Name one thing you (or a character) lied to yourself about. Why did you/they do this?

"Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me."

I remember repeating that phrase to myself over and over again. Especially when I was a little girl and had a friend who slung mean words better than anyone I've ever met.

A very specific experience was, my parents were making ice cream at our dairy farm, Country Boy Dairy, and my friend and I were playing. I can't remember what was said, but I remember how I felt after my friend said something to hurt me. The pain was much deeper than any flesh wound. It hit my heart like a barbed wire fence, digging in with rusted metal, and squeezing the life out of me. My chest felt like it was collapsing, and I had to escape into the bathroom to save myself from falling all over the floor.

Now, my parents, trying to help me, but not knowing exactly how, had taught me this mantra, so I repeated it to myself, over and over, as I was sitting on the toilet, crying to myself.

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me."

I stayed in that bathroom and cried until I had no more tears left. The sad thing was, I thought I deserved these words, that they accurately described me, and so I never stood up for myself or retaliated. I guess it goes back to the wise words from Chronicles of Narnia: "You get told you're a dumb animal for long enough, you become one."

It wasn't until a year or so ago, this mantra, which had been long forgotten, after years of healthy relationships, surfaced in my mind. I was talking to my husband about something someone had said, and of course, here it came.

But as we were talking, and the mantra kept chanting itself at me, I had an epiphany. This was one of the deepest rooted lies I'd ever been taught, or told myself. Because, let's be honest, words can and do hurt. They are extremely effective at breaking a person down over time, and with a few well placed words or phrases, one can rob another person of their identity and belonging.

Now, I know this is a shock. Most of us don't go around using words as weapons. But I want us to think about the words that we use to those we are supposed to love the most. I have watched husband and wife use words against each other, that they'd never use to a neighbor or friend. What about with our kids? What kind of words do we use with them?

The thing about words are, they spring from our thoughts. So, in order to say something, we have to think it first. We can never identify or call out a quality in someone else, unless we see it in ourselves first.

But I learned those things much later in life. And the words that my friend used on me, I owned. I took them right into my heart, because I trusted her. I think that's how it is. With people we trust and love the most, we take their words to heart. We own them, just as I did with my friend. That's why we need to be careful with what we say. My dad always told me to, "Think before you say things." It was easier said than done, but I've tried to live by that saying so I would never cause someone unnecessary pain.

May we all take this small lie out of our lives, and let it change our words for the better. Build instead of tear down. Compliment instead of criticize. It's a habit, a thought process that begins with you and how you view yourself. Once you see yourself and others through God's eyes, you will utter words of love and kindness. What a better world could we build with a few well placed, kind words.

Write about something in your life that is 'Worth It'

"It'll all be worth it in the end."

"Endure to the End."

"You will receive blessings in Heaven."

"This life is a time to prepare to meet God."

"We are here to be tested, gain knowledge and wisdom."

Phrases from my life repeat in my mind. When I think of something in my life that is worth it, it's hard to bring it down to one thing. I think all of life is worth it. In fact, I think that just the fact of living is worth it.

Life is not easy. Let's face it, we all have trials, challenges, and temptations that we have to overcome in order to progress. It's easy to ask, 'Why is this happening to me?' and have no answer. Most of the time we don't see why things happen to us until years down the road, or maybe even until we reach Heaven and look back and realize how that trial changed our life for the better.

Trials make us relatable, humble, and often times, more open to help and guidance from our Savior.

One of my dear friends has a son who committed suicide. He was a very bright and popular young man, with an incredible future. But he lost it all by taking doctor prescribed drugs that altered his thinking and caused him to ultimately take his life in the blink of an eye.

This friend of mine has suffered one of the greatest losses a mother could ever have. Losing a child is one thing, but losing a child to suicide is a whole different story. The guilt she carries around with her is not something that can just go away. It takes time and much healing.

She has started a foundation for suicide prevention and awareness. She has given up her career and life to dedicate herself to this foundation. It's a wonderful cause, and one that is very much needed. As it gains support, she is continually traveling and speaking to different audiences, telling her story, trying to prevent others from the pain she has suffered. A noble cause.

As I watch her, I feel sorrow that she's had to go through this trial in order to do what she's doing today. I love what she has done, and I am so proud of her for springing into action instead of getting depressed and following in her son's footsteps.

The rest of her family is suffering and she is struggling to keep them together. It is a heavy burden to carry. One that nobody should have to endure.

I see how this trial in my friend's life has shaped her beliefs in various ways. The platform for her foundation is: "You Matter." And I love this slogan, because each and every person does matter. We are entrusted to each other to find our way through life, and ultimately, back to our Heavenly Father.

One thing we have to remember is, every single person does matter, no matter their background, religion, ethnicity, opinions, beliefs, wealth, or lack thereof. We are all different, and that's a good thing. If we were all the same, there would be no way to progress, change, or challenge ourselves.

Think about your life. What pops into your mind? Usually the really good times. The hard times, and how you made it through them. You came out stronger on the other side. And you probably learned quite a bit on the way.

As I said from the beginning, this life, our trials, our challenges, they are all worth it. Someday we will be able to look back and be proud of what we made it through. Keep going. Stay strong. Don't give up. If you feel like giving up, turn your heart over to the Lord and lay your burdens at His feet. He has gone through each and every one of our pains and sufferings. He knows what it's like, and I guarantee there is another person in the world who has also suffered similar trials. Reach out, help each other. Make this life worth it.

Give your city/town/region where you live a new name that reflects what type of place it is. Explain why you chose that name.

Hope, ND

As you travel the roads of the midwest, you'll find a community nestled in the southwestern grasslands of North Dakota, called Hope. It's name is fitting, as people have come here on their last hope for success in the oil field. Thanks to North Dakota's oil rich soil, people have come from around the world to find their hope for a better life.

Walking the streets of downtown, be prepared to greet the locals. They'll smile and often wave, giving you a renewed sense of home and belonging. Visit some of the local shops and eateries. You'll be delighted at the unmatched quality of service. The people are what make Hope such a great place to live.

Aside from the people, the location is prime. The last stop before you travel West to Montana, or East to Bismarck, Hope is your last hope for shopping and dining. It boasts new restaurants, including Buffalo Wild Wings. There are also an array of local restaurants that are sure to satisfy your pallet.

If you need home or car supplies, a new Menards is located right off the exit.

Hope also boasts a quaint mall and theater, where you can enjoy some frozen yogurt while you shop.

Need a place to stay for the night? Hope offers a variety of lodging, including some new hotel chains that bring luxury to small town living.

If you stay in town, make sure you take a trip to the Heart River Golf Course, and enjoy the views of Patterson Lake. This recreation area is stocked with fish, if you're up for packing along a fishing pole and tackle.

And those who live in Hope, love to take the scenic drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located only thirty five miles west. If you're up for a day of beauty, go hiking on one of the park's well groomed trails. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Little Missouri River, and the Badlands, which make North Dakota famous.

Hope, North Dakota, where small town meets big dreams. Come find renewed hope, in Hope.

You are the wind's interpretor. What does it say?

"Go that way. No that way." Whew...finally got it right.

"Wait, what are you doing? Your classroom isn't in this building." Is that? Oh no.

"Turn around you idiot. Stop staring." She's staring! Why won't she listen to me?

"Stop. Just stop." He's coming this way...why do we have to be inside the school? I need a strong gust of outside air, not the measly heater vent twenty paces away.

"Wait, what did he just say?" I should be listening.

"What is going on here? He is not the one for you. Look at him, he's all wrong. He's bad boy personified. You'll only get into trouble. Big trouble. This isn't the guy you want to write hearts around in your notebook. Or add his last name behind yours. He isn't forever. Why can't you see that?"

Roar..."If I had a foot, I would be stomping it right now, on your left foot. Maybe then I could get your attention."

"Remember when you crushed on Mr. Right in high school? He was good for you. This guy, not so much. Sure, he's cute. Popular. Has big muscles. But that's the end of his good trait list. And all of those things go away with time. Trust me, as your eternal advisor, I've seen the winds of change, and change on this guy isn't going to be good. Find someone else." Sigh.

"Did you just give him your phone number? Oh, you're in for it now. A big heart break, sister. One that will take months to recover from..."

"Oh...Why do the good girls fall for the bad guys. It's not like the movies. You girls can't and shouldn't try to change them. In fact, even if they do make a few good changes for a while, it's temporary. They go back to who they truly are, sooner or later."


What am I going to do? What am I going to do? Come on...think.

Oh, she's going outside. Let's follow her.

Hey, did she see that? That guy just smiled at her. He's kinda cute.

There's another one.

Why can't she see these other options?

Oh, that's right, she's too distracted by Mr. Muscles. I get it...well, I don't, but...
Did someone just brush up against me? "Hey, I'm the one who does the brushing around here. You're going to get a puff of wind up your nose for that one."

Oh my! "Look, it's him! Mr. Right!"


I didn't know you both decided to go to the same college. But, look...there he is.
"Look up! Turn your head! This way! This way!" Fine, I'm sending her a gust. Maybe if she smells him...


He even smells good. Like sweet honey bee nectar. If he isn't heaven sent, I don't know who is.

This is a rare moment. The one time in my life I've wished to be something else. If only she knew how lucky she was.
"He sees you!" She sees him!

"Let me give you a push. There, now go talk to him. No, don't look at your phone to check the time. You have time."


Yes, yes, steady. Keep going.
"There's that winning smile I've been waiting for. Look how he lights up the day. It's like magic, and sunshine, and pink and yellow flowers, and happiness and joy, all wrapped up into a very genuine package. Much better than darkness back there."


He's flirting. She's flirting.
"He just asked you out!"

"Say yes, say yes."


She said yes! High five, wind.

Wow...my work here is done.

Well, for now.

You have magic soap. What does it wash away?

Magic soap, magic soap, I wish you to wash away,

something deep inside me, that nobody else can see.

Something deep and terrifying, even for someone like me.

Magic soap, magic soap, take it away,

the pain, the fear, the longing, that nobody else can see.


I don't know where to find it.

This pain that resides in me.

It's buried down somewhere, where it wants to be.

It's like a familiar blanket that keep me from freezing.

This cold and frigid pain, it's like a memory.

But I can't seem to shake it, like I do a dream.


Wake up, wake up, and shake off this crutch.

I'll never find my way from this blankened clutch.

And to the darkness I will fall, never finding my way.

But if I reach higher, and grab onto the hopeful ray,

I will find happiness that is greater than any passing day.

Magic soap, magic soap, I wish you to wash away,

something deep inside me, nobody else can see.

Middle of Something

I'm elated. More than elated. I'm ecstatic. I get to go on a date with Jensen Bulling. Jensen Bulling. Just thinking his name gives me butterflies.

So, a little backstory. He's worked with me at the office since last year. We've been friends since the first day. Imagine meeting someone you feel like you've known your whole life. That's how it was for us. But we've never crossed the line into more than friendship. Sure, we've hung out. Gone to parties. Had movie nights. But not a date. Tonight is a first.

As I swing open my closet doors, work clothes stare back at me. Do I even have anything approprite to wear? Rummaging through clothes is like going through a magical personal runway show. You see the item of clothing, and the image of you wearing it is projected in the front of your brain. Next item: new projection. But if you're not wearing a dress, body suit, or overalls, you kinda got to get more creative. For instance, if you find a shirt you like, then you have to find something to pair it with. Jeans? Shorts? Skirt? What kind of weather is it? Where are you going? Get the idea?

In this moment, I half wish I was a boy. Their outfits are much easier to pull off. But if I was a boy, I wouldn't be going on this date, and I'm so excited about this date. So, I keep up my rummaging.


He saw me in that last week.

Wore that two days ago.

That's cute, but not quite right.

Hmmm...does that even still fit? Maybe I should try it on.
I start to make a pile of possible clothing candidates. Before long, its a foot high. I should start trying things on.

My excitement is turning into fear.

My first item is a casual gray sweater. I pair it with turquoise jeans and a multicolored scarf. But the shoes that match aren't my favorite. So it goes in the maybe pile.

Next item: A black dress. Yes, the black dress. A girl always needs one of those. Black stretch silk with rouching of chiffon across the bodice, cascading in waves down the skirt. I pull it on. It feels tighter than the last time I wore it. When was the last time I wore it? Was it really over six months ago, with my ex at his friend's wedding luncheon? Just thinking of that makes me sick. He dumped me after the wedding reception. Maybe this dress had bad karma. Or maybe it's just too revealing. I give myself a once over. Fitted through the shoulders, cups my chest nicely, flat to my hips, but what's going on there? I try to flatten a ridge. Oh...it's the underslip. I tug it down. Much better. I just lost a dress size through that area. But it still feels too formal. Almost like I'm over doing it for him. I tug it back over my head.

It continues like this until my pile is empty. I feel like I've calculated for everything. This season's fashions. This season's color scheme. The weather. The venue. Matching what I guess he'd wear. What shoes I want to wear. What vibe I want to give off. What hairstyle I'm going to do. There are so many things to consider.

I flop down on my bed. Exhausted. My excitement and fear have turned into frustration.

Who am I trying to impress? Jensen? Myself? The people of the world? As I consider this. I become overwhelmed.

I'm not excited for this date anymore. All I want to do is curl up in a ball and fall asleep. But I can't. I need to get up and get ready.

I check the clock. Only forty five minutes before he arrives. I need to make a decision now so I won't be late. That wouldn't be good first date etiquette.

Sorting through my discarded outfits takes more out of me than I realize and before I know it, I'm lying next to the pile, running my hands across the carpet, making invisible snow angels.

"Rough day?" My best friend's voice pulls me back into sanity.

"Not day. Just last couple hours." I nod toward the clothes. "My clothes are throwing a rebellion."

She smiles. "Hot date?"

"With Jensen." I concede.

Her face lights up. "Jensen? As in, your Jensen?"

"The same."

She's jumping up and down now. "What's the problem then? You should be going crazy with excitement."

"I was. Until I couldn't find anything to wear."

Her smile slips some. She walks over to me and collapses onto the floor, mirroring my position. "He's seen you in several different outfits and situations. He's not asking your clothes out, he's asking you out. Just wear something that makes you feel good,. He will like you in whatever you choose." She pauses. "Well, as long as he's not like your last boyfriend and had to approve of all your choices before you could be seen together."

I consider her words. "Is that what my problem is? Am I afraid to make a choice because I think it might be wrong?"

"Well, not to sound rude, but the last guy you dated was kinda a jerk. All he cared about was what you looked like on the outside. And by doing that, he hurt you on the inside. It's your chance to be you again. Free. Choose what you'd like to wear. What's on the outside doesn't matter. It's the inside that counts."