Blessed Reminders

As I stare at my to-do list, I feel overwhelmed. It seems as though there is not enough time in the day to accomplish even the daily "routine" activities. Then, out of nowhere, three more items come to mind, and become apart of the to-do list. The list seems never-ending, and I do not even know where to start. I look at the clock, and try to schedule each item for a different time in the day. I feel anxious, but hopeful. I can get this all done...right?

For the past couple of months, I have created many (so many) to-do lists in the optimistic attempt to decrease my stress level while tackling various items. These to-do lists range in length, but always seem to have a thorough compilation of schoolwork, FFA duties and necessary tasks to keep my life in order, like laundry. Even with these to-do lists, I face stress and worry. Am I doing enough? Am I doing too much? Should I sleep more/less? Lots of "what ifs" cross my mind, and pretty soon, I turn into a tense version of myself, and I do not like it.

A couple weeks ago, I had the opportunity to travel from Manhattan to Hill City, Kansas. Hill City is where I attended high school and was a member of the FFA chapter. The Hill City FFA Chapter was conducting their Joint Alumni Meeting, and invited me to present on
my experiences as a state officer and the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers that I am attending in January. When I stepped inside of the school, I was greeted by hugs and "Hello's" from alumni, community members, parents and members. I was almost taken back by the warmth and love. I just smiled and prayed that I would not jumble all of the words trying to escape from my mouth. Sometimes, words are hard.

Throughout the entire night, I was reminded of the support system that I still have at home. My immediate family was present, but I slowly began to realize that my extended "family" was there as well. Every single person in the cafeteria (where the meeting was held) made me feel welcomed, happy and relaxed; something I had not felt in a while. When the meeting ended, all I wanted to do was stick around an bask in the joyful environment that was created.

The moral of my story is this:
When you feel anxious, stressed or your to-do list grows to an immeasurable length, remember that you can turn to the ones that love you the most. When you spend just a little bit of time with them, your worries do not seem so big, and you are able to relax and smile. You realize that you are so incredibly blessed. In fact, you are just too blessed to be stressed. 

How can you be a source of love and joy for others? 

The Hill City FFA Chapter Officer Team

"Guys lets lift her up!" 

So this happened.

Two of the Greenhand Officers.