I'm watching the new Michael J. Fox special on ABC. The man is purely amazing and if you've never read his book you should...its inspiring. This man maintains a positive attitude despite the fate that he has been dealt. He suffers from Parkinson's and the current drug regimen does not provide a cure, only a temporary relief from the shakes and staggering. But yet, Michael continues to push himself. He continues holding onto his faith to take risks. He does not let fear rule him. He pushes through his inadequacies. He remembers to be grateful and considers himself a lucky man.

If only each of us could have this type of optimism in times of trial. If only we could face our adversities with faith and courage. If we could hold our heads high and remember to be grateful that our Father in Heaven is molding us into his own likeness. That He trusts us enough to bare this load for but a small moment-and if we bear it well he will exalt us on high.

I write these thoughts mainly for myself. As a reminder. Because I get swept away in the day to day routines and forget my worth. I forget that I am a daughter of God and that is worth its weight in gold. I forget to be grateful that I am in school, that I have wonderful people surrounding me, that I am healthy, that my family is safe. I forget...but only for a moment. And then I snap out of it and I remember that I am so very blessed. And it is in those moments that my heart is truly full.

Like Michael J. Fox, I hope that I can keep my gaze upward. That I can maintain an optimist's perspective. Because having the gospel in my life is truly happiness, it is true joy.

“I can get sad, I can get frustrated, I can get scared, but I never get depressed - because there's joy in my life.” -Michael J. Fox