Gratitude

By Elder James E. Faust

of the Council of the Twelve Apostles

(Adapted from an April 1990 general conference address. See Ensign, May 1990, pages 85–87.)

I once found myself late at night on an airplane bulging with passengers going north from Mexico City to Culiacan. The seats in the plane were close together, and every seat was taken, mostly by the gracious people of Mexico.

A young woman came down the aisle with four small children, the oldest of which appeared to be about four, and the youngest a newborn. She was also trying to manage a diaper bag, a stroller, and some bags. The children were tired, crying, and fussing. As she found her seat in the airplane, the passengers around her, both men and women, literally sprang to her aid. Soon the children were being lovingly and tenderly comforted and cared for by the other passengers, who passed them between one another all over the airplane.

Settling down in the caring arms of those who cradled them, the children soon went to sleep. The mother was freed from the care of her children for most of the flight. The only thing that I felt bad about was that no one passed any of the children to me!

I am grateful to people the earth over who love and appreciate little children. The Lord has promised, “And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious” (D&C 78:19).

I hope that we can all have grateful hearts and cherish the many blessings that God has given us.

Illustrated by Robert McKay