Two of my favorite scriptures both apply here:
2 Nephi 5:27
"And it came to pass that they lived after the manner of happiness."
Doctrine and Covenants 123:17
"Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."
Catch the common theme? Happiness! The gospel of Jesus Christ is one of absolute joy! The happy words are in yellow, because as I read my scriptures I mark in yellow all of the happy words. As I have done this, I have realized how the message of Jesus Christ is how to be truly happy for eternity. This happiness comes from living the gospel principles that are taught in the Book of Mormon and from living a life patterned after the Savior's.
Okay, some of you may be wondering what this all has to do with the primary Popcorn Popping song. I'm not entirely sure myself, so just go with it okay? It'll be an adventure(: Mostly, I think the tie is that this song+these trees make me happy. And so does the gospel, and sharing the gospel.
But really, happiness is found in simple things!
Today, I found happiness in fun primary songs.
I found it in a temple sealing, families are forever
I found it in a hug from someone I admire
I found it in kind words from another
I found it in wearing a shirt I love
I found it laughing over something silly
I found it in exploding candy balls (they're the best)
I found it in singing to an elderly man
I found it in the purple vine flowers (they have a real name, I just don't know it)
I found it in my Book of Mormon
I found it on my knees at 6:30 a.m.
I found it in testifing of my Savior
I found it in faith in His plan
I found it in the ability to repent
I found it when I followed the promptings of the Spirit.
I found it in the sunshine.
I found it.
I found it when I chose too.
Yep. That's it. It comes down to a choice, a choice to choose to follow the Savior and to find joy in the life that you get to enjoy because of Him, and His atonement.
"I looked out the window, and what did I see?
Popcorn popping on the apricot tree!
Spring had brought me such a nice surprise,
Blossoms popping right before my eyes.
I could take an armful and make a treat,
A popcorn ball that would smell so sweet.
It wasn't really so, but it seemed to be
Popcorn popping on the apricot tree."
Unlike the popcorn on these trees, the joy that comes from these tender mercies and in following Him is exactly what it seems to be: eternal joy. I have found this happiness, and I choose to each day. It is a continual process.
"Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him" Moroni 10:32
This is an invitation to find happiness. The people of Nephi in 2 Nephi 5:27 lived in a manner of happiness because they were coming unto Christ and making and keeping covenants. In D&C 123:17 we are told that as we do all things in our power, cheerfully, that we can then stand still and see the miracles. It is a choice. Choose to be happy. Choose to come unto Christ. You can do it, I know you can. It is hard, but I promise, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all things are possible, including you being happy. Turn to Him, get on your knees. ask for help, then get up and find the joy. What makes you happy? Share it with me! Share it with your family! Share it with your friends! Share it on your social network! Share the little things that make you happy and don't forget to share the joy in coming unto Christ.
Will you choose to follow Him?
Will you choose His joy?
I hope so. I know you can!
here is the link to this fun song: https://www.lds.org/music/library/childrens-songbook/popcorn-popping?lang=eng
And here is a link to a video about coming unto Christ. I cry every time! It is one of my absolute favorites! (it makes me happy!)
https://www.lds.org/youth/video/come-unto-christ-2014-theme-song?lang=eng
