When the recent challenge to read Daughters in My Kingdom was issued to all the sisters and Laurels
in the Kennewick Stake, a strong desire was kindled in my heart to deeply
ponder and study the book from beginning to end. I decided that for me to do
this in an effective and focused way, I would read with a pencil and a
highlighter in hand. As I read the book, I wrote notes in the margins when
I made a spiritual connection or recalled an example of how Relief Society has
blessed my life. I underlined and highlighted meaningful passages and
shared some of them with my family, friends, and visiting teaching
sisters. I also wrote in my journal about the wonderful
spiritual experiences I was having while reading the book.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is found on page 99, and
it is about the promised blessings to sisters who serve in Relief Society:
“Your every need shall be fulfilled, now, and in the eternities; every neglect
will be erased; every abuse will be corrected. All of this can come to you, and
come quickly, when you devote yourself to Relief Society. Service in the Relief
Society magnifies and sanctifies each individual sister. Your membership in
Relief Society should be ever with you. When you devote yourself to the Relief
Society and organize it and operate it and participate in it, you sustain the
cause that will bless every woman who comes within its influence” (Boyd K.
Packer).
Reading this book often brought tears of joy and gratitude as I
reflected on the blessings of Relief Society in my life, and the great heritage
of faith that has been established through this inspired organization for
women. Reading Daughters in My Kingdom
was a very spiritual journey for me. I realized more than ever what great
sacrifices have been made by women disciples of Christ throughout history, and
I gained a deep appreciation and love for them. My challenges and trials are
different than the ones they had, but their faith and courage through
challenges and trials inspires me to press forward with faith and courage. They
did hard things, and so can I!
Lori Bowers
Willowbrook Ward
Lori Bowers
Willowbrook Ward
