A guidance for happy living
The first time I went to Japan, my trip had a rough start. I flew across the Pacific ocean in seats too small and landed in Tokyo at about 4PM. I was eager to get to a comfortable hotel for a shower and a place to lay down.
In my usual “I’ll figure it out as I go” approach to travel, I made my way to a train station and saw this board. (pictured) It was confusing, overwhelming, and it didn’t direct me at all. I knew where i wanted to go, but didn’t know how to get there. There was nothing I could have done for myself at this point. I needed some help.
With the help of some free station wifi, 4 Japanese school kids that spoke broken English, and shadowing some American businessmen who had a guide, I eventually made it to my hotel. (Also pictured.)
In a similar fashion, I know where I want to be in this life and after I pass away. Like many of you, I want to be considered a good and righteous person here on Earth and then return, with my family, to my Father in Heaven when I’ve left this earth. I believe these things are possible, but I need help in knowing how I can achieve these things.
My favorite scripture is Doctrine and Covenants 82:8-10 which reads:
8 And again, I say unto you, I give unto you a new commandment, that you may understand my will concerning you;
9 Or, in other words, I give unto you directions how you may act before me, that it may turn to you for your salvation.
10 I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.
This scripture reminds me to be thankful for the commandments and direction that we’ve received from scripture, prophets and promptings. I know what I want to become so the more direction I can receive, the better.
Some people see commandments as limiting or controlling, but I don’t. Like Elder M Russell Ballard , I believe “commandments are a guidance for happy living.”