In reading it this time, I was able to take it a little slower and enjoy the powerful stories of sisters all over the world and how they live and love relief society. I was inspired again and again to try to follow their examples of service and charity. I love knowing that the relief society is a worldwide organization.
Also, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the lives of the faithful General Relief Society Presidents that have served in the Church since the Relief Society was formed. They each sacrificed much and served well. I instantly loved Louise Y. Robinson, the 7th Relief Society President. She was a very willing servant but very humble in circumstance and very humble about her abilities to serve as the Relief Society General President. She told President Grant that "she was afraid she wouldn't be the example that the women of the Relief Society would expect in a leader." President Grant told her "Sister Louizy, 85% of the women of our Church are humble women. We are calling you to be the leader of them." (pg. 71)
I also was really touched by what Eliza R. Snow said about what is ultimately important. She said that "there are many of the sisters whose labors are not known beyond their own dwellings and perhaps not appreciated there, but what difference does that make? If your labors are acceptable to God, however simple the duties, if faithfully performed, you should never be discouraged." (pg. 177)
I am grateful for the example of these sisters. We can follow their examples in accepting callings and also feel good about all the work we do in our homes. As stated in the "Proclamation to the World", families are central to our Heavenly Fathers plan. We can feel good about raising our families in righteousness and in building our relationships with our husbands.
This is a spiritually uplifting book. I hope each sister will read it and treasure it as I do.
Becky Heath, Rancho Reata Ward
