soakin it all up

Wonderful thing for Monday, 16 February:

First off, Pres. Ianni's spiritual acuity hits us in the solar plexus again.  He's been meeting with us frequently lately, about Pathway and YM/YW.  Yesterday he had some questions about Pathway.  He was at the church, between work and home, so we went there to talk with him.  What an example of being wholeheartedly invested in doing good and in carrying out his calling.  We showed him a Pathway video that has been translated into Italian on YouTube, about a 5-minute video.  From watching it, he immediately inferred every possible scope and purpose of Pathway, and the imperative to get it out there to bless the lives of the people.  What a marvel - the man, and the program.

Secondly, I just have to say that it's not easy being a mother/grandmother, and away from family for a year-and-a-half ... more for some.  Therefore, it was like basking in a pool on a lovely summer day to get a skype call from Amy, Lawton, and the children Sunday evening.  We talked for over an hour, and I soaked up every word, every nuance of expression, every grandchild experience shared.  It's nice to have family in the same time zone.

Ahhhh!  Tender mercies!

Fun thing:

"The word is out" does not directly carry over to Italian.  The blank look on Pres. Ianni's face was priceless!

New Year Poem

I was asked to write a poem for the new year for our Relief Society Newsletter. Here is the result:

“Come What May, and Love It”

Last year was full of stark and lovely things;
We know not what the coming year will bring.
Yet I feel just to say within my heart:
“Be still, and let the Savior do his part.”
His covenants stand firm beyond all time;
We honor them - we feel a joy sublime.
Despite all current woes and cares, we know
His over-arching hand holds all below.
His arm in solid, steady mercy held
Supports us, though this earth is darkly veiled.
In Satan’s temporary grasp it reels,
Yet death, hell, and demonic hosts will kneel
Before His mighty Majesty divine.
Fear not, my soul: forever in Christ, shine!

"Some, in speaking of war and troubles, will say, are you not afraid? No, I am a servant of God, and this is enough, for Father is at the helm. It is for me to be as clay in the hands of the potter, to be pliable and walk in the light and countenance of the Spirit of the Lord, and then no matter what comes. Let the lightnings flash and the earthquakes bellow, God is at the helm, and I feel like saying but little, for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth and will continue his work until he has put all enemies under his feet, and his kingdom extends from the rivers to the ends of the earth." - President John Taylor
“I know why there must be opposition in all things. Adversity, if handled correctly, can be a blessing in our lives. We can learn to love it.
“As we look for humor, seek for the eternal perspective, understand the principle of compensation, and draw near to our Heavenly Father, we can endure hardship and trial. We can say, as did my mother, ‘Come what may, and love it.’ ” - Elder Joseph P. Wirthlin