I know that all the cute details aren’t essential to having a great retreat. But these gals sure know how to do it well. Having a theme helped all of us center our thoughts and link principles and truths together.
The details, planning, and implementation remind me that like these gals who are mindful in planning these events, God is greatly involved in the details in our life. He is mindful in his plans for us.
This principle reminds me of how essential it is for us as mothers to be in the details of our kids lives (not in their face… in the details). Private conversations, or getting the scoop after a long day at school, snacks and chats, hugs and encouragement… the details. “That other souls may feel His Love through me.”
Some of the lessons I took away:
Missionary Work: I don’t have to be the same kind of missionary as others, I can be the best ‘heather’ missionary I can be. The Power of Every Day Missionaries shared by Emily.
Preach my Gospel Manual: Jennifer shared some fabulous ideas of how to use this book to teach our children, to use in scripture study. I especially liked the ‘Attributes of Christ’ page for encouragement and inspiration for me and my family.
Make Lemonade: A good reminder to look for the positive. Also laughed at ‘unless life also hands you sugar and water, your lemonade is going to be gross.’
Sure & Steadfast: Loved the scripture theme and the thoughts shared about life experiences making us stronger and wiser like the old worn dock rope.
Breathe… Take a deep breath to feel the Holy Ghost, to calm down, to smile, to feel gratitude, to say a prayer. Be Still.
Anyhoo… I don’t have time to type up all my notes and thoughts, but there were so many reminders that God loves us… that we have so many great resources available if we take the time to study them.
Sara talked about re-entry back into regular life… preparing to enter the harbor… and how we can take the messages home with us. I felt so encouraged that I could be more loving, full of the spirit, and guided as a mother. Coming home to reality dampened that a little, but occasionally I review my notes and the messages shared and I feel the Holy Ghost whisper that ‘there is always hope.’
I recommitted to:
1. Be Still / Know God / Testify
2. Fill my life with that which uplifts… scriptures, pray for divine guidance, music, light.
3. Choose the better part / pray to prioritize daily “Please guide me serve this day.”
p.s. thanks to Heidi Lawson for the fabulous photos of this retreat.
