Mary Furness

I don’t know what to say to someone that I think is perfect. I admire you so much and think the world of you. I will cherish the time we’ve spent together in the 20th ward, Salt Lake Ensign Stake. It was far too short, but very meaningful to me.

When I think of you, I see a picture of you teaching one of your many Relief Society lessons. They were always presented well and the thoughts expressed stayed with me for a very long time after wards. Your lessons always left a lasting impression on me. Your comments made me think more intently about my purpose here on earth, and what I needed to do to have eternal life with my Heavenly Father.

I am such a serious person while you are a positive, fun loving person. You brought balance, happiness, and joy to my life. You taught me that there is always hope amid crisis and disaster. I have learned from you that every day is a good day to reach out and touch someone. People need to be loved and valued. You have done that by your warm hugs and the friendly pats on the back.

There is a saying that goes like this, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”. You have made me feel like a very worthwhile person that Heavenly Farther loves dearly.

I consider you one of my choicest friends. You were always available to me, to listen to my triumphs and failures. You have been a phenomenal example to me and to everyone else that happened to come within your sphere.

I believe you are a creative genius. You continue to amaze me at how much you enjoy the spoken word and have a tremendous command of the language. Speaking is extremely difficult for me, but for you it is a strength and talent that you developed well that benefits many people.

To me, you are a natural motivator. You have certainly inspired me to be a better person, to be kinder and more compassionate to others, and especially to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ more fully.

Lastly is your attitude. Life is all about choices. We choose how to react to situations; we choose how people will affect our mood, our daily lives, but it is our choice. You have chosen by your attitude to be positive, to do all you can to serve others, to work like today was your last day on earth. In other words, you make a conscious effort to enjoy life rolling with the punches and letting Heavenly Father guide you every step of the way knowing that anything is possible with His help.

I don’t know if our paths will ever cross again, but I want you to know that you have made a major difference in my life.

I wish you the best in all your future endeavors. Please keep in touch.