"I don't want that."

"You look great."

"I don't like this."

"I give up."

This was a conversation between me and my mother this morning. Guess which one I am.

I woke up this morning not wanting to see the golden sun streaming through my bedroom window. I stirred when my mother told me that she, my brother, and I were going to go spend the day with a friend. I rolled out of my cozy bed and dug out a few of my favorite items to wear, trying to be in the best mood possible. I came downstairs to find that my shirt was wrinkled, my hair was flat, and my face was awful. My mother noticed too. In desperation, I asked my mom for help. She chose an outfit that I wouldn't have put together without some thought. I know I should have been more acceptive to my mother's judgement, but I became ugly inwardly as well as outward.

Our discussion continued in the car ride to pick up our friend. Though the day was bright, warm, and cheery, with happy music playing softly on the radio, I felt very disgruntled on the inside. Why was I so upset? Why couldn't I be happy to go see a friend? I really did't know at first. When I saw how my actions were making my family feel like I did, I cried. Luckily, mom and my brother forgave me, and we went on with our day, but I saw that my heart was being selfish in my appearance. After asking forgiveness from my family and my Heavenly Father, I felt beautiful.

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your father in heaven." --Matthew 5:16