This past summer we embarked on a belated honeymoon—an Alaskan cruise that was truly an unforgettable experience. The beauty of blending families brings many challenges, so we make it a priority to carve out intentional time for each other with weekly date nights and special vacations. Our adventure took us to the Hubbard Glacier, and though thick fog initially obscured our view, we patiently awaited the awe-inspiring sight. This moment mirrors something most of us experience in life: when we seek to be self-reflective, the fog in our own minds can cloud our vision. It reminds us of the scripture in Ether 12:27: "My grace is sufficient... for if they humble themselves before me... I will make weak things become strong."
Sometimes the journey to self-awareness requires stillness and waiting on the Lord. Just as the ship’s crew slowly navigated through the fog until the glacier was in full view, we too need patience and trust in the process. Self-reflection can be like that—inch by inch, uncovering truths that God wants to show us about ourselves. When we humble ourselves and allow Him to guide us, the clouds of doubt or confusion lift, revealing a clearer vision of our path. That day, we experienced a personal miracle as we stood in awe of the glacier we didn't think we'd be able to see—a symbol of the hidden "mountains" we all carry within us, waiting to be uncovered and transformed.
Our journey brought an important realization: many of the obstacles we face are self-created, like glaciers hidden in the fog. These can be the stories we tell ourselves, limiting beliefs, or choosing not to pursue what we want for fear that our dreams won't be realized. Overcoming these internal challenges requires self-awareness and a willingness to let God guide us toward growth. As President Nelson wisely said, “The Savior is never closer to you than when you are facing or climbing a mountain with faith.” We can embrace that faith, seek clarity in our internal glaciers, and allow our weaknesses to become strengths with the Lord’s help.
Though the climb may be steep to rebuild our lives after divorce and other relationship loss and though the terrain may be rocky to blend a family, we all have the ability to find solid footholds for the journey ahead and discover clear skies beyond the fog. Getting a clear vision of internal glaciers allows us to become who we are meant to be and go where we are meant to go. May we see ourselves and our futures with clarity, just as we were able to do on a clear and sunny day with the majestic Mendenhall Glacier pictured above. Life is richer and more beautiful when fog clears and we can see the path ahead to a life better than we ever dreamed possible.
If you are living in fog and want support finding clarity to create a thriving post-divorce life, check out our online self-paced course: Life Design After Divorce (now available on demand).
The Power of Self Reflection in Relationships
Ever feel like you're stuck in fog, unable to see the path ahead clearly? Join us as we share our journey through thick fog on an Alaskan cruise, leading to a breathtaking discovery that mirrors the personal growth we all seek. In this video, we explore the "hidden glaciers" within ourselves—what they are, how they hold us back, and how we can finally see them for what they are with God's help.
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To heal from relationship loss and create more love in your life in 2024, read Intentional Courtship (available on Amazon).
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