Locked Out

Have you every realized that the word "small" is bigger than the word "big?" Right now I find that somewhat ironic, because I experienced a big change in my life...but perhaps this subtlety of English alludes to the truth that smaller changes over time are often more significant than a big change. Now that I'm done philosophizing, let me tell you about this big change in my life.

(I know, I have a problem keeping my eyes open in pictures.)

I just moved to Dallas, Texas! I've lived in Utah for the past few years, and enjoyed being so close to my family, but now I am pretty much on my own. I start medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern (UTSW) in about a week. I am so excited for this new adventure. My dad was kind enough to drive down to Dallas with me and help me get settled in my new apartment. It was nice to spend the weekend with him. Sunday I went to my new young single adult ward, and I couldn't believe how friendly the people were. Before sacrament meeting about 6 people came up and introduced themselves to my dad and I.

Right after sacrament meeting I had to drive my dad to the airport, but I decided to come back for the last half hour of church. When I found the church building again, all of the gates to the parking lot were closed. They didn't open when I pulled up to them, and I had no idea who to call to help me get in. After waiting a few minutes, I decided to go home. At first, I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get back in, but I remembered what I heard in church just a short time before--there will always be challenges, disappointments, and things I lack in life. Don't wait for a certain achievement, life event, or possession to find happiness. I drove home glad that I had tried to go back to church, and found my way home.

Each one of us faces locked gates or even doors slammed in our faces. This is a fundamental part of the test of our lives; will you and I drop out in despair, or forge ahead with faith?


For more on this topic, see President Dieter F. Uchtdorf's talk Grateful in Any Circumstance.