Down Hill and Up Hill

Jogging is part of my therapy, I find that I have insightful thoughts along the way.
This morning I was reminded that my route is mostly downhill, a slow gradual descent, until I turn around to come home, at which point I have, of course, a slow gradual ascent.
That's kind of like my life. The first part, the first 20 years or so, were pretty easy.  I had the usual growing-up challenges and struggles, but nothing big or too difficult. I have amazing parents who love each other, and 6 siblings who I mostly got along with. My life was filled with good things, wonderful things. I was very happy.

The second part of my life, way over half, has been more like my jogs home ~ more up hill than down. I have a great husband and 5 of the best kids anywhere, and now 10 grandchildren. This phase of my life has brought new situations and challenges that have stretched me and made me grow. It has required more effort, planning, discipline, inspiration, and creativity than I knew I could muster.  I have had disappointments, frustration, excitement, and lots of joy.

I guess the main difference is that in the down-hill part of my life, other people were paving the way for me, guiding, teaching, encouraging, and cheering. My life was founded on their love, support and constant efforts for me. I have benefited from the teaching, strength, testimony, and example of so many: my parents and brothers and sisters, a large extended family, Primary, Sunday School, Mutual, Seminary and Institute teachers and leaders, and bishops, plus school teachers and so many great friends. Going up hill teaches me about their efforts and sacrifices for me; what they did and what it cost them to help me grow, learn, and progress.
Now is my time to provide support and encouragement, to create environments of learning and situations where we can feel the Spirit, to build, lift, cheer, and teach. It's my privilege to testify and give my assurance that life is good, God lives, difficulties are worth going through, prayers are answered, there is good in every situation.
 Going up hill is not as easy as the down hill part, but it builds strength and endurance, it teaches me what I'm capable of. I have learned what I absolutely believe and what is the most important.