Hi, I'm Amanda

I'm a music librarian. I'm a singer. I'm a Mormon.

About Me

My faith and my family come first in my life, but I'm also passionate about the performing arts, singing and dancing as much as I can, even if it's just in my kitchen. I blog about my adventures and my perspectives on faith at http//thebookguardian.blogspot.com. I also love traveling, reading, and spending time with people I love.

Why I am a Mormon

I was raised in a family of faithful members and have long enjoyed its blessings in my life. Now that I'm out on my own, I've come to understand what it means specifically to me and not just to my parents. Having faith in Jesus Christ and in our Heavenly Father's plan gives my life direction and meaning. I am so grateful for the daily blessings and miracles I witness as a member of His church.

How I live my faith

I serve as my congregation's music director, coordinating the hymns and special musical numbers for our worship services. I also serve as a visiting teacher, getting to know my fellow sisters, and try to be the best friend, sister, and daughter I can be.

What is faith?

Amanda answered...

The apostle Paul said, to the Hebrews "Now, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." My favorite definition is from the Book of Mormon prophet, Alma, who said "faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things, therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." We're not expected to know every aspect of the Gospel, but learning of the principles and then acting on them with faith is how we come to know whether or not they are true. Faith is like the wind. Or even love. We can't see it, but we can see its effects and power in our lives and know that it's there. We can even harness its energy and use it to our benefit. Also like love, it's more of a verb than a noun. It requires choice and action to be most effective. I, for one, choose to believe.
Don answered...

Faith is taking action because of a hope in something. Often the Savior asks of us to do certain things or live in certain ways. When we see a stranger in distress, we stop and help them as Jesus commanded us to in the Good Samaritan Luke 10:25. The act of helping is the evidence of our Faith in Christ. We are asked to tithe. Tithing is evidence of our faith. We tithe in hopes of the promises in Malachi 3:10 that the floodgates of Heaven are open to us.
Faith is when we put our beliefs and hope into action.

Are all Mormons required to serve a mission?

Austin. answered...

No. Every worthy young man is expected to serve a mission, though there is no punishment for not doing so. Also, not every young man is physically or mentally capable, so there are circumstances where a young man may be excused from service. Young women may also serve missions, but are not expected to do so.

Serving a mission means a full-time commitment, leaving family and friends to preach the gospel in a place assigned by the Church.

I served my mission in Los Angeles, California.