Month: April 2011

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for our good

I am thinking tonight about all the people that I know who are struggling right now. Friends and family members who are processing such trials as:

The loss of a child

A miscarriage

Marital separation

Chronic pain and illness

Various addictions

Gossip in the cruelest form

And when I ponder on these different experiences and afflictions, the same thought comes into my mind…

“…if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of Hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son ( or daughter), that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.” (D&C 122:7)

I really believe this. In fact, I know it to be true. I have had many a dark moment in my adult life. Some of which I brought on myself, but most were pushed on my by others’ free agency, and given by God. I am better for the low moments. Even if the trials are not desirable, the lessons learned are! They truly are for our good.

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infections and other recent afflictions

I have been fighting an infection in my body for about six weeks now. In fact, I’ve been to the doctor six times in six weeks. It is annoying, It is inconvenient. But mostly, it is humbling. Recently, other more serious afflictions have befallen our Little McFamily. I think that being sick, however frustrating, has helped humble me physically…preparing me to draw from the only spiritual source that is powerful enough to not only heal my physical body, but also my wounded spirit.

What I have learned this week:

1. No one is perfect. Duh, right? Although we have perfection as our long-term goal, for now our goal is continuous progress in that direct. (which is only possible through the Atonement)

2. My ability to Love, as a daughter of God and as a wife, is far greater than I thought possible.

3.The capacity we all have for compassion can only be enlarged through humility. And as I continue to humble myself, the compassion I feel helps my Love to grow exponentially.

4. Squaring shoulders and standing together takes true courage.

5. My husband is the best man I know. And my children are so very–even eternally–blessed to have him as the head of our Little McHome.