Here Goes Nothin!

"Whatever you do, do it well"
-Unknown
Tonight I was at my seminary graduation with all the people I have known for years and years. We have grown up and apart together. As we grew up, we grew apart. I was looking around a little surprised at who was there when I realized that not only was I being very rude about what I thought about the people there, I wasnt seeing them for what they are. I looked around at all of us seniors and for the first time, saw the good that the people my age can, have, and will do. It was very surprising to me.
All these years as I have been trying to think "they are a child of God" instead of pointing out all their faults, I havent seen what they are truely worth. Tonight I saw so much potential in all the people my age. As we grew up, we grew apart and through growing apart each of us has our own path to walk down; we have our own lists of lives to bless and things to learn and spiritual growth to be had. I couldnt believe I had never seen this before. The potential each of us has is so great and I completely missed it. I missed it because I was too busy being jealous or judging or being self-righteous. For the first time I can honestly say that I hope for the very best of each of the people in my graduating class. Especially those within the church.
Today in church, my friend asked me, mostly joking, "Why are we here?" I said, "In church?" And she said, "No, on the Earth." I said, "Well, to be tested." She gave me a blank look and said, "Why?" I said, "Because." I would not make a very good missionary. Its one thing to understand. Its another to help others understand.
At seminary graduation I was struggling to pay attention to the last speaker and while I was off in my own little world, I was thinking about that question asked to me as a joke. I decided that while the reason is to be tested, it is also so we can get to know ourselves as Heavenly Father knows us. The last thought shared with us was that we are spiritual beings having a mortal experience, not the other way around. I hope I never forget this.
I realized that through this particular meeting, the leaders that have 'held our hands' all our lives were finally stepping back and letting go, while trying to tell us how scared they were for us. I'm not sure it was very comforting. I think that being with us each step of the way, they know us well enough to see our potential and how quickly it could be lost. I dont see my own potential very well a lot of the time, but I know others do.
I hope I can run, walk, and fight through life regret-free. I hope I can live up to my potential. Not for anyone else, just for me. So I can say I did it and so when I meet my Savior, He will be proud of the things I've done. If you have helped me see my potential or have helped me in any way, thank you very much. Thank you for helping me through my fears and my tears that have come through my teenage years.
Your efforts have not been for nothing.
To all those who know me and love me anyway,
Thank You. :)