An open letter to Willow...my grand-daughter

Welcome to our family. The joy you bring everyone is indescribable. Having just come from Heavenly Father, I have to ask you...how's Grandpa Glen? What does Heaven smell like? What's the best book in Heaven? Best food? I know that sounds silly, but I have those questions because you're here. You remind me that Heaven is a real place.

I'm glad you chose to come. I'm learning how much better I want to be. For you. For our family.

This world is a mix of wonder, joy, and a fair measure of pain and sorrow. I want to protect you from that. To keep you safe. To shelter you. But I can't.

It would be unfair. It's not part of the plan. So...I pledge that I will do all in my power to serve you, to teach you and show you all that I can.

You have amazing parents. Your father, my son, is a worthy priesthood holder. The spirit resides with him - he is worthy to go to the temple with your mother, whom I also love so much. She made great sacrifice to bring you here - and will continue to do so as she helps to guide and teach you. I love your parents - my son, my daughter - so much.

You hail from hard-working & God-fearing people. Farmers, ranchers, miners. People familiar with God's creations, with sacrifice, with love & loss. I hope your parents teach you of your ancestry, your heritage.

Willow, three things I would that you always remember;

Who you are - a child of God.
Where you come from - your heritage.
That you are LOVED. You matter.

I can't wait to get to know you Willow. I can't wait to meet you.

So begins our eternal journey together - so begins your blessed life. May it be long and full of pure joy!

-Papa J

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