Last weekend we attended a party in the Rainbow Vista Ward- we celebrated independence day for many countries throughout the world. We found out that our Latin friends LOVE to dance. We witnessed formally prepared dances from several countries and then the informal, unscripted dances began. Many danced for what seemed like hours and they would have gone on for many more hours, given the opportunity. This beautiful dancer was part of the Mexican dance presentation. I am grateful I was part of this fun celebration.

I had a wonderful moment Tuesday when I ran into Shirley O’Roarke. She is the wife of Tom O’Roarke who passed away several years ago. Even to this day, the example of Tom’s life is a powerful inspiration to me. He was a remarkable man who loved people, made the most of every situation, found happiness by living in the moment, and was filled with love and fun for his family and friends. These characteristics were seared upon my soul at Tom’s funeral service. I am grateful for my dear friend Tom.  

Nellie is a wonderful young woman. She is kind and sweet and courageous. She passed away last week at age 24 after a prolonged battle with health issues. Through God’s merciful plan, Nellie’s spirit lives and she is in a place where she can rest from the physical struggles that plagued her here on earth. I am grateful for God’s plan for us. May he bless Nellie, her dear sisters and her entire family at this difficult time. 

I am grateful for the wisdom of President Hinckley. I am thankful for his optimism. He shared the words below two days before the tragic attacks of 9/11.

“I come to you tonight with a plea that we stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight. I am suggesting that as we go through life we try to “accentuate the positive.” I am asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment virtue and effort. Now I am not asking that all criticism be silenced. Growth comes of correction. Strength comes of repentance. Wise is the man or woman who can acknowledge mistakes pointed out by others and change his or her course.

What I am suggesting is that you turn from the negativism that so permeates our modern society and look for the remarkable good among those with whom you associate, that we speak of one another’s virtues more than we speak of one another’s faults, that optimism replace pessimism, that our faith exceed our fears.”

Link to full talk: http://www.lds.org/broadcast/ces090901/transcript/0,11006,566,00.html

I have mentioned healing before on this blog. It is truly a miracle to see the human body heal, sometimes against seamingly significant odds. I am grateful for little Amy shown below. She is several months out from her hospitalization and surgery for intussusception. She is now healed and is a normal, happy, and beautiful baby girl.