A Virtuous Life--Step by Step

My thoughts on Sister Cook's talk "A Virtuous Life--Step by Step".

I cried from the first line on. (I'm going to start now.) It took us six babies to finally get a baby girl placed in my arms. Now I love the newness that comes from any baby. You know they are "fresh from heaven" but there is something special about having a baby girl gently laid in your arms. I don't know what it is but there is something special about a mother-daughter relationship.

Then of course by the second paragraph I'm a blubbering idiot! I miss my mom so much it hurts. I want to hear her voice, glean from her wisdom and know that she loves me. I miss her so very much.

I was given my mother's first name as my first name, but I go by my middle name. That makes doing things of a legal nature a bit confusing. I don't know how many times I've heard "Nellie" and not realize they are talking to me. I only hope that one or my children will name their daughters after my mother (and me). She was a very virtuous lady.

How do we make it to the Tree of Life?

1. Make good choices.
2. Go to the temple often.
3. Do not be deceived. "[Satan] has made motherhood seem less important. He has been successful in confusing women about their roles in the Lord's divine plan."
4. Read the words of the prophets.
5. Stand strong in your convictions and "stand in holy places".
6. Press forward. The path doesn't have rest stops along the way. You are either moving forward or backward. You must press forward.
7. Partake of the Atonement. You can not do this without his help. To do so is mocking him. His Atonement is for you--YOU!
8. Do the "simple" things--read the scriptures, pray and attend weekly church services. You can not save your food up for one day a week eating, neither can you save your spiritual food up for one day of "eating". You must constantly nourish your soul.
9. You are not alone in the journey. There are many on the path who would love to help you along the way. Hold your hand, smile at you and be your friend. Lift up your eyes, reach out your hand and you will be surrounded by those who love you. And never forget: YOU HAVE THE HOLY GHOST as a constant companion--if you live worthy of him.
10. Be an example!
11. Be obedient in all things.

Now if only I can remember all of these things.