Become

This week we read "The Challenge to Become" by Elder Dallin H. Oaks. I loved the following quote, "Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become. It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become." 

 I think that this concept of becoming is what sets members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints apart from the world.  We know that we are here to participate, grow and change.  I love that idea that Eternal life is not a sum total of items checked off a list but rather a metamorphosis from organized intelligence to eternal being.  

If we look at our lives with this goal, it can help focus.  Simplify and invest only in those experiences that will best bring about this change.  I did an entrepreneur interview this week with the wealthiest woman that I know and yet after answering my prepared questions, we spoke about our families, our testimonies and our roles as mothers.  I was impressed with this sister's focus on what we are here to become.  She had experienced success according to the world.  She could retire several times over and live a life of luxury and ease.  She, however, knows who she is and what her real purpose is.  She is vigilant and focused on her stewardships and callings.  It was a wonderful example to me.