Today I finished reading a book I have been meaning to read for a long time called “The Crucible of Doubt” by Terryl Givens and Fiona Givens. This is a book I have heard recommended by several faithful LDS who have struggled doubts and questions.

You might have noticed I've been thinking a lot about music lately. Taking a break from Twitch has allowed me to sort of “musically reset” as I have tried to focus on listening to music that elevates the soul and draws me closer to God. It is reawakening a long-dormant part of myself that once loved to play musical instruments and create my own music.

I need to do better at recognizing the tremendous blessings in my life and acknowledging God's hand in all of them.

I received some good news about my job today. I'm just grateful to have a job in the first place, but it's nice to know my contributions are valued and are making a difference. It made me realize how starved for good news I've been.

Occasionally I listen to a podcast called “The God Minute”. These are daily prayer and meditation programs that last 10-15 minutes. They are a wonderful way to help me focus on God and on sacred things. And they often feature wonderfully curated, beautiful music that draws your thoughts heavenward. One of the songs from today's podcast caught my attention.

I didn't sleep well last night. My first church meeting was at 7am this morning and it was another busy day. I also had to take allergy medicine, which always makes me feel tired. Needless to say, I'm running on fumes a couple hours before my normal bedtime.

I woke up to the news that the USA and Israel launched a major military strike against Iran. It is natural to feel worry and fear over what this might mean not only for innocent people in Iran, but of the surrounding region and even the world. And then I read the Daily Readings from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

I have started to watch the television series “The Chosen” again during this Lenten season. I think this will be my fourth time watching these earlier seasons. It's easily one of my favorite TV shows of all time.

Yesterday, for Lent Day 8, I posted about an important letter. I didn't title it as the Day 8 entry in the series because I wanted it to be more of a standalone post. But today I'm continuing with Day 9, sharing some thoughts on the Holy Spirit.

Yesterday I learned about a letter that hundreds of Christian leaders and scholars had signed which calls for resistance to a cruel and oppressive government and urges all to follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. The letter is called “A Call to Christians in a Crisis of Faith and Democracy” and I encourage you to visit their website to read and sign it if you are willing and in a position to do so.