Pillar of Strength

A week or so ago, a long, long time family friend was sure to let me know just how lucky I am to have Erin as my wife. That Sunday, Erin had taught Relief Society for her second time. The friend mentioned how Erin is a pillar of strength.

Since that day, we have often used that commonly and jovially throughout random conversations. Yet, this morning I dug a little deeper into the meaning of the phrase and have a stronger conviction of just how lucky of a guy I am.

The first search result for pillar of strength on the church website returns an audio recording about the history of Lucy Mack Smith (the mother of Joseph Smith). Through the recording, several life experiences between Lucy and Erin were quite similar. Each had mothers that were the spiritual leaders of their home. Family religious values of duty, faithfulness, and love were instilled by the mothers as their fathers were out earning to provide for their families. As both Lucy and Erin were converted into the Church, they developed a sincere relationship with the Savior that continually gave them strength as they experienced trials and tribulations. As we know, Lucy raised her children whom would later accomplish marvelous things. Erin, unwaveringly, has already begun raising our children with love and tenderness with a future of endless possibilities.

Day and day out, as a wife and as mother, she provides support to those around her. Upon returning home each evening, I approach the door knowing that on the other side is a place of peace, cleanliness, fun, and love. Though my efforts at work provide a monetary reward, Erin's everyday triumphs attract eternal blessings.

Each day, she helps me grows stronger as my love for her is greater than the last.