Current Study: Angels

I can't stop thinking about them: the angels in my life.

I love Elder Holland's description of Adam and Eve's experience of stepping into mortality:

"They knew this telestial world would contain thorns and thistles and troubles of every kind... [And] God knew the challenges they would face, He certainly knew how lonely and troubled they would sometimes feel. So He watched over His mortal family constantly, heard their prayers always, and sent prophets to teach, counsel, and guide them. But in times of special need, He sent angels, divine messengers, to bless His children, reassure them that heaven was always very close and that His help was always very near."

I can't seem to get that out of my mind. Elder Holland continues, "Seen or unseen they are always near."

They are always near. My heart is full of gratitude for the many tender mercies I've received when I haven't been left "lonely and troubled." I have been sustained by angels, seen and unseen.

"Indeed heaven never seems closer than when we see the love of God manifested in the kindness and devotion of people so good and so pure that angelic is the only word that comes to mind."

It blows my mind the many MANY times a friendly hug, a sincere greeting, a look of concern, a check-up call, a small note, words of encouragement, a quick email, a simple act of kindness, a long talk, an expression of love and hope, or just a simple post on this blog has been a tool of the Lord, and the giver-an angel. I don't have words to express the deep gratitude for the divine help I've received from both sides of the veil.

I add my own witness to Elder Holland's, "I testify of angels, both the heavenly and mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face." I know now I can face challenges to come, both global and personal, both great and small. And even I can act as an emissary for another in need.

"I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left... my Spirit shall be [with you], and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." D&C 84:88

Hearts

Do broken hearts heal?

You can do it!

"I salute you as kingdom builders and as a generation of destiny.

A whole nation can be leavened by a righteous rising generation... You bright spirits could not have chosen a better time to be born, with more neighbors waiting and needing to be shown the gospel.

I know you have been properly placed because God did it."

-Elder Neal A. Maxwell

BYU Devo "All Hell is Moved"

Dear Mr. President

Dear Mr. President,

Congratulations on making history today.
Please treat my country well.

A little concerned...

A note we had to write our apartment complex managers a few weeks ago...

To whom it may (hopefully) concern:
Despite our three previous urgent requests our stagnant water filled, disease infested dishwasher is now leaking toxic waste. As much as we appreciate its efforts in helping us wash our floor, the toxicity of the rank liquid is contaminating the IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) of our once beloved apartment.
To our great relief no serious side affects have developed (to our knowledge). However, we are afraid that any day now one of us will wake up with a case of severe vomiting, discoloration of the skin (green is not good for the complexion), and possible loss of limbs, which would greatly affect our finals.
We appreciate any prompt action concerning this smelly issue. Thank you!
Apartment #8