It occurs to me just now that I’ve never actually written you a letter. Do you remember how often we would call each other when the kids were young? Every day sometimes! Actually, I would be the one calling you because I knew you didn’t have the money to spare for long distance calls. You’d answer the phone with the typical, “Hello,” and then when you knew it was me, you’d say, “Hey!” The grin in your voice was so warming!

So let’s start again.

Hey! It’s been awhile! How are you doing? What have you been up to lately? What’s your latest adventure?

It’s weird to ask our old questions, knowing I won’t get to hear your voice responding. You would say, “I’m doing great! Just trying to help my kids get all their homework done. Oh! I have to tell you about the skunk!” And then you’d start giggling, hardly able to tell the story about how you barely escaped getting sprayed by that skunk because you weren’t paying attention. We’d laugh together and I’d ask you how these things always seemed to happen to you. You’d respond, still giggling, “I don’t know! But they sure make good stories!”

You know, I think I can imagine what your responses may be right now to our old questions.

“How are you doing?” I think you’d say, “I’m doing great! This place is amazing. Mom and Dad say hello. So do Granny and Grandad.” I would smile through the tears.

“What have you been up to lately?” “I am so busy! I’ve been helping teach the people who never knew about Jesus. You should see their faces light up! And I try to help my own kids, as they allow. They are still pretty sad and angry that I’m not there so they can’t always feel my help.” I would nod and tell you that I’m trying to keep track of them and trying to be a strength and stabilizing force for them. I’d also tell you that I’m impressed at how well they are supporting each other. You’d agree, and then get that worried, distant look on your face.

“What’s your latest adventure?” A smile and then, “The adventures here aren’t quite as funny as the old ones were. I’ve been able to meet some really amazing people. Our ancestor’s stories are even better from their own mouths!” I imagine you’d have a huge list of people you’ve met there, and I would be asking you to tell me all the details.

Do you remember how our phone conversations ended? “Even though you’re far away, what can I do to help you?” I’d ask. You’d say, “Just keep calling.” “Of course!” I’d respond. Then, “Love you!” from both of us to each other, and we’d hang up.

“Even though you’re far away, what can I do to help you?” I think you’d say, “Stay in your scriptures. Pray all the time. Follow the Prophet.” I’d cock my head in confusion. I’d ask, “How would that help you?” I think your answer would be, “Those things will keep you close to our Savior. When it is your time to leave, you will get to come here and then I can hug you again!”

“Love you!”

Tears streaming down my face, I’d tell you that I’ve already started doing those things better. I saw you turn to the Lord in the many trials you faced–family, employment, health. I would tell you that your determination, your faith, your example of service despite the challenges have shown me how I can be better. A better wife, a better mother and grandmother, a better friend, a better daughter of God. Thank you!

I love you, too!

Until then.