#LIGHTtheWORLD Dec 2

I hope that all of you took the time to reflect and call or send a note to your parents.  As I did, I found myself reflecting upon not only the opportunity to bring my parents honor, but the honor they have brought to me.

As I paused for a moment to write, I reflected upon the times of the past where I have done so before.  I was reminded of the opportunity I had many years ago to share, through written word, my weekly thoughts, joys, and frustrations while serving in a distant land.  I was remind how powerful their influence had been to me in my life up and to that point of mortality.  I reflected on how much they were able to influence my companions and the lives of those I taught, served, and associated with vicariously from a distant land.

I was then taken to a more recent time where again, I was able to share with them through written word each week my thoughts, joys, and frustrations while they were serving in a distant land.  Again they were a powerful influence to my children, friends, and associates as they led by example.

Then this morning, I happened to be listening to "Lest Thou Forget", a talk given by Elder Rasband in the most recent conference addresses.  I was encouraged to think of the power of influence I have been given through my ancestors.  Though I never had a chance to know my paternal grandfather, he has been such a strong power and witness in my life.  Through the honorable life he led, I have been taught, raised, and blessed, by the legacy of his sons and daughter.

I also carry the name of my maternal grandfather.  I a grateful for the opportunities have been given to stand by his side in times past, learn how to endure, work, and commit to family, work, and church through his example.

I am blessed with an eternal companion who has been raised, taught, and influenced, by a loving mother who has brought honor to her own family legacy.  Together, we have tried to live in accordance to the same honorable example.

I am grateful for the blessings, honor, and legacy they have given me.  I hope and pray I may live the same.