Last week I found a little something that belonged to Risa, a 3 X 5 inch book with a sparkly pink cover. Inside she had copied thoughts that inspired and encouraged her. She kept several such books, but there was something different about this one, or more accurately, this time. I don't even know how it got there. I had completely gutted that shelf a few weeks previous. As I began flipping through the pages my eyes filled with tears, my throat tightened, and warmth enveloped me completely. It wasn't because of something I'd read. I couldn't see anything.
I knew she wanted me to do something with that little book.
She indisputably faced her illness with courage, but I think she'd prefer to be remembered for the faith that over-filled her heart and spilled out, leaving a trail everywhere she went. Everything she left behind is joyful.
Like this:
She indisputably faced her illness with courage, but I think she'd prefer to be remembered for the faith that over-filled her heart and spilled out, leaving a trail everywhere she went. Everything she left behind is joyful.
Like this:
"We know not what lies ahead of us.
We live in a world of uncertainty, but one thing we do know.
Like the polar star in the heavens, regardless of
what the future holds, there stands the Savior
of the World, the Son of God, certain and sure
as the anchor of our immortal lives. He is the
Rock of our Salvation, our strength, our comfort,
the very focus of our faith. In sunshine and in
shadow we look to Him and He is there to assure
and smile upon us."
~ Gordon B. Hinckley
So, I'm sharing it with her friends, family, and perhaps even some who've never met her. Check in periodically for the latest words of hope, courage, and inspiration to you,
from Risa with love
Dear Risa (and Robin), from the very bottom to the tippy top of my heart, thank you. There is no question in my mind that this blog will be visited often by me and many others. Risa knows how to reach right in and touch our hearts exactly where and how they need it.
ReplyDeleteIt was clear the Savior was the anchor in Risa's life. She was and still is such a great example to me. Thank you for taking the time to create this blog, mom!
ReplyDeleteI remember that little book so clearly!
ReplyDeleteRisa used to bring it to school with her frequently and share from its pages (making occasional additions with her fuzzy-headed bird pen). I remember writing so feverishly, trying to catch each word, and eventually conceding that I would never be able to catch them all.
Thank you so much for sharing, these words have always been and will forever be so precious to me.