A letter from my Dad

So right after I posted my dad's birthday post, I got a letter from him. He is SO inspired!! I am so grateful that he is my dad. He loves me and my kids so much, and wants nothing more than for us to be happy. I wanted to post part of the letter,because I need to be reminded of this ALWAYS and because it can help some others that I know are struggling too.

"...I was reading in D&C Sec 121 and 122, where Joseph Smith was asking the Lord, as he cries out in humble desperation, to help him cope with the trials and difficulties him and the saints were enduring. I got to thinking how we all think (at least I do) that if I've repented, doing all I can do, then why aren't things going better? Then I remember my PAST blessings and realize how truly blessed I really am. I have a beautiful wife and mom for my kids and grand kids, who has a strong testimony and faith I wished we all had. Wonderful kids and grand kids, all healthy, all remarkable in their own way, ALL CHILDREN OF A LOVING FATHER IN HEAVEN. A gospel which is true, a Savior who is our Redeemer, scriptures to study, Prophets past and present to lead us, eternal life for our future. I guess I could go on and on, but the point is we (I) have much to be grateful for past, present and future!! I truly am excited for the future and am only going to look at the past at the blessings and experiences I have received"

"I also have read about our pre-mortal life and the kids we have now, we had as spirit children. I couldn't help but think of you and your sweet kids. How you must have loved them and treasured them for THEM to be with You TODAY! The Lord truly knew and know the impact you will have on them. I also know He is very thankful for the responsibilities you've taken on (and Matt too). It's never easy to be a good parent, but the experiences, love and blessings are irreplaceable!"

"I know when we are struggling with money, health and just everyday stuff, we can loose focus on what's important. The Lord never promised it would be easy. Sometimes I think, how can I bare anymore, but now I quickly remember this experience is but a short time compared to the eternities. It's what we all do with the struggle that will define us. Remember we need to keep trying to help others out. There is always someone who could use our help. I've really learned that's what the gospel is all about. "

"You're a wonderful wife and mom (daughter also). Hon, Remember your PAST BLESSINGS!! Only great blessings await you. Your kids are going to bring you tremendous spiritual wealth, and already have! Search for the truth and answers you need. Pray always and have faith. I know you do!! Stay disciplined and focused, love your family, teach them, pray with them, lead them, cherish ALL the moments you have with them, you can't get them back!! Remember a loving Heavenly Father is always there to help you. Be strong and firm in your convictions hon, as you have always been. You were and are one of Heavenly Father 's valiant ones. Your kids are proof of that. I feel I need to tell you that the blessings that await you, are going to be amazing. It's makes me cry to think of them. Know that I love and miss you guys and I truly rejoice in the fact you are my daughter and the mother of 3 of my sweetest grand kids. I know and Heavenly Father knows they are in good hands.

"Take a deep breath and always look for those "High Mountain" experiences. The ones where we are closer to the Lord. I love you, Dad"

Obviously, this isn't the whole letter. There were some very personal moments in this letter that are only between me and my dad. My dad is seriously SO in tune with our family and what's going on with us even though he isn't here with us. I hadn't even written to him in a while and he knew EXACTLY what I needed to hear!! I am so grateful for this experience my whole family is going through. It's the HARDEST thing I have ever had to go through, but I KNOW we will be SO much better off in the long run!!! I love my dad SO MUCH!!!!