One of my favorite meetings

I know that nobody needs a huge commentary from me on the General Relief Society Meeting. But I just wanted to share some of my favorite things about it.

1. Don't you love that for the past few years the chorister has been so SUPER jolly. I have loved the enthusiasm they have shown in leading such a big congregation of women. Can't you imagine leading that group was a dream of theirs. (not mine - I think I'd cry with fright) But singing those great hymns with such a large group even brought tears to my eyes. Music is a powerful testifier of the Spirit.

2. Julie Beck - New Relief Society President. When I was a Young Women's leader in Florida, Julie Beck was on the Young Women General Board and came to do our Stake Leadership training. She was amazing. I remember that she used her scriptures in everything she taught. I wanted to be so well-studied in the scriptures and gospel doctrines that I could teach my family or young women with that same powerful spirit. My favorite quote in her message last night was about women standing strong and immovable for that which is correct and proper." (from President Hinckley) I also loved her comment that focusing on Relief (or service) will ALWAYS bring sociality, but that focusing on sociality will not always bring relief. How true that is!!

3. Sister Barbara Thompson's message on FAMILY was a reminder of how to have a stable family. If we as parents teach our children who they are and where they are going, our families will become stronger. And her message of using kind words, apologizing when needed, and teaching our children the gospel in simple ways daily were all important things I needed to hear. I loved her testimony of the Atonement and of Christ understanding and feeling all the sorrow and pain that we have. "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:10 What a powerful message to remind me that I'm not alone in my discouraging emotional moments of motherhood.

4. President Monson. I liked this little poem he told. It makes me think of all the potential these young girls have to become women in noble places (which to me is the HOME).I really felt the sincere love that President Monson has for the members of the church who struggle with sickness, pain, and worries. He seems to have so much compassion for others.

Anyhoo... there's my ultra long synopsis of one of my favorite meetings of the year. I always get so excited for General Conference coming up when I attend the Relief Society meeting.