Hark! The bells are ringalingin'

So Friday was a wonderful day, but also an interesting one as well. The one main thing I wanted to focus on is that after work, I was sitting in our kitchen just pondering my life and the tiny problems I have that sometimes seem like the Himalayas to my meager mind. As I was sitting there, the BYU bell tower (which is right outside our window) began playing "Come, Come, Ye Saints." It is one of my favorite hymns. (For all you non-Mormons reading this, listen to it by following the link added to the word 'listen.' It is a song that can really change your heart.) The parts that hit home on Friday was the last few notes/words at the end of every verse that say "All is well!" I have always loved that part, and since I was going through a particularly difficult point in my day when the bell tower rang out this lovely tune, I was reminded of a few things. First off: I love my Heavenly Father. The simple fact that I was able to hear that song when I needed that spiritual and emotional up-boost was such a testimony-builder of His hand in my daily life. From helping me find my keys to sending me reassuring nudges through songs and people, I am constantly reminded that my Heavenly Father loves me :) I'm so glad I know that and that I know Him. Second: The Mormon pioneers were the most kick-butt people I know! Seriously though...they left their homes and all of their fancy possessions behind in order to cross thousands of miles on foot (and mostly by handcart) into unsettled territory simply because they had the most steadfast faith in the gospel and the restored church. Many of them died and lost loved ones along the way, and they suffered more hardships, sufferings, and persecutions then most people can even begin to imagine...and yet, as they walked all that way, they sang out strongly and proudly "All is well!" They are truely inspiring examples in my life. Sometimes I wish I had a fraction of the faith that they possessed.. I guess that's one for the bucket list!!