reality check

this morning i had the honor of attending a very special service. it was intensely emotional, and supremely uplifting and hopeful. seeing others' strength in the face of adversity exposes a side of themselves that one might not normally get to see.

i can't imagine the pain that they have been through these past few weeks, but it couldn't have happened to more capable people. i know in my heart that they will be able to press forward, though this difficult trial, and come out on the other side stronger. dealing with loss is an essential part of life. though it may seem unbearable-it's times like these that we have to remember that we are never given anything that the lord feels that we will not be able to handle. death is not an end to all means, just another step towards our eternal progression. those who have passed away, are in a place of peace, far away from the earthly trials and tribulations that are so abundant in this world.

we can also take comfort in the fact that there are people everywhere willing to help, whether it be in person or in spirit. an overwhelming amount of people responded with their support and prayers for baby gavin, and even though he was only on earth for a short period of time, he was still able to touch an enumerate amount of lives in the process.

what a humbling experience. it makes any problems i might have been having seem trivial, as they pale in comparison to true loss and hardship. as i watched baby gavin's parents, richie and natalie, up on the pulpit, i couldn't help but notice how they handled everything with such grace, and how strong and steadfast their testimonies continued to be. their knowledge and firm belief in the gospel will help to shape their children's testimonies, in addition to ensuring that anyone close to them will feel the spirit strongly-as it continues to comfort them in this difficult time.