Monday Thoughts: Will You Help Me?
UPDATE: I wanted to let those of you know who check back here for an update, that our sweet Holli ended her earthly battle with painful terminal cancer on April 2, 2021. I don’t know anyone who lived life as full of faith and testimony and love for God as Holli, so it was bittersweet and beautiful that she passed away on Good Friday, just days before Easter. Words are inadequate to describe the heartbreak of the last few days as her husband and six kids have faced this new reality, but her family has been comforted and buoyed up by the knowledge that Holli is finally free of pain and suffering, and they are clinging to the knowledge that they are not alone, that God is aware of them, that He will help them, and that they will see Holli again.
Thank you for your overwhelming support on this post and through other means for Holli and her family. Her sister and I read her your comments as they came in – she was brought to tears every time as so many of you shared your own personal challenges. She couldn’t believe over 1,000 of you chose to do something hard for her. It touched her in ways impossible to describe and gave her peace that carried her through her final days as she contemplated that her life and example might have possibly inspired others and maybe even helped change lives in some way.
We love you, Holli! Life will truly never be the same without you.
——–
I’m taking a little departure from my usual recipes today. We’re going straight into Monday Thoughts (never been done before). Just go with it.
I have some things weighing on my heart and mind that I want to share with you.
But first, I want to tell you about someone.
Her name is Holli. She’s an incredibly dear friend of mine (think: soul sister type of friend).
In all my years of blogging, I’ve never dedicated a whole post to a real, live human. Chocolate chip cookies? Yes. Random Friday thoughts? Yes. Special human beings? Not so much.
But today, I need your help. Holli needs your help.
It might not be the “help” you are thinking of, but if you have a minute, stick with me for a story and then a request (spoiler alert: it has nothing to do with money).
The back story: I’ve known Holli for six years – ever since we moved from Minnesota to Idaho. She’s spunky. She’s hilarious.
She’s a truth seeker and a fighter for justice. She’s an amazing mom to six wildly wonderful kids. She constantly serves everyone around her. To know Holli is to love her.
Amid all of Holli’s greatness, she’s had an incredibly challenging life. Not all of the details are mine to share, but suffice it to say, her life has not been easy. Intense infertility, adoption, countless (and I mean countless) surgeries for health issues related to colitis, job stresses, and the list goes on.
Most people don’t know many of these things about Holli because she is in that rare camp of: Fiercely Independent Non-Complainer.
Seriously, if I didn’t love her so much, it would be almost annoying, because she just.never.complains. That girl can fight through pain and struggle like no one else. (And yet, she still listens when I complain about my pigs escaping or my cookies burning.) #goodfriend
About a year and a half ago on top of all the other challenges Holli has faced in her life, after finding a seemingly innocent lump, she was unexpectedly and devastatingly diagnosed with stage 4 internal metastatic mucosal melanoma. This diagnosis came out of nowhere, and needless to say it has rocked their family’s world.
The last 15 months have been filled with immunotherapy, radiation, flights to Mayo clinic for consultation, more treatments, pain, and indescribable stress and worry.
(Not to mention six kids and all of their daily, busy, and often difficult emotional needs.)
Through it all, Holli has remained one of the strongest warriors I’ve ever seen. She has powered through horrific treatment side effects that would easily fell the rest of us, and has quite literally taken on the full-time job of fighting cancer.
She has not once given up hope. She has retained a strong and abiding faith in a loving God who knows her and has a plan for her.
Miraculously, 2020 gifted Holli more than six months of respite, thanks to a combination of immunotherapy, holistic treatments (gosh, I could tell some stories involving slippery elm gruel and tinctures here but I won’t), and a complete shift to a sugar-free and vegan diet.
Last month, things started to fall apart for Holli again. Sudden seizures, many ER trips, and lots of pain revealed the cancer had ferociously spread throughout Holli’s body and into her brain.
She no longer has the full function of the left side of her body and she is in excruciating pain nearly constantly.
And still. She continues to show more strength in her pinky finger than I have in my entire body and soul.
Today, I wanted to give back to Holli in some way. Sure, that can easily be done through their GoFundMe page.
But I wanted to also do something else.
Holli has spent her entire lifetime being strong for other people and using her inner and God-given strength to conquer her greatest challenges, but her body is failing her right now, and she is no longer able to do some of the things that you and I probably take for granted.
Fold laundry.
Braid her daughter’s hair.
Take a walk around the block.
Load the dishwasher.
Send a text message.
I don’t believe it’s healthy or constructive to compare challenges. Hardship and stress and grief is individual. It’s sacred. Hard is hard no matter what you are going through or dealing with.
But if I’ve learned anything from Holli’s situation, it is to look for the good (even on very bad days), appreciate the mundane, and be grateful for each and every day.
And this is where I need your help.
Will you do something for me? For Holli? For you?
Will you do something hard today? Or this week? Something that perhaps you’ve been procrastinating?
It may not be something that would be hard to anyone else, but remember: that doesn’t matter. Your life is your own.
- Maybe it’s getting off the couch and finally running that pesky mile even if you haven’t run in years.
- Or picking up the phone to call a family member who you haven’t talked to in a while.
- Maybe it’s just being grateful that you have the ability and motor skills to fold laundry today.
- Or giving your spouse or child a hug even if you (or they) feel prickly and unloveable.
- Maybe it’s finally ditching the three-sizes-too-small jeans hiding in your closet and buying a pair of jeans that fit your amazing and able body.
- Or saying a prayer for the first time in a long time (or ever).
If you feel so inclined to share, will you leave a comment on this post? Even if you aren’t sure you can do it yet, write your plan in the comments and we’ll be strong together.
I am going to plop myself on Holli’s bed and read all of your comments out loud to her. And let her know that there are people across the world inspired by her story and strength.
Holli does not like attention or being a burden or inconvenience to anyone (if you know her in real life, you know how true that is!), but she does feel as though her life has purpose insomuch as it has inspired others that they, too, can do hard things and be stronger for it.
My BeStrongForHolli goal: finally get through a 30-minute virtual cycling class without falling off and quitting and acknowledge that my body is strong and able (and also give each of my kids at least three 8-second hugs today – our home has been filled with contention lately and I need to be the impetus to changing that). Love you, Holli.
Thank you for letting me take a departure from food today.
I’ll leave you with the words of one of Holli’s favorite songs:
And I, I don’t want to leave a legacy
I don’t care if they remember me
Only Jesus
And I, I’ve only got one life to live
I’ll let every second point to Him
Only Jesus
I have the best readers in the world. Thank you for being here and for all you do to make this world a better place.
Oh Mel- I just love you! And because of you I love Holli too! The most amazing thing is that during our trials we can feel the closest to our Savior and we can see His grace so much clearer. I will keep Holli in my prayers. I personally know the power of prayer especially when going through the hardest parts! And I certainly will do something hard today with gratitude for the many tender mercies God has given. Thank you for the sweet reminder and the Christlike examples that you both radiate!
With sincere gratitude,
Leisel
I’m praying for you, Holli! And I am going to start being more grateful for each and every day (even if it is at work!!).
Jesus is everywhere – those empty places that those who are fiercely independent go – He is always always there! Let the people that God has blessed you with come along on this journey with you! You’re spirit resonates with them and God is using you sweet Holli!! Lot’s of prayers for you and your tribe!
Thank you for sharing Holli’s story. I love that we can connect through the web and help lift one another’s burdens and comfort those that stand in need of comfort. I will plan a week of healthy meals for my family today—something I have put off doing for a while. Sending prayers your way. Thank you for your tremendous example of strength and faithfulness! ❤️
Don’t even know you but I love your guts and gutsy-ness Holli. Thanks for the reminder that every day and every task is precious. I’m going to dust today and not be annoyed at moving all my kids stuff around to do it. They have stuff because they are in my house and that is a blessing.
In honor of Holli I am going to set aside my introverted tendencies and take something over to my back yard neighbor that moved in during the pandemic that I have yet to meet. Thank you for your example Holli, sending love to you and your family.
May God Bless and Heal Holli! She sounds like an Amazing Soul and I can tell by your words that You Two Are Absolutely Soul Sisters! Sending Prayers of Comfort, Strength, and Healing!
What a full heart you have, filled with this friendship. What a blessing, and also, sigh, so sad.
But I will do something. Last night I dreamt about my best friend from high school, who I haven’t talked to in many years. We used to write letters, and never wanted to move to emailing, and so our friendship has lapsed. Today, I will send her a message, start up the conversation, see where she’s at, and I know it will make us both smile. And I will try and keep it up.
Thank you for sharing this story and reminding us of the power of people around us. And for reminding us of how lucky we are for the small things, the small moments, mobility, vision, connection.
Dear Holli,
May God strengthen you every minute and fill you with hope from Him. May you be comforted by the knowledge that He is with you always, holding you. You are a blessing
I’m am inspired by you, Holli! Today I will tackle the three loads of laundry that have been taking over my counter (don’t worry, I have many many more loads that are NOT clean), but today I will fold them with gratitude and YOU, my dear are giving that gift to me. Thank you.
I know this is about Holli, but Mel, gosh. I just love your sweet soul. I wish and pray for Holli and her family. God bless you and keep you in his arms. Today, in honor of Holli, I will read a bedtime story instead of saying I’m too tired. I will also go and get 30 minutes of cardio done right now. The plan was there but it was half hearted… your story has inspired me to go do and not waste another second. Love to you all. Hugs and prayers! Sujoo
Prayers to Holli and her family!
My be strong goal for Holli is to take time each day to find something positive to tell each of my kids. It is so hard working from home, cooking 2-3 meals a day, I feel like they think I’m always “yelling” at them (read, asking them to do things multiple times that they interpret as yelling). But, I need to be more like Holli! Complain less! Love more! Hug more (I’m such a bad hugger!) And try to remind them that I love them. I am good at serving them to show my love, but I want them to hear it!! I will do that Holli! And if you’re friends with Mel, you know the truth. I’m glad that Families are forever. I’m praying for you and your family in this difficult time which I cannot pretend to understand! Our dear prophet President Nelson said, “Difficult days are ahead… As Jesus descended below all things in order to rise above all things, He expects us to follow His example. Yoked with Him, each of us can rise above all of our challenges, no matter how difficult they may be (see Matthew 11:29–30).” Hugs and prayers for you and your family from a sister in another state!
Those words…hard is hard no matter what you’re going through. They breathe life into what has been a really hard season of my own (along with the acknowledgment that it really isn’t helpful to compare struggles).
And yet, we do compare to an extent…and in that comparing, and maybe more so the knowledge that God is sovereign and good and has a plan, we are able to see the blessings through the fog.
Thank you, and Holli, for that reminder.
And so, today I commit to praying myself out of, or maybe better said, THROUGH my grief. And to praying for Holli and their family. And I will allow this reminder of blessings to spur me on in decluttering my home…my physical house as well as my time and heart of unnecessary baggage.
Maybe these words will encourage Holli as well.
Psalm 27:13
I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living!
PS. Mel, every time I read/watch your site I’m really disappointed I didn’t get the chance to know you in Roseau. Thank you for your heart.
Here’s the deal, Mel, sweet wonder woman of the world, you can ask for money and I am so glad you provided the link. Just, just, just this morning I bought a gift card for the sole purpose of donating to people in need (I do this instead to help safeguard my credit card/debit accounts). This morning’s mission was to support a woman who just lost her home to a devastating fire. This afternoon’s mission was to support your friend. I didn’t know that when I started my chilly (10 degree), but full sun (so rare) day of errand running, but it just goes to show that we don’t always know the path we’re on. Today I am grateful for you and your wisdom to ask for help, we could all learn a thing or two from you. In fact, most days I do. 🙂 Be well.
For Holly
Today I made a list of so many blessings in my life. I prayed that I would always walk humbly and thankfully and I prayed for Holly. I don’t know her but in my heart I embraced her and know the good lord hold her throughout her illness. We love you dear child.
Rose
I so needed this push today. It made me cry. I have a project that is difficult that I have to do at work and I have been dreading it. I asked Heavenly Father to help me get through it and then I stopped to look at this email (in procrastination ) and it hit me hard how I can do this. If Holli can make it through such circumstances surely I can do this one thing! Thank you!
Hi Hollie, I’m so glad to have this opportunity to get to know you a bit and offer any support I can. I have an elderly friend who lives alone, doesn’t have particularly good family relationships and can be just plain difficult. But I know she needs a virtual visit right now and that’s my plan. I’m going to be keeping you in mind as I talk with her and give her the time and support that she needs. I wish you peace.
Holli, I am praying for you today. Anything I’ve done pales in comparison and to be honest, at times like this it’s clear that what we do has no bearing on who we are because it’s in OUR weakness that we are made strong through the power of God. So today I pray for you and your family trusting that God will provide.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases
His mercies never come to an end
They are new every morning
Great is your faithfulness
Lamentations 3:22-23
Dear Holli & Mel!
What a blessing to read your tribute to your good friend, Holli, this morning. Not an easy post to write and very hard for my heart to surmise.
What an amazing young lady you are Holli! You are both blessed that God has given you each other. A good friend is worth SO much! The love, encouragement, lifting us up when we feel sad or down in the dumps. Someone who is always there for us no matter what! A good friend is truly a gift from God.
Remember, that we all live in a fallen world and many live in the storms of life daily! God has never promised us an easy life, we all have storms in our life, whether we are obedient or disobedient. But God always knows what is best for us! Though we can only see a small picture of His plans, we can be be assured that it is for far greater!
Here are a couple of my favorite verses: Deuteronomy 31:6– “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you, he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Here is another I love & lean on daily. Psalm 62:5-8. I will find my rest in God alone. My hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God. He is my mighty rock and my refuge. Trust in Him with all your heart, Oh people; Pour out your hearts to Him; for God is our refuge.
I have memorized this past year 59 sections of scripture and what a blessing it has been for my heart. The first took me 3 weeks to memorize but With God I was determined to give up! Finally I memorize it and wouldn’t you know it, the rest came fairly easy. So, my gift to both of you is to continue to memorize God’s word, understand and apply it to my life and give it away to others in need of it. I also love the idea of hugs daily, who doesn’t need those!
May God continue to bless your lives as you live them before others in honor of what He has done for you.
Lastly: “But hope does not disappoint, for God has poured out His love, into our hearts, by the Holy Spirit He has given to us.” Romans 5:5.
Recently I had alot of body image stuff on my mind. Your post weeks ago about the mantra your body is an instrument not an ornament really hit me. I have been chanting it throughout my house and now my kids know it and say it by heart. But even with that, I have been struggling to love my body as is. Yesterday I sat down with my 9 year old to to think if blessings that come from our bodies, and you know, it was really hard. My negative body image has buried in deeper than I ever knew and I really struggled to think of anything I was REALLY grateful for.
So today for Holli I am going to be truly grateful for my body. Grateful to be able to fold laundry and drive kids to Doctors appointments, and give each of my family members a good honest hug.
In honor of Holli, I am going to work out this week in my garage. I’ve been putting off exercise for almost a year, the whole time paying for on demand fitness programs I don’t use. I’ll start today. Holli, I wish you the very best, you are an inspiring woman and mother.
Holly,
I do not know you but on so many levels, feel I can connect to you. You see I have 7 children so we already know some of each others challenges in that way!
Mel does not know me either but I have to say, how she saves my family from starving every meal! So thankful for her good recipes that keep me going with different menu ideas each day! I’m touched by Holly’s story shared today. I don’t know you, but I’m amazed at you and how brave you are! The attached scriptures below come to mind. I know your strength must come from above and not from within. I wanted you to know I will be praying for you and your family. Just reading your story today has softened my heart and changed my outlook today. I thank you for that!
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
I am retired, live in NM, set my day, I have time to walk the dog, read my book, talk to friends via phone or FaceTime. I Have enough food, a warm house, functional clothing and a loving spouse and grown kids. Yet, I don’t always see these things for the blessings they are- thank you for the reminder. Light and love to you, your family and your care givers.
What a beautiful gift to have such a wonderful friend. You are both very blessed. Today I will find the strength to be grateful for who I am and not let myself feel guilty for things that are out of my control. Holli, you and your family will be in my prayers. May you find strength and comfort in Him, who can heal us all.
Dear Mel….your words regarding your dear friend are so very touching and very heart breaking to read. I am a follower of yours at 75 years old, as my daughter follows you completely and has found all that you provide in your blogs as well as your recipes such encouragement.
Pain is never easy to process, yet here your lovely and endearing friend Holli has had more in her young life than anyone should ever have to go through. I am so very saddened by this invasive disease that has taken such a toll on her and her family. Yet, I am also so very encouraged by the ‘Light’ which envelopes her from her faith in God, our Lord.
Your words describing her trails in life brings one to tears. I pray that the good Lord will see her through this time and bring to her the healing that she so deserves to have. I pray that He will lessen this constant pain, and lift her body so that she might find the renewal of Life flowing through her once again.
We all need to embrace more, to give of ourselves more to those who are in need…and truly all are in need are they not? Holli has given of herself to so very many. Her beautiful family is the immediate recipient of her endless love, as are her friends.
I will definitely keep her in my prayers. Holli knows that she is in His Hands…and as I stated above…her Light has not dimmed for any who truly know her. This Light has just been altered so that she might allow others to tend to her needs now.
Much love goes out to Holli and to you Mel for bringing her story to all of us here.
May God Bless you Holli and your family, too.
Pam Anderson, Colorado
Holli sounds like an amazing woman with a beautiful soul. I will be praying for her and her sweet family.
Holli, you will be in my thoughts and prayers! With your dear friend Mel’s challenge I will be grateful for every moment of my days, be it good or hard. I will smile more, I will love more, I will think of others more, I will be a warrior for those that can’t be for themselves. I will try to be more like you! I will let my dear family and friends know how much I love and appreciate them. I hope you can find the peace, strength, and comfort you need. We are all pulling for you!
Thank you Mel, for your example of goodness and being a light for others! One of the many reasons I love your site. Great food recipes but more than that a positive reminder of all that is good in this world.
I will make my bed every day! It sets the tone for the rest of the day
Brought me to tears! I will be making phone calls! (I hate making phone calls!)
Hi Holli, I am praying for you and know that no matter what our God has got this; even though we can’t see into the future he is there and loving us. Today I will love my family, I will tell them I love them and I will show them I love them – that’s easy <3 The difficult thing I will do today is to think about my younger brother and I will grieve for him. We lost him in August and I still have not let myself grieve or let myself feel the pain of loss. Today I will do that and then I will laugh and feel the joy of knowing how lucky I was to have him. He accepted Jesus a couple of days before we lost him so I know God is and always will be loving us and waiting for us to reach out to him. Much love and prayers for you and for your family.
Please know from the depths of my heart, I send loving wishes of strength for Holli to navigate this very trying journey. And for her family and loved ones too. May you feel the power of many who deeply care and are holding you close in thought and deed.
Dearest Darling,
My thoughts are with you on this cold winter day wishing for sunshine and children’s voices playing outside.
I care for a disabled husband (a great righteous man (Bishop)). I am semi disabled myself, mostly from being so overweight. Every day for me is such a challenge that I don’t want to get out of bed because I know I don’t have the energy to do all that must be done. It has been years since I’ve woken up feeling rested and ready to get up. But if I could do one thing for you it would be to give you all the strength I have for one day and send it to you. Let others help you and your family. You have my prayers. Your sister in the Gospel. Great-grandma from Ohio
You are amazing! So happy to get to know you a little bit through this website. I’ll pray for you and hope for you the very best for today and every day!
I am inspired by you. I feel that I can complain less and enjoy this day to its fullest. Thanks for sharing your story. God be with you and you’re darling family!!!
Holli you have inspired me to change my attitude today. I woke up feeling sorry for myself due to COVID restrictions and being mostly in my house since last March. I realize how selfish I have been and desire to have a thankful attitude of gratitude for the blessings that I do have. You are in my prayers. I seek to be the type of friend that you must be to be an inspiration to Mel and all of us!
Wow. I love this idea! Holli- my thoughts and prayers are with you. What a amazing example of faith and endurance. It makes me think I can do hard things. Thank you for your example.
Give Hollie our love and appreciation for the person she is. We need more people in the world like her. I’m not much for words of expressions but wish her and her family the best.
This is so Awesome! I was watching Random Acts last night and thinking how much I would love to be the host of a Random Acts nontv show! I will post later about my commitment to be strong with Holli but I was wondering if I might send her and her family a care package?
Gosh Holli and Mel
I read your post and I feel like a Real woose.
I just finished chemo and radiation for my second round of breast cancer. First one was 35 years ago.
I have to take oestrogen suppressors and here I am worried about their side effects. I am going to get my butt out of the chair and make my husband a good supper. He is a winner. He only asked for bacon and eggs, breakfast for Supper
It will be. There will be a dessert to go with it and some home fries. Sweet sweet girls you are in my prayers. My friends have said that I have courage and tenacity but you have certainly shown me that I have nothing to complain about compared to you.
God bless you both
Joan from Ontario Canada
How can it be that I’ve never met her and already feel like I love her? What an incredible human being. You can see the light radiating even from the pictures. I hope these messages bring her a smile, a warmth to her heart, and a peace knowing she has touched so many. Truly praying for her and her sweet family.
Hi Holli, I will put forth the effort to move around more even though it hurts my back and joints. Doing it for myself doesn’t seem to be enough incentive, but I’m touched by your story by your dear friend. I, too, love your favorite song. Maybe only bested by MercyMe’s “I Can Only Imagine.” So my “BeStrongForHolli” goal, I will move around more each day this week and simply be thankful I can, without even the smallest whine. God Bless you, my dear. —
Dear Mel and Holli,
Thank you for sharing today. In honor of Holli I am going to take the plunge and order those LSAT books I’ve been eyeing, buckle up and squash my fears about being too old to go to law school (I’m 40). I’m also going to share your story with my kids tonight and see what they can come up with to also honor Holli.
Blessings and love to Holli and her family. ❤️❤️❤️May she have peace and the grace of God in her heart and life through miracles of all shapes and sizes.
Love from New York
Sending prayers from the mountains of North Carolina. I did 25 pushups- and not on my knees:) God bless Holli and her precious family.
I am a new subscriber and appreciate your love and concern for a dear friend. I would like to share so thoughts from my church (I do not mean to be preachy) that I thought would give you both strength as you move forward through the challenges that are ahead of you.
As troubling world events continue to swirl, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints leaders are sharing messages on optimism and endurance. Elder Quentin L. Cook teaches how we can live on “the sunny side of the street,” and Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf reminds us that no matter how dark the night, the sun will always rise again. Sisters Michelle D. Craig and Becky Craven (in separate posts) both used Doctrine and Covenants 64:33–34 to encourage members to “be not weary in well doing.” Here is a closer look at some of those messages, as well as other highlights from Church leaders this week.
Elder Cook BYU–Idaho Devotional: “On the Sunny Side of the Street”
The title of Elder Cook’s message is reminiscent of the first time he saw his future wife, Mary. He shared how they were in seventh grade when Mary sang the song “On the Sunny Side of the Street” at a school concert. Elder Cook adopted that title for his remarks, explaining, “Many people across the world seem despondent and discouraged. Part of this is because of the devastating effects of [the] COVID-19 pandemic, but part is deeper and more of a concern. My desire today is for you to understand how seminally important it is for you to seek the sunny side of the street and also to be united with our Savior.”
Elder Cook gave several suggestions for living on the sunnier side of life.
First, he said that being of good cheer is a decision each of us can make, and that “gratitude is the first step towards optimism and cheer.”
He also taught the importance of ministering to our happiness and endurance. To illustrate his point, Elder Cook shared a story in which his grandfather told his grandkids that while they may not have had to endure the physical challenges the early pioneers of the Church did, they would “face emotional and spiritual challenges that most of [their] pioneer ancestors could have never imagined in their wildest imaginations.”
To combat those challenges, Elder Cook gave offered this counsel:
“We need each other. In addition to our sharing our testimonies of the gospel with one another, our duty is to love and serve and strengthen and nourish and support and sustain each other, especially in our families. Please remember that in the last days, your very survival may depend on your willingness to work together, to love and serve.”
In closing his remarks, Elder Cook emphasized the need to focus on the Savior if we want to be optimistic. He said, “I testify that if we are determined to live on the sunny side of the street, with the light of the Savior as our focus and our guide, we will be on the covenant path. As we love, follow, and worship the Savior, we will have peace in this world and eternal life in the world to come.”
Elder Uchtdorf: The Sun Will Rise Again
On Facebook, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf posted a photo of him and his grandson, Eric, skiing. He shared how several years ago, he had fallen while skiing and was unable to stand back up. It wasn’t until then-12-year-old Eric came to him, offered his hand, and said, “You can do it, Opa, now,” that Elder Uchtdorf was able to stand (see Elder Uchtdorf’s October 2013 general conference address, “You Can Do It Now!”). He reflected on this experience and current world events while skiing once again with Eric.
“This time as we spent time together again on the ski slopes, we pondered on the pandemic and its effect on individuals, families, and communities. Eric now is a returned missionary. He and other missionaries were so frustrated when everything closed down, but they learned to make the best of it,” Elder Uchtdorf wrote.
“A lesson I learned early in my life is that no matter how dark the night, there is always the assurance that the sun will rise again (see Psalm 30:5). We can take the resolve to continue forward and upward with patience and steadfastness. We can do it now!”
Sisters Craig and Craven on How to “Be Not Weary in Well Doing”
Sister Michelle Craig and Sister Becky Craven are counselors in the Young Women General Presidency. On Facebook, they both shared thoughts on the new youth theme for 2021, found in Doctrine and Covenants 64:33–34: “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great. Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.”
Sister Craig said, “I have loved this scripture for many years. In different seasons of my life, it has given me encouragement and reassurance that being consistent in small acts of discipleship is essential—even when I’m tired, even when I’m lonely, even when my list of things to do is impossibly long.”
Sister Craven’s thoughts on the theme were accompanied by a picture of her and her granddaughter making a silly face. She explained that her grandkids remind her to have fun and keep going. She finds similar inspiration in the youth theme.
“I don’t know about you, but sometimes it’s easy to feel tired and weary with everything happening around us,” Sister Craig said. “To me, God’s reminder to ‘be not weary’ is His way of saying, ‘Becky, don’t get bogged down with what’s going on around you. Keep moving forward.’”
May you BOTH find joy and peace in your friendship, in knowing that God truly knows and understands each of our master plans. God can provide miracles instantaneously, but we lean that the times and seasons of OUR mortal journey are His and His alone to direct. The point? The point is that faith means trusting God in good times and bad. May you both have the faith and strength to move forward knowing that God is in your corner and that YOU are known to Him and loved. Terry
AN IRISH BLESSING
May God grant you always…
A sunbeam to warm you,
A moonbeam to charm you,
A sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you
Laughter to cheer you
Faithful friends near you
And whenever you pray
Heaven to hear you…
God Bless Holli and God Bless her Faithful friend Mel…
First, Holli, I want to thank you for being someone who obviously has brought so much joy and light to those around you. And strength and courage. I feel it all the way here in Chile where we live with our four children. My kids are upstairs right now playing legos and I’m going to get off the computer and go and sit on the floor and play with them. I’m not so good at playing legos, but I don’t think that will matter one bit to them. Thank you for inspiring me to do it and reminding me of what matters most. May God bless you and your family. I know He will.
What an extraordinary woman. My heart and my sincere prayers will go out for Holli. I have had cancer three times and I walked through metastatic cancer with my mother 48 years ago, losing her when I was 26. She too rarely complained through 4 years of agony. It is obvious our Savior is giving Holli strength beyond our understanding, because when I think of her life and what she will miss (and those who will miss her), it is nearly too much to comprehend.
I will make a genuine effort to be utterly thankful for every single day, every hour I am given, and to be a better servant for our Lord.
Holli, Thank you for being a light to those around you, and for those that don’t don’t even know you! I am grateful for your beautiful example as it points me to Christ and His ultimate example. Because of your example of doing hard things with a heart of gratitude, I am going to call a family member I have been avoiding because of their negative attitude towards me. I will pray to see that person the way the Lord does and show love towards them regardless of how they treat me.
May the Lord bless you and your family with peace and joy. You will be in my prayers ❤️
Dear Holli, my goal is to shut out all the noise and discord that is currently surrounding us and to focus on the things that are important: caring for my family, adoring my grandsons and helping others when and as much as I can (I’ll begin with making a donation to your GoFundMe account and a matching donation to the AIM at Melanoma Foundation to help others like you). Your story will touch so many, and I hope the support you receive from all these strangers will lift you up and bring you joy.
As I read through your post today, I kept repeating in my mind, this is me, this could be me, I am Holli and I was brought to tears. What a treasure it is to find a “true” friend these days; how blessed you both are to have found each other and that special connection. Holli–it sounds like you have fought valiantly for you, your husband, kids and family. I pray for you all.
My hard for the week is being grateful for the little things I can do today for my family.