Come what may and love it.

"I know why there must be opposition in all things. Adversity, if handled correctly, can be a blessing in our lives. We can learn to love it.

"As we look for humor, seek for the eternal perspective, understand the principle of compensation, and draw near to our Heavenly Father, we can endure hardship and trial. We can say, as did my mother, “Come what may, and love it.” Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen." Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (talk given during October 2008 General Conference, www.lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-947-9,00.html)

This talk really touched my heart when he delivered it at conference. He gave it with such loving humility. As I read about King Benjamin (Mosiah 2, Book of Mormon) this morning and how his body "trembled" exceedingly in his old age and perphaps under some medical limitations, I wondered at the joy he must have felt as he "layed down him mortal frame" and his spirit rose to heaven. He must have rejoiced and wept knowing that he had endured to the end, served with all his heart, overcome many obstacles, and trusted in the Lord.

Now as I hear about Elder Wirthlin, my heart is sad to be apart from him, but I also feel a portion of that joy he must feel to return to his wife and other loved ones, to be with those with whom he so faithfully served, and have a clear conscience before Jesus Christ our Savior and before Heavenly Father.

"SALT LAKE CITY 2 December 2008 Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, the oldest living apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died last night, age 91.

"Elder Wirthlin had gone to bed at his Salt Lake City home, and died peacefully at about 11:30 pm of causes incident to age. His oldest daughter, Jane Wirthlin Parker, was present. A member of the family had been staying and caring for Elder Wirthlin, whose wife, Elisa Young Rogers Wirthlin, died in 2006.

"He had continued to work at his office right up until the Thanksgiving holiday." (lds.org)

I am thankful for Elder Wirthlin.