The Chain

I walked in the door with the kids after gymnastics the other day and something mysterious was going on. There were a bunch of ingredients for brownies in separate bowls on the counter. Brad said "Everyone come for Family Home Evening!"

We sang love at home, prayed and then Brad held up a sign with a picture of the family that said "UNITY". He told a story to explain what unity is and then he brought us into the kitchen saying, "time for the treat!"

We gathered around the table and he passed us each one of the ingredients for the brownies. I got sugar, Jesse got eggs and vanilla and Breanna got cocoa. First the kids started to cry! I couldn't help but cover my face and laugh! FinallyBrad explained the metaphor and we all started making the brownies. 

Throughout the lesson the kids kept talking about how much they love each other. I think they felt the spirit, too.

We made a chain with each of our names on it. It hit me really hard. I am a part of this chain! I belong to something so important, something bigger than me.

I felt as if all the horrible things anyone had ever said about me, all the trials I've had in my life, all the mistakes I've made dissolved into insignificance in comparison to my part in this beautiful family.

I felt the spirit as I realized how special this little family is to me and to God, and my part in it.  In my heart I know I will protect it with everything I am, from any force that tries to destroy it. I don't think anything has hit me with such force before.

This chain may be paper, but it's titanium in my heart.