&nb sp;   Growing up as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has been such a unique and wonderful experience. I had grown up in two different states in the west in which both areas had a similar community. I grew up in cities where the Church was very strong and there were many members to socialize and befriend. I loved the experience of having so many close friends that shared my beliefs and had similar standards. My friends were a great source of my growth spiritually and intellectually. It was wonderful being able to discover greater truths as I would discuss such spiritual matters with my friends. I have noticed that the friends I was able to talk with about such significant topics has resulted in deeper and longer lasting relationships than those I couldn’t discuss with so freely. A powerful bond is created when friend’s souls can truly connect and understand one another in such intimate ways.  

            &nb sp;   I am grateful for the opportunity I had to grow in such a spiritually strengthening environment.  I know that when the Restoration of the church first began in the 1800’s the Prophetic leaders of the time starting with Brigham Young gave message that the Saints were to be gathered in the west. All that were converted unto the Lord were commanded to move from the only lives they had ever known and become the remarkable pioneers that traveled across unsettled lands to the west. There were many great sacrifices the members were willing to give in order to follow the Lord. Many converts from the European countries had to forgo much to cross the Atlantic and then additionally cross the entire United States to join the saints.  The western states of Utah, Arizona, and Idaho were the most heavily concentrated states in which the Saints were commanded to gather and build towns and communities. To this day the church has grown and remained very strong in these areas.

            &nb sp;   I appreciate the strength of the communities I grew up in. There has yet to be a perfect people in the church, but the people that I have come into my life have been absolutely remarkable and have been the examples I aspire to emulate.  The manner in which I grew up has caused a great excitement and eagerness in me for the day when we all will be strengthening one another in the true Zion.

Tags: Zion Jesus Christ Mormon Saints Friend God Lord United States Brigham Young

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