Hey everybody!  So it's been about 4 1/2 months since my last post.  So much for keeping up with it. But, I am trying to start anew once again.  So, a few moments of catchup before I get into the meat of this post.  I passed one huge milestone in my life..........IM A COLLEGE GRADUATE!  At the beginning of May, my sister and I graduated from Utah State University.  Now, as the beginning of the Fall Semester approaches, I find myself a little bereft.  I feel a little bit lost.  But, I am trying to keep my chin up and continue the job hunt.  No luck so far.  Just some part time positions available so those will keep me employed for awhile.

In other news, I was called to be the 1st counselor in the Relief Society in my singles ward.  It is such a challenging job, but it is so rewarding.  I love the presidency that I am with and the girls in the ward are such amazing, sweet, talented women.  I love it so much! 

Besides that, my life is pretty darn boring.  I did my brother's bootcamp in July and it was killer.  However, I learned that I am stronger than I ever thought I was.  I guess I have no excuse anymore that I can't do certain exercises.  :) 

Now, for the meat portion of this post.  There are some things in my life that are really challenging me right now.  Most of them exist in my own head.  Jobs, dating, and my frustration with myself have gotten me down so much lately.  I have felt so lost and so angry at myself.  Then, the other day, I reread one of favorite poems which put everything into perspective.  It is entitled "Invictus." 

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

This poem is the basis of the title for my blog.  After rereading this, I remembered who I am and exactly what I am capable of.  I am the person that decides my fate  I can choose to be beaten down by all the things I perceive to be wrong and hard in my life, or I can take control and make the best of what I am given, without letting it beat me. 

Once again, I feel a renewed sense of hope and motivation to make my life amazing and I thank My Heavenly Father for all of the blessings he has given me which allow my life to be full and rich.

Readers, I would challenge you to be the strongest self you can be.  Don't let life's trials get you down.  Be the master of your fate and the captain of your soul.