Coach and Chaos: Recent Episodes
CharRee
I am learning to calm my inner chaos by living with true intention, applying my daily gospel study to real life, my life.. real and raw and seeking forgiveness always. Why is this called “Coach and Chaos”? My husband is a college head coach. His acute organization and my chaos makes us work. I’m trying to find peace in my chaos. Hi, I’m Char’Ree Reynolds.
In this episode I talk a little bit about bringing baby girl into this world and some of the hardships that were involved. We have been met with some scrutiny but at the end of the day this is a beautiful baby girl sent to us from heaven. We are so blessed. And we shout for joy over our Father’s plan and for our Savior’s atonement. Sharing thoughts from Why Marriage, Why Family By Elder D. Todd Christofferson and an ancient conference talk by Richard G. Scott, we cover up our baby girl in love!
In this episode there is so much going on around me sitting out in the middle of nature and yet there’s traffic going by and there’s a plane going overhead I am somehow still feeling the peace that surrounds me. I am completely immersed in the studies of my scriptures and preparing for a podcast. I’m thinking about my sweet friend who recently passed away. I am thinking about Joseph Smith and all that he did for us to bring forth the Book of Mormon. I’m thinking about my sister who was approached by who she believes was a Heavenly Messenger. Each of these things I’m thinking about and reflecting upon this beautiful morning in South Carolina and I hope that you feel my love and testimony.
As we prepare for our move to South Carolina, I have been blessed with instructions within this amazing conference talk. It has been a guide post for me. It has helped me know better what to do to seek revelation from the Holy Spirit. I stand amazed at the peace I continue to feel as Jeff and I have embarked upon this journey, especially in how to steer this ship amidst the storms we have encountered. Reflecting upon “Take the Holy Spirit as Your Guide” By Elder Larry Y. Wilson
We have been asked so many times why South Carolina? Why are we leaving Utah? I decided to put it in a podcast along with my thoughts and reflections on an amazing conference talk called Forgiveness by Gordon B Hinckley from 2005.
Dennis Fisher gave a wonderful talk about light. I asked him to give me a copy of his talk so I could share with you, just some of his words. It went right along with the talk called “Missionary Work: Sharing What Is in Your Heart” By Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf and a talk given by a sweet sister missionary who urged us to make a difference in someone’s life. I hope this podcast makes a difference for you.
Often times we are so caught up in our “dung” and we miss out on opportunities to look outside of ourselves and see who might be needing a friend. I learned an incredible lesson by a beautiful woman named Megan and I am eternally grateful for what she taught me and her quiet example. It only took six years, something that I’m ashamed to admit. Focusing this episode on this amazing conference talk, Pressing toward the Mark By Elder Edward Dube Of the Seventy and Paul’s letter to the Philippians in Philippians 3.
Exquisite means beautiful. Even in pain, it is beautiful. Join me as I talk about the word exquisite and how sometimes our pain can beyond words causes incredible agony, but the realization is that we can find and feel His peace that only Jesus Christ can offer, and when we accept his gift, we experience exquisite joy. Referring to Mosiah 24 and The Exquisite Gift of the Son By Elder Matthew S. Holland Of the Seventy
I just had one of the most incredible weekends of my life- It was one of peace and comfort and encouragement love light happiness, and yet, total heartbreak at the same time. Listen to my recent podcast as I explain my journey to witness a championship game that resulted in defeat. I overcame some pretty incredible fears and was there ultimately there for my beloved and eternal companion to give him the hug that he needed the very most.
Reflecting upon President Nelson’s opening talk of General Conference April 2021. He spoke about cleaning out the debris from our lives. Also discussing Mosiah 5. I am taking a really hard look at the things in my life that I need to clean and clear out, all the clutter, the debris. How can I improve my life so that I can be more presentable on the day that I look at my Savior into his face? It is the greatest importance—That I know him intimately and that he ultimately Is my life’s focus.
Join me in my a-ha moment filled with testimony and love for prophets today, anciently, and Grandma Brockbank. How I love them all. Also, referring to Omni 1:15-30 and this ancient article from 1988: Jerusalem at the Time of Lehi and Jeremiah By Keith H. Meservy
Sometimes I am absolutely amazed how I have a direction as to what I will focus on, and begin a podcast with one idea...then it completely goes a different direction. It’s Palm Sunday! And so, where are we in our relationship with Jesus Christ, our Savior, and in our spirituality? it dawned on me that some of these things might just be too much to think about. Many people suffer from mental health and even starting something new or starting over or just starting anything at all, can be overwhelming and too much. I get it. Our Father in Heaven gets it. And ultimately, we have our loving Savior Jesus Christ who is rejoicing in any measure of spirituality that we can turn over to Him. #StartingToday
My daughter Zan had surgery. By choosing to help her I chose God. And..Practicing a new set of daily goals in a whole new way, and putting on the whole Armor of God, We will be supported, we will see miracles.
Reflecting on D&C 25 and two conference talks have illuminated my mind so much today of my personal worth to my Father in Heaven —as we begin to really recognize our own worth and the love that He has for us, we will be able to see with open and loving eyes those around us..their need and struggle- that someone may have. We just may come to the rescue. May we see that we do have horses and chariots surrounding us and fighting our battles. We must love ourselves first and learn to see ourselves the way Our Father and our Savior see us, then we can look outward and love others the way that he needs us to. Conference talks: Eyes to See By Michelle D. Craig and Lord, Wilt Thou Cause That My Eyes May Be Opened By Elder W. Craig Zwick
Take a minute out of your day to get to know Lorna. Lorna Olson is a professional life coach for your missionary. Listen to how she reaches out to Elders and Sisters to help them before, during and after their mission. They need Lorna! Actually, we all need Lorna! Her sweet personality is a delight to listen to! We also discussed a wonderful conference talk: God Will Do Something Unimaginable By Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Baby step your way back to Him. It may all feel just a little bit overwhelming. I couldn’t write a 28 page essay in two days so I start at the beginning of a semester and make my way through it a little bit at a time. Heavenly Father doesn’t expect us to do all of it perfectly and sometimes we think that we need to do all of it in order for us to have His approval. Nibble away at these things and over time it will grow to be Big! Your effort is not unnoticed by our Father. A little bit at a time. Take a nibble. DC 19:23-30. And a conference talk from a beloved prophet: The Rewards, the Blessings, the Promises Spencer W. Kimball
What a week of personal discovery! Please join me as I share with you one of the most powerful lessons I have ever learned in my life and yes, I am finally living my religion. 2 Nephi 5:5,6. A conference talk: With All the Feeling of a Tender Parent: A Message of Hope to Families Elder Robert D. Hales Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (thank you Stacy)
Patience and suffering to me don’t go hand-in-hand but actually it is a necessary component through our trail as we suffer and go throughout our day waiting patiently upon the Lord and in his timing.. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 and a wonderful and calming conference talk Patience in Affliction By Angel Abrea (April 1992)
I had An incredible morning in reading my scriptures as I read through several passages and inserted my name and made the Scriptures all the more personal to my heart. It was an powerful exercise for me to do that this morning. It drew me closer to my Father in Heaven and trusting in his promises. Reflecting on Mary Whitmer miracle encounter with Moroni! ..Whao ... so cool!! And a wonderful conference talk “Remember Also the Promises” Jay E. Jensen Gave me this idea. In reading in 2nd Nephi chapter 9: 1-5
Seeking to live after the manner of happiness? We can always be happy if we choose God first. I did not do that today....Reflecting upon JSH 1:72-75, 2 Nephi 5:27 and a conference talk Look Ahead and Believe By Elder Edward Dube
Feeling Anguish over the loss of our dog Honey even though she’s been gone nearly 2 years, it doesn’t feel like we’ve ever really overcome that difficult trial. This morning I was faced head on with it as I asked Heavenly Father “why, what was the wisdom in this?” Reading the story of Chris Williams’ tragic loss of his wife and children. He and his young son who survived -how they overcame that tragic loss- they chose to just trust. Also reflecting on D&C 12:8 . And a wonderful perfectly timed post from @work.and.wonder
“The What informs but the Why transforms” that is a wonderful quote you’ll find in this talk: The Why of Priesthood Service By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf And are you struggling with fasting? Here is The Why we do What we do in a fast! This will change your attitude of fasting! The Blessings of a Proper Fast Carl B. Pratt Join me. I am coming to understand the reasons for what I do. Applying why to my what!
I find myself all too often grumbling and murmuring about a “pack of peanuts” in my day. I know that Satan is out to destroy our fathers work through seeking to destroy ME! But as I apply prayer, “pepper pray” that we can come off conquer. It’s the little things, the murmurings, the small sins and inconsequential frustrations of our day that build up our walls and keep us from our Savior. #comefolllowme D&C 10, Deuteronomy eight. A wonderful conference talk: The Joy of the Priesthood By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
My focus is riveted on the Savior. Not giving in to my teenage girls!! Look unto Jesus Christ A wonderful conference talk that gives the perfect reminders of what our focus ought to always be: By Elder Kim B. Clark Also, reflecting on 1 Nephi 20, D and C 9. I must declare, always.
We have much to accomplish in this life. But how do we do so with doubts and negativity that swirl and through our mind? How do we accomplish his purposes with all the Temptations and trails of our life? A wonderful conference: The Spirit of Revelation Boyd K. Packer and 1 Nephi 17 and 18. We too can build ships!
Glow sticks only work if they are broken. Doctrine and Covenants 5, 6. 1 Neohi 17 He will lead us to our promised land. Trust in Him.
Stop. Right Here Right Now. Stop and Stand Still. Doctrine and Covenants 5:34. Peace be still. Enjoy this very moment.
The struggle is real and the struggle is hard yet necessary. Struggle and hard is necessary for our learning and our growth, it is trusting in him that he will see us through it —discovering the possibilities and the method of yet. Reflecting on first Nephi 15. Doctrine and covenants three. And a wonderful conference talk: Do We Trust Him? Hard Is Good By Elder Stanley G. Ellis (Oct 2017)
Promise. What an overused and abused word! Not to God. Just trust. Also reflecting on incredible promises found here: Family History and Temple Work: Sealing and Healing By Elder Dale G. Renlund
Early days of our dating, meeting this man, Elder Yoshihiko Kikuchi..and his prophetic proclamation to what he saw in us as a young couple. His words have kept me going and focused and committed to our marriage. We are a celestial couple. Reflecting on JSH 1 and Emma, and Heart Bound Together by Henry B. Eyring and of course, Daughter of God Elder Yoshihiko Kikuchi
I am grateful to not be a plain white seashell. Reflecting on first Nephi 10 and 11, Joseph Smith history one and two wonderful conference talks : Come unto Me, O Ye House of Israel” By Elder Larry Echo Hawk Of the Seventy And What Shall a Man Give in Exchange for His Soul? By Elder Robert C. Gay Of the Seventy
Reviewing a list that I made a few years ago of things that were causing agony and feelings of despair, I realized how all of them had been resolved and prayers have been answered. Referring to 1 Nephi in the Book of Mormon, the First Vision, and a wonderful conference talk Never Leave Him Neil L. Andersen. He will never leave us. We will “go away” but He never will.
In reading of he first vision how Joseph Smith was “seized upon“ we come to realize that this was so Heavnly Fathers work could be thwarted. And, the work that Joseph set out to do was so important that he was seized upon. We likewise are seized upon and the work that our Father has for us to do is continually thwarted and halted as we succumb to the “seizing” of the adversary. It comes subtly, and it comes suddenly; nonetheless, Satan does all he can to destroy our Fathers work in our personal progression. Reflecting upon Joseph Smith history 1:14-20. A wonderful poem “Obscure” from January 2021 Liahona, and the conference talk “Hear Him” By President Russell M. Nelson President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Joseph Smith and Ed Bates. Angels and visions ARE a thing. Come to know that THIS Joseph Smith “thing” truly was visited by Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ..and heavenly messengers..yes, a modern day prophet and he brought to us precious truth, and because of him, converts have too, come to know of this truth. Included in this podcast is the miracle story of Edward Bates. Also reflecting on the conference talk Joseph Smith—Prophet of the Restoration by Tad R. Callister
If there is ever a question in your mind about whether or not Joseph Smith was a prophet -truly a prophet of God- and sent to bring forth the church of Jesus Christ in these latter days then it is our challenge right here right now to find out it’s truthfulness. I declare that it is, and that he was a prophet sent to bring about this work..His work. Reflecting upon Come Follow Me Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26 and Nephi 1, and the conference talk: A Choice Seer Will I Raise Up” By Elder Craig C. Christensen
So grateful for the light and example of my friend Janalyn Owens and her sharing her love of the gospel and her positivity in everything that she posts on her social media. Reflecting on the 20 things that she learned and the 20 things that I have learned from 2020. What are yours? And reflecting upon Section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants-the word “Hearken” and how we can not only listen but go do and apply all of these teachings to our lives. Also, a great general conference talk: His Servants, the Prophets by Elder F. Michael Watson, April 2009
Reflecting on a wonderful Christmas and witnessing truly a Christmas Miracle! Also reflecting upon I Testify by Ezra Taft Benson Oct 1988 and President of the Church and Four Gifts from the First Presidency Christmas Devotional Dec 2019 from President Russell M Nelson
I have truly messed up. Not teaching my children how to have a level Three Christmas. We kept it at a level one and a little bit of level two. But I am redirecting and refocusing to have a level III Christmas and to keep Christmas in my heart all year long. And serve others because that’s what the Savior would do. Reflecting upon A Modern Angelic Host Elder Ulisses Soares and John Bytheway 5 Minute Fireside from LDS Living.
Prepare yourself for the upcoming family gathering by listening to this! In Praise of Those Who Save By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Falling Out of Love … and Climbing Back In from Ensign Jan 2005
We each are blessed with incredible gifts. Don’t think for a second that you are without any of these gifts. You came to this earth with a divine assignment as you once upon a time rose your hand and said, “send me”... Moroni 10:8. “I Have a Work for Thee” By Elder John C. Pingree Jr.
If you knew today was your last day in your life, what would your final words be to your family? Reflecting on the final words of Mormon and Moroni to each other, to us, to the worlds—Words spoken from the dust. What would be your final words?
Turning darkness and despair away and looking to the light. We no longer need be a victim of darkness, come off as conqueror and claim victory! Reflections from The Hope of God’s Light By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Moroni 9 feat: @byumaxwell
Have you ever felt like you were making a last ditch effort? Alyssa Worthington’s testimony is timely, it has changed my life and sparked my own personal joy today...and I am so grateful for her honesty and openness about an experience that she had. I love you Alyssa! Reflecting upon the conference talk: Foundations of Faith By Elder Quentin L. Cook Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
My life was completely changed at the birth of twin girls on Christmas Eve. A dear neighbor, Pammy, and our daughter, Britneylee—helped light the way. Moroni 7 and Charity: Perfect and Everlasting Love Gene R. Cook And Charity Never Faileth by President Thomas S Monson
We are delightful in His eyes. Sometimes it’s not some thing we see or feel or even trust in, but we are delightful to Him! He delights in us! An early morning spiritual confirmation of this truth came upon my friend Kristy causing her to know how the Lord, and even her earthly parents, are delighted in her. And a sweet mission story in this episode of a time when someone simply needed someone else to just sit with them. May we continue to #LightTheWorld
Stories of Christ Like love. Also referring to We Climbed Every Mountain by Bonnie Peterson and President Eyring Sisters In Zion Oct 2020.
Reflecting upon times when my family were receivers of an anonymous gift that we are so eternally grateful for to this day. Who can I give my best self to? Referring also to Mormon 6. #LightTheWorld #ComeFollowMe
To go along with the Light The World campaign, I hope we can start this month off right to end this year with light and LOVE...by loving and repairing any unhappy relationship. Here is how: 10 Things ... Ensign Jan 2005: Falling Out of Love … and Climbing Back In
Being raised with polar opposite grandparents has helped me remember my divine heritage. What do you remember as to why you are who you are today? What helps you remember your divine heritage? May we never forget and never deny.
Naming Blessings one by one gives us Hope, pulls us out of despair. THIS is how we dispel the despair! My 17 year old daughter, Eve’Llyn, showed me that I can look to my future with greater hope! Reflecting on Ether 12 and conference talk from October 1986, The Light of Hope by Dwan J. Young
Going to war with ourselves each day..how can redirect our battle to surrender, to our Father, to our Savior? Ether 13 and Consecrate Thy Performance by Neal A. Maxwell and of course a prescription from Dr Russel M Nelson, our Prophet
Thinking about the Prophet’s message to us and into the world on Gratitude, I’m thinking of my own nearly 50 years of life and all that I have witnessed. How easy it is for us to be filled with English and sorrow over great devastation that we have all witnessed currently and in the past. But as we reflect upon all that we have and give thanks, our heart can be filled with peace knowing that we are truly blessed.
In a world of division and darkness, we can be a light! Katie is exactly this. Hear her spirit as she shares personal stories of how we can turn away darkness through forgiveness and prayer. -Barry Goldman and Susan Silk Ring Theory -Dangerous Love by Chad Ford
Always a most difficult topic that of humility. After several attempts, I hope this Is Enough! As we seek out our Savior we want our Enough to be of Him. Taking my reflections from conference talk: “To Walk Humbly with Thy God” Marlin K. Jensen and Ether 9.
I tried to do this podcast on marriage and after severest failed attempts, I realized it definitely wasn’t a topic that I could do on my own! Introducing Jeff Reynolds… Unfortunately our daughter called at the very end and it abruptly ended our recording, but there you have it… An imperfect marriage with an imperfect podcast recording! Certainly grateful for 30 years of marital bliss that brings us right here, to this.
Sometimes our “monsters” are just too much. Reading and reflecting upon Ether 6 and The Key to Spiritual Protection by President Boyd K. Packer
Episode 26: Regardless of choices in the moment Or choices in deciding future should require patience and reflection. “Choices”, by President Russell M Nelson helps us to reflect and remind us who we are and where we are going… Our very purpose of life. If we reflect upon these very things we can make better choices even, and especially, at 12 AM.
Join us as we discuss BYU speeches by Jeffrey R Holland “Cast Not a Way Therefore Your Confidence” given March 2, 1999 —sometimes we lose confidence in a decision we felt was right..and all of the sudden that old Devil enters in and we feel like it’s supposed to be a different direction… How do you handle that?
Ether 3 1-16 touch these stones, see your world with a different set of eyes. Patience is my goal.
So much personal revelation and reflection here. Very personal. Thank you for sharing in my journey. Reflection upon Genesis 3, Ether 2 and How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life By Elder Richard G. Scott... We can become like Them.
Continuing my quest of understanding prayer and revelation and growing to Love our dear prophet. Conference talk: Reflecting upon Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives (April 2018) and Ether 1. Along with sharing my own childhood memories I hope we can come to understand the will of our Father for the direction of each of our individual lives.
Am I ashamed to take upon the name of Christ? No way! Until I am challenged with a certain someone in my life that I feel perfectly justified to withhold mercy and deal justly with then do I truly take upon the name of Christ? One of the most difficult things that we have to do in this life is to extend mercy and forgiveness to someone who has offended us. We are still required to have mercy. Come Follow Me Mormon ch 9 and Dale G Renlund Oct 2020 conference talk. ‘Do Justly, Love Mercy, and Walk Humbly with God’
Inspiration taken from Rally for Dalley, and the Come Follow Me program from Mormon chapters 7-9, the “greater things” that trial and turmoil can bring forth to enhance our learning and our growth—to draw us closer to the Savior and to save future generations… There are greater things for each one of us if we embrace the tests of life.
We are not required to carry one another in a physical sense but definitely we are required to find those who are struggling and searching and set them out and carry them in our heart and the burdens upon our back and bring everyone closer to Christ, by so doing we drive ourselves closer to Christ.
Learning To Recognize Answers to Prayer by Richard G Scott helped me realize and see, all that is around me as truth to how much He truly answers purely for me.
Exhausted, tearful, hopeful. Hope and Trust and Listen to me as I take these baby steps with you, toward the final step for the glorious day that we fall into His arms.
How wonderful it would be if we all cheered each other on, encouraging one another to live our best lives, to keep going, to take one more step.
Just when you feel like you want to give up in doubt and uncertainty, or just when you feel like you’re not good enough, strong enough, or just..enough..go back to what is tugging on your heart, go back to the promptings of the Spirit that got you to this Point. Listen to the promptings of the sweet Spirit, that at one time confirmed that it was right. And don’t be afraid to move forward with confidence- rise up and listen to the tuggings of your heart, not of the world, not of Satan, but from God.
In Come Follow Me today we are reading from Mormon chapter 1. And I’m taking the conference talk from one that was written at the time that I did not specify and I hope that you will research it and share with me what you find out… It is astounding! It is Out Day Today!! So what can we do to help change our corner of the world and protect us from what is going on, and have hope that we can help our family and our communities return back to Him? ...and heed the warnings of the prophets? Please join me as we look to the Savior and stay in His boat where he offers calm and peace and promise.
This is going to be my longest podcast and it comes from the Come Follow Me program and reading in fourth Nephi chapter 1 starting at about verse 19. And, ouch, yep, talking about Ezra Taft Benson’s amazing 1989 conference talk about pride—it is incredible and he changes my heart each time I read it but I nearly changed the course of my day on a family gathering to Lagoon over something so small and simple and I’m quite embarrassed but this is me and I’m trying to be real. Swallowing pride one less trigger at a time
We may have the same recipe but for some reason they all turned out a little bit differently when we arrive to the church gathering. Do we shun the other because they put corn flakes on top instead of Ritz crackers? How can we maintain unity to just love one another and help each other return to our Savior- Even if we do things just a little bit differently than the way our neighbor does it? If you are not one year not mine.
My desire? I want to live with courage and bravery and joy and be relentless in my pursuit of bringing one soul unto Christ, most importantly, my children. What is your greatest desire?
What is your name and how well do you represent it? Do you represent your membership in the gospel of Jesus Christ in the very best light? Things to reflect upon as to how we conduct our lives each day and a reminder wherever we are and in all that we do, we are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Represent well.
4 Nephi 3 ..they gave there ALL.. And a special reflection on an Elect Lady who shows what it means to give All she had.
Referencing President Nelson’s most recent conference talk “Let God Prevail” we can experience peace knowing we are right where we need to be. Trusting in His timing that it will all come together for our family, our future, our relationship with God as we submit our will in His, completely.
In this episode I am reflecting upon third Nephi chapter 7 verses one through 15 but most importantly to the word yield in verse five. Also I am reflecting upon elder Dieter F Uchtdorf’s 2010 conference talk “Of What Matters Most”. Pause, reflect, slow down, and yield— turn your heart to God, family, friends, and most importantly, take care of yourself During these turbulent times.
Which pot of flowers are you? Bask in the Glorious light of the gospel of Jesus Christ! Turn out of the shadows..and listen today to learn just how to do that.
I was going to take a break today from crafting a podcast because I was too intimidated to attack the subject of which we were assigned to in our reading today. But instead of being intimidated I faxed it head on; embraced it and I’m here to share my takeaways, to be genuine and authentic and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I love this passage of scripture found in third Nephi chapter 4 about the Nephites. They were faced to battle the Gadianton Robbers and they did so with confidence because they had God with them. As we Keepers of the covenants that we have made to God he will be with us in all of our battles that we fight daily.
We are not expected to be perfect but to Strive for it! Fortify ourselves then exert the lesson. Elder Bednar and Lachoneous show us the way! Good times!
3 Nephi 3: 1-15 Lachoneous gathered his people; prepared them to fight off the evil intentions of the Gadianton Robbers. I can do this too in our day, by preparing my week, living w intentionality. In my willingness to remember Him each day, and especially, in partaking of the Sacrament, I will live more peacefully.