Love is Most Important

I am involved in a little family project right now that has made me realize that my "four children" have now morphed into twelve! (I know my place as mother-in-law and grandmother, but they are all mine.)

This is truly something to smile about! My three oldest boys have chosen wives that are perfect for them. And women that are the best mothers...bar none.

I have been transferring some old videos to DVD, and it's bringing back some great memories. Through it all, I realize that truly, what matters most in life is love...feeling it and demonstrating it.

About twenty-four years ago, our family had a little argument that went like this...

Mom - "I love you."

Son - "I love you, too."

Mom - "Well, I love you one million!"

Son - "Well, I love you outside of numbers!"

Who won the argument? All of us! It has become my favorite saying because it is so true. I treasure a Christmas present I received several years ago...a key chain with the inscription "We love you outside of numbers!" I keep it with me all the time to remind me of those fabulous twelve people and the other wonderful people to come!

Who do you love outside of numbers...Have you told them lately?

I Believe

For about 30 years I've hoped to visit Palmyra, New York. Finally, this past weekend, that dream was fulfilled. Being in the grove where I believe God and Jesus appeared to Joseph Smith as he prayed strengthened that belief.

I loved the climb up the steep Hill Cumorah...the feeling of peace while I thought about all the things that have taken place there.

The Book of Mormon is God's word to us at a time we need it desperately. That book coupled with the Bible outlines God's plan of happiness for us.

All the world has to offer...wealth, power, etc. will never provide the peace we each seek. That peace comes only from living God's plan for us.

We can all know for ourselves. In fact, that's what our prophet, Thomas S. Monson asks us to do. Ask God. He answers quietly, with that peaceful feeling beyond description. He answered me, and I am forever grateful.