Joy in the Plan of Salvation

      For some death may seem tragic and sometimes, considering the circumstances, it is.  But for me it is just the next step in our eternal progression.  There is a cute lady in our ward who tells us that tells us that her husband didn't die, "He just got transferred."  My friend's mother says that her husband "Graduated."  I agree with them.  Our next life is the next step in our progression.  This week my cousin, Steven Hawkes, passed away from the flu which lead to pneumonia .  He was only 62, so for his family who is just beginning the steps to the "next generation,"  this could be considered a tragedy at so young an age.  But for him I am happy, he lived in a crippled body and I am sure it was tired and ready.
 
    The funeral this Thursday, was wonderful!  The spirit was so strong there and there was a definite celebration of his life.  I got to ride up to Idaho with several of my brothers and sisters, which was definitely a major part of the fun.  We don't get together often enough, but when we do it is so fun to catch up with each other.  My brother Larry has a 12 passenger van so that was so wonderful that it made it possible to all ride together.

Steve's brothers and sisters
Steve is front left

Steven Hawkes

     My cousin Steve broke his neck while he was practicing high jumping during high school.  He had won the state wrestling championships a month earlier.  He was paralyzed and not expected to ever be able to walk.  He had his miracles and defeated the odds.  I have always admired him for this.

     I know that I will see him again in the eternal worlds. I know that we will all be together again and that our Heavenly Father has a plan for all of us.  This life is only one step in our progression.