You Are Here!

 

A few years ago, I found myself pondering a simple but profound question: "WHERE AM I?"

As I sat with that thought, a visual came to mind, a map from a mall I had recently visited. Like many maps, it had a helpful marker that read, "YOU ARE HERE".  That phrase stuck with me.

I realized I knew where I had been, "YOU WERE HERE"  I even had a sense of where I hoped to go, "YOU WANT TO END UP HERE" But the real question was, “WHERE AM I NOW?” What is my current location on the map of my life? 

I didn’t have an answer right away. I knew I’d need time and spiritual clarity to understand it.

Then, unexpectedly, I came across a talk by Elder L. Tom Perry titled “The Heritage of Our Summer Holidays.” I wasn’t thinking about my question at the time just reading a random talk. But to my surprise, Elder Perry shared something that felt like a direct answer.

He spoke about how birthdays had become a time of reflection for him, a moment each year to pause and ask, "WHERE AM I?"” His words felt like wise counsel, and I knew I wanted to adopt that practice.

Now, I see that spiritual self-checks don’t have to be complicated. They can be woven into the rhythm of our lives through birthdays, quiet mornings, or even unexpected talks. And they can help us answer that gentle but important question: "YOU ARE HERE."

As I read his words, I realized the Lord was gently answering my question. "YOU ARE HERE" isn’t just a point on a map, it’s a moment of truth, a chance to see where I stand and where the Lord is inviting me to grow next.There is a difference between “checking boxes” to appear righteous and “checking boxes” to become more aware, more intentional, and more aligned with the Savior. The first is hollow. The second is holy.

When you use small, simple actions as a way to evaluate where you are, to stay accountable, and to move toward who you want to become, that’s not empty box‑checking, that’s discipleship with direction.

Especially if it leads to us having a CHANGED HEART!

If those small, consistent habits lead to a softened, changed, more Christlike heart, then they are doing exactly what the Lord intended.

It’s the same pattern the scriptures teach over and over:

• By small and simple things....
• Line Upon Line...
• Continue in patience…

Those aren’t passive ideas. They’re invitations to practice becoming.

Checking a box isn’t the goal, becoming is. But the boxes can help us get there.

One day I want hear from my Heavenly Father,  

"You Are Here...

Right where I want you to be"

as He welcomes me back home as a true and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ.