Have You Thanked Your Personal Cheerleaders Today?

I wanted to make a post on one of my favorite talks for conference, but as they were all amazing I had trouble deciding which one . . . so I thought why not just write a brief something about every talk?  I plan to make a post about every talk over the next few weeks.  I would like to start with Elder Holland’s talk “Because of Your Faith.”  I hope you will take a moment to watch it as well.

Every time Elder Holland speaks I feel a sense of urgency with the Spirit he brings.  I feel the spirit he brings is able to pull the strings in my heart and help me have a greater desire to work harder and do better.  As Elder Holland talked about the sacrifices his parents had made for him, it made me think of the sacrifices my parents have made for me.  Similar to Elder Holland, my parents are also paying for my mission, and supporting me with the incomparable opportunity I have to be here.  As I reflect back, I am able to realize quickly that it would be quite impossible for me to list what I do remember or for me to even remember or realize a portion of what my parents have done.

I am able to see the love my parents have in the selfless service they have always given me.  As I went through treatments, I remember my parents spending countless hours with me.  I remember my Dad coming to work at the hospital so I could have some company.  I remember my Mom making special meals, only to have me not eat them.  Looking at the past, I know I am certainly worth a million bucks to two people.  I know I have cost at least that much and more.  I remember family vacations, family pets, Christmases, Halloween costumes, birthdays, the list is endless.  I remember my parents signing me up for lessons, karate, gymnastics, piano, and several others I am unwilling to admit.  All in an attempt to help me be more successful, most of which have been dropped.  With everything my parents have given me, I feel one of the most priceless things I have been given is a legacy of serving others.  I feel I am kinder to others today because their example.  I am more willing to give selfless service, I work harder at the things I am doing, I set higher goals, and I am the person I am today from the sacrifice of my parents.

I know my Mom and Dad read this blog.  Mom, Dad, I love you!  Thank you for everything you have done for me! 

I hope we can all take a moment to thank our parents, or those people who have acted as such in our lives.  I know God lives, and I know He loves us.  Our families help us to see God’s love.