ColoradoBennett--LeAnne's Day

Happy Mother's Day, LeAnne. One of the most powerful lessons LeAnne has taught me is about the power of love. I know she attends the Temple often and there she submits the names of her loved ones, in love and faith, on the prayer roll. I have felt the power of her love and these prayers and it reminds me of a story that Elder Groburg told in Nov 2004 Conference. His story takes place on his mission in Fiji while he and two elders where traveling by boat: "The waves became so big they flipped our small boat over, throwing the three of us into the raging, churning ocean. When I found myself in the middle of a tumultuous sea, I was surprised, scared, and a little upset. 'Why has this happened?' I thought. 'I'm a missionary. Where is my protection? Missionaries aren't supposed to swim.' But swim I must if I wished to stay alive. Every time I complained I found myself underwater, so it didn't take long to quit complaining. Things are how they are, and complaining doesn't help. I needed every ounce of energy to keep my head above water and make it to shore. Having earned my Eagle Scout Award, I was a pretty confident swimmer, but over time the wind and the waves began to sap my strength. I never quit trying, but there came a time when my muscles simply would move no more. I had a prayer in my heart, but still I began to sink. As I was going down for what could have been the last time, the Lord infused into my mind and heart a deep feeling of love for a very special person. It was as though I could see and hear her. Even though she was 8,000 miles away, the power of that love came rushing across those miles and, penetrating time and space, reached down and pulled me up, lifted me from the depths of darkness, despair, and death and brought me up to light and life and hope. With a sudden burst of energy I made it to shore, where I found my shipmates. Never underestimate the power of true love, for it knows no barriers." I know LeAnne serves others because she loves her Savior and the true love she possesses and shares lifts her family. And for this love I am eternally grateful. I love you, LeAnne!!!!