AND THUS IT IS

Before I begin my scriptures post for today I have something else that I want to say first.
With deep sadness we learned yesterday of the passing of a friend and brother, Bill Frank. Many expressed their feelings about this giant of a man and I kept finding myself lost for words. Then I read a quote that said it all....
'When we are born we cry and the world rejoices, when we pass onto the next life the world cries and we rejoice'

That is so true of yesterday. Bill Frank touched many many lives and he loved each one of them. He had a unique personality and a deep loving spirit. I met him in the early seventies,and it became a lifelong friendship. When he spoke to you, he spoke to your soul. Sometimes he could be funny, teasing, abrupt,unpredictable but he was always speaking out of love. He spoke with a confidence, and you always knew where he stood. He was a true disciple of Jesus Christ. I appreciate his loving example and his strong convictions. We will miss you Bill Frank. We cry that we will not hear your voice, receive your hugs, feel of your sincerity and concerns, and enjoy your amazing soups!!! Thank you for all that you gave to this world.Your next mission is about to begin and you will be the best!!!

Now to return to the Book of Mormon. I awake with such a peace these days. I know it is because of my time with the scriptures, first thing in the morning. I some days still want to hang onto the warmth of my bed, but then I remember yesterdays scripture feast and I know that I need more.

Today I reread chapter 8 and I'm so glad that I did. The phrase WE HEEDED THEM NOT, really stood out. As I read it again it spoke to my spirit about the need to build up my focus on the gospel. As Lehi saw so many slip away he spoke those words, emphasizing the need to ignore those things/peoples that would pull us away from the truths of the Gospel; that would pull us away from the true path to eternity. There are so many many things fighting to pull us away. I am so sad when I see those who know the right, but who choose the wrong; who have the answers but who still choose their 'own' way. Free agency is a glorious gift, and I try to understand how others use it BUT WHEN YOU HAVE THE ANSWERS WHY DO PEOPLE CHOOSE OTHERWISE. I really plan to HEED THEM NOT!

I also read on to chapter nine and verses five and  six were my favorites. Even though Nephi doesn't always understand the purposes of the Lord ( me too), he is obedient and then Nephi testifies.....
verse six...
  But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of all his words. And thus it is. Amen

AND THUS IT IS ......what a simply powerful statement!!!!!

I will close with my thoughts of gratitude for....
-my goodly parents, and wonderful siblings
-my own family, Bill,Michael, Kathy, Karen and Laura and all of the connections that come with it
-special friends along the way
-knowledge....never ending knowledge
-missionaries....who brought me the best knowledge
-my freedoms.....so grateful to live in Canada
-my life experiences....both the good and bad
-my health
-my etceteras.......because my list of gratitude could go on and on

AND THUS IT IS