Well, just finished watching Les Miserables: 25th Concert Show on PBS for the 2nd time. I cried my eyes out as it deeply touches me each time. Such talent, beautiful music and eternal messages. Love that extraordinary show so applicable to our time!
World events this and last week have been disturbing to say the least.
World events this and last week have been disturbing to say the least.
Watching the suffering of so many from natural disaster and those trying to gain freedom from oppression is heart wrenching. How blessed we are as a family to have each other, live in America and have the fullness of the gospel. I hope to never take what I have been given for granted, and to always appreciate those who have made it possible. My life has been exceedingly blessed and I often feel very humble and undeserving of so much goodness.
Thursday was a special day and I wished that all my girls of all ages were here in Nauvoo with me to enjoy the reenactment of the formation of the 1st Relief Society. We Temple Missionaries were asked to get costumes from the Dress Department, and to meet at the Visitors Center. We then had our pictures taken in our pioneer attire, then everyone boarded a horse drawn carriage to go to the Red Brick Store, operated by the prophet Joseph Smith during his time in Nauvoo. The horses were just gorgeous, big black, strong beasts who were brushed, curled and raring to go. During the ride to the store, one of the Sister Site Missionaries told the story of the early women and their contributions to the building of Nauvoo. After arrived at the store we climbed the narrow stairway to the second story of the store to be seated. I must say I felt chills as I climbed those stairs...I knew the prophet walked here as did our early ancestors, Snows, Billings, Niebors, they were all here!
We started with singing The Spirit of God like a Fire is Burning. There was not a dry eye in the group as the beauty of the words and melody filled the room. The Spirit was strong and sweet. Even now, I cry as I recall the feelings. Then various people took the parts of those responsible for the formation of the RS. It was wonderful, but the ending was fantastic as they contrasted today with yesterday. Women are so important to the building of society within and outside of the home. Women have the heart for peace, understanding, kindness and compassion. I know this to be true, for I have spent the majority of my life working closely with women. This our work and glory, to nurture and raise families firmly anchored to the truths of the gospel. There is nothing more noble or more important. In life it is easy to become distracted away from that which is essential.
Finally, I want to share an interesting experience that also occurred this past week. Dad and I attended a fireside where Elder Kevin W. Pearson, a member of the 70's spoke. Among other things he said he was instructed by Boyd K. Packer, that whenever he attended a meeting or event, he must always look for the one he had been sent to help. Elder Packer said that is always the specific mission of a General Authority. Elder Pearson thought that interesting, and then went on to give examples of how that principle actually worked in his life. Sara was asked to speak in church last Sunday and given the topic Discouragement. Becky Davies emailed Dad with the specific purpose of letting us know what a fantastic job Sis had done, how poised, witty and intelligent she spoke. Becky said she was approached at the end of the meeting by a man who was going through divorce and felt Sara's message was just for him. He came needing and was filled. There are times like that in all our lives, but one of the things Sara stressed was how we don't let others know of our needs, we keep them private and suffer on. How often does that happen in our family? Is there a family member out there, big or small who just who just needs someone to listen? I hope we can all be honest with our needs and in turn each of us sensitive in our responses.
I was thinking about this past year as it is almost that since we left. Hard to believe we have Jennifer going to BYU in the Fall, Hannah and Emily are 16 and will soon be driving[eek!] Ryan and Seth pass the Sacrament, Nathan is a member of the Church, Jake is almost fully potty trained, Emma is enjoying her dance class, Adam recognizes words, Londyn can ride a two wheeler, Tanner is starting to play T-ball, and Elizabeth and Brookie are starting to talk. What precious Grandchildren, each so unique and different. How fortunate Grandpa and I are to share them with you!
I bet you all miss Dad and I really a lot as you read this and can't wait for us to come home so we can lecture in person!!!
In closing, the gospel is true, every bit of it as our Temple President would say. Sara just called to tell us Danny Hainline was killed in a car accident last night. Danny's wife had delivered their baby early and the infant was in the NICU. Sister Hainline was there to help. Earlier in the week Sara found out that Jennie Meacham's little boy was diagnosed with leukemia and will need to undergo chemo for the next 6 months. Life is full of twists and turn, but when met with faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, He will be there. That is his promise and He is true and sure. With His help we can all endure to the end. This I know to be true.
Love, Mom & Dad
Mar 20  |
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