Today we talked a little bit about gratitude at our family scripture reading. And I thought about ways that I remember, the things I do to keep connected with those who mean the most to me. I also thought about what it means to have a hard heart – a heart that doesn’t let the balm of memory soothe and soften during trying times. A rigid heart is easily broken.

Every morning I spend time remembering. This remember time propels me forward and constructs my day.

I first take time to remember God. I talk with him. I listen to him. This is my prayer time and it takes a while. I don’t want to shortchange God. I do this first thing in the morning.

Then I spend time in the scriptures. I remember my Savior Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for me. And I remember those who went before – both saints and sinners. And hopefully, I learn from this legacy of scripture more lessons that will shape my day.

Third, I spend time with my ancestors. This one is unique and new. I didn’t do this in the morning although I have done it in some form for a long time. I spend time searching them out, learning their stories. I have no famous ancestors. Just normal people. But I spend time connecting with and learning from them.