My View of Life - Never Better!

A Tribute

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               Today my mother would be 94 years old. She passed 12 years ago. The last moments we spent together were sacred. I sat at the foot of her bed and read her the stories she'd written over the years. Though hardly able to talk, she had tears in her eyes. As for me, I just felt gratitude for the daughter of God who put everything on the line, even her own life to bring me into the world. It was her arms that cradled and nurtured me, her heart that comforted me, her voice that sang lullabies to me, her soul that cared for my every need even before her own, and her love that I knew would never fade, but would be mine to enjoy forever.

               She was forever willing to serve, and bless and love every moment of every day. So clean, so pure, and so obedient. She fought the fight of her mortal sojourn valiantly, and I know she continues loving and serving to this day. I picture her enjoying the company of my Dad, and Sammy who died when he was just two, as well as the rest of their family and friends.

               Now, twelve years later, I think I'm learning what she'd hoped I'd become. I'm trying--trying to put off my selfishness and pride. Trying to cast off this blanket of temptations that Satan relentlessly thrusts upon me. And trying to conduct myself in a manner that would be smiled upon by our Father in Heaven. My focus is directed back here to earth, to my wife--my eternal companion. She has transformed my life over the past 34 years. Without her I would never have overcome the temptations of the adversary. I would not have had the drive to be who I am now, and of course I wouldn't have my four beautiful children, 10 grandchildren, two sons-in-law, and a daughter-in-law (19 in all.)

               But my focus is on my seven children (my four children and their spouses.) Each of you is a beautiful child of God. Please do everything in your power to assure that your spouse may enjoy all the blessings of eternity. Don't cut your courtship short--it's eternal. Be an example of righteousness. Have Jesus Christ's life, his example as your guide. Follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost, and he will lead you to happiness, peace, and comfort.

               And listen to your mothers. Pay her the love and respect she deserves. I've watched and learned from Lisa for 34 years. I know more than anyone on this earth her desire for your welfare and happiness. She prays for you, yearns for you, somehow she goes to work and care for babies, and still keeps you in her heart--every one of you. She's clean, pure and loving. She's seen much over her 53 years of life. As for me, I love her, respect her, adore her, and am grateful for the life I've shared with her.

               No wonder not a day of the 12,405 days we've been together that I haven't thanked God for her presence in my life.