...what's in a vision?

Honestly, I'm a bit surprised I just put an hour into updating his blog and making it all cutesy and whatnot. I swore to myself a year ago that I would never blog again until I was engaged.

Why? I don't know. Is life really all that much more interesting once you're married? Heck, it must be because everyone is doing it.

I miss writing, though. It's something I truly love to do. For the past year I have still been diligent at checking Blogger and reading everyone's life stories. Hannah, Chloe, Shelbie, Lauren, Kimberly, missionary friends... just to name a few. Let me tell you something: every one of them inspires me. It's strange because I hardly talk to these people in person anymore, yet I feel like I can still connect with them by reading their blogs. I want to thank all of you who have inspired me this way.

Yeesh. Whoever created this whole blogging thing sure knew what they were doing.

Anyway, I'm happy to be back. Like many, I'm so shocked at where I am in life. In a good way. In the words of Taylor, "everything has changed". By the way you should look up the newest remix of that song. It's good. Ahem.

So. I want to quickly address the subject of heartbreak. I'm reaching out to all you girls out there and giving you a pat on the back if you're there now or been there before.

You're brave.

You're wise.

You're beautiful.

Please, trust me. If you don't trust me then get on your knees. You know how whenever you ask Heavenly Father for things that you need He will get them to you in His way and in His time? I want you to know that Strength is His specialty. Not a new boyfriend. Not more chocolate ice cream. Not more Gossip Girl or Bachelorette episodes. Not even a study abroad trip to "find yourself". It is the simple act of asking for Strength that gets you through.  He is ready, willing, and probably even excited to give it to you. And when you do receive it, you literally feel stronger. Like you can actually make it through this.

Those of you that know me know that I am an extremely emotional person. Like, it's kind of ridiculous. But I was told after my recent heartbreak to ask for His Strength and that was all. I testify that it is real and waiting for you too. Not only do I feel strong, but I feel happy too. Is the pain still there? Of course. Do I still check my phone every ten minutes just to see if he called? Yep. Do I miss him? Constantly. But the amazing thing about this renewed Strength is that I can take a good look at that pain, that broken heart of mine, and somehow be able to say "look how I'm growing. look how much better of a person I am and will be because of this." And then guess what? I get on my knees again and actually thank Heavenly Father for the trial. Yes, I promise I'm a real human being. And speaking the truth.

There's a reason for everything. Everybody knows that. But maybe we all need to take a moment and re-realize that. Renew our gratitude. Renew our strength. Renew our vision. His hand is in everything.

Also, chocolate ice cream?  Go eat as much of it as you want. But smile, please. Even if it is all over your face.