11 January 1998
Rochester 1st Ward
I was left alone with a little son when I was first married. After 3 years, my wife died and I had a 15-month old son. And I recall my prayers. I asked the Lord to let me know that he would bless me with a companion and that he would let me know who it was and that he would bless me in a way that I would not have to go through the courtship practices, that she would know and that I would know. I pleaded that I could be provided with this. Now if any of you know Nancy, you know that the Lord greatly blessed me and He answered my prayers.
17 May 1998
Fairmont Branch
Years ago, my wife was pregnant. She was having some trouble and felt very sick with her pregnancy. I drove to the university with her and went up to see the professor about my Master’s thesis. When I came back, she was very ill. I drove her to the hospital and she died. So one one moment I had the most tragedy that one could expect. I had a 15 month old child and I went through that condition and I remember my prayer quite distinctly. I said, “Father, I have all these needs. Don’t make me go through courtship. Don’t make me go through that. Can you provide me with this person?” I described this person. I don’t know how many of you know my wife, Nancy, but she’s a pretty good person, isn’t she? More than pretty good – she’s a great person. My prayers were answered. I will say this – I am better for my experience. I treat my new wife, of now almost 30 years, with greater kindness and greater consideration. I happen to know that when you wake up one day things might change on you. I am more careful. I’m not as careful as I should be, but I am more careful about the kindnesses and courtesies. I don’t know how many of you have left your loved ones behind today without kindness and courtesies. I hope none, because they might not be there. I am very knowledgeable about this. I also have a testimony that trials and tribulations turn to blessings. This is not the only experience but one of many that I’ve had. They turn to blessings when we don’t forget God. After my wife died, I thought, “Well, I’ll just get on a ship and I’ll leave. I’ll give my son away and I’ll go.” I had these thoughts; I didn’t act on them. A very wonderful stake president came over to me and said, “Get married.” I lost her one hour and in the next half hour, he said, “Get married and when you do, raise this child as if she’s always been his mother.” And we did.
Now I know some of you are without employment. Some of you have suffered great illnesses. Some of you are mistreated by loved ones. Some of you have other pains and conditions and doubts and struggles. All life lessons are given to you for your welfare….May God bless you. May you be steadfast. May you listen to His voice.