Kumbaya

I was sitting around the campfire with my family this weekend. I didn't realize how much I love the campfire and how much I miss my millcreek canyon.
But I also realized something else- campfires are riddled with memories.

Falling in the stream with friends at several family parties.
Youth conferences with my fellow Olympus 2nd ward stripling warriors.
Burning school papers the summer after Junior year with my graduated buddies.
Hours of signs and mafia at girls camp.
Getting to know the Madrigals for the first time.
Celebrating Harry Potter's birthday.
Backyard parties.
And more...

As I stared into the wild flames and shimmering coals, I remembered all of these moments. It seemed as though the fire had collected the love from these special moments and kept them for me to experience all over again. The feelings of deep belonging, happiness, and love returned to my heart as if they were all happening again-at the same time. Although it is sad that I have drifted from many of the people in the memories, I am so glad that I can keep them in my heart.

"When such a friend from us departs,
we hold forever in our hearts
a sweet and hallowed memory.
Bringing us nearer, Lord, to Thee."

Campfires are magical.
And that's what Jenny thinks.