Is Marriage Worth It?

A man and a woman’s outstretched hands with gold wedding bands on. There is a railing and water in the background.

The world says marriage is risky. Religion and research say it’s the key to happiness. So, is marriage worth it? In a time of high divorce rates and cultures that celebrate independence, marriage can feel like it brings more pain than happiness. I’ll admit, I’ve been afraid of marriage myself.… Continue reading

Christ as the Good Shepherd

The shepherd returns to his flock with his lost sheep.

Understanding the roles of Christ as the Good Shepherd and Lamb of God helps us more fully trust his guidance and care. My favorite of Christ’s names is the Good Shepherd. There is something about that title that has always felt especially personal and reassuring to me. In his address… Continue reading

What Can We Learn from Children and the Bible?

Jesus Christ sits with a young child.

Embracing childlike qualities can help us see who we really are. This fall, I’ve been reading a lot of children’s literature for one of my classes, and it has caused me to reflect deeply on what it means to be childlike. In her general conference address titled “Become as a… Continue reading

Learning Through Grief and Finding Happiness

A melancholic woman sitting in a windowsill, looking sad and worried.

In a world full of unexpected grief and trials, finding happiness comes not from avoiding sorrow, but from turning to Christ in the midst of it. I often ask myself how to hold on to joy when tragedy strikes. In moments of helplessness, optimism feels out of reach. I felt… Continue reading