29 Days of GRATITUDE

Day Two:

Tody I feel extremely grateful for institute.

It is a little difficult living far away from the institute building, but the drive is definitely worth it.  

For those of you who have absolutely no idea what I am talking about when I say institute, let me explain... institutes are built all over at various college campuses or very close to them. They are a part of the Latter-Day Saints churh education program. They have several different classes throughout the week all centered on one section of scripture such as, the Book of Mormon, the Old Testament,  the New Testament,  Pearl of Great Price, or cetain topics such as, Marriage and Family and Mission Prep. These classes typically have mostly college age students attending, however, anyone is welcome to come. 

These classes are great and so wonderful. The opportunity to learn and to discuss scripture is just what I need at the very least once a week. It allows me to make new friends, but most importantly to feel the Spirit and ponder on His words. It allows me to slow down and in a sense escape the world for a little while. 

When I lived in San Luis Obispo and first started attending institue classes,  just walking in the building gave me a feeling of home and safety, like all my worries where left outside the door. There I knew I was loved and welcomed by everyone. It was filled with happiness and laughter. The institute in bakersfield is alot like that as well. 

I think that in these areas where there are less mormons there is a greater feel or sense of belonging because everybody knows everybody. I loved institute in Arizona, but in the mesa area there were three different institute buildings to choose from in the area. And so many new faces all the time! Which is fun and exciting, but not always familiar.

The biggest thing about institutes are the lessons though. It truly uplifts me and gives me strenghth. I have learned countless things from the lesson that are not always what the teacher says,  but lessons communicated to me from the still smal voice of the Holy Ghost, who can dwell with me in a place as the institute because of the enviroment cultivated there.

I am grateful for institute!

What are you especially grateful for today?