“Perhaps you don’t consider yourself all that useful or a blessing in somebody’s life. Often, we look at ourselves and see only our limitations and flaws. We might think we have to be more of something. Blessings come, not because of your abilities but rather your choices.

Dieter F Uchtdorf once said something along the lines of, “How encouraging it is to know, though we are imperfect, if our hearts are turned to God, He will be generous and kind and use us for His purposes. He will magnify our righteous desires and turn the compassionate actions we sow into a bountiful harvest of goodness.”

Neurologists claim that every time you reject negative emotions and choose positive ones, it actually rewires your brain to be more positive and loving.

Stress occurs when we try to do everything at once. We don’t have to have it all figured out. Slow down and be present.

One small crack doesn’t render you broken. It means you were put to the task and endured the pressure. You are unique and special.

Some of the kindest souls I know have lived in a world that was unkind to them. Some of the best humans I’ve known have been abused and beaten down by others; yet, they still care and love.

Often, those who have been hurt the worst refuse to become hardened in this world, because they would never want to make anyone else feel that pain, abuse and abandonment. I stand in awe of those people.

I like people who aren’t afraid to walk around in a stained shirt that doesn’t even match the outfit, who ugly laugh at their own jokes. I like those who compliment strangers in the grocery store and make friends when they’re washing their hands in the bathroom.

I like people who get passionate about ideas and excited about others’ success, who live a little outside of the box, who march to the beat of their own drum and who make it a mission to help those around them.

I like people who own their failures, and apologize easily, who know who they are deep down inside and let that person shine.

I like people who are honest, people who can joke often and don’t take themselves too seriously.

It’s more pleasant to be around those who love life so much they don’t make room for drama or pettiness, only more love. I like people who like people, books and silly TV shows, people who throw simple parties, who just stop by to say hello and bring your favorite soda, who have their own opinions but aren’t threatened if yours is different.

I like people who laugh at their messy hair and admit they need a shower, who share their favorite recipes, give recommendations for their favorite products and brag about getting their dress from the clearance rack or thrift store. I like people who ask for help, who show up.

I like people who don’t feel the need to show off or don’t pick fights where fights don’t belong and say “bring whoever you want.”

I like people who greet each person warmly, as if they have been best friends for years, whose eyes brighten when they talk about their passions and people whose voice gets louder when they sing their favorite song; who build up everyone around them.

I like people who aren’t perfect, who aren’t cool, and who don’t try to keep up with everyone else. I love all people, but man, there’s a special place in my heart for the messy ones — the ones like me.

The truth is that we are not always going to fit in, so avoid the temptation to pretend you are someone you really are not.

We need self discipline to accept ourselves, warts and all. We need to set boundaries and develop a moral code, put it into place and choose only once about future choices and limits on your tolerance.

We need to bond with others with similar moral codes. A true friend will never ask nor tempt you to do or choose anything they know is below your standards.

Without developing your own character, we learn self-sacrifice for the needs of others. The moral will not use another person for their own gratifications, else we have become like those who demand excess from other’s rights.

Stand strong in your own scruples, especially when you know you are right.

Physical beauty is fleeting at best, so love yourself as you are and as you become. Inner beauty lasts and grows instead of fading away. There is no need to compare yourself to anyone else because you were created divinely. Find joy in who you are — not your appearance.