Be the Best Version of You!

A few years ago,blessed to stay with Jaime and Matthew as they prepared to say

 good‑bye to Jaime’s mother, who passed away sooner than expected. During my visit to Utah, I learned many lessons, but the greatest one came as I listened to the children and grandchildren share memories of their beloved mother and grandmother.

I sat quietly almost like a fly on the wall and although I couldn’t hear every word, I felt the spirit of what they were saying. I found myself thinking, I want to be like her. She had created such a warm, loving relationship with her family that her love will never be forgotten.

As I listened, I began to wonder how I could be more like her. She had so many gifts and talents that she used to build harmony, joy, and deep connection in her home. I wanted that too, yet I felt I fell short, that I could never measure up or offer what she offered her family.

But just as quickly as those thoughts came, a gentle, loving impression followed:

“I did not give you the same gifts or talents or children that I gave Shelly. You were not meant to walk the same road or to have those same gifts. I gave you gifts and talents for you to grow and magnify. You just need to be the best version of you.”

It was a tender, sweet moment—one of those quiet teachings from our Father in Heaven that reaches the heart exactly when it’s needed.

There are many Christlike attributes I can learn from Shelly. She loved unconditionally. She made everyone who entered her life feel like family. With both Glen and Shelly, you felt like royalty—seen, valued, and welcomed. That is something I can strive for, because it reflects the Savior’s love. And she was a beautiful example of being her very best self.

Thank you, Matthew and Jaime, for allowing me to be with your family and with Jaime’s family during such a sacred time. My heart is a little bigger and a little better because of this experience.