Other Kinds of Preparedness

We often focus too much on the very temporal kinds of preparedness. Finances, Food Storage, and Emergency Prep are the focus of so many classes and discussions.

But I strongly believe that they are secondary to other kinds of preparedness. Particularly Spiritual, Emotional, and Social. I like to think of those as muscles we can strengthen. When our bonds with the Lord, our internal struggles, and our connections with others are weak, we have a hard time handling trials. But with the full strength of the Lord, our own solid beliefs in ourselves, and wonderful friends for support, we can handle anything that life sends our way.

What can we do to strengthen those muscles?

We all know how to become closer to the Lord. Pray, study his words, attend the temple, etc. It's so simple that we sometimes forget that without work, even a strong muscle will weaken.

Our emotional strength is more individual. Some of us simply need some quiet introspection to see what amazing women they are. Some need the listening ear of a friend or the Lord. Some need the help of our wonderful relief society president, or even the bishop. And some may need to speak with their doctor about getting help. No matter what, do what you need to do. Every one of you is an amazing and powerful woman and should feel like it!

Building social strength is going to push most of us out of our comfort zones. But just at the beginning. If you are feeling alone, pick up the phone! I guarantee there are others wishing they had someone to talk to at that very moment. Make effort to reach out, and I promise that others will start reaching back. Friendships don't start, or continue, without effort. But once you've formed that bond, it won't feel like work at all.

And just in case you were thinking you needed to do all of this on your own, I'd like to point out a blog post that asks the question: "Are we trying to be too self-reliant?" (Click the underlined section to go to the post.) These muscles mentioned above a resources that we SHOULD draw on in times of need.

Something to ponder today.