Despite Adversity, Be of Good Cheer

we just keep on with our family reunion plan that seems to go on and on.  We are enjoying every bit of it.  Approaching the last leg and my mind is filled with the importance of establishing famiy traditions.  At Leavenworth, in a time that I opted out of shopping in one more boutique for the morning, I read a conference talk by Elder Mayes (Establishing a Christ-Centered Home).  He mentioned traditions.....

We brought our children together and held weekly family home evenings as well as daily prayer and scripture study. It was not always easy, convenient, or successful, but over time these simple gatherings became treasured family traditions.

We learned that our children might not remember everything about the family home evening lesson later in the week, but they would remember that we held it. We learned that later in the day at school they would probably not remember the exact words of the scriptures or the prayer, but they would remember that we did read scriptures and we did have prayer. Brothers and sisters, there is great power and protection for us and our youth in establishing celestial traditions in the home.

Learning, teaching, and practicing the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ in our homes helps create a culture where the Spirit can dwell. Through establishing these celestial traditions in our homes, we will be able to overcome the false traditions of the world and learn to put the needs and concerns of others first.

We along with many others in the Ward have been making memories and establishing traditions.  There are those in our midst that are dealing with physical limitations and challenges.  So this week, while my life and health allow, I will continue to travel and be with family and keep a prayer in my heart for those striving to get healthier.  This is for Brenda who is dealing with new challenges and also Cindy (in KS).  Actually this is for all of us as we all have challenges whether we can travel or not!!!  Hope you draw strength from each day!

Despite Adversity, Be of Good Cheer

“Our promised blessings are beyond measure,” President Thomas S. Monson declares. “Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments. There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us. My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.”