Becoming In the Middle

The Meaning We Make

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:d81268b6-58b0-4b89-909e-35bd7a4c61ca-1" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:d81268b6-58b0-4b89-909e-35bd7a4c61ca-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode, I share an experience helping clean out my in-laws' home and the emotions that surfaced while deciding what to keep and what to let go of. What started as a practical task became a deeper reflection on attachment, memory, identity, and the meaning we assign to things. As I processed the experience, I realized something deeper: so much of our emotional life is shaped not by the events or objects themselves, but by the meaning we make about them. We are constantly assigning value, symbolism, and identity to people, possessions, experiences, and seasons of life. And often, it's those interpretations—not the circumstances themselves—that create our suffering, sentimentality, fear, joy, or resistance. If you'd like to read more of my thoughts, join me on Substack [https://aliciahowardbecoming.substack.com/].

The Sacred Art of Asking

Resharing a talk I gave in church a few months back. We are so good at being helpers. But when it comes to being on the recieving end...we could use some practice! Want to hear more of my thought, follow my writing on Substack [https://aliciahowardbecoming.substack.com/].

I Failed As a Friend

I had an experience where I didn't show up as I wanted to for my friend. In addition to feeling guilty, I'm trying to figure out how I can do better. Interesting in more of my thoughts? Follow my writing on Substack [https://aliciahowardbecoming.substack.com/].

The Insight That Changed How I See Obedience

Why is obedience considered the first law of heaven? That is the question I recently sat with. The answer finally came and I'm so excited to share the insight I got. This episode is heavy on my spiritual beliefs, so here are some links if you want to learn or understand more of where I'm coming from: What is the Temple? [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/temples?lang=eng] What is the Endowment? [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/endowment?lang=eng] What is the Plan of Salvation and Exhaltation? [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/plan-of-salvation?lang=eng] Obedience [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/obedience-study-guide?lang=eng] Guide to the Scriptures: JOY [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/gs/joy?lang=eng] Doctrine & Covenants 130:20 [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/130?lang=eng&id=p20#p20]

Is Obligation Robbing Your Joy?

Obligation can be a good thing when it comes to a job, or respecting the law. But sometimes obligation can rob us of joy. Lately I've noticed where obligation feels more preformative then authentic. Obligation is driven from external forces. Agency comes from the inside first and is reflected outward. When obligation is unexamined and unquestioned, it tends to lead to resentment and in the end, robs us of joy. Follow my writing on Substack [https://aliciahowardbecoming.substack.com/].