Some days we can feel like we are being buffeted by the winds that blow and we have very little control of where we land. It can be a time of taking one gust after the other. Which direction should I face? Do I stand on low or high ground? Why me? Where is my succor? Is this ever going to stop?

I have learned to turn to God in the turbulent world and ask Him what he needs me to do. If we allow ourselves, we can be bombarded by a cacophony of noise and ideals that do not succor us nor provide peace that our souls need. As I was thinking about this past week and what is happening, I was reminded over and over about Christ being my anchor.

This scripture kept coming to me and without a doubt, I know that Jesus Christ is the anchor for my soul. My hope is not a wish or a fingers-crossed dream. It is a confident, rock-solid expectation based on God’s unchanging promises.

To provide that stability in the storms, just as a physical anchor drops deep into the water to keep a boat from crashing into rocks during a storm, spiritual hope keeps a believer from drifting away or panicking when life gets painful or confusing.

Also in that verse it says that hope, “enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.” This points back to the ancient Jewish temple. A thick curtain separated people from the Holy of Holies, which is the literal presence of God. Only the high priest could go inside once a year.

Our direct access to God is when instead of dropping an anchor down into the ocean floor, a Christian’s anchor is thrown upward and secured directly in heaven in God’s presence. Thus instead of being buffeted by shifting winds and earthly circumstances, you can anchor your inner peace and stability in God’s unchanging promises.

While the storms will come, this is when you pour out your heart and talk to God honestly. Tell him your fears and concerns and let him know that you are overwhelmed. Pray for the Holy Spirit to quiet your mind and remind you that your anchor holds firm.

This could be a mantra that we repeat daily, “I REFUSE TO SINK!!” This scripture from Alma is actually Alma 36:3 where Alma is giving advice and counsel to his son Helaman. I love that he was giving this advice to Helaman while he was yet possibly a teenager. Alma was imploring him to listen to his words as a loving parent.

One of the important things in this verse is that when we trust in God, we will be supported in our trials, troubles and afflictions. I do know that there are some days where we can feel abandoned but all things are for our good. Yesterday, I was having a rough day and probably should have slept the day away. We had the opportunity to attend family home evening with fellow empty nesters in our ward. It was a struggle to get there but I said, “We will be blessed from spending time with fellow saints and sharing a lesson together.” There are some things that we need to realize are more important than packing another box. Sure enough, as the evening progressed, I started feeling much better. I love the book of Isaiah and that’s what we were discussing for our lesson.

This past week, a lot of progress was made on packing, which is good as we are getting down to the end of our time here. I only have one more Sunday in Lacombe Ward until I head to the coast. It reminds me of the feelings that I had before we left on our mission. I don’t think that many people know that we are leaving, except for a few. We have done all the packing on our own and when things needed moving, I prayed for strength to help Erik moving items.

A really big thing that I love about Latinos is their love and appreciation for each other. In our Huatulco Branch, we all greet each other and say, “Buenos Dias!” The ladies give a kiss on the cheek and when we leave to start our week, we say, “Te amo!” ( I love you).

We found face masks that Jasmin gave me for Christmas a couple of years ago and decided to put them to use. Twenty minutes later, no need to pack and tote to the Island!

As we were taking down quilts and artwork for packing, I felt inspired to send some photos to Annette who was a Facilities Management missionary with her husband in Palmyra. Annette bought 40 quilts to give to her grandchildren. There was a Mennonite store that displayed the quilts and she bought them all. I thought that she might like a mini quilt show from my house. My quilt display case is now empty and prepared to move.

We are trying to get vehicles ready for the journey; oil changes, tire balancing, etc. I’m making a list of what items that I need to take in the car, and what needs to go in the travel trailer. Oh, I’m super excited because I have a reservation at Weir Beach for three weeks! I have an ocean front spot for the trailer which will be my little home for awhile until our belongings arrive. Taking walks on the beach every day and enjoying the sea air will be good for me. Photos will be coming from that adventure!

I just had to share the photos of playing thread chicken while putting the bindings on those quilts. Oh, those ancestors were looking after me!

Have a fantastic week; focus on your anchor. The things that take you away from your anchor aren’t as important as you may think they are. As you practice, you will gain confidence and strength and be able to withstand the buffeting winds and trials of life.