Courage To Try Something New

So back in November my friend Laura told me about a great deal in regards to ski lessons and rentals. I immediately called anyone I could think of who would be interested in taking advantage of it with the catch that they would need to bring Benjamin along. We had the date set and booked...the day came and Benjamin was pretty sick. We had to reschedule..so much for the babysitter I was planning on. :) Heather had felt left out that she hadn't been asked if she wanted to learn so I scheduled her as well. I was going to have to now take them so I might as well just try it myself. I must say that it was pretty fun. The kids LOVED it!! They had no fear!!! After our lessons we were able to ski some more. The kids flew past me and every time waited for ME at the bottom of the hill. It came time that I couldn't go down one more time or else I knew that ski patrol would have to come and rescue me. The thought of quitting after 5 hours of skiing was torture for the kids. So leaving me at the bottom of the hill to rest they took off for another 2 hours. When I finally said it is time to go, there were still groans.

We went twice more this season. Probably not a good thing since we enjoyed it so much. I was amazed at how well the kids picked it up and truly had no fear. I was grateful for the friends we went with on the last day that was willing to take the kids up to the top of the mountain for a final run. I wasn't ready to do it solo with the kids. I myself wasn't quite as fearless as the kids, but I did try it and enjoyed it...just was a slow learner!!

I learned and was reminded of some of life's lessons out on the slopes. One of them was as I was skiing with my instructor it really did seem easier than when I was practicing alone. He would explain something and I put my trust in him and knew that if something happened he would be there to help me out. I watched what he did, tried it and it worked! But the second that I was skiing by myself self doubt was loud and strong. I no longer knew who I could ask for help if I needed it along the way. I related this to the Gospel and to my relationship with my Heavenly Father. As I experience this mortal life and stay close to Him, the path will seem easier. As I put my trust in Him, He will help me along the way. He will talk me down those tough patches and even shout out warnings. This was an important reminder to me and how ironic that I was on the slopes that I felt those impressions! Maybe a little skiing after the temple next time :)