Blessed

I just finished reading two books. One, by Gerald Lund, was recommended to me by my mother. The title is "The Undaunted: The Miracle of the Hole-In-The-Rock Pioneers." This is a book of fiction based on actual events describing the tremendous sacrifice of pioneer families called to leave their homes and cross desolate, nearly impassible areas in the middle of winter to establish settlements in the four corners region. What they went through in response to the call they received is almost beyond imagination.

Here is a photo of the Hole in the Rock through which the pioneer had to take their wagons in order to reach their destination. How did they do it?

The second book is one I picked up at a thrift store. This is "The Blind Side" by Michael Lewis. (No, I didn't see the movie.) The author relates the story of Michael Oher, one of thirteen children born to a crack addicted mother who somehow defies the odds and, with the help of his adopted family, completes high school, graduates from college where he starred as a football player, and as the book ends is drafted in the first round of the National Football League.

Here is an image of the book cover. 

The common theme of these tales is people achieving what they could not really have been expected to accomplish. In both cases they overcame problems and challenges that appeared to be insurmountable.

I am blessed and my problems pale in comparison to what others experience. I hope my children and grandchildren come to understand that they have reservoirs of strength that will allow them to overcome trials and tribulations, and to accomplish great things in their lives. They, too, will be blessed by a kind and loving Heavenly Father when they turn to him in faith and obedience and sacrifice.