Ten years ago I became inactive because I thought living the Gospel was too hard--it required too much of me. I had a long list of "commandments" and I had such a hard time keeping all of them, I gave up.
I thought I was free. I thought I was happier. Then last January, my non-member husband expressed an interest in the church. He took the discussions, and I sat along with him. I decided to read the Book of Mormon cover to cover. I had read it before, but this time it was different. I had never felt that way before. I became truly converted--my heart, my soul, all of me. Now I know that I am happy. Not living the gospel actually made me pretty miserable.
After counseling with my Bishop, the freedom and PEACE I felt was like nothing I had ever felt before. I only wish everyone could experience this....because I do notice now that so many seem as if there heart is not into the gospel. They are just going through the motions. For instance, I read another forum last night where lots and lots of women did nothing but complain about garments. 10 years ago, I would have used that as an excuse to join in the bad mouthing. Now, I look at it as an opportunity to be thankful for my testimony, and to pray for those who do not have a testimony.
Thanks for letting me share,
Jody