Have Courage, Arise, & Stand Strong

Last Sunday the LDS youth of the Park City Stake had the opportunity to hear Al Fox speak at a fireside. Many of you, most likely those who are not LDS, are probably thinking: "Who in the world is Al Fox?" Well I'll tell you. Al Fox is a recent convert to the LDS faith whose arms are almost covered with tattoos. "What do tattoos have to do with anything?" She doesn't look like the kind of girl who would be a convert, but she has an amazing personality and a fascinating story. I encourage you to read it on her blog. Anyways, the fact that she has tattoos is significant because she is judged a lot and endures a lot of criticism, but she knows that God loves her, and everyone else, no matter what they look like.

Al's story impacted me greatly because you could see that she firmly believed in what she was talking about, even though she is quite new to the church. Each year, there is a new scripture theme for the youth of the church. In the fireside, Al pointed out that the themes for the past couple of years are related. Two years ago the theme was, "Be strong and of a good courage," (Joshua 1:9). Last year's theme was, "Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations," (D&C 115:5). This year's theme is, "Stand ye in holy places, and be not moved," (D&C 87:8). She pointed out that they go in order. First have courage, then arise, then stand. I think this is powerful and, like Al said, "It is not a coincidence."

I have been to many firesides, but this one has definitely been my favorite so far. Not just because of Al's amazing personality and story, but because what she talked about was very applicable to our lives. She was constantly making jokes and she always said what was on her mind. Everyone laughed a lot and felt the spirit; it was the perfect environment to remain interested and be uplifted and taught. Many more principles could have been pulled out of what she said, but I just wanted to share that thought with you all. If you get the chance you should definitely check out Al Fox's blog and learn more about her!

Al Fox (white shirt & orange skirt)
 with a few of my friends and me

Al with my sister and me