Compared to What?

Every teenage girl does it, no matter how much she hates it.. We compare ourselves to other girls.

"Oh, she's got a boyfriend... well I guess she's skinnier than me... but my hair is prettier... but she's got the expensive clothes."

And honestly, there's no real way to win. We either lose the battle by convincing ourselves that the person in question has more going for her than we do OR we think we're so much better which leads to either guilt or a self-righteous mentality.

And in my experience, Mormon girls are even further at a disadvantage.

"Oh, she wears immodest clothes and all the boys love her... I guess that's the only thing guys like."

It's sad how fast girls abandon their beliefs that they've known are true for years.. I have often dreamed of wearing that mini skirt with that adorable tank top and fantasize about boys loving it.

I don't pretend to be Molly-Mormon. I am far from it. And it's tough. No matter how much I hate it, I always compare myself and others based on "accomplishments." These accomplishments usually are of a physical and temporal importance (such as boys, and looks).

But there have been times where I regretfully have compared spiritual things such as my testimony.

God made us different for a reason. He wants us to be unique and embrace our differences.

James E. Faust said "While we are not all equal in experience, aptitude, and strength.. we will all be accountable for the use of the gifts and opportunities given to us." (I Believe I Can, I Knew I Could- October 2002)

This is a little personal but since this is my journal, what the heck.

I was able to go to the Sacred Grove this summer with a group of youth from our stake and while I was there I prayed and waited. Then I realized that I needed to pray for something else.. I then began to pray if I should go on a mission. I don't know where the inspiration came from to pray for that but nonetheless I prayed. I also began walking.. I walked for a while and noticed a small daisy laying on the ground. But I kept walking. Then I turned around. I picked up that poor little daisy and held it in my hand. Right then and there I knew. My purpose in this life is to pick up those beautiful things that are struggling and help them realize their potential. I want to go on a mission. I want to help people. That is one of my "talents" that God has blessed me with.

God gave us some wicked cool talents. It is our duty to discover them, nourish them, and share them :)