Comment

We Don’t Feel Alone

In the March 2001 issue of the Ensign, you printed the story of my father and his faith in prayer and priesthood power. It was called “Sand Trap” (p. 44). Our dad passed away on 19 May this year after a long battle with cancer. He died a man without guile, pure and clean. I am dropping this note to thank you not just for publishing his story of faith but also for your ongoing work of publishing peace and increasing understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the struggles of others. We don’t feel so alone in our daily battles of mortal probation knowing the trials of other Saints.

We have recently faced the death of our infant grandson, and now my wife is battling with cancer. Our focus in life has become much more clear. This is not so much because death knocks at our door but because life has become so much more precious as it gives us the opportunity to repent and prepare for that great day when we will stand before the Savior.

I have just read “Coping with Chronic Illness” (Mar. 2002, 58). We appreciate what we gained from it. Thank you again for your work.

Gary M. Johnson
Needles, California

Seeing Nauvoo—in Britain

Another landmark: This past week that beautiful temple at Nauvoo was dedicated, and it was possible for the British Saints to participate via satellite. Then four days later my July Ensign arrived. When the Ensign first came out, there was normally a delay of three months; in fact, we counted ourselves lucky if instructions for cooking the Christmas turkey arrived in time for Easter. Now it normally arrives during the second week of the publication month, and this is marvelous. May I congratulate everyone involved in this effort. It really has made my day. Thank you for this wonderful publication. I really do look forward to its arrival each month.

R. Ray Moss
Stoke on Trent, England

Like Old Friends

The picture of the 12-year-old boy with “The Case of the Flat Tires” by Marvin Kitchen in Latter-day Saint Voices (July 2002, 62) touched my heart and brought a smile to my face. For me he absolutely captures the essence of a rascally youth who just needed a little guided kindness. I am so grateful for the artists and designers who organize and beautify the Church magazines so magnificently every month. Even if I don’t get around to reading every article, I look forward to the new issues coming in the mail so that I can pore through the beautiful, inspiring pages. And even though we haven’t kept all of our magazines through the years, when I come across old issues, it’s like finding long-lost friends.

Verena B. Beckstrand
Commerce City, Colorado

An Indispensable Article

I am a recent convert from Judaism and was particularly pleased to read the article “An Indispensable Foundation” (Mar. 2002), which placed a strong emphasis on the Old Testament as a basis for understanding the scriptures, both ancient and modern. The article was brilliantly written and was obviously the thoughtful work of quite an inspired author. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reinforced my belief in the continuation of God’s revelations to mankind.

Sandra S. Vinson
Austin, Texas