The end of the semester...

So, I figured that since this is my last post for the semester, I could blog about my thoughts on this media class. Media has been something that was strongly taught in my home. We pulled out the For Strength of Youth pamphlet and LOTS of quotes from the prophets on a very regular basis. I'm grateful to my parents taking the initiative to teach us how the Lord views media today. It's really helped me make a lot of decisions to enable me to have clean and pure thoughts and actions. I've been made fun of by many of my member friends being called a "goody two-shoes" or "molly-mormon," but I have a firm testimony that my choice of media has nothing to do with my friends or even family--it's all about what helps or hinders my relationship with the Lord. I'm grateful my parents taught me how to be critical of the media. I feel like this has been Dr. Coyne's goal this semester. It's been nice to add to the doctrine I grew up with and learn about what the research says. Of course it only confirmed what the Lord has taught :) He sure knows His stuff ;) I'm grateful for all the good media that helps us come closer to Christ, and I'm grateful for the Spirit to direct me away from things that distract from the path to Christ.

Christmas

Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. It definitely was my favorite time on my mission. It was so incredible to be a representative of Christ when most of the world celebrates the birth of our Savior. I love the fun Christmas movies and the Christmas music. My family went to go see The Christmas Carol at the Hale Center Theater. That was was neat. Last year we went to see it too, and it really helped me get through some hard times. This year I felt the power of change--that we are able to, and positive change brings intense happiness. It does make me sad when people say "the spirit of Christmas is Santa," because CHRIST is the meaning of CHRISTmas. I don't like listening to the Christmas station on Pandora 'cause they don't play any songs about Christ--just the same 5 songs about chestnuts and Santa...hahaha. I've been listening to the Primary Christmas songs for my baby. That always brings a sweet spirit in our home. I love Christ, and I love this time to remember Him.