Lately I've been thinking a lot about Alma's counsel to "mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those who stand in need of comfort. . ."
In the past few days I have attended two funerals and met a man who lost his son in combat in Afghanistan just a few weeks ago.
One funeral was for the father of a close friend who had been in poor health for many years and unexpectedly passed away. This is the fourth immediate family member that my sweet friend has lost in less than ten years. I don't know her family very well and debated whether or not I should even attend the service, but Alma's words continued to come to my mind and I remembered that funerals are about bringing comfort and peace to the living. So I went and I'm very glad I did. In learning about this humble faithful man I was able to understand and love my friend even more.
The second funeral was for a remarkable young man from an amazing family that I have known for many years. This sweet brother had been severely disabled since birth and had never learned to walk or talk, yet he leaves an incredible legacy of love and faith with everyone who has ever known him. I felt very blessed to be able give a smile and a hug to his family members and feel of their love for him and their faith in his eternal purpose.
Talking to the father of a fallen hero was probably the most difficult of all. I was at a complete loss for words. All I could do was look him in the eyes and say, "Thank you." I was filled with so much gratitude for the sacrifice his family has made and for their faithful example as they carry on without their beloved soldier.
As I have pondered these experiences I have come to understand something about Alma's words that I didn't know before: Mourning with those who mourn is not an obligation it is a privilege.
4 comments:
Well said my friend.
I am thinking of you all the time and praying for your family. Hugs from afar!
What a sweet post! I love how you so poignantly put your thoughts into words. I especially love your last line, "Mourning with those who mourn is not an obligation it is a privilege." The Spirit has witnessed to me that this is gospel truth! Thank you for this wonderful reminder. I love you, woman!
Wow. What a great post.
"not an obligation it is a privilege"
I have felt this, but didn't know how to express it.
Over the years I have had the opportunity to attend the funerals of people I didn't know well (or didn't know at all) to support their loved ones. In every case I felt grateful that I was invited to participate in such a sacred event and to hear life stories.
Thanks, Sarah!
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