Choir Notes

Life's Unexpected Changes
From Music and the Spoken Word
Delivered By: Lloyd D. Newell • Program 4150

Anyone who has lived a few years has learned that life can change in an instant. One day all seems well and good, and then, the next day—the next instant—the whole world can change.

Not long ago a family lived through one of those moments. A mother was driving in a snowstorm when another car, unable to stop, crashed into her car head on. Fortunately, everyone was fine, protected by air bags and seat belts. But for that moment, in that instant, they saw in a very dramatic way how precious and fragile life really is. Mingled with the fear and relief, mixed with tears and shock, were deep prayers of gratitude and expressions of love and concern. Cars can be repaired or replaced, but the effect on our lives is much deeper. Even small events can leave our lives forever altered in an instant.

So how can we live with faith and courage amid such uncertainty and instability? A wise man who was asked a similar question explained that he tries to take advantage of each day as if the world will end tomorrow. “But,” he said, “I am still planting cherry trees!”1

Though none of us knows for sure what tomorrow will bring, we can determine to live with hope and optimism. We can resolve to subdue voices of fear and doubt in order to embrace life’s simple and joyous moments. We can express love and appreciation now and not wait for a future that may not turn out as we had planned. With every choice to cherish the present and face the future with positive expectation, we plant another cherry tree that promises a bountiful harvest for years to come.

1 Wilford Woodruff, quoted by Richard L. Evans, in Conference Report, Apr. 1950, 105.