Monopoly and Boat Motors: The lessons of Repentance and Forgiveness

Here's a thought: Life feels like a game of strategy- like Monopoly. Despite the number of jail cards and game fees arise, as long as you don't leave the game board before the end of the game, you finish victoriously. There is certain amount of work that must be done to ensure progression in the game; those who don't try don't go very far at all. in fact, to continue at all, you have to at least roll the dice. Rolling that dice exhibits an interest in the game, and even a small interest is enough to lead you on.

However, you won't last very long if you don't start showing more than a minor interest. You must evade as many obstacles as possible to come out on top. This may seem easy, but in reality, using such strategy involves thinking through your actions. Not only that, but you have to be consistently thinking about what your next move is going to be and prepping for future moves. It's too easy to get lost in the moment, especially when you are on a lucky streak. You cannot lose sight of what's ahead, and with that in mind, you are bound to be given a break in your lucky streaks. Prepare for them, and you'll be fine. Assume you're fine in every situation and you'll fall hard when something interrupts your happy times.

I've pondered on this idea for a while now. I really have come to know that no one is immune to failure in life too. When I used to look at people with major problems in their lives, I used to think, "Dang- how could they be so weak? I would never do anything like that." In reality, they started out just like me- they probably thought exactly the same thing about other people before they did something wrong. No one intends to make mistakes starting out. It begins with a pattern of compromise and rationalization. Slowly, their actions turn, and suddenly, they find themselves lost in sin.

 I love the church, and I know exactly what I want in my life. It provides for a return from the mistakes that have built up like sea grout on a lightly neglected boat motor. That motor needs constant care to keep it clean enough to use, however sometimes you have to turn to a more rigorous cleaning with  the proper chemicals to remove what has already fastened itself to the metal. When all of that junk is gone, the motor is still in perfect condition- it's just weighed down and is a hazard in its current condition. The process of cleaning is so simple! Perhaps it looks like a long and tedious task to remove, but all it takes is a steady hand and a little patience and TA DAAA! It's done!

Isn't the atonement wonderful? I am so grateful for it!