51

That's how old my dad would be today if he was still alive. I miss him so much. It's been six and a half years since he died, and some years, December 8th comes and goes without me even realizing the significance of the day. I'll get to the 9th or 10th and think, "Oh, crap, Dad's birthday was the other day and I didn't even stop to think about him or 'talk' to him." (Sometimes I talk to him in case he can hear me or somehow know my thoughts.) But then again, I don't think that they pay attention to earthly birthdays where he is. I'm sure he's got much more important things to worry about.

I don't usually write about stuff this personal and close to my heart, but today I felt prompted to share some thoughts, in case someone comes across my blog who needs to read these words. I am so greatful for my knowledge of The Plan of Salvation. Because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and Heavenly Father's wonderful Plan of Happiness, I know that I'll see my dad again. I know where he is, and what he's doing. I know that everything happens for a reason, and everything is part of Heavenly Father's plan for me - and you. Families CAN be together forever.

I also know that through the Atonement, I have someone who knows exactly how I feel when I get a little sad about my daddy. When Jesus Christ was suffering in Gethsemane, He not only suffered for each of our sins, but He also suffered  - in a very specific way - through all the pains and heartaches we would each encounter in this life. Jesus knows EXACTLY how 18-yr-old Morgan Wilfley felt when her papa left this earth, and because of that, He is able to succor me exactly the way I need it, the way no one else possibly could.