Keep it Positive

Yesterday we were driving in our area to an appointment.  As we were driving we passed this one light pole and I noticed that someone had painted on the pole this phrase, “Keep it Positive.”  I thought that was a nice thing to write and did not give it anymore thought than that.    A little while later we were driving on that same street and I read on the pole again, “Keep it Positive.”.  This time I did a little bit more reflecting on that short but profound phrase.

Everyday we receive some type of bad news.  There is just no way to avoid negativity.  Some days we receive bad news from home, other days people choose to be mean to the missionaries, or we come in contact with people who are just down and out and have no hope.  And some days it just flat out dumps a bunch of snow, which makes my feet very cold! So yes, bad things happen but we can keep it positive!

I was really thinking about how can we keep it positive?  I really starting reflecting on my own life, and how I keep it positive, and every time it comes back to the gospel.  I am most happy when I do three things:

1. Go to Church

2. Pray everyday

3. Read the Book of Mormon

 King Benjamin tells us in Mosiah 2:41, "And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."

King Benjamin puts it all into perspective.  I get to choose whether or not I want to be happy.  I choose whether or not I want to keep the commandments.  If I choose to keep the commandments and continually go to church, pray, and read I will find happiness. 

It has taken me a long time to realize King Benjamin's promise, but I have finally recognized and know that each day that I am faithful in following the example of Jesus Christ I am happy.  Yes, somedays things are really hard and I really get down, but then I remember how truly blessed I am to have the gospel in my life and to have the Book of Mormon as a guide to help me in this life.