View of Life

Family History

Please write a summary of who you are, where you are from, and what makes you the way you are.  In the paper you should describe your philosophy of life and let the reader understand your views of politics, economics, religion, and history.  The reader should get a glimpse into your heart and soul as your describe your view of yourself and your characteristics, principles which guide your actions, and your feelings about family and relationships.

            I just turned twenty-one last week, so this is a great opportunity to reflect on the last two decades of my life and who I am. By experiencing different hardships in my family, I’ve learned some important things about dating and what qualities and mutual goals I would like in a future spouse. Some of those include putting the Lord and family first. As well, I don’t think I would be able to have my spouse be gone as much as my dad was. While I was growing up spiritual matters weren’t really discussed in our home. It wasn’t until I got to school here that I really learned for myself how important family home evening, private and family scripture study are. Those are things that I value for my future family. I try to practice diligence in those areas now, as preparation for my future family. 

            As well, I really want to finish school. My mom has been placed in the toughest position, and because of her physical aliments, going back to school would be extremely difficult. Education is extremely important to me, and I fully intend on being a life long learner, and get as much schooling as possible.

            In high school I participated in a few activities, my favorites being speech and debate, social justice, and seminary. Early morning seminary was often a challenge as I’m not the best morning person. Speech and debate helped to strengthen my skills as a writer and an orator. I also learned a lot about myself and what I believe in. At almost every tournament friends would ask me questions about the gospel, and I would answer them to the best of my ability. I do regret not inviting more of those kids to church, as well as other friends. I feel like that was one of the biggest missionary opportunities I missed out on. Today I don’t hold back. It’s harder as the last few years I have been mostly surrounded by fellow members at school and at work, but I don’t think I’ll ever again shy away from sharing the gospel. From Social Justice I was able to learn a lot about the issues in the world around me, and I have continued to research and educate others and myself on issues around the world. This is apart of why I want to teach. I feel that world problems could be solved through education. One of my heroes is Greg Mortenson. He’s not a Latter-day Saint, but he is a truly Christ-like individual. He has built hundred of schools for girls in Pakistan and throughout the Middle East which has helped to promote peace. Specifically I would love to teach history because we can learn so much about our ethics, the world today, and ourselves by closely examining past events.

            Growing up in Southern California has allowed me to make many wonderful friends from many different backgrounds. They have helped to shape my perspective, as well as my love for reading and the gospel. I have had many opportunities to study politics and am a register independent. I think the new Health-Care bill is great, and that war is bad. By fully studying out issues for myself, and in classes I try to make the best decision for myself. Down the road, I want to tell my children that I voted for an issue because I thought that would be best solution for our time.

            In regards to my stance on economics, I believe that there needs to be more responsibility in the world in regards to finance. Debt is a scary thing, as many Americans are just now beginning to understand. I try to live with in my means, and plan on raising my family that way.

            In general, I am a happy person. I love to be with friends and family. Through hard times I turn to the Lord. I try to make it to the temple once a week, and that always lifts my spirits. I want a happy family, and I believe that starts with happy parents. I don’t find contentment in the things I have, but in the relationships I surround myself with. Charity has been a goal of mine for the best two years. As I have grown in my ability to love others, I have been able to draw closer to the Lord and others.