Measuring Up...Improvement Quotes

Take a hard look at those things which we needlessly, foolishly turn into burdens when they were meant to be blessings.  ~Elaine Cannon

What's the difference between ignorance and arrogance?  I don't know and I don't care.

Those who resist correction, resist perfection. ~President Snow

Too frequently we strive to live as good a life as our peers, when we should be striving to live like the Savior.  (Dr. Jae R. Ballif, physics professor at Brigham Young University)

Elder Marion D. Hanks, Assistant to the Council of the Twelve, said of the Apostle Paul:  "The Lord called him to the ministry, not because of what he had done (or hadn't done), but because of what he was going to be able to do."  (Eastern Atlantic States Mission leadership seminar, summer 1968.)

I find that when I get casual in my relationships with divinity and when it seems that no divine ear is listening and no divine voice is speaking, that I am far, far away.  If I immerse myself in the scriptures the distance narrows and the spirituality returns.  ~Spencer W. Kimball, (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, [1982], 135).

Elder Harold B. Lee reminded us that a certain amount of spiritual preparation is necessary
before we can receive divine communications.  He said, "The Lord will bring us his blessings to that extent that we have diligence in keeping his commandments.  Each of you, in other words, must stand on your own feet if you will receive the great blessings which the Almighty has in store for you...Stand upon your own feet, so the Lord can speak to you.  In humility be prepared to say with Paul, 'Lord, what wilt thou have me do?'  And with dauntless courage say with the boy Samuel, 'Speak, Lord, thy servant heareth.'  Be humble, be prayerful and the Lord will take you by the hand, as it were, and give you answer to your prayers."  ("But Arise and Stand upon Thy Feet"--and I Will Speak with Thee, Brigham Young University Speeches of the Year, Provo, 7 Feb. 1956, pp. 7, 11.)

The way of the gospel is a simple way.  Some of the requirements may appear to you as elementary and unnecessary.  Do not spurn them.  Humble yourselves and walk in obedience.  I promise that the results that follow will be marvelous to behold and satisfying to experience.  ~Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, (Ensign, Nov. 1976, 96)

If you want praise more than instruction -- you may get neither.  ~Henry B. Eyring


Measuring Up: Integrity Quotes
Measuring Up: Time and Preparation
Measuring Up: Testimony Quotes
Measuring Up: Service and Empathy Quotes
Measuring Up: Sabbath Quotes

The Real McCoy: Authentic People

Authentic People Quotes Collection

Real integrity calls us TO BE and not To SEEM.

No man, for any considerable period, can wear one face to himself and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which may be the true.  Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter

A lie is any communication given to another with the intent to deceive.  ~Marvin J. Ashton,
(Ensign 5/80)

Who are you without your stuff?

Truth has a certain ring to it. ~Earnest Hemmingway

The Lord knows us for what we are, and eventually, everyone else does, too. ~Lorraine Henroid

...Never do in secret, what [you] would not do in the presence of millions.  ~Lucy Mack Smith

We never know when people have values until they are challenged.

I live on good soup and not fine words. ~Moliere

An honest man is the noblest work of God ~Byrne

Sin has many tools, but a lie is the handle which fits them all. ~O.W. Holmes

Honesty about our own weaknesses leads to a more compassionate view of others. ("A Change of Heart: Key to Harmonious Relationships," Ensign 2/84)

The chains of habit are generally too small to be felt until they are too strong to be broken. ~Samuel Johnson

Help me, O Lord, to be free not only of personal deceit, but grant me also the wisdom to avoid those who would damage me or mine through devious means.

Stand with anybody that stands right.  Stand with him while he is right and part with him when he goes wrong. ~Abraham Lincoln

No virtues in the perfection we strive for are more important than integrity and honesty.  Let us then be complete, unbroken, pure, and sincere, to develop in ourselves that quality of soul we prize so highly in others.  ~Spencer W. Kimball, (Faith Precedes the Miracle, pp. 247-48)

The matter of trust is the principle taught in the Savior's parable of the talents.  You will recall that, in this story, an honorable effort, given to the full by the two honest servants, brought the same reward from the Master, even though the product of their efforts was not the same.  Deep within our own hearts we generally know when we have paid the price, when we have done the best our personal resources and abilities would have allowed us to do at the moment, regardless of the outcome of our effort or the way it may be viewed by others.  It is at these times that we know real peace, even though the product of our effort may not be all that we would have hoped it to be.  The full return on this kind of investment cannot always be determined at the next audit period.  When Jesus was crucified by his detractors, it appeared to all observers--even to his disciples--that his efforts had accounted for nothing.  But the Savior knew he had paid the price.  History has borne record to the quality of his investment.  ~Thomas S. Monson

He who lies is the servant of the lie.  He who tells the lie must live with the results.  Deacons and Beehive girls should be taught the evils of deceit.  Teachers and Mia Maids should be taught the importance of truth.  Priests and Laurels should be taught the pitfalls that accompany dishonesty.  Missionaries, to be successful and happy, must live by correct principles.  Primary children can learn that telling lies is not good.  Children in the home are entitled to see honesty taught by example.  Unfortunate is the individual or family who is taught that honesty is a policy rather than the proper way of life...We live in a world of law.  We may be able to avoid or skirt laws of the land, but the laws of heaven have an irrevocable effect on us today, tomorrow, and forever..."Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32)  No man will ever be totally free who is living a lie...We should ever bear in mind that a wrong isn't right just because many people do it.  A wrong deed isn't right just because it hasn't become visible.  (Marvin J. Ashton, "This Is No Harm," Ensign, May 1982)

Builders of Homes

Atlanta Temple, 5/24/02

I don't always kneel when I pray.  My prayers fly heavenward all day long--while I bake or drive or comfort.  I mean no disrespect to Heavenly Father, I just need him constantly while the work of woman goes on. ~Helen Lee Goates

Sister Barbara B. Smith (former general Relief Society president), taught that the Relief Society should teach "women to build a home based on gospel principles."  She said that a home such as this was possible for a woman who lives alone or one who has a family.  The home can become a "place of warmth and renewal for all who enter."

“It is often said to me that the ideal is too much to strive for, because in falling short of perfection there is too much pain, too much sorrow, too much guilt. But it is the responsibility of the Church and its leaders to teach correct principles. Each individual must apply those principles as best he can—trying, failing, repenting, trying again, and finally succeeding.“The purpose of the Church is not to condemn or discourage. Instead, the Church gives us identity and direction, stars to steer by. The purpose of the Church’s instruction on homemaking is to develop homes where people gain compassion, refinement, and moral strength. The kingdom of God is made up of sovereign individuals who use their agency to choose to live the laws of heaven. This is the way to exaltation. Eternal truths are best taught and immortal lives are best shaped in a good home. What a challenge it is to be the maker of such a home!” (“Makers of Homes,” Ensign, Mar. 1979, 24)

The words of Barbara B. Smith are more than thirty years old, but are still inspiring to me as I read them again.  They give me strength as a stay-at-home-mom homemaker.  Everyone can be a homemaker whether they stay at home and whether they have children or not.  But to be both in this day and age is truly daunting.  I heard recently that 89% of all women are in the workforce of some kind.  That left little more than a measly 10% that stay at home.  This choice has often left me feeling lonely, especially if one lives where few women stay at home.  There have been times where I lived in areas where being a stay-at-home mom homemaker was the “norm” or maybe even the concept was becoming “popular” again as many women were leaving their careers to raise their children.

I also could relate to Sister Smith’s comments about becoming discouraged.  Just this morning I woke up feeling like I have probably failed, to some degree, at every single thing I have ever tried to do.  I was seriously depressed by this fact.  I decided I needed to break out the scriptures and read next Sunday’s lesson.   This reminds me of excellent advice by Florence S. Jacobsen, “Just before bedtime prayers, evaluate each day.  Make plans for tomorrow that will move you toward your long-range goal.  Strive for a close partnership with God in making your dreams come true.”

After spiritual renewal from the scriptures, I gained some perspective.  Yes, I have failed.  I do not know of anything I have undertook, especially as a wife, mother, and homemaker, (not to mention sister, friend, and Christian), where I have not achieved the desired results I was hoping for. 

I suppose the Holy Ghost began to stir me to remembrance that much of my so-called “failure” was not necessarily all due to me, since everyone has free agency and we cannot control others.  Besides, even if I tried and essentially failed, I was better off and further along than had I not tried at all.  In a way, this could be considered "success."

It is this Hope that the Spirit fills me with that keeps me going.  Perhaps this self-doubt helps me to see personal flaws that need correcting—providing the humbling needed for “repenting, trying again, and finally succeeding.”  ...And enduring to the end.

Homemaking Journals

“Homemaking journals were…passed down through family generations in the ‘olden days.’  It is a journal where you record in one place all things related to homemaking: all of the things special to you, traditions you have instilled, secrets, tips and more.”1

When my aunt retired, she and her husband began to serve a mission in Washington D.C.  Soon after their mission began, she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.  Aunt Phala used this remaining time to finish family history, purchase quality photo albums for her many grandchildren, and she compiled her own Homemaking Journal.  She gave her children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters, and nieces such as myself, a copy of this wonderful book.

Aunt Phala was one of the most creative and talented people I’ve ever known and a true asset to the LDS church.  She wrote many a road show skit and put on Girls Camps and many other major church events, including weddings and baby showers.  Everything was done with style and hospitality not common today.  My favorite recipes of Phala’s were recorded in her journal, including chicken and stuffing casserole, pearly shell chicken salad, and orange box-cake cookies.  She also included quotes, family stories, treasured and rare photos, original poetry and drawings, and advice/instruction on anything from cleaning to entertaining.

I have been fortunate to know many people throughout my life that have been an inspiration to me especially for homemaking and Phala’s journal has certainly inspired me.  Her suffering was long and painful, but she courageously completed goals most of the healthy would never attempt.  My own homemaking journal will be dedicated to Aunt Phala for inspiring me.

It occurred to me, as I have been compiling my homemaker’s journal, that I have become much more organized by doing so.  I am able to find what I need…when I actually need it!  I believe sitting down, (maybe for a few hours each Sunday), and working on this specialized journal can help us to organize ourselves.  Topic ideas for a homemaking journal listed by Dionna Sanchez include but are not limited to:

• “Recipes (especially beloved family recipes that have been in your family for years)
• Inspirational poems, quotes, Bible verses or excerpts that inspire you in your love for family, home, and homemaking?
• Tips, tricks, hints and ideas that aid you on a daily basis in helping your home to run smoothly
• Home schooling information—if relevant
• Health and first aid remedies and tricks
• Ideas and tips for Emergency Preparedness
• List of birthdates and anniversaries
• Holiday Traditions
• Kid stuff (activities, projects and kid recipes like “goop”)
• Gardening—planting information, seasonal planting favorites that you have used, tips, tricks, and more.
• Your daily routines—do you keep a to-do list?  Does it help you to stick by a certain schedule?
• Meal Planning—how do you keep organized in your kitchen?  What helps you keep meals rotating regularly?
• Budget outline
• Trusted phone numbers of doctors, dentists, builders, pastors, and more

Not only will you now be breathtakingly organized, you will have a precious gift to give or leave to your loved ones.

1)  Dionna Sanchez has written about Homemaking Journals for Emphasis on Moms, a monthly online newsletter http://www.emphasisonmoms.com/.

Living Small

Homemaking Journals

Grateful Living

Grateful Living Series: Dress Up M. H. Windows

Grateful Living: Repurposed Trunk

Grateful Living: Repurposed Armoire

Grateful Living: Class Up the Mobile Home Fireplace

Grateful Living: Front Porches

Grateful Living: The !#*! M.H. Walls

Grateful Living: M.H. Spa Retreat
Grateful Living: The Homebuilders of the World

Setting Organizational Goals: organization part 2

In a revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord told us to "Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God." (D&C 88:119) ("Organize Yourselves," Ensign, Nov. 1980).  To me this scripture from The Doctrine and Covenants states the essential purpose of every homemaker.  As homemakers we are to "establish a house."  Our house should have prayer, fasting, faith, learning, glory, order and God as the foundation.  The word establish is defined as:  "To set up; found.  To bring about; generate.  To place or settle in a secure position or condition; install.  To make firm or secure."

In my opinion, being disorganized is simply a matter of having developed bad habits.  I believe being organized can be developed just as any "gift."  Organization begins with the heads of the household.  We must honestly evaluate whether or not we're truly ready for the challenge of being an "organized person."  Just like any gift, the gift of organization requires consistent effort.  Prayer, research, and study are necessary.  

Hide not your talents, they for use were made.  What's a sun-dial in the shade? ~Benjamin Franklin

When I entered the Young Women program at age twelve, I was given a beautiful Personal Progress book. It was white, full-sized, with a picture of the ideal Latter-day Saint Young Woman on the cover.  Inside were six values and homemaking was one of them, as well as my favorite.  We were given excellent step-by-step instruction on how to plan goals.  By following these simple steps, becoming more organized as a goal can be successfully accomplished.

First Evaluate:  What do I want to have happen in my life now and in the future?  Then make a Plan by setting a date for the goal to be accomplished and how this goal will be accomplished.  By having a Target Date, the goal becomes more real.  The plan needs to be broken down into small steps.  It helps to have someone to Report to.  This can be Heavenly Father if the goal is very personal, or it can be to a family member, friend or recorded in a journal.  Last, begin the process again.  The ultimate goal of an organized household can be broken into smaller, achievable goals.

The noblest search is the search for excellence. ~Lyndon B. Johnson

Gordon B. Hinkley, former president of the LDS church said, "We will not become perfect in a day or a month or a year.  We will not accomplish it in a lifetime, but we can keep trying, starting with our more obvious weaknesses and gradually converting them to strengths as we go forward with our lives."

(The Quest for Excellence," Ensign Sep. 1999)

Becoming organized is a process as well.  It can be fun and even addictive (but in a good way).  You may find yourself organizing where ever you go.  Following the goal-setting process outlined in the old Young Women Manuals helped me to earn my Young Women Medallion twice!  And I have been pretty darn organized ever since.  This has brought me much joy.  I've also taught my own children this process and it has helped them to be successful students and earn their own recognitions at church, school and scouting.

Sometimes we can plan to have a goal accomplished by a certain time and devote a particular time to complete the goal (like cleaning out the shed), but it's also true that the best time to organize is when you catch the mood.  For quite some time I may research the best way to organize the shed, and make an inventory of what needs to be in the shed and what to donate, etc. before I actually feel like doing it.  Don't be upset if you have to change the target date.  When I'm "in the mood" to organize, I do a much better job.

80% of success is showing up. ~Woody Allen