The youth (12-18 year olds) of our church were invited to participate in what we lovingly call 'the Trek'. It's a small and simple (in comparison) reproduction of what the early Latter-day Saints experienced while crossing the plains to get to Utah.
This week long endeavor for the youth includes wearing pioneer clothing:
(pictures from internet)
cooking over a campfire, pulling a handcart:
and re-living the hardships that early pioneers experienced in an effort to worship God.
Saturday, the last day of the trek, Shane was asked to meet at the stake center to help unload the trailers full of equipment. Emma and I went with Shane and we were met with very intense news that really struck me.
Within half a mile of the youth's final destination one of the leaders (a healthy 53 year old man) collapsed of a fatal heart attack.
The news has been riveting to our youth, they were shaken up by the reality of death. However, they have felt the Holy Spirit and have gained a deeper understanding of this life and its' purpose. Their testimonies and mine have been strengthened concerning God's Eternal Plan of Happiness. I was also touched deeply yesterday when I heard the conviction and love of this man's wife-she and her husband were asked previously to speak about the experiences on the Trek and this strong Sister did so.
I don't proclaim to understand all the doctrine of God's church, I have my questions and I look forward to a perfect knowledge someday. Yet I do know Heavenly Father loves us, He sent us to Earth to test our faith. He did not send us to fail, he gave us guides and helps through prophets, scriptures, the Holy Ghost and of course Jesus Christ.
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