Cherish

 I haven't written anything about this but I just got back from the General Relief Society Conference tonight and I've been thinking a lot about my blessings. I've been thinking specifically about service and the visiting teaching program.

I visit teach a wonderful friend in our ward. Her daughter was one of the children that we had in our rotating preschool group last year. This past June one of her other children, a 13 year old boy, passed away in a horrible accident.

I feel so overcome with emotion every time I think about her and the tragic events that she has had to endure. I can't even imagine what it feels like to lose a child, and especially at such a young age. As a visiting teacher I struggle with the right words to say, the right things to do. I try to just listen. We talk about life, we talk about her son, we laugh and we cry together. I'm so grateful for the church, and knowing that she will indeed have her sweet son again. It is so hard to see the pain in her eyes. I would do anything to make that pain go away if I could..if even for a small moment.

This experience has truly changed my outlook on life. It has reminded me about the MOST important things. I've noticed myself not getting worked up over the insignificant things that would usually upset me. I have more patience with my kids and I realize that each day I have with them is a gift. Things break, the boys destroy the house, they leave their bikes behind my car, they fight and hit, they push my buttons but they are HERE with me now and I will do my best to teach them and love them unconditionally.

As I tucked my kids in tonight and we prayed together I thanked my Heavenly Father for each one of them by name. They mean the world to me and more. They really are my most cherished blessings.