I memorized this poem in 6th grade. It seems rather applicable in my life right now.
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than,
It seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.
- Author unknown
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Friday, March 9, 2012
Kony2012
I know; I'm at it again.
If you've watched the Kony 2012 video, you need to hear this woman's response. She has verbalized perfectly everything that doesn't sit well with me about this. It's a woman from Uganda explaining the situation there. You might be surprised at what she has to say.
"I think we need to have sound, intelligent campaigns that are geared towards real policy shifts rather than a very sensationalized story that is out to make person cry, and at the end of the day we forget about it... If you are showing me as voiceless, as hopeless, you have no space telling my story. You shouldn't be telling my story if you don't believe I have the power to change what is going on."
The church spends millions each year on humanitarian efforts in Africa. Seriously. Go to lds.org and search "humanitarian aid in Africa". Hundreds of articles will pop up, dating back to the 70s, that show that a lot of us are already part of an organization that is doing something. Our tithing dollars and other donations are spent helping people in African countries all the time. And unlike those "charities" everyone is so excited about sending money to, the church won't keep 70% of the donation for themselves.
Do I think the people of Africa deserve peace? Yes. But one viral video is not going to change what has been going on for centuries. Let's trust those whom we believe have been called by God to decide what's best for them.
If you've watched the Kony 2012 video, you need to hear this woman's response. She has verbalized perfectly everything that doesn't sit well with me about this. It's a woman from Uganda explaining the situation there. You might be surprised at what she has to say.
"I think we need to have sound, intelligent campaigns that are geared towards real policy shifts rather than a very sensationalized story that is out to make person cry, and at the end of the day we forget about it... If you are showing me as voiceless, as hopeless, you have no space telling my story. You shouldn't be telling my story if you don't believe I have the power to change what is going on."
The church spends millions each year on humanitarian efforts in Africa. Seriously. Go to lds.org and search "humanitarian aid in Africa". Hundreds of articles will pop up, dating back to the 70s, that show that a lot of us are already part of an organization that is doing something. Our tithing dollars and other donations are spent helping people in African countries all the time. And unlike those "charities" everyone is so excited about sending money to, the church won't keep 70% of the donation for themselves.
Do I think the people of Africa deserve peace? Yes. But one viral video is not going to change what has been going on for centuries. Let's trust those whom we believe have been called by God to decide what's best for them.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
I just might be that crazy
Ok.
Enough is enough.
I've used the excuse of winter blues and a busy schedule to let myself get fat.
I've rationalized a few pounds of weight gain here and there, and now I'm the heaviest I've ever been in my life.
The time has come to quit substituting crap food for fruits and veggies, and quit making excuses!!
So, I decided to register for this:
Yep. It's a done deal.
I decided to start with the 5k. I know that's a small challenge for those of you who do this all the time, but for a person like me who really hates to run, this is HUGE.
The money raised also goes to benefit members of the community who can't afford cancer treatments.
C'mon, that's puppy dog eyes in text form.
So, changes are coming. Those thighs I had when I was in ballet that I thought were massive and ugly? Yeah, those babies are coming back! Candy and soda are suspended until further notice. I have always wanted to be one of those people who can enjoy a sliced tomato and avocado for lunch... Ok, so maybe I'm not quite there yet, but it's definitely time for me to quit hanging out on the upper end of my healthy weight range and start enjoying a healthier lifestyle.
It just may be time to be one of those people.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Starting out on the home stretch
Yes, I am finally able to say that this is my last semester of prereqs before I can apply to SLCC's nursing program. I'm super excited, and it's nice to finally feel like I'm moving away from the seemingly endless list of classes I need to take before applying. I'm still planning on applying to the U's program in the Fall, so I have a few more (harder) classes to take this year, but the light is beginning to appear at the end of the tunnel. I was noticing this week that even though I was really dreading the start of the semester, and I know I'm going to be busy, I had a really good feeling at the end of the first day of school. I realized that this is just a reaffirmation that I really am on the right path. The middle of the semester will inevitably bring on its usual feelings of inadequacy, most likely involving more than one pep talk from Ian, crying, and the whole "What-am-I-doing-with-my-life" soul searching that we all experience at some point, but I'm feeling pretty good right now. In the first presidency address in the Ensign this month, President Monson talks about "David and Goliath" situations that we come across in our expedition through life.
"There will be times when you will be frightened and discouraged. You may feel that you are defeated. The odds of obtaining victory may appear overwhelming. At times you may feel like David trying to fight Goliath. But remember—David did win!"
As I pondered that message, I realized that David just had to find that sweet spot between Goliath's eyes that made it all work. After talking to Meg about it, she pointed out that David didn't do it, the rock was led to where it needed to be because of his faith. Good point. I came to the overwhelming conclusion that there is a spot somewhere. Where or when I'm not sure at this point, but it does exist. So just as the rock was guided from the slingshot to Goliath's forehead, if I just keep on this path and have faith (That's the hard part), I'll be led to my spot. I'll reach my goal. And then, simply because of the irony of life, I'll discover my next Goliath.
"There will be times when you will be frightened and discouraged. You may feel that you are defeated. The odds of obtaining victory may appear overwhelming. At times you may feel like David trying to fight Goliath. But remember—David did win!"
As I pondered that message, I realized that David just had to find that sweet spot between Goliath's eyes that made it all work. After talking to Meg about it, she pointed out that David didn't do it, the rock was led to where it needed to be because of his faith. Good point. I came to the overwhelming conclusion that there is a spot somewhere. Where or when I'm not sure at this point, but it does exist. So just as the rock was guided from the slingshot to Goliath's forehead, if I just keep on this path and have faith (That's the hard part), I'll be led to my spot. I'll reach my goal. And then, simply because of the irony of life, I'll discover my next Goliath.
Friday, December 23, 2011
It's the holiday season...
Case in point:
Yeah, I totally made this guy by myself. I am Becky's daughter after all. :)
I've been volunteering up at Primary Children's for the past couple months, and it has been such a great experience. It's amazing to see the resilience of kids and to observe their pure happiness and good attitudes even when they're sick. So, of course I had to make it to the Festival of Trees this year. Ian was a good sport and came along for the trip, even though he didn't really want to.
This was part of the gingerbread house contest. A Rapunzel castle from Tangled.
I couldn't resist a picture of this. Notice Carl, Russell and Doug on the front lawn. So cute!!
The U
My favorite tree of the festival. I shot my eye out!
Also notice Flik on the top with his tongue stuck to the pole.
I thought it was terribly clever.
Up was a popular theme this year evidently.
I liked the presents underneath the tree for all the characters.
The second official Harwell Family Christmas Tree!!
Thursday, November 24, 2011
So much to be thankful for!
Happy Thanksgiving, 2011. I drove home from my in-laws' tonight completely baffled at the fact that 2011 is almost just another one for the memory books. It's been a GREAT year, and I have so much to be thankful for.
First and foremost, of course is the great opportunity to have the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. I know it's cliche, but it truly is a blessing each and every day to have the purpose and direction in my life that only being a member of the church provides.
A very close second, is the most wonderful husband in the whole wide world. Ian really does have to put up with a lot from me, and I thank him every day for doing it. Seriously, Monday night was a meltdown about how I'm the most unmotivated, fattest, ugliest person ever who will never get where I want to be. The next night (after a much needed meeting with an academic adviser, and a little perspective) was a conversation with the ultimate conclusion that things really are going to be just fine. He is such a great provider and is so much more on top of things than I am. And it doesn't hurt that he spoils me rotten! I love you, Ian. You truly are my rock and the half that makes me whole. Your support means more to me than you know.
My most amazing parents. Whether it's a trip to Costco for groceries, or a lunch break spent servicing photo booths to save me some time, I have the greatest parents. I really have never felt anything from them but 100% love and support, no matter what. The have set a perfect example of the kind of marriage I work for every day. They have taught me that although life brings on challenges, whether they're the result of our choices or ones that we're completely blinded by, life is still good, and you can still be happy. I'm so thankful for that. Love you guys!
Two great sisters and one studly brother. I'm so lucky to be one of those people who can say that their siblings are their best friends. The four of us truly have a unique bond. Yesterday, my sisters came to my apartment and helped me get it all cleaned and organized. They didn't even comment on how atrociously messy and unorganized everything was; they just went straight to work and even went to Ikea to help me pick new furniture. Then there's my brother, Ian. I'm already dreading the day I have to drop him off the the MTC in February. He is such a peacemaker and you won't find a bigger heart of gold in any person, I guarantee it. He gives me hugs every time I see him, and is always, always, always willing to lend a helping hand. I'm so blessed to have such inspiring siblings!
My in-laws. Ian and I always talk about how great it is to have such strong relationships with our in-laws. I always used to wonder what my relationship with my future husband's family would be like, and I couldn't have asked for more. They've been so accepting of me from the very beginning (even before Ian and I were officially together, really...) and it's been fabulous to have such a wonderful second family close by.
The best job on the planet. I would do my job for free if I didn't need the money. Ok, that might not be 100% true, but I LOVE my job. My boss is the best, always praising us on a job well done, and juggling two busy clinics. I connect so well with all my coworkers, even though we're different ages and come from all walks of life. I learn so much from them every day. It's sometimes not fun to work in a place that people really dread, but I am so fulfilled and have such a great time every day.
And last, and sometimes least (sometimes doesn't even make the gratitude list at all), School. I fight it, but I really am grateful to have an opportunity to further my education, especially in a field I thrive in. I'm so blessed to be able to make a difference in people's lives.
Happy Thanksgiving!
xoxo, Cori
First and foremost, of course is the great opportunity to have the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. I know it's cliche, but it truly is a blessing each and every day to have the purpose and direction in my life that only being a member of the church provides.
A very close second, is the most wonderful husband in the whole wide world. Ian really does have to put up with a lot from me, and I thank him every day for doing it. Seriously, Monday night was a meltdown about how I'm the most unmotivated, fattest, ugliest person ever who will never get where I want to be. The next night (after a much needed meeting with an academic adviser, and a little perspective) was a conversation with the ultimate conclusion that things really are going to be just fine. He is such a great provider and is so much more on top of things than I am. And it doesn't hurt that he spoils me rotten! I love you, Ian. You truly are my rock and the half that makes me whole. Your support means more to me than you know.
My most amazing parents. Whether it's a trip to Costco for groceries, or a lunch break spent servicing photo booths to save me some time, I have the greatest parents. I really have never felt anything from them but 100% love and support, no matter what. The have set a perfect example of the kind of marriage I work for every day. They have taught me that although life brings on challenges, whether they're the result of our choices or ones that we're completely blinded by, life is still good, and you can still be happy. I'm so thankful for that. Love you guys!
Two great sisters and one studly brother. I'm so lucky to be one of those people who can say that their siblings are their best friends. The four of us truly have a unique bond. Yesterday, my sisters came to my apartment and helped me get it all cleaned and organized. They didn't even comment on how atrociously messy and unorganized everything was; they just went straight to work and even went to Ikea to help me pick new furniture. Then there's my brother, Ian. I'm already dreading the day I have to drop him off the the MTC in February. He is such a peacemaker and you won't find a bigger heart of gold in any person, I guarantee it. He gives me hugs every time I see him, and is always, always, always willing to lend a helping hand. I'm so blessed to have such inspiring siblings!
My in-laws. Ian and I always talk about how great it is to have such strong relationships with our in-laws. I always used to wonder what my relationship with my future husband's family would be like, and I couldn't have asked for more. They've been so accepting of me from the very beginning (even before Ian and I were officially together, really...) and it's been fabulous to have such a wonderful second family close by.
The best job on the planet. I would do my job for free if I didn't need the money. Ok, that might not be 100% true, but I LOVE my job. My boss is the best, always praising us on a job well done, and juggling two busy clinics. I connect so well with all my coworkers, even though we're different ages and come from all walks of life. I learn so much from them every day. It's sometimes not fun to work in a place that people really dread, but I am so fulfilled and have such a great time every day.
And last, and sometimes least (sometimes doesn't even make the gratitude list at all), School. I fight it, but I really am grateful to have an opportunity to further my education, especially in a field I thrive in. I'm so blessed to be able to make a difference in people's lives.
Happy Thanksgiving!
xoxo, Cori
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