Sparkle

Lately I have not been feeling up to par. I do not feel sick, but I felt like I lost some of the sparkle I once had in my life. So, as some of you know, Sister Dalton is my idol. I absolutely love her. Well, she came to speak at devotional today. Best day ever. She is so beautiful with sparkling eyes and a countenance that truly reflects the light of Christ.
I love all of that about her, but hearing a story she told made me laugh so hard! She basically stalked (what she called flirting) her husband at BYU. She saw him and went to the Administration building and asked for his schedule. She then happened to be where his classes were every once in a while. And he thought he saw her first… Apparently her husband runs on the treadmill each day while memorizing something. It was so funny as she ran in place reciting part of the Young Women theme. She also said she loved some of the memes we made regarding the change in missionary age.
Not only is so fun and personable, but she has the spirit. She talked about a man who ran a race in the Olympics that he had not trained for because the tryouts for his race were held on Sunday, and he would not take part in them. With faith, he won his race receiving the gold medal as well as setting a new world record. She said we must do more than just sit and watch the race. We must take part in it, believe, and have faith. The power comes from within.

She also said, "Your youth is your advantage. Don’t let Satan convince you that you are too young. When he does that, he has won. Do all in your power to have the Holy Ghost with you. Do not neglect the gift that is in thee. You can do hard things. Through the atonement you are strengthened so you can accomplish you divine mission." I have officially decided I am going to submit my application to be an area vice president in BYUSA next year. If it is meant to be, I will get it. I am not going to let my age keep me from achieving something I want this badly. 

She said to not cast away your confidence. Do not get distracted, discouraged, or disqualified. Confidence comes from two Latin words: con meaning with and fidego meaning faith. You can only be confident with faith. I loved that. 

She told Young Women that we provide an example of virtuous womanhood and motherhood and to continue to be virtuous, lovely, good report, and praiseworthy. We will provide example of family life at time when families are under attack. We need to understand our role and divine responsibilities. Our virtue and light will attract the gaze of the entire world. One virtuous young woman or young man led by the spirit can change the world, never to be forgotten. She said that as you run your race, never forget your Heavenly Father is by your side. 

With a huge smile, a wave, and blown kiss, she left, but her spirit was still there. I can only in my greatest dreams aspire to be her, but she is a wonderful example to me. I even based my new goals for this year from her book "Shine!" My sparkle is back, and I will not lose it this time.