Although life may seem routine at times, God scatters beautiful gems along our path to brighten our daily walk. These gems come in the way of people and situations and natural surroundings. Sometimes we just need to pay attention and “see” the beauties God lays before us each day. Have you noticed any gems lately?

We all want to be happy, but are we giving God a chance to help us find the joy that He has in store for us? The other day I walked down to the beach, early in the morning. Two ladies passed me, going in the opposite direction. I heard one of the ladies, who had a camera in her hand, say to the other that the morning was too cloudy so they wouldn’t be able to get any good pictures. It was not much later that morning when this beautiful scene opened up along the shore. I was very happy to experience this gift from God. I wonder how ofter God has such gifts for us that we do not put ourselves in the proper position to receive.

Sunrise Gem

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, an apostle of the Lord, taught the following in 2008:

“The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. No matter our talents, education, backgrounds, or abilities, we each have an inherent wish to create something that did not exist before. Everyone can create. You don’t need money, position, or influence in order to create something of substance or beauty.”

These inspired words are liberating. For me, making photographic images is an important outlet for my yearnings to create. But our deep desires to create can extend to many aspects of our lives as further taught by Elder Uchtdorf. “The bounds of creativity extend far beyond the limits of a canvas or a sheet of paper and do not require a brush, a pen, or the keys of a piano. Creation means bringing into existence something that did not exist before—colorful gardens, harmonious homes, family memories, flowing laughter.”

Each of us can and should create. Through our efforts to create, our lives will be richer and happier and we will draw a little closer to God. Below I have tried to create a bright and colorful image from our “normal” house plant. The process was a bit tedious, with many failed attempts. But I am happy I could create something that brightens my soul.

Did you miss the Nixon Watch advertisement photo that James created while dressed-to-kill in a kayak? Well you won’t want to miss this one, the newest iteration of the Nixon Watch advertisement campaign. I love that James can find time to share his personality, while brightening the life of and bringing a smile to his family and friends. Thank you James for helping us enjoy the journey.

I love the colors of the sunset. Many evenings are absolutely spectacular. It is as if God is giving us a bright and beautiful gift before we head into the many hours of darkness that are part of the daily cycle of life. He gives us a wonderful memory to sustain us until the light again appears. May we appreciate the fleeting, yet remarkable color of life, that we can keep hope through life’s darker moments.