Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven (3 Nephi 12:16).
3. Read Mosiah 18:7–10, and in your journal list three ways you can comfort others or help them bear their burdens. Do the things on your list, and tell a family member or leader about the experience and how your attitude and understanding have changed.
Mosiah 18:17-10 says:
7 And it came to pass after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord.
8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—
10 Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?
Comforting others...helping them bear their burdens... I've thought a lot about these things in the past couple of years as my life has been changing. When our first son passed away, quickly and unexpectedly, I was on the receiving end of these wonderful blessings. People brought us meals, gave us money, sat and listened when I wanted to talk and sat and cried with me when there was nothing to say. In retrospect, losing Connor didn't just happen to me, it happened to all of the people who care about me. They took my burden upon themselves. They tried to comfort me in any way they knew how. I was truly blessed by their service and love.
A few months prior to losing my son, my friend's husband was diagnosed with a rare terminal illness. They gave him 6 months to live. That was 2 1/2 years ago. He surpassed his odds and was able to spend what time he had left with his loving family, but we knew his illness would ultimately get the best of him. My friend was there for me in my time of need and I knew it would eventually be my turn to be there for her. Jim passed away in February. The day before he passed away I sat and talked to my friend for an hour on the phone. I listened, gave advice when she asked, comforted her, and cried. I told her that no matter how prepaired she felt, her journey would still be difficult. It would be difficult, but not lonely.
Selfishly, I was greatful to be on the giving end. I know that Heavenly Father is taking my trial and prepairing me to better understand how to comfort others and bear their burdens. I know that I will have many opportunities in my life to share my comfort and unique perspective. I am thankful that I can recognize the blessings that are coming from such a difficult time and experience in my life.
