this is the case. However, God is omnipotent and omniscience.
He has blessed with me with wonderful families in the Church who took me in and cared for me. They loved me. They strengthened me. They taught me the gospel. I do love my own parents (if I didn't, I wouldn't feel hurt right now); however, I am grateful for all these families who gave me the knowledge of the gospel. I wish I had pictures of them but I don't.
They mean so much to me and I love them dearly.
He has blessed with me with wonderful families in the Church who took me in and cared for me. They loved me. They strengthened me. They taught me the gospel. I do love my own parents (if I didn't, I wouldn't feel hurt right now); however, I am grateful for all these families who gave me the knowledge of the gospel. I wish I had pictures of them but I don't.
They mean so much to me and I love them dearly.
To Live or Not
Today is not a good day at all.
My motivations to live are starting to diminish. Eternal family: that's gone. Being a parent: I feel like my children would be better off with someone else.
What else is there to live? Nothing.
I am seriously considering writing a will now. Why? Because I don't even know when things will happen that I won't be around anymore.
It won't be too hard to write it. I already thought about it and it won't say much.
My motivations to live are starting to diminish. Eternal family: that's gone. Being a parent: I feel like my children would be better off with someone else.
What else is there to live? Nothing.
I am seriously considering writing a will now. Why? Because I don't even know when things will happen that I won't be around anymore.
It won't be too hard to write it. I already thought about it and it won't say much.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
A Kind of Father I Would Like To Be
For the longest time, I have been thinking about what kind of father I want to be. The video above shows a kind of father that I would like to be...a father whom my children would see.
I need to live the covenants I have made because it's not only my life that's at a stake but my future wife's and my children's. If I fail, they fail. I can't afford to do that. I will not let that happen.
I want to be a father and a husband who really listens and wants to meet everyone's needs. I want to know what their needs, wants, and desires are. I want to focus on their needs more than mine. I want them to always know and remember that I love them.
Related Post
Kyoo's Parenting 101
Related Post
Kyoo's Parenting 101
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