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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;

  1. Who you are - a child of God.
  2. Where you come from - your heritage.
  3. 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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