Seeking Freedom over Captivity

Hip, Hip, Cheerios -

I hope and pray that this post finds you all well.  I started this day with the intention of posting much earlier, but sometimes, might I say most times, life just doesn't go the way we expect it.  More times that not, I have found that the detours are well worth it.

This weeks pondering comes from 2 Nephi 2:27:

"Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man.  And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself."

As I read and ponder these words, I wonder how many people really understand and see the value of having a body.  The plan of salvation is really outlined here in this small verse.  Before coming to this mortal life, we were in a state of captivity.  We had all been given the opportunity to grow and develop to our fullest potential as spirit children of our Father in Heaven.  

In order for us to continue progressing, we had to have a body and all that comes with it.  Nephi describes this life as "Freedom", and like all freedom, there is a responsibility that comes with it.  There are consequences for each and ever action we choose.  For this I am grateful.

On the flip side, I cannot help but think of our brother Lucifer and the billions of our siblings that choose to follow him.  They all remain in that state of captivity.  By their actions, they chose to stop progressing.  They chose not to risk changing beyond the life they were living.  In hindsight, I have a feeling they might regret that choice, "...seeketh that all men might be miserable...".

I continue along this thought process and wonder how many of our siblings have made similar choices here, even in mortality.  Does the responsibility that comes with the freedom of the flesh weigh them down?  Do they choose to stop progressing beyond this life?  Will they live in misery for eternity, knowing that their actions and choices stopped them from taking advantage of all the opportunity the plan offers us?  I wonder if I can be better at taking advantage of these opportunities, by making better choices.  How about you?

Our week -

It has been another challenging one for the Queen.  Work is settling into new routines.  There have not been lots of opportunities to pick up, so she has struggled with the challenge of making up funds in other locations.  It becomes burdensome at times.  But she was able to make time for family this week as well.  I am grateful for the time we were able to spend together.

The Professor had jumped into the new school year with both feet.  She is trying to find that routine that allows her some free times.  I don't know that she has found it yet.  School is always pulling on her.

It sounds like Tall Man and Ehl-Bo were very productive this week.  We were elated to have 2 Lego dates this week.  He amazes me each and every time I see him.  I love the light in eyes.

Puddin and Lady Hawkins are making doing well.  We look forward to seeing them later in the week.

SnackPack is doing well.  He is taking advantage of as many opportunities as are presented to him.