"It's about the strivin' not the arrivin'! "

Today I completed my application to serve a full-time mission.  It was a long process and it is not over yet.  The Bishop has a part, the Stake President has a part, and then - the mission depart in Salt Lake City reviews everything to be certain all necessary information has been provided.  Whew!  So I will still be waiting for awhile but it feels good to have completed this part.  When I hit the submit button this popped up and I wasn't sure whether to laugh, cry, sing, shout... so I did it all.

And then I remembered the words of a sweet sister in the Corbin, Kentucky Ward relief society last Sunday.  I can't remember the exact topic but she said from the back row:  "It's about the strivin' not the arrivin'!" She had a little southern drawl and her words were just right.

For an athlete - singer - dancer - any type of performer the arriving is wonderful but what's even more important is the striving which prepares a person to perform.  September is probably when I will be leaving for my mission.  Is that my arrival?  Or is it when I move to the apartment that will be mine while I serve?  Will it be my first Sacrament Meeting when I wear my missionary name tag?  Arriving can mean "whew, I'm done"  whereas striving goes on and on.  And each year I understand more that it is about the striving.

I am also reminded that for some of us striving means we have to stay busy doing good things.  Heavenly Father knows me very well.  I have been called as stake Camp Director and we will be camping the last week in June.  Perfect timing to keep my mind and time occupied while I wait to receive my call.  (Some of the adult leaders had a meeting last night - woah!  if camp is half as much fun as the meeting we will have the best time ever.)

I AM LOVEABLE & CAPABLE

 We are focusing on the young women values ofL

Divine Nature:  I have inherited divine qualities, which I will strive to develop. 

Individual Worth: I am of infinite worth with my own divine mission which I will strive to fulfill.

Good Works: I will help others and build the kingdom through righteous service.

So I will do what this sister said keep on striving.  Don't you think camp is the perfect place for that?

 AHHHH!  CAMP BLANTON - SEE YOU IN JUNE!