To the mom with noise in her head

When I first became a mom, one of the weirdest transitions for me was how often I was alone in my thoughts. I saw how quickly my thoughts could become idle, down, depressed, and anxious. I recognized that everything I saw, heard, or participated in either increased or decreased the noise level within my soul. Even if I was alone in a quiet room, I could be filled with the inner noise of anxiety, turmoil, confusion, and distraction. To this day, I have to continually fight against this inner noise—especially within my motherhood. I know many moms have to do this. There are so many loud, compelling voices competing for our attention in our minds, and it is vital that we make room for the still, small voice to bring peace and stillness. The invitation to, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10), reminds us of our need to still our souls, our hearts, and our minds. It requires more effort than just physically being still.

James E. Faust powerfully taught,

Concern for the Wounded and Bleeding

It was a beautiful spring day in Idaho, and my fitness instructor announced that we would be going on a 2-mile run around the campus. Without hesitation, I mentally committed to finish first. I was excited to push myself and see how fast I could finish. Just before we were about to leave on our run, my teacher pulled me aside. She quietly asked, “Would you mind staying in the back to make sure no one gets left behind? There are a few girls in the class that will need encouragement to finish.” I quickly smiled and obliged, but at the same time, I was a little bothered to set my “oh so important” goal aside.

The run started, and I hung around the back with the girls who chose to walk. I had no idea that this experience would result in a powerful lesson that would stay with me forever.

I met wonderful people who were used to being “left behind.” Multiple times they thanked me for walking with them. I don’t remember much of what we talked about, but I do remember how I felt. Great love and compassion filled my heart for them. I was touched to hear about their lives and struggles. I only wished this experience was something I had chosen—rather than something I was asked to do.

Here I am over 10 years later, and I’ve thought back to that experience more times than I can count. Alma 60:22 perfectly describes what I learned from “staying behind” with those who were in need.

The stirring scripture reads,