THE POWER OF LOVE

(source)

I have never felt a more powerful feeling in my life than the power of love. 

• The moment I prayed, as a teenager, to know if the Book of Mormon was true.
• The days when my parents would forgive me when I asked for a "do over" after a mess up.
• The evening when I said a goodbye to my best friend as he left on mission.
• The comfort I received when I started a new life at college on my own.
• The embrace of that missionary after he returned and how things fell into place.
• The minutes I spent kneeling and looking at Thomas across the alter in the temple of the Lord on our wedding day.
• The hugs, congratulations, and time spent with friends and family on that wonderful day.
• The peace, embrace, and strength from my Heavenly Father during a very trying time while trying to be the best student, care taker, employee, and family member I could be, all at once. 
• The feelings and advice received from priesthood blessings.
• The direction felt as our family moved from place to place and as new adventures began. 
• The kindness and acceptance of new people at new jobs and in new wards.
• The notes and messages sent when I was in my accident.
• The direction from church leaders that love can change lives.

I love how General Conference can have a different theme for everyone who participates. The theme that has stood out to me has been "love". I loved this quote by Elder Scott yesterday and I have heard it echoed in nearly ever talk that followed:

Giving them confidence in your love can help them to develop faith in God's love. Then through your loving, thoughtful communication their lives will be blessed by your sharing lessons you have learned, experiences you have had, and principles you have followed to find solutions to your own struggles. Show your sincere interest in their well-being then share your testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

My heart is full. I have been reminded again to treat everyone around me with love, respect, and gratitude. I hope that I can better communicate and touch lives from the experiences I've had, both good and bad. I'm so grateful to all of those who have touched my life and the examples that change my life on a daily basis. I hope you too have been touched and encouraged for the better this weekend! Love you!

>> Happy Birthday to my Savior!