We Said, "Yes!"

We Said, “Yes!”

… and we said, “Yes!”  Enthusiastically, unqualified and without hesitation, we anxiously and eagerly said “Yes!”

We knew there would be risks and danger. We understood that there would be failure and pain, sacrifice and sorrow; and yet, we still said, “Yes!”

We were told about the disappointments, the injustices, the evils and the unfairness – nevertheless, we could see the prospects, and said, “Yes!”

Moments before God had explained His plan. Part of His plan offered us a mortal life.

A life of mystery and of misery; a life of loneliness and of adventure; a life of varying contrasts.

But more than that, He was offering us an unlimited opportunity – the opportunity of a lifetime you might say – or, maybe better said, the opportunity of eternity!

It was the opportunity to take an all-expense paid trip to a foreign place. A place where we could have new experiences to learn and grow, to develop and progress in an infinite variety of ways that we couldn’t experience there. The possibilities were immeasurable and the potential was unlimited.

And we all sang together, all the sons of God shouted for joy!” (Job 38:7).

He taught us about agency and how powerful of a blessing it was, and if we used it wisely we could have a greater, more enriching experience on our trip. And that we could use it in its most heavenly form to help each other, to serve and lift each other, and to comfort and love one another (D&C 138:56).

Of course, we said, “Yes!”

He told us that it wasn’t going to be all fun and games, but there would be help along the way. And that whatever happened, no matter how bad it might get, it would all be for our benefit. And in time everything (EVERYTHING) would work for our good. We would need to trust Him, have patience, look for the silver-linings, and make the best of our circumstances. Through it all, the things we would learn and the relationships we would form would be priceless.

The upside was just too good! He said that this trip, in contrast to the eternities, would be but a small moment. But that the value of this moment would be without comparison and for our eternal welfare.

And so, we trusted Him. We felt His love for us, and unequivocally we said, “Yes!”

Then God took us in his loving arms and asked, “Are you sure?” He softly said, “It’s totally your choice.”

… and we said, “Yes!” 

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Wm. Calvin Hughes | November 1, 2015 | Lake Elsinore, California