Forever Strong

I finally made it back out to Rexburg today. After traveling about 13 1/2 hours on the 2nd to Idaho Falls, my parents, Trish, and I made our way to BYU-Idaho to move in for the next 14 weeks. I am actually unpacked already, and I feel decently at home. However, for some reason or another I don't feel excited to be here. I don't not want to be here, but it feels different than it did coming here in November. Perhaps it is the friends that have not returned. Maybe it's the fact that I actually have responsibility as a student now, or in a few days. Or maybe the snow and ice are just really unattractive. There are many options floating around in my head. I just hope this passes, I make some new friends, I can manage my roommates, and that I become stronger than I have been before.

Which leads me to my next point. My roommates and I went out to watch "Forever Strong" tonight. This movie is about a high school rugby player that is making some dumb decisions. As his actions bring him to Utah, he is given the option to play on his high school's arch-rival rugby team for some character shaping. As the story goes, the miraculous change within this boy changes the lives of the people around him, and he becomes as strong as he can be, both on and off the field. The coach of the rival high school teaches these boys how to become strong human beings and to find themselves within. It is a truly powerful and inspirational story based on actual events. While it may not be connected to the church much, my testimony has only grown stronger on being the person I strive to be.

I know I'm scared of this new chapter, but I know how good it will be and the changes that should follow up with me if I continue to do my part. I have to find the strength in my heart, my mind, and my soul, and not be shaken. That is my new year's resolution - to become stronger in every aspect of my life.

To reach this goal, I will:
Exercise 30-45 minutes everyday.
Eat proper portions and nutrious choices.
Support my missionaries in their service to Heavenly Father.
Support my friends and family in becoming better people.
Be true to myself and all those around you.
Be humble, real, and trustworthy.
Be the example I wish to be.

And many, many more.

By following these guidelines and keeping my will power, I will be forever strong.
GREAT MOVIE. I strongly recommend it.