Not every woman in this music video has been through betrayal trauma, but think what could happen if each one of us partnered with Christ to make the path smoother for the women who will come behind us! Infidelity, infertility, loss, cancer, a wayward child, poverty...and on and on...we all struggle with SOMETHING. Whether that means we are public about our battles or maintain anonymity, GOD.NEEDS.EACH.ONE.OF.US! Do you know how much God needs YOU?!!! Each one of us can participate in the work of the Savior by bringing hope, loving others around us as He loves them, and serving God's children alongside Christ. God knows His children! "God has devised means to save each of his children." -Henry B. Eyring. We don't have to be articulate or talented...only willing. He will do the rest!
Project Lemonade came from a dream. I don't usually remember my dreams. This one was so real I knew I had to figure out what it meant! I think I have...at least begun to understand.
Project Lemonade is based on the old adage: "When life throws you lemons, make lemonade." I believe part of our healing process includes paying it forward and finding ways to pass it on. It is my intent to show you what can be done to pave the way for women who will come behind us. I hope to inspire you to get on your knees and ask God what He needs you to do for the other women in trauma around you He has placed within your reach. These are real women with real experiences.
One woman cannot change the world alone, but as we all do what we can, we can make the path easier for women everywhere. We can help others to bear their burdens. We can be sent on God's errand to see to the details of their lives. Be prayerful! Dream big! Remember God will take anything you offer Him and magnify and amplify it. A good friend once told me, "It's not big enough until you have no idea how you will accomplish it." God needs you!
Elder Pingree said the following in this past General Conference. "Brothers and sisters, God has important work for each of us. Speaking to sisters but teaching truths that apply to all, President Spencer W. Kimball taught: 'Before we came [to earth, we] were given certain assignments. … While we do not now remember the particulars, this does not alter the glorious reality of what we once agreed to.' What an ennobling truth! Our Heavenly Father has specific and significant things for you and me to accomplish (see Ephesians 2:10).
"These divine assignments are not reserved for a privileged few but are for all of us—regardless of gender, age, race, nationality, income level, social status, or Church calling. Every one of us has a meaningful role to play in furthering God’s work (see Moses 1:39).
"Some of us question whether Heavenly Father can use us to make important contributions. But remember, He has always used ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things (see 1 Corinthians 1:27–28; D&C 35:13; 124:1). '[We] are agents,' and 'the power is in [us]' to 'bring to pass much righteousness' (D&C 58:27–28).
President Russell M. Nelson explained:
'The Lord has more in mind for you than you have in mind for yourself! You have been reserved and preserved for this time and place. …
'The Lord needs you to change the world. As you accept and follow His will for you, you will find yourself accomplishing the impossible!'"
President Uchtdorf said, "On your journey back to Heavenly Father you will soon realize that this journey isn’t just about focusing on your own life. No, this path inevitably leads you to become a blessing in the lives of God’s other children—your brothers and sisters. And the interesting thing about the journey is that as you serve God, and as you care for and help your fellowmen, you will see great progress in your own life, in ways you could never imagine.
"Perhaps you don’t consider yourself all that useful; perhaps you don’t consider yourself a blessing in somebody’s life. Often, when we look at ourselves, we see only our limitations and deficiencies. We might think we have to be 'more' of something for God to use us—more intelligent, more wealthy, more charismatic, more talented, more spiritual. Blessings will come not so much because of your abilities but because of your choices. And the God of the universe will work within and through you, magnifying your humble efforts for His purposes.
"His work has always advanced on this important principle: 'Out of small things proceedeth that which is great.'
"...How encouraging it is to know, though we are imperfect, if our hearts are turned to God, He will be generous and kind and use us for His purposes.
"Those who love and serve God and fellowmen and humbly and actively participate in His work will see wondrous things happen in their lives and in the lives of those they love.
"Doors that seemed shut will open.
"Angels will go before them and prepare the way.
"No matter your position in your community or in the Church, God will use you, if you are willing. He will magnify your righteous desires and turn the compassionate actions you sow into a bountiful harvest of goodness."
May God inspire you to see what He has in store for you and His children who you will serve. May He strengthen you as you engage in the work He has for you.
All my love,
~Katy
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Stay tuned for guest posts. If you have something to share, please contact me at willis.katy@gmail.com
IDEAS:
~Still maintains anonymity:*"I leave my phone on the nightstand every night in case someone needs to reach out. I have made phone calls at 2 am too."
*"I offer free babysitting for couples who attend 12-step meetings."
*How one sister reached the sisters in her entire stake, yet stayed anonymous.
*You can share your story with other women! It can be completely anonymous (or as public as you choose to write it). See details HERE.
*Tell your bishop or stake president about Light Boxes and/or become a Light Keeper. This is a non-profit organization that can help you bring free care packages to women battling betrayal trauma (or facing other types of traumatic events) to your congregation or community. Check out how we did a spin-off with a Christ-centered version for our stake HERE.
~Requires some level of going public:
*"I posted a list of local and online resources for betrayal trauma on my blog."
*"We have chosen to go public through blog and social media. I am the first contact for many women who see my posts and finally understand what has happened to them."
*"My husband and I have spoken with our bishop and our stake president. We have given them permission to give our contact info to anybody who may need someone to reach out to."
*"We serve as Stake Addiction Specialists and are part of the Stake Self Reliance Committee. In this capacity, we have taught 5th Sunday lessons, talked to our youth, taken a few minutes in Ward Councils, met with bishops or bishoprics, and helped train leaders (especially bishops at quarterly bishops' welfare meetings). We are also available when leaders feel like they need a little extra support or are met with an unusual situation (protecting confidences of the individuals). We are available to help support leaders and act as a temporary support for our stake members until they can find their footing with long-term resources."
ETC....
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