Hey Beautiful Souls~
As I sit down to write this blog post, a profound urge washes over me to share my testimony, to unfold the layers of my soul and reveal the essence of my journey—a journey marked by trials and triumphs, darkness and light, despair and hope. It’s a story not of perfection but of persistence; not of unblemished faith but of a relentless pursuit of light amidst the shadows that often shroud our world.
In the world today, it feels as though a tangible evil lurks in the air, a darkness that attempts to obscure the sunshine that bathes our lives. This struggle isn’t just external; it mirrors the war within—a battle for the soul, a contest between our higher selves and the temptations that seek to derail us from our divine path. I’ve come to see this not just as a metaphorical devil on my shoulder but as a real, palpable force seeking to influence my choices and cloud my judgment.
My life has been a series of tempests—near-death experiences, health challenges, and mental health struggles. Each trial, whether it be fighting to stay nourished amidst diabetes and gastroparesis, battling the demons of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, or simply striving to find a place of peace and health, has taught me resilience. Yet, for too long, I focused on saving others, driven by nostalgia and an idolized notion of what life should be, neglecting the most crucial relationship of all: my connection with God and the Savior.
The journey of repentance is profound and deeply personal. It’s about recognizing where we’ve faltered, not to drown in self-judgment but to understand that the Atonement is always within reach. It’s about creating lists not of our failures but of our steps towards improvement, recognizing that while labels may define aspects of our lives, they do not determine our worth or our potential.
As I’ve aged, I’ve learned that life’s end isn’t about knowing the exact moment of the world’s conclusion or the precise path our souls will take hereafter. Instead, it’s about ensuring that our souls shine for eternity through the love, creativity, and help we extend to others.
I am inspired by the Divine Creator who formed me, and in return, I feel compelled to share that peace, testimony, faith, and knowledge through my talents and passions. It’s about living for today, for the sunshine that pierces through the storms, embracing each day with the knowledge that He lives, and our Savior is indeed coming.
My years were marked by darkness, a period where my soul felt as if it were erupting in agony. Now, I find solace in the peace and quiet, in the beauty that lies within and in the warmth of the sun that fuels my spirit. This transition from darkness to light hasn’t been swift or easy. It’s a daily commitment to progress, to surround myself with love and light, because I’ve learned that darkness only serves to dampen the spirit, especially for someone like me, whose essence is deeply intertwined with art, truth, and humor.
In a world obsessed with competition and comparison, I choose to stand apart. God is the ultimate destination, and as we anticipate the Savior's return, I wish to meet Him hand in hand, surrounded by joy and living each day to the fullest. This means transforming platforms of darkness into canvases of light, changing narratives of despair into stories of hope, and replacing competition with compassion.
As I navigate the complexities of this world, my resolve remains unshaken—to be a beacon of strength, to stir my surroundings with love and light, and to cherish the journey, regardless of the challenges it presents. It's about making each day count, not in anticipation of what the end might bring but in celebration of the present moment and the potential it holds for growth, learning, and love.
To you reading this, know that you're not alone in your struggles. We are all walking this path together, seeking light, yearning for peace, and striving to leave the world a little brighter than we found it. Let's embrace this journey with open hearts, ready to learn, forgive, love, and illuminate the path for others as we go.
In closing, my message is one of hope: Regardless of the darkness that may seem to prevail, light is always within reach. We must only choose to see it, embrace it, and become vessels of its power.
With Love ~
Keep Shining~Be Inspired~
~Jackie Inspires~
Because, in the end, God is everything. The Savior is coming, and I want to be ready, hand in hand with joy, just living each day.
Hello Beautiful Souls,
As the holiday season envelops us in its warmth, I'm drawn to the cherished memories that define this time of year. It's not just about the decorations or the presents; it's about the timeless traditions that have shaped my life and continue to guide my journey.
Growing up in a bustling household of 13 kids with two incredible parents, the holidays were a symphony of laughter, chaos, and unbreakable bonds. However, amidst the joy, there are threads of challenges that have been woven into the tapestry of our family's story.
My mother, a beacon of strength and love, battles Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Her illness, especially as she approaches her 80s, has become a poignant reminder of life's fragility. Witnessing her journey has taught me about resilience and the enduring power of love.
My father, at 80 years old, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment and dedication. Their love story, spanning over five decades, is a testament to enduring love amidst trials. Despite the hardships and the toll of my mother's illness, their bond remains unshakable, serving as a guiding light for Tarl and me in our nearly four years together and our sights for eternity.
Their example, their sacrifice, and their profound love have been the foundation upon which our family was built. From raising nine biological children to embracing four of us through adoption, their love knows no boundaries. It's this essence of love and resilience that makes the holidays all the more precious.
Christmas, to me, isn't just about festive adornments or lavish gifts; it's a celebration of family, of enduring love that weathers life's storms. The memories etched in my heart are of moments spent together, amidst the backdrop of challenges and joys that define our journey.
The absence of children in our own lives doesn't diminish the depth of our gratitude for the present. We're embracing opportunities to grow personally, professionally, and as partners, building a foundation rooted in love and faith for the road ahead.
The belief in learning, growing, and being vessels of love is firmly rooted in our faith. While our beliefs may differ, the core remains—a commitment to spreading empathy, compassion, and kindness.
In navigating our own challenges and learning to express our emotions authentically, we've found solace in being open and vulnerable. It's in these moments that we've discovered the true essence of connection and the power of shared experiences.
To all the beautiful souls navigating their own journeys, know that amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there's a thread of hope and love weaving through it all. Each day offers an opportunity to create meaningful memories, to share your light, and to touch lives.
During the holidays. It's just him and I.
One day in the beautiful eternity to come we'll have children but in the meantime, we have our talents, creative projects, work, finishing a degree, and getting me a wonderful career that lies ahead. Holidays come at certain times of year but what we both realize is to make each day count. We all have different challenges and trials and I always love My husband Tarl, an INTJ, and I, an INFJ, navigate our unique paths, recognizing that vulnerability and expression don't always come easily. Yet, in our differences, we've found a harmony that defines our bond—an intertwining of strengths and weaknesses that complement each other.
Tarl often shares a perspective that resonates deeply—our challenges in life are akin to choosing from a 'tribulation buffet' before arriving on this Earth. It's a reminder that despite certain unfulfilled desires, life is still a gift to be celebrated and lived to its fullest.
We all can learn and grow, and we're blessed with opportunities in life. These opportunities allow us to strive to be the best versions of ourselves, in line with what we believe our Savior Jesus Christ would want us to be. It's not about what we have or don't have—it's about how we use our time and experiences to spread love. Love comes in many forms: empathy, compassion, teaching, learning, and sharing our talents and passions, whether it's through singing, writing, dancing, or any other skill that comes from the heart.
Being open and personal about our feelings is important. Understanding and accepting ourselves and others take time, but it's crucial for personal growth. It's about acknowledging our limits, truths, and passions. My husband, Tarl, and I have learned this, and it doesn't make us any less; it simply means accepting who we are. This acceptance has allowed us to live a fulfilling life together centered on Christ, accepting challenges constructively, and treasuring our life's journey together.
For me, helping and supporting others is a motivation that goes straight to my heart. I see it as a blessing, using my own experiences to bring love and empathy to others. Even in the darkest of days, I held onto memories that were dear to me, and I wish to share that light with others.
It's about nurturing the light within us and sharing it with the world, always holding onto hope and staying open to possibilities. Miracles do happen, but until then, it's up to us to do our best. We believe that our Heavenly Parents and Savior Jesus Christ understand our deepest desires. It's essential to believe in oneself and in the endless opportunities and paths that lie ahead. Never give up. Reach out to others, find that light within you, and take one step at a time, embracing each feeling and experience along the way.
Our faith anchors us in a belief in learning, growing, and being conduits of love and compassion. It's a faith that propels us forward, believing that with faith, doors open, and fears dissipate.
In navigating life's challenges, we've found solace in being vulnerable and open. It's through these moments that we've discovered the true essence of connection and the power of shared experiences.
To all the beautiful souls journeying alongside us, your presence and deepest wishes are acknowledged and valued. Despite life's complexities, there's a thread of hope and love that intertwines through it all.
As we approach the holiday season, let our hearts be filled with love, our spirits with joy, and our days with moments worth cherishing. From Tarl and me, our hearts overflow with love and prayers for each and every one of you.
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and always remember: Keep shining and be inspired!
With love and warm wishes,
Jackie Inspires & Tarl Creates
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