I think of “Holding something dear” when I hear the word cherish. And usually, when you ‘cherish’ something, you hold it dear to your heart, meaning, to me, that it is of great value. I find as I age that the word ‘cherish’ is becoming more common in my life. Because the longer I live, the more people that I ‘cherish’ I lose to time, or death. Just this year alone, I have lost at least four people who I have ‘cherished’ in my heart. I am not sure if the parties in these ‘cherished’ relationships have been made aware of how much their lives have touched mine. Because rarely do I take the time to properly communicate it to them. I don’t know why I’m so neglectful in so doing! I think it is because time and death sneak up on you. And before you know it, it’s too late.

Joseph B. Wirthlin’s words, spoken in a talk a number of years ago, bring some comfort.

“The Resurrection (Jesus Christ) transformed the lives of those who witnessed it. Should it not transform ours? We will all rise from the grave. And on that day my father will embrace my mother. On that day I will once again hold in my arms my beloved Elisa. Because of the life and eternal sacrifice of the Savior of the world, we will be reunited with those we have cherished. On that day we will know the love of our Heavenly Father. On that day we will rejoice that the Messiah overcame all that we could live forever.” (Sunday Will Come)

While I have full faith in the above statement, I am still often left with the echo in my mind: “I should have taken the time to tell them how I felt about them.” I know I am not alone. Believing in eternal life is of great comfort. However, sometimes ‘comfort’ is needed by us all in this life. Let’s take the time to let our loved ones know of our tender feelings. It will bless their lives and enhance our relationships. Both the giver and the receiver gain comfort in knowing they are loved and appreciated. It’s not too late today, but it might be tomorrow.