no longer the bishop's wife

A good friend left a cute message on my phone today congratulating me on my first official day in over five years as RaDawn, and not "The Bishop's Wife."  LOL

David was released as Bishop yesterday. Of course it was bittersweet for David, but it was more tender for me than I anticipated. I've come to realize the blessings our family has received. We have learned so much. David has changed, I have changed, our relationship has changed. I don't want to go back, I don't want to forget the lessons we have learned.


I've been thinking about what I have learned over the past five years. I have learned that the Atonement of Jesus Christ is real and it can be applied in my life everyday. Five years ago I was really struggling, I wanted change in my life and in our family but I could only see that happening through external means. I really wondered if it was possible for me to change. I have learned that through the enabling power Christ's Atonement and a personal desire to change -- I can change!  It may not be a mighty change in the eyes of others, but it is a mighty change to me.

I love this thought from President Benson:

“We must be careful, as we seek to become more godlike, that we do not become discouraged and lose hope. Becoming Christlike is a lifetime pursuit and very often involves growth and change that is slow, almost imperceptible. The scriptures record remarkable accounts of men whose lives changed dramatically, in an instant . . . But we must be cautious as we discuss these remarkable examples. Though they are real and powerful, they are the exception more than the rule. For every Paul, for every Enos, and for every King Lamoni, there are hundreds and thousands of people who find the process of repentance much more subtle, much more imperceptible. Day by day they move closer to the Lord, little realizing they are building a godlike life. They live quiet lives of goodness, service, and commitment.”

I am grateful that the opportunities and experiences that have come to our family as a result of David's calling have helped me to repent, change and quietly move closer to the Lord.