The Easters: Judge and Grudge

These are two things that I struggle with immensely.

It seems like judging others actions or behavior is so easy to do. I read a blog recently where the blogger stated how we should set a good example for our children and not belittle or judge others, especially in front of them. I agree but we live in an age where most people think their opinion is king and where there is a channel almost completely dedicated to judging others.

With constant criticism consuming the world around us its difficult to find something positive to say to those around us and even harder to think nice things about others.

What did Thumper from 'Bambi' say: "if you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all." Thank you Mr. Disney for these wise words. Too bad such a simple thing is all to hard to do. Put if we/I do fall pray to the judge bug, hopefully we/I can remember to button our/my lip.

Now onto the grudge end. All too often, or more often then I would like I get really upset when I feel the sharp sting of another person's criticism. This upset turns into a grudge I end up holding towards this person. Its difficult for me to let go and move forward. I think, "I am only hurting myself." But am I really? Usually this deep seeded anger and resentment is contagious. I'm hoping that as I grow more personally, that someday I will become more forgiving and teach my children this trait as well.

Thank you for allowing me to vent. These things have been on my mind for a while.

I also wanted to briefly discuss a spiritual moment I had recently. I have been struggling with anger for most of my life. To be honest I am swift to anger and it was affecting many of my relationships. I have read numerous articles on the subject and tried a long list of techniques to overcome this terrible trait but nothing was really working. Then recently Marty sent a request to Salt Lake for a copy of my patriarchal blessing. I lost the original long ago. I had a not so good copy, but I rarely read it. It came in the mail and I couldn't wait to sit and read it. Then there it was. The line that would change everything. It was so simple and yet it totally changed me to the core. I know this may sound corny but I found the key that has helped me and I am so happy that God knows me. He knows who I am and he tailored this blessing to help me throughout life. I am so grateful for the answer to this and for the simplicity of it all.

I would also like to mention that Kaelie was weighed and measured today. She weighs 13 pounds 1 ounce (75%) and is 23 1/2 inches long (75%). Kae is smaller than Ize was at 3 months but just as cute.