For the Strength of YOU!!!

Alright. This post is slightly off topic but I thought that it was something super important to share.

Today, I received a facebook notice from the Church today about the updated Strength of Youth pamphlet. I had no idea that they were even updating it, but now that I've read through the whole thing, I can see why! There are many things that have been changed or added to the new booklet that is so important to this new generation.

For those of you who would like to read the entire thing yourself, here's the link: https://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/english/pdf/language-materials/09403_eng.pdf?lang=eng

But, I've also copy and pasted the most important pieces to those who want an overview. These added pieces are a BIG DEAL. So- without further ado, let's jump in!

"When listening to music, be courteous to those around you. Keep your music at a reasonable volume, and remove your earphones when others are talking to you or want you to be part of their activities."

REMOVE YOUR EARPHONES!!! How awesome is that? Because I think that we all have one of those friends who still have their earphones in when you're talking to them and it makes you feel slightly bad.... Of course, I'm not saying I'm perfect at this, but I'm definitely going to make it a priority!

"If you listen to music constantly, you may not have the quiet time you need for thinking, feeling, and receiving spiritual guidance."

I'm definitely going to have to work on this one. I'm almost always listening to music in some form or another and I could definitely use some more time to think and ponder and listen to the spirit.

"Take care that your use of media does not dull your sensitivity to the Spirit or interfere with your personal relationships with others. Spending long periods of time using the Internet or a mobile device, playing video games, or watching television or other media can keep you from valuable interactions with other people. Be careful that your use of social media does not replace spending time with your family and friends."

WOWOWOWOWOWOWOWOWOW!!!! BAM!!!! That one hit me right in the face! I've been spending large amounts of time on facebook since I'm so far away from home. I'd like to think that is the exception to the rule.... But, I'm going to seriously try and lessen my time on facebook.... when I get home. :) I've ALWAYS agreed that playing video games is a serious time waster- and was so glad that it was added to the strength of youth.

"Guard your safety and the safety of others by taking great care about what personal information and images you share through technology. Do not communicate anything over the Internet or through texting that would be inappropriate to share in person. Obey the laws that govern sharing music, movies, and other copyrighted items."

Diddo. Safety first.

"Remember that these standards for your use of language apply to all forms of communication, including texting on a cell phone or communicating on the Internet."

Don't text, email, or comment what you wouldn't say in person.

"Your emotional health is also important and may affect your spiritual and physical well-being. Disappointment and occasional sadness are part of this mortal life. However, if you have prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, or depression, talk with your parents and your bishop and seek help."

How refreshing is this? They've added emotional and mental health as well.

"Honoring the Sabbath day includes attending all your Church meetings. Go to sacrament meeting prepared to worship the Lord and partake worthily of the sacrament. During sacrament meeting, be reverent and willing to learn. Refrain from activities that would distract you or others during this sacred meeting. Be on time for your meetings. As you do these things, you invite the Spirit of the Lord to be with you."

Wow. I think that said it all. I've got to work on being more attentive during sacrament meeting. I think that once I can actually go to an English meeting, it will be much easier :)

Well, that's all the changes that really stuck out to me. I hope that it was an eyeopener to a few others besides myself. The church is true. It always has been, is now, and always will be. I know that the prophets are aware of everything that is going on in our lives today. I know that the Lord knows each and every one of us and is doing everything in His power for us to succeed in this life.