Here it is 18 years since terrorists attacked the United States of America and changed history forever. We love this country and think it is worth fighting for! We know that this is truly a land choice above all others, chosen by God to be a haven for freedom where the gospel of Jesus Christ could be restored to the earth. We know that the Constitution is an inspired and holy document that shines hope and liberty here and in desolate places of darkness in the world. Without America and its rule of law, the world would be lost to the adversary. We stand with those who will raise the ensign of truth and liberty and thank God for all that America strives to be.
We attended our first Primary Sacrament Meeting presentation of the year on Sunday. Seventeen children, half of them itty-bitties sang with such faith and gusto that I could hardly sit in my seat without jumping right in to bear my testimony with theirs in song. The primary president was also the chorister, none-months pregnant, and full of joy. I came home and ordered the music to “I Will Be What I Believe.” That little group sang “A Child’s Prayer” like a heavenly chorus in two parts. It was a really sweet blessing. Now, from my description you might think that they were perfectly behaved littles, but you would be wrong—which made it all the more delightful! There was the four-year-old screaming the songs until his little body just gave out; the angel next to him glaring with her hands over her ears; the little boy who was turned around playing with the necklace on the girl behind him and her frustration, not knowing what to do—sing or slap him!; the newly-baptized boy who was completely lost in the words that must have floated above his head without ever quite landing; and the Sunbeam who rested his top teeth on the wooden rail and rolled his eyes the whole time. Oh, it was a real, true primary program.
Our dear new friend Cindy apologized before giving her first public prayer and then touched our hearts as she thanked Heavenly Father for the JOY. It brought tears to my eyes. She didn’t quite know how to end and just sat down. I’m sure the missionaries will continue to teach her about all the intricacies of prayer, but in the meantime, I could feel Heavenly Father welcoming His daughter back to the fold. Cindy was getting her patriarchal blessing last night. Sunday she attended the self-reliance devotional and signed up for two courses. She has found such joy in the gospel!
And speaking of JOY—we love this mission assignment! I remember once I encouraged my brother to become a teacher and coach, but he countered that he really had no interest in teaching anything but the gospel. It is one of the great blessings of my life to teach seminary and institute here in Laredo, Texas! We love you all. Happy birthday last week to the baby of our family, Macie Violet Flanagan, who turned four, and happy birthday this week to our precious granddaughter Preslie who turns seven. Thank you for your prayers and love. Right back at y’all!
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