Communication Disorders?

As a young single adult, I have repeatedly been pounded with the importance of communication. It's true that communication affects pretty much every facet of our lives. Whether it's with roomates, friends, family members, dating relationships, or co-workers, communication is a definite necessity. In the words of William Edward Norris:

"If your lips can keep from slips,
Five things observe with care:
To whom you speak; of whom you speak;
and how, and when, and where."

With the constant influx of communication firesides, talks, etc., I thought my communication skills were doing pretty well. That is, until last night.

The evening began harmlessly enough. I had been doing homework, but was ready for a break. As I headed out of the apartment, I stopped by my roomate's bedroom. I knew she'd been having a hard day and I wanted to check on her.

After a few inquiries, it became apparent that she was still having a bad day. So, I thought of something to cheer her up.

"If it makes you feel any better," I told her, "I'm going to be back in a few minutes with some ice cream. You're welcome to have some."

She gave me a shocked look. "WHAT??? You're getting ICE CREAM???!!!"

I gave her a blank look. Then, as the realization dawned upon me, it was my turn to look shocked.

"No no no no no!" I gasped in horror. "Good heavens, no!" It had not even occured to me when I was speaking, that she might interpret my words so differently.

We both collapsed in giggles as we realized the hilarity of the situation.

As simple (and humorous) as the situation was, it taught me a valuable lesson. Communication has to be clear on both sides to be effective. I thought I was being perfectly clear. So did my roomate, but we both came out of the conversation with completely different ideas.

Apparently next time I'll have to watch my words a little more carefully. That or pick a different treat to share!

Together Forever

A couple of weeks ago I had the chance to go through the Salt Lake temple with my ward.

It was beautiful. The architecture was exquisite. It's amazing to think that the pioneers spent so much time carving out each individual flower, vine, or other intricate design. Each room with its beauty made me more excited to see the next one. When we finally got to the end, I was so happy that I didn't want to leave. I wanted to sit in the temple and soak in the beauty and quiet peace that I felt there. The only thing that would have made it better is if my family had been there with me.

Sitting there in the temple, I felt like I got a little taste of what it must be like to go to the Celestial kingdom (heaven). We know that it's going to be so much more glorious and wonderful than anything we know here on earth. When we get there, it will probably be much more beautiful and peaceful than we even thought was possible. It will be even more beautiful if the people I love are there-- my family and good friends. And, best of all, we won't ever have to leave.

I love my family. I'm so grateful for the strength and happiness they give me. I can't wait until we're all together forever. Every now and then I get glimpses of what that must be like-- the peace I felt at the temple, fun times together as a family, the excitement I felt teaching the gospel as a missionary, or a good meaningful conversation with a friend. It's these moments that remind me that I can be with my family forever.

And I can't wait.

I have a family here on earth

They are so good to me

I want to share my life with them

For all eternity

Families can be together forever

Through Heavenly Father's plan

I always want to be with my own family

And the Lord has shown me how I can

The Lord has shown me how I can.

(Hymns, 300)