happy birthday, emily

This post is going to be about things I really treasure.

So brace yourself, and picture me with tears in my eyes.

One Sunday a month we have fast & testimony meeting at church.

It's by far my favorite Sunday of the month.

Honestly, I wish we had a testimony meeting every Sunday.

Without fail every single question I have, or idea I have been pondering about is mentioned in someone's testimony. 

I always feel so loved as people testify of things close to their heart.

It feels so good to hear other people share about what I believe in so strongly.

As I listened to other people I thought to myself about my own testimony and how I've come unto Jesus Christ in my life. 

I love my religion because it provides me with comfort about knowing that I'm not perfect, but that my Heavenly Father loves me perfectly.

I love the teachings of my religion because applying them helps me to constantly better myself.

I thought about the importance of not just believing the things I learn at church, but about living them.

Since I've gone to SUU I've definitely become much better at living the things I believe and making my testimony a part of who I am.

One of the best examples in my life of living her testimony is Emily Burt.

She is one of the best friends I have ever had.

She lives in a way that I know her number one priority is to be Christlike.

The way she can encompass God's love and share it unconditionally is inspiring.

She has a beautiful gift of being able to share testimony in any conversation.

So many times I've been surprised by how real the gospel is to her. 

It's as if living God's plan aren't just an option to her, they are the ONLY option to her.

Emily's example has helped me find strength and courage to live what I believe.

I still struggle and am far from perfect, but the love I feel from Emily always reminds me that I'm a daughter of God.

So, on this beautiful December day I'm celebrating Emily's birthday by letting her, and everyone else, know what a difference she has made in my life and the incredible impact she has on the people who are blessed enough to know her.

Happy 24th!!