Nine Northern Stars

I find myself thinking about Elder Gerritt W. Gong’s talk from October general conference: “Our Campfire of Faith.” He said President Eyring taught him about God’s love: “the love of a Creator who expects His children to become like Him—to create and to build.” The happiest moments in my life have been spent in creating something I hoped would be beautiful or useful. I learned this love of creativity from my mother, who spent most of her life making wonderful things to eat, to wear, to play with and to decorate our home. One of my most precious possessions is a Christmas stocking she knitted for me, with Santa and a sequin-covered tree on the front and two ornaments on the back. My name is in caps across the top. I don't know if it brought her joy while she was making it. I do hope so. But it definitely brings me joy. Every time I see it I'm flooded with memories of fresh oranges, candy canes, chocolates and so many other delights.