Bishop asked us to share a few thoughts on how we’ve been through this experience thus far. What a crazy and surreal ride! I wish I could say that all has been well, but I would be lying. For those of you who have struggled, I can say I understand! I have had a roller coaster of emotions and even my fair share of depression, anxiety, and fear. But through it all I still know we have a loving Heavenly Father who is acutely aware of us and our emotions, needs, wants, etc.

Continue to do the small, daily things that keep us tethered to Him. Continue to try, and then try again. I am so grateful for the small mercies He continues to send my way. The few moments when my boys actually get along (I wish this would happen more). When one of them actually does what I’ve asked without argument or asking ‘why’. When schoolwork got done before the afternoon. When priesthood blessings were given for ANY reason, even just to calm my emotions, remind me I’m not alone, and that I’m strong.

I pray that we will continue to hope and believe that all will be well soon. Those miracles will continue to happen. That we will be able to find peace in the knowledge we have of the bigger, more eternal picture, and that though this life is filled with difficult and chaotic things, the work will go on, God is over all, and all will be well in the end. I love you and miss you and cannot wait for the day we can gather together again. Especially with all your little ones! Let them know of my love for them and their Heavenly Father and Savior’s love for them!

Annika McClure