Consider the Blessings -True Accounts of God’s Hands in Our Lives
Title: Consider the Blessings
Author: Thomas S. Monson
Publisher: Deseret Book
Published: 2013
Have you ever wanted to go through all of President Thomas S. Monson’s talks and just print off every single one of the stories he’s ever shared? I’m so glad I came across his new book, “Consider the Blessings” because it is exactly that; a compilation of fifty of his most beloved “parables” coupled with beautiful imagery. Each is an intimate little vignette that give you a glimpse into the big heart of our dear Prophet. As I read each little story, I could hear President Monson’s warm inflections as the account progressed.
One of the experiences he shares was that of a woman who was never able to have children of her own, but who became a confidant and friend to the young women in her ward. After a tragic illness took her life, the young women would visit her graveside each Memorial day. They would leave a card and inscribe: “To Bauer Dee, from your girls”. This went on for 25 years until there was only one of the girls still visiting each year. By some tender mercy, that last “girl” was about to go visit the graveside when her visiting teacher, Colleen, dropped by unexpectedly. The woman had the card and a bouquet in her hands as she opened her door to her visiting teacher. Colleen realized she must have been about to head out the door and consequently asked what the card and flowers were for. The woman replied that she was going to visit the grave of one of her former mutual leaders who had a profound influence on her life and the lives of the friends of her youth. “Colleen asked if by any chance the woman’s name was Bauer Dee. ‘Why, yes,’ came the answer. ‘How did you know?’ With a catch in her voice, Colleen said, ‘Bauer Dee was my aunt–my mother’s sister. Every Memorial Day since she died, my family has found on her grave a bouquet of flowers and a card inscribed from Bauer Dee’s girls. They’ve always wanted to know who these girls were so they could thank them for remembering Bauer Dee.’ ”
That story is just one of many accounts that touched my heart. Reading this book made me feel like I was sitting with President Monson in a cozy little den, just being filled to the brim with hope in human kindness and a spirit of peace. Another reason I love this book is because it’s great for when you have only a little time but a great need for inspiration. It would be a wonderful book to always have out and use for family home evenings- or a quick little mealtime story around the table- maybe a new Thanksgiving tradition! There are little gems on every page which remind me of the virtues I want my family to learn, grow up with and have instilled into their character. His stories remind me that miracles happen every day and that blessings from the Spirit are there if we just look for them. They made me want to think about my own experiences and to write them down to reflect upon and share with my children. And as the title of this book states, to consider the blessings in my life.
– Devanie
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