KATHY

Last Christmas Esther and her siblings wrote letters of tribute to Kathy and enclosed it in a nice book. We knew it would be our last Christmas with her and we thought she would enjoy this gift more than anything. I included a letter as well and thought I would include it here so that it is contained within "our record." She is a true angel and the best mother in law any man could ask for. Her only complaint in life was that she could not do more. I saw the Bishop, home teachers, friends, and neighbors come by to visit with the intent to provide service to her but inevitably she would turn the tables and ask what she could do to lessen their burdens and make their life sweeter. I remember once hearing a talk by President Faust where he voiced a terrible transgression that he had committed. It was one that he had regretted all his life. If I remember correctly, when he was a young boy his grandmother had asked him to bring in logs for the fire and he had refused. That was the big transgression for him! I remember thinking, boy I'm in trouble!! But, this is the kind of life Kathy lived. Her purity, faith, endurance, testimony and positive attitude are examples to everyone.

Kathy

I know that you will love and cherish this book that your children have so diligently arranged for you. They have done it because they love you with a love that is complete and full in every way. In short, they have developed charity for their dear mother. The genesis for their development of this most precious gift, the gift of charity, is you. They have observed you daily and seen “that you work no hypocrisy before men.” They have followed your example of true Christ like charity and now can lay claim to that gift as well.

In the three years that I have know you I have witnessed your vibrant and heartfelt testimony of the gospel and your charity for others. Your example has reminded me of my Mission President who during a particular zone conference charged us with developing an unimpeachable testimony. The day I heard that counsel I set a goal of developing that unimpeachable testimony of which he spoke. Although I know that I have much work to be done to achieve that goal I can look to you and see that it is possible.

I know that my entrance into the life of Esther and the speed at which are relationship progressed toward a Celestial marriage was a surprise, perhaps a shock to you and Gary. I recognize that you had some valid concerns about my capacity to provide for Esther and care for her when her Crohn’s flared up or when another random ailment afflicted her. I didn’t quite understand why you would have those concerns at the time because I knew we were living the commandments, looking forward to a Temple marriage, and that I would do anything and everything to ensure that Esther was well provided for and happy. However, I think I understand a little better where those concerns originated and I can see the trust and faith that you have placed in me to care for your precious daughter. I appreciate that confidence, and I can assure you that she will indeed not want for love and the necessities of life.

Kathy, I want you to know that I love you and deeply appreciate the generosity and kindness that you have shown me.

Love,

Ben

Christmas 2007