True Self Improvement

Dear Gabriel,

I am feeling as if I need more spirituality in my life. I don't know exactly how to describe this feeling I am having. In the last few months we (your dad and I) have been concentrating so hard on our mindset, our thoughts, our feelings... been working with various self improvement goals, books and programs. It has been really good... But one thing is always missing from them... God.

This phrase is one of my favorites... 'The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than the study of behavior will improve behavior" (Packer). I have had this reaffirmed to me over and over and over again in the last week. No matter what faith someone belongs to - I do believe that the study of true spiritual doctrines is better than any self improvement book ever written. After all - the techniques and skills that are taught by people doing self improvement really comes from a spiritual base. Where are we told that gratitude of one of the most powerful mindsets? The scriptures. Where are we told that forgiveness is imperative? The scriptures. Where are we told what we focus on expands? The scriptures.

There are SOOOOO many skills and techniques taught - but no matter what I can always find the deeper meaning and doctrine behind them because of the scriptures and the gospel of Christ. I know what your dad and I have been doing over the last few months is good, but I believe the spirit is pushing me to reach for higher ground now. I believe I am being pushed to reach for a deeper relationship with my Savior. I believe I am being directed by God as to how this world really works... because after all, He made it anyway.

I love you so much. I hope you will always remember that your mom loved the Lord. I love Christ. He did everything for me. He will teach me more about self improvement than any other master on the world ever could.

I love you,

Your Mom