Today is a day to celebrate! On July 24, 1847, as Brigham Young entered the Salt Lake Valley, he declared "This is the place". The 24th of July celebrates the pioneers. Prior to being called Pioneer Day, the 24th of July was known as the Day of Deliverance.
160 years later, to the day, I'm sure Joyce Rife McDonell declared "This is the place" as she entered the spirit world. I think it was her Day of Deliverance from mortal pain and discomfort.
She is MY pioneer and example of enduring to the end. I have this little plant that was given to my mom as she was overcoming breast cancer. I recall that at times it was large and flourishing with many blooms, and at times small and barely able to make it. When we all moved from 512 Santiago, I dug it up and took it with me. It has struggled but I am determined to keep it going the best I can as a remembrance of her.
In Proverbs 3:5 we read:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
Today, as I think of the pioneers who sacrificed and suffered so much for religious freedom I can be strengthened by their courage, faith and trust in the Lord.
I haven't been asked to pack a wagon or handcart with few belongings and leave my life behind to walk through unknown territory. I am not faced with illness and exposure that results in the death of our loved ones or having to bury a baby by the side of a trail.
I am faced, however, with other adversities and trials that also require courage, faith and trust in the Lord. Missing my mother is one of my constant trials but I know I can endure and we will be together again.
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
Today, as I think of the pioneers who sacrificed and suffered so much for religious freedom I can be strengthened by their courage, faith and trust in the Lord.
I haven't been asked to pack a wagon or handcart with few belongings and leave my life behind to walk through unknown territory. I am not faced with illness and exposure that results in the death of our loved ones or having to bury a baby by the side of a trail.
I am faced, however, with other adversities and trials that also require courage, faith and trust in the Lord. Missing my mother is one of my constant trials but I know I can endure and we will be together again.
Mom, I love you and miss you.
I know Heavenly Father must really love me to have sent me to you and Dad.
I am the luckiest girl in the world.
5 comments:
Kelly, that was the best thing I have read all day. Thank you for sharing.
I have to give two talks on Sunday and just might plagerize your words of wisdom and inspiration!
Kelly: Thank you for loving your Mom so very much. After a year has passed I still look for her here in our home each and every day. She had a positive influence on every one she met, but especially she was the cornerstone of our family. She loved all her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren completely, iuncluding all her in-law ones. We have all been blessed to have known her and we all look forward to the day we can say "Hi, Mom, here I am". I love you, Kelly, so very much. Dad
Excellant words, Kelly. You speak for all of us. Thank you,
Oh, Kelly, well said indeed. Thanks for the lovely words.
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