OK, it has been along time since I have written. I have been thinking a lot about where I want to go from here. It has been fun talking about trips and memories of growing up. But I also want my children and grandchildren to know that I have a deep testimony of the gospel. There have been so many angry voices and so much violence lately. I read the editorials in the newspaper and the columnists and the letters to the editor and I understand how each one feels and their reasoning is so persuasive, that I feel like I don’t know my own mind. Then I listened to our Prophets and Apostles in General Conference and I felt such peace and quiet. I realized that I can always turn to our Prophet and trust what is said. He tells us to be happy and keep our hearts and eyes focused on the Savior and all will be OK. We extend ourselves outward and give service and help where ever we can. There is a wonderful little book by Gordon B. Hinckley. “Stand A Little Taller” it contains scripture quotes for each day of the year.
“Do Not Despair”
“All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.”
Doctrine and Covenants 123:7
“We are in a period of stress across the world. There are occasionally hard days for each of us. Do not despair. Do not give up. Look for the sunlight through the clouds. Opportunities will eventually open to you. Do not let the prophets of gloom endanger your possibilities.”
Then another: “Courageous Convictions”
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth. Romans 1:16
“Paul wrote to Timothy:”God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord” (2 Timothy 1:7-8). I would that every member of this Church would put those words where you might see them every morning as you begin your day. They will give you courage to speak up, they will give you the faith to try, they will strengthen your conviction of the Lord Jesus Christ.
This was published in 2001.
These are just a few of the touchstones of my life. I am so grateful to my parents for their example of love and devotion to the gospel and to each other. I miss them every day. My heart has felt very tender lately. My eyes mist over at almost anything. I cherish every day I have to spend with my wonderful Husband Jim. I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to share my life with this amazing man. He is so smart and he helps me to laugh and enjoy life. We share so many of the same interests it is a joy to be together.
My dear children, I love you all so much. I know that my actions do not always show that love but I pray for you and your families and know you each have your own agency. I always hope that each of you will look to your heritage and remember who your ancestors are and what they sacrificed so that you might have the life that you have.
I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true church of Christ. I have been blessed to be born of parents that also have that knowledge and they passed that to me. I have not always lived as though I knew the truth but in my heart I always came back. It is such a blessing to have a Husband who honers his Priesthood and helps me to understand things when I have questions. Please take this as it comes from my heart.
Love your Mother.
Oh you!