Righteous Wives & Mothers

Two weeks ago in Young Women's our lesson was on preparing ourselves to become Righteous Wives and Mothers. We talked about different Characteristics Righteous Wives and Mothers have.
One of the women from the scriptures that we talked about was Rebekah. Rebekah was a VERY righteous women who showed great Faith, Charity, Hospitality, Kindness, and Service. No wonder she was sought out hundreds of miles to become Isaac's wife. She was ready and willing to be called upon as a servant of the lord to fulfill her roll as wife and mother.

Another one of my favorites is Emma Smith. There is so much you can say about Emma. To me she is the perfect example of a Righteous, Faithful, Latter-Day-Saint.  She was prepared to accept her role no matter what trial was placed before her.

One of my favorite talks we read was by Julie B. Beck, "Mothers who Know".  If you have not read this talk I would strongly suggest reading it. :) (I've linked the title)

This past week while I've continued to reflect on characteristics of righteous women that I need to develop, I couldn't help but think of some AMAZING women and mothers that I know.

Allison
Allison DenBoer is my cousins wife.  I am so blessed to be able to call her family. She is a remarkable wife and mother.  She has been diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome.  For those who don't know Marfan Syndrome it is a connective tissue disorder that affects many of the body's functions. It is a mutation of a gene that is basically the "glue" that holds things together. Because of this, Allison has been through many challenging trials, some of which include 2 heart surgeries. Throughout this whole process she stayed extremely faithful, hopeful and positive.  She's a women who knows why she's here and where she's going. She knows it, lives it and loves it! Once again I'm so blessed to be able to call her family. If you'd like to read more about her story click on Marfan Syndrome and it will link you to her blog. :)

Megan
Megan is the wife of the late Joshua Lloyd, a dear friend from high school. I've only met Megan on two occasions, sadly one of them was at the funeral of her husband. In Sept. of 2011 Josh was diagnosed with Lymphoma Cancer. After many treatments, including Kemo, Josh's health went up and down but was looking a little better. During this trial in their lives Megan started a blog. Through out the whole process Megan stayed extremely positive. She reached out to others in need, but was always there for her husband.  She understood the importance of Eternal Marriage and Eternal Families. Sadly Josh took a turn for the worst and passed away Feb. 27th, 2012. Megan is an amazing example of Faith, Hope and Charity. http://lloydfamilylove.blogspot.com/

Cindy
Cindy Walker is a childhood friend from when our family would go back and forth to Boise.  Cindy and I were able to reconnect at Girls State our Jr. year in High School. Since then I have been following her blog. She truly is a mother who knows the importance of bearing children. Her and her husband have been struggling to have kids. After long drawn out adoption process they've finally been able to adopt a little girl.  Through this process they continued with fertility treatments just incase the adoption fell through. Recently they announced that they are pregnant and are having twins.  Their little family of two, quickly turned into three with an adoption and will now be turning into five very shortly. She's an amazing person who recognizes the importance of bring children into her home. Heavenly Father has truly blessed them. Click on here on Cindy if you'd like to know more about her story.

And lastly,
Carissa
Carissa is my wonderful sister. I thought about my sister because throughout my life she has always been an example of a righteous women. She's always been a perfect example of one who knows it, lives it and loves it. She understands the importance of the family, and our purpose here on earth. Even today she continues to teach by example and is always willing to help. I am so grateful for a wonderful sister and example. :)