Joy

Remember my last post, Reflections on Birth? I was so excited when I listened to President Russell M. Nelson's talk in General Conference two weekends ago when he said,

"Joy is powerful, and focusing on joy brings God’s power into our lives. As in all things, Jesus Christ is our ultimate exemplar, “who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross” [Hebrews 12:2]. Think of that! In order for Him to endure the most excruciating experience ever endured on earth, our Savior focused on joy! …

… Joy is a gift for the faithful. It is the gift that comes from intentionally trying to live a righteous life, as taught by Jesus Christ.

I was so excited when I heard this talk because it confirmed everything I felt from my own experience. I knew it wasn't just a feeling, because I had experienced it. He speaks about every trial we go through in this life. I don't necessarily consider childbirth a trial; my point in sharing his talk was because of the claim I had made on pain being bearable when it is for something that brings joy.  I highly recommend reading/listening to the entire talk. Which you can do by clicking here.