“Spiritual DNA is perfect”
Holly Ferrin: “It’s been a while since I have put thought and effort into being engaged with #LDSconf – in other words, it’s been a while since I’ve really paid attention. A few days ago, I found significant comfort and insight from the speakers. I am grateful I was able to truly listen with the Spirit and grasp the opportunity to learn.
During General Conference, I made small notes and watched the #LDSconf #Twitter feed. As the talks went on there were a lot of great thoughts, quotes and even some humor amongst the tweets. Some social-media-ites quickly develop memes to go along with a favorite quote from the current speaker. So, as I scrolled through, I saw this meme, by Lori Larsen Allred of @allreddesign. The quote is all-encompassing of #ElderAndersen’s message. It really resonated with me.
“While a child’s earthly situation may not be ideal, a child’s spiritual DNA is perfect…” #ElderAndersen #iamachildofgod
#Instagram Image Source: https://instagram.com/p/BDtl-VSxmxm/
Elder Neil L. Andersen, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke of the acceptance of those who do not have, for lack of a better term, “picture-perfect” families (a reference to “the Lord’s pattern for families). His emphasis was on those who have come from broken families, being orphaned, growing up with one parent, or whose family may not be members of the Church or even active members – for those who face significant struggle within the common culture and push for the “picture-perfect” LDS family. Frankly, even on the best of days, I’m sure there are no actual “picture-perfect” families, or people – just the perception of it. That being noted, this sentiment applies to everyone. #family #community
Summaries (see Andersen): https://www.lds.org/gener…/talk-summaries-saturday-afternoon
While the purpose of the talk was on those who struggle with their circumstances (environmental/socio-cultural) of where/how they grow up and learn of the Gospel, I interpreted it in a couple of other ways. This concept also applies to those who face physiological, cognitive or psychological struggle. I was thinking of those of minority groups, those in the disability community and, more specifically, those in the rare and undiagnosed community. #raredisease #rarefamily #DNA
There is so much social and pathological emphasis and pressure on a child being “perfect.” If something is “wrong” with the child they must be “fixed!” No one – not one person – can ever attain true perfection in this life. It’s an especially difficult thing to swallow when there is something ‘off’ in genetics. Parents mourn the child they thought they would have; they hurt and rejoice when a diagnosis is finally found. A true rollercoaster in life.
The list of problems, issues and imperfections can be remedied, on a spiritual level, by knowing that we are perfect, through Him. We are perfect when we show love, welcoming and acceptance to others, not just tolerance.
Spiritual DNA is perfect.”
Holly Ferrin, CAO
Executive Director and CAO of the Epilepsy Association of Utah
Chairperson of the Committee for Accessible Transportation at Utah Transit Authority
Holly Ferrin has 11 years of combined work and service in the ADA community. She is the first Executive Director in the Association’s 42-year history to have epilepsy herself. Her drive to do what she does comes from the reality of social stigmas towards those with disabilities and, more importantly, seeing those who are disadvantaged succeed. Her motto centers around not only the concept of, but also the act of encouraging advocacy and independence. Holly has held various directorship, leadership and volunteer positions. She excels in networking and public speaking. She is also proficient in assessment of business needs and accommodations in customer service. Holly is always thorough in all projects, goals and organizational mission(s). holly@epilepsyut.org
“The Epilepsy Association of Utah is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all individuals living with epilepsy and seizure disorders.“
For over 40 years, the Epilepsy Association of Utah has tirelessly dedicated its efforts to building awareness, acceptance and support to the people of Utah. Whether or not Utahns live with epilepsy, it is our mission to educate people about epilepsy, reach out to people with epilepsy and raise awareness about what epilepsy is and what it is not. These three pillars provide the foundation for continued efforts in helping bring epilepsy out of the shadows of stigma and bathe in the warmth of acceptance.