Life is a lot like baseball. God is the master pitcher and I am the batter. Every time I make a decision, I step up to the plate and get ready for the pitch. Sometimes my choice may not be the best, in which case I will most likely strike out. I could try to bunt the ball, but why try and steal a pitch if I know I can wait for a home run? Sometimes he will send me a pitch that I can knock clear over the field. In which case, I can feel the most satisfaction and enjoyment. Generally, he and I seem to be on the same page, and I make it safely to each base. However, there are those times when I do strike out, or he throws an unsuspecting curveball. In those cases, I need to take a step back, reassess the situation, and sometimes rethink my tactics. If I just play the game right, and don't try and win by my rules, I will most certainly make it to home base. Sometimes I struggle with this, thinking that my ideas are the right ones, when perhaps, the pitcher knows best.
This time in my life is a great struggle, but I am finding that through the trials I am facing, I am learning and growing in ways I never thought possible. Sometimes I feel completely alone, but that is my own pride and selfishness holding me back. I know that there is a great plan for me and I have a great future ahead. But as Pres. Monson says, "Your future is only as bright as your faith." So that is the first place I need to start. Strengthening my faith. I truly believe that faith is the power that moves one to action. If I find myself holding back, or being lazy or fearful with my future, which causes me to stand still and not move forward, I am not demonstrating enough faith. But if I keep my eyes centered on the pitcher, I know that I can make it through this game of life. Life is a journey and a gift. I look forward to see what lay ahead. For it has only just begun.
