Today’s revival post was originally published in June 2007 by Jamie. It’s a sweet, comforting perspective to remember when you’re surrounded by such heartbreak in this world. 

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My husband and I were talking one night about a young woman in our ward that had her baby taken away because of her living conditions (she claimed she couldn’t keep house because of her diabetes). After some conversation about it, I said, “It must break Heavenly Father’s heart to send those spirits into situations like that. Those poor babies.”

Later that same week, I heard a horrifying news story about a two-week old baby who had been microwaved by a babysitter trying to keep her warm. As I nursed my newborn and listened, aghast and tearful, the thought crossed my mind again—this must break Heavenly Father’s heart.

Why would we agree to such a deal in our pre-mortality? I imagined the scene, each of us getting an overview of what we might experience in this life, and then saying, “Sign me up!” Someone was willing to be born into slavery, some to disease- and poverty-ridden slums, to places where they would never learn of the Savior, or never feel human love, or never be free. What’s in it for them eternally?

It was then that my mind “caught hold upon the thought,” to borrow Alma’s phrase, that this is the value of receiving a mortal body. At almost any cost, Heavenly Father’s spirit children were willing to leave his presence and come to earth—just to gain a mortal body. And while I am sure it does break Heavenly Father’s heart, I am sure his perspective eases the pain of that tiny flicker of eternity when those innocent spirits suffer. He sees his children one step closer to Him.

This little “lightbulb” meant a lot to me. It has altered my general perspective, helping me see more purpose in suffering, and helping me value my own mortal body. While I have been at odds with my body on and off throughout my life, I am learning to love it and honor it as a gift from my Father, and as the vehicle that brought three lights into my life—two beautiful daughters and my sweet baby son. I am learning to wear the stretches and wrinkles and extra rolls of me with a little more grace and gratitude for the experiences that put them there, and faith that this body brings me, in ways I don’t fully understand, one step closer to divinity.

What’s your take on the value of our bodies? Have you had a similar “a-ha” moment?
What makes you feel strong/ graceful/ goddess-like—at home in your own skin and grateful for your body?
How are you teaching your children (especially daughters) to cherish and respect their own bodies?