The Strangest Feeling

So most of you know the tragedy that happened this morning. Definitely shuts down the greatest of mornings. I know I went from smiles to tears the moment I found out about the

Connecticut Elementary School Shooting

I just had to write what was on my mind this morning. 

#1. I'm SO grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know with all of my heart that it's true. I know that families can be together forever and I could only hope those families and parents know that and feel that in their hearts as well. 

#2. I'm so grateful for the power of prayer. Not only to help strengthen those who are going through a hard time, but also to help people like me who feel contention. 

And obviously more than just prayer, I'm thankful for the Atonement. 

It's crazy how things work. Last Sunday we had a whole lesson on forgiving. Every part of that lesson came to my mind when I was on Twitter and Facebook reading everyones thoughts and feelings. 

We are commanded to forgive ALL MEN. On mornings like this it's the most confusing commandment to me. 

Matthew 6:14-15 read:

 14 For if ye ^aforgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

 15 But if ye ^aforgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

It doesn't say when a man transgresses worse than you, you don't have to forgive them. I ALWAYS have to forgive. Right now it's so hard to comprehend, but I think I'm gaining a testimony about forgiveness. I know one day I'll understand it. 

Love the sinner not the sin.

Another thing I'm learning every single day. And today, is no exception.

I feel like such a hippie right now because I COMPLETELY believe there is no better way to go about tragedies like this than with love. We can't forgive someone when we have contention in our hearts and I know Heavenly Father loves the shooters just as much as he loves the children that returned to live with Him. 

I honestly am so confused by this feeling I feel right now. But I know it's a good feeling because rather than hate and sadness I feel peace. This is the saddest tragedy because it was little children, but I can't help but to feel SO BLESSED to know they're in a world with much less evil, and they're with our Savior who made it possible for them to be there. 

I can't say it enough, I'm so grateful for this church. I know it's true because of the happiness and peace it gives me.  I know my Savior died for me, as well as those children so we can live again with him. 

I'm so grateful for this Christmas season to help me keep Him in my mind and heart 24/7. 

I pray all of us can remember Him, and keep the Christmas spirit alive while we pray for these families to have peace and forgiveness in their hearts. 

I love my Heavenly Father so much and even though I don't understand why I am asked to forgive evil transgressions like the one that happened today, I know I'll understand it one day and I pray Heavenly Father will help me keep this love in my heart for the families, the children, the adults, as well the shooters in the tragedy. 

Matthew 18:21-22

 21 ¶Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I ^aforgive him? till seven times?

 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until ^aseventy times seven.