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VIEW PERSONAL BELIEFS
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POSTED BY:
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PeaceRoseRest
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DATE:
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29.11.2008 |
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SUBJECT:
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In Memory of Ladeane Smallwood |
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LOCATION:
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California,
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This past week we got a phone call from the son of a friend of ours. It was to let us know that his Mother (our friend) had passed away. Her name was Ladeane Smallwood. Eleven years ago, she suffered a stroke that left her in a wheelchair for the rest of her life. About one year ago, she developed stomach cancer. On 21 August 2008 she quietly passed away.
Even though Ladeane experienced many challenges in her life, she was always cheerful, patient and a great example to us. She had great love for her family, the Lord and the scriptures. Because her vision was poor, I offered to read to her from the scriptures each day. We even read through the Book of Mormon together, which she came to know was true.
None of us will pass through this life without facing many challenges. Though sometimes it feels like life has been given free reign to tread upon our hearts, the scriptures tell us these things will give us "experience". Knowing this isn't always much comfort. Sometimes I personally feel like my spiritual "resume'" must be a mile long. One thing that is a comfort is that Christ has promised we need not pass through this life alone. Today in Ladeane's memory, we'd like to share a poem with everyone about life, and struggles and Christ's ever constant care.
Sonnet VII
Mercy! Mercy!, I cried
When all about seemed black despair
And villainous fear my heart deprived
Of knowing moments free from care;
Have mercy, Lord!, my only thought or prayer.
'Tis bleak indeed to suffer all alone.
As I supposed my burden mine singly to bear
My soul bemoaned my state in melancholy drone.
When through the blackness light descended
Giving peace and strength a place
And my aching heart was mended;
Threads of love repaired the space.
As in Gethsemane, nought but love prevaileth
To prompt us all sweet Charity never faileth.
SMMR
It is our hope and prayer we can all remember, even in the darkest of times, that charity (the pure love of Christ) is always with us.
Ladeane, we will miss you and your good heart. You bore your Gethsemane well and have inspired many.
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