Former Young Women general president, Bonnie H. Cordon, shares her journey of balancing work and motherhood, transitioning from corporate to stay-at-home mom, and finding fulfillment in diverse life seasons. She reflects on lessons from her farm upbringing, miracles in mission call, and navigating unexpected opportunities. Cordon emphasizes trusting divine guidance in church callings and embracing full commitment to the gospel.
Trusting in the Lord's guidance and following His paths is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment.
Balancing work and motherhood requires support and understanding amidst varied choices and life roles.
Deep dives
Trusting in the Lord and Following His Paths
Trusting in the Lord wholeheartedly and acknowledging His guidance, Sister Corden emphasizes the importance of following the paths directed by the Lord. Reflecting on Proverbs 3:5-6, she highlights the significance of entrusting one's journey to the Lord and remaining faithful to His plan. By drawing parallels between personal experiences and divine guidance, she underscores the need to trust in the Lord's wisdom and purpose.
Balancing Work and Motherhood
Discussing the complexities faced by women navigating different life paths, Sister Cordon delves into the challenges of balancing work and motherhood. Acknowledging the varied choices women make in their careers and family life, she advocates for supporting individuals in their decisions rather than passing judgment. Drawing from her own experiences as a mother and a professional, she encourages women to focus on being present in their roles and seeking inspiration from the Lord.
Lessons Learned from Personal Challenges and Successes
Sharing personal anecdotes about facing failures and unexpected opportunities, Sister Cordon emphasizes the value of embracing challenges and learning from setbacks. From her experiences of raising animals on a farm to navigating career transitions, she highlights the importance of perseverance, courage, and seeking divine guidance. By reflecting on moments of uncertainty and growth, she underscores the transformative power of overcoming obstacles and trusting in the Lord's plan.
Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Service and Leadership
Detailing her journey from professional endeavors to serving in various leadership roles, Sister Cordon emphasizes the spiritual growth and preparation gained through diverse experiences. From leading a mission with her husband to serving in church callings, she traces how each opportunity shaped her for subsequent responsibilities. Emphasizing the principle of 'bless, not impress,' she shares insights into how humility, service, and reliance on the Lord's guidance have been integral to her leadership roles and personal growth.
There have been seasons when Sister Bonnie H. Cordon was a working mom and other seasons where she was able to choose to stay home. Today, she is a working grandmother who feels that the Lord has given her a miracle she didn’t know she needed in the form of an opportunity to lead Southern Virginia University. On this week’s episode, we discuss with President Cordon, the former Young Women general president, the Lord’s ability to direct us from season to season if we’ll just say yes.
3:26- Raised on a Farm 9:53- A Miraculous Mission Call 17:36- The Wrong Major? 20:15- Courage and Patience 23:57- Decisions Surrounding Work and Motherhood 32:20- Many Ways to Contribute 35:01- Advice to Young Working Mother 38:03- Advice to Stay-At-Home Mother 41:26- Prepared for Service in the Church 45:16- The Road to SVU 53:42- What Does it Mean To Be All In?
“We say ‘What is leadership? What is power?’ And it’s really influence.” -Bonnie H. Cordon