FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT

Have you ever wondered if you weren't really, truly alone in the world? I know I have. I've heard time and again that we are never alone, that we are surrounded by those who love us here on Earth, by angels, and by the spirits of loved ones who have passed on or who are yet to be born. I also know that as a member of the church, I have been blessed with the gift of the Holy Ghost, and that following my righteousness, I am privy to the blessing of his companionship. Still, at times, it is so easy to forget that these promised acquaintances are very real. I cannot see the angels, other members sometimes are too busy to assist me, and the comforting voice of the Holy Ghost is so still and quiet, that I often miss its whispering.

Still, I know that even when I feel abandoned that I can rely on these blessings. I can turn myself more fully to living the principles of the gospel, which allows me to more easily feel the Holy Ghost in my life. I can reach out to others, in turn receiving peace in my heart and lasting friendships that enrich my life in so many ways. I can continue to have faith that angels are round about me, cheering me on as I make righteous choices each day. Most importantly, I can remember the Savior, who was truly alone, so I would never have to be. I can remember that He can understand my feelings of loneliness and desertion perfectly:

". . . he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him there is no beauty that we should desire him."

"He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief. . . he was despised and we esteemed him not."

"Surely, he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God and afflicted."

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes, we are healed."
(Mosiah 14:2-5)

I will try to remember that I am never alone. I will try to always remember that he will never leave me comfortless. This knowledge will surely bless me and keep me going through difficulties here on Earth, teaching me compassion for others, forbearance, and blessing me with a deep and abiding testimony of the Atonement.