Grace, a Gift From the Savior

On April 30, my darling mother was a presenter at BYU Women's Conference. She gave a lovely presentation "Grace, a Gift From the Savior". It was really neat to see how many cousins and friends came to rally around and support her. There is strength that comes from gathering together and sharing tender moments... especially as women.

It sure was a chilly spring day. It's quite a sight to have snow in the mountains and colorful tulips on the ground. My mom's presentation was in the Hinckley Alumni Center at BYU. It was a lovely setting with all the windows letting light shine in. My mom had a great spirit about her to go along with that light!

It was fun to see sisters, cousins, aunties, and friends. Amy, Mary, Janey, and I sang a song that my mom requested... "He Gives Me Strength" by Janice Kapp Perry. We sure gave a heartfelt effort. What a great message it shared... that Christ lifts us up... to make up the difference when we can't do it all.

I know my mother would rather the focus be on the message than on her. I love her humility. These are a few of my favorite quotes that she shared in her talk...

“No matter how hard we work, no matter how much we obey, no matter how many good things we do in this life, it would not be enough were it not for Jesus Christ and His loving grace.” (Elder M. Russell Ballard, Ensign, June, 1998, p. 65)

“He can ... strengthen us to be more than we could ever be and help us to do that which we could never do through relying only upon our own power. The atonement is not only for people who have done bad things and are trying to be good. It is also for good people who are trying to become better and serve faithfully.” (David A. Bednar, “In the Strength of the Lord,” BYU-I Devotional, January, 2002)

“Because of the Atonement, we need not bear the burdens of mortality alone. We can draw upon a source of wisdom and strength far greater than our own.” (Sheri L. Dew, “Our Only Chance,” Ensign, May 1999, 66)

Overall... the last few weeks, I've thought more and more about the strength we can receive from our Savior. We need Him no matter what - when life is less-hard (easier!?) and when life is hard. I've also thought of my responsibility to be spiritually ready and willing to access that strength.

Thanks mother for accepting the challenge to speak so we could get together and be strengthened. We are blessed by your strength, faith, and encouragement.