...weep for the loss of them that die

"Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die..." [section 43 verse 45 from the Doctrine & Covenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]

This thought has persisted on my mind all day. Today was a sad day, but one with many good things that happened, and a lot of opportunity to grow, reflect & ponder.

A lot of events have transpired in my life and the lives of those around me that have caused my mind to be drawn up often in thought of God, Christ, the Holy Ghost, and also those we love that have left this mortal life. And today especially--to think of my brother Scott who died last year.

Today makes 15 months without him. 638 days. 15,326 hours. 919560 minutes.

I came home from a meeting tonight just after 9:00p, talked to a good friend from BYU, then trying to persuade myself to go to sleep...I got ready for bed. My heart was filled with sorrow and I just didn't want to think about it...

By now my screen saver had begun to send pictures across my screen that was still on at the foot of my bed... pictures of Scott's kids... I couldn't remain numb any longer. I began to weep. Some of them joyous memories, others just pulling at the void in my heart because I have only seen them for 4 days this year. I used to spend such a huge amount of time with them--they will always remain in my heart.

So, feeling a little stupid for weeping in my room in silence, I began to pray... the thought came into my mind to live in such a way that we weep for those that die. Knowing there is some doctrine like that I turned to the scriptures...I love the topical guide by the way...

The first scripture of immediate interest containing the word weep was Ecclesiastes chapter 3...then Luke 6:10, and finally D&C 42:45... will finish this later...

But Ecclesiastes gave me hope for that the season to laugh ;)