A Celestial Perspective on Stress and Happiness

Dear Sisters,

In our most recent lesson, Karlin Bauman, "Hi Karlin" (you had to be there), delved into a topic that touches all our lives: finding true happiness and understanding the role of stress through a celestial lens. Drawing inspiration from President Nelson's talk "Think Celestial," she opened with the following words: "Here is the great news of God's plan: the very things that will make your mortal life the best it can be are exactly the same things that will make your life throughout all eternity the best it can be." This statement set the stage for a an awesome discussion.

Embracing Stress with a Gospel Perspective

Karlin introduced us to an intriguing concept from Kelly McGonigal's TED Talk, "How to Make Stress Your Friend," where McGonigal challenges the notion that stress is inherently harmful. She highlights a study indicating that stress, coupled with the belief that it's detrimental, significantly increases health risks. Conversely, viewing stress as beneficial can transform our physiological response to it, potentially enhancing our health and well-being. Watch the video below if you want to find out a little more.

This insight resonates with gospel principles, particularly the teachings in Doctrine and Covenants 121, "My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment...Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands." It reminds us that our trials, including stress, are not just obstacles but opportunities for growth and progression.

Gospel Principles and Happy Lives

The gospel teaches us principles that align with living a fulfilling and happy life. It's no coincidence that these teachings also pave the way for handling stress in a positive manner. By adopting a gospel-centered view of our challenges, we can see them as integral parts of our journey towards eternal joy.

Bringing It All Together

In weaving together President Nelson's guidance, McGonigal's research, and scriptural promises, we're reminded that our perspective on stress can significantly affect our journey through mortality and our preparation for eternity. Seeing stress as a friend rather than a foe can help us embrace our trials with faith, knowing that they contribute to our divine potential and eternal happiness. This perspective doesn't diminish the reality of our challenges but empowers us to face them with courage, resilience, and a hopeful outlook that aligns with our celestial destiny.

As we navigate the stresses and joys of life, let us remember that the gospel provides not only the vision of our eternal home but also the practical tools to thrive in our mortal journey. Please share your thoughts in the comments. You are so loved!!

For further reflection on President Nelson's inspiring message, I encourage you to revisit "Think Celestial" here.

Much love,

VV3RS

Upcoming Events and Reminders

• Wed - 3/13: Youth baptisms, 4:30 pm, Draper temple

• Thurs - 3/14: Adult Endowment Session, 7:00 pm, Jordan River. Please schedule an appointment.

• Saturday - 3/16: Youth collecting food for Feed Utah Food Drive. Leave food on your porch in the AM.

• Sun - 3/17: Ward Conference. We will meet with the YW in the RS Room | 6:30 PM RS Worldwide Devotional and testimony meeting at Ashley's house.

• Fri - 3/22: EQ March Madness Watch Party.

• Tues - 3/26: American Red Cross Blood Drive, 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Stake Center. Sign up via GroupMe link.