Tender Mercies

I have been struggling lately. REALLY struggling. Just feeling so overwhelmed with everything that's going in on in my life right now. I've just been feeling that there is no way I'll be able to accomplish everything that needs to get done. Then two nights ago I got a phone call from an old friend.

This friend and I have known each other basically since we were in diapers. Throughout the years we have remained friends, even when separated for years without talking. For whatever reason, the Lord has put us in each other's lives and has made sure that whenever we lose contact, we find each other again. She has a beautiful little family with a husband and two adorable kids, and they have been through some hard times together. Tuesday night she called me to tell me that she and her husband were going to be taking out their endowments next month, and then going back the next day to be sealed for time and eternity as a family. And then she asked me to be her escort when she went through the temple for the first time. Wow. What a humbling question.

She told me that her mother-in-law and sister-in-law had both offered to be her escort, but everytime she prayed about it, my name kept popping into her head.

I honestly don't know if she needs me, or if I need her, or if maybe its a little of both, but either way this was definitely one of the Lord's tender mercies. He hears and answers our prayers, even the unspoken ones for strength in trying times. Ever since that phone call with her, my heart has been lighter and things have seemed so much easier than they did just a few hours earlier. I'm so grateful to have a Savior who knows me even better than I know myself, and who knows just what I need to give my spirit a boost and make the road seem a little less bumpy.

I am so excited for my friend and her family, and I know they will be so blessed for this choice. I can't imagine what life would be like not knowing that I will be with the only valentine I've ever had for all eternity. I'm so grateful for the temple and all the blessings and feelings of peace that can be found within it's sacred walls. I know that if ever we feel lost, we can go to the temple and the Lord will help us find our way again. I know that my Redeemer lives and loves each of us.