"Things we know, and things we DO NOT"

Have any of you lost a loved one? Was it through natural causes or did they take their own life?   
I have often thought about what happens to those who take their own life. We know that the law of Moses, or the 10 commandments, that is says "Thou shalt not kill." OK, well does this mean also taking one's own life? 
I pondered on this question for awhile. A very good friend of mine took his life about 5 days before I left for my mission.  
My friend called me on the phone and told me this terrible news. I hung up the phone and just sat outside on my porch.
I was shocked when I heard this news, I thought no not him! Why him?!

I don't know why, but I have been thinking alot about him lately. Especially when I study about the Plan of Salvation.

I wonder, if there is hope for him and if he could be forgiven. Would God, and could forgive an act such as this one.

I came across a talk on LDS.org by Elder M. Russell Ballard, "Things we know, and things we do not." There is a part of this talk that brought much comfort to my soul, as I hope it does with yours as well. "I believe the Lord will consider each case separately and judge the circumstances of each individual. I have sincerely sought direction from our Father in Heaven to help me understand the nature of suicide. And I have come to know, as well as anything else that I know from God, that these people have a place in the kingdom of our Father, and it is not one of darkness or despair, but one where they can receive comfort and experience serenity." "...it is clear that hope exists."

In Doctrine and Covenants 138:58-59 it says,"The dead who repent will be redeemed, through obedience to the ordinances of the house of God, And after they have paid the penalty of their transgressions, and are washed clean, shall receive a reward according to their works, for they are heirs of salvation."
I know there is hope for all those who have passed on. I know that I will see him again. "... Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

Remember... Mary, Mother of Jesus

This song brings tears to my eyes, especially the first time I heard it. It's a beautiful song.

I've been thinking alot about Mary lately after reading that question I read, "What qualities did Mary have to be Jesus' mother?" I think about if Mary really knew what her son was here to do. I cant even imagine the way she felt for the wonderful things that He did. "The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will live again, the lame will leap, the dumb will speak."

If she knew that He was here to save OUR sons and daughters. The part that really brings tears to my eyes is when it says, "This child that you delivered will soon deliver you."  Ah, so amazing. I cant even imagine knowing that my son was going to do the things that He did for me.

I look up to Mary in many different ways. Her faith, obedience and Love that she shows. Just looking at this picture of Mary and Jesus I know she was a good mother. I'm very grateful for her obedience.

 "Mary Did You Know"
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know
that your Baby Boy has come to make you new?
This Child that you delivered will soon deliver you.

Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy will calm the storm with His hand?
Did you know
that your Baby Boy has walked where angels trod?
When you kiss your little Baby you kissed the face of God?

Mary did you know.. Ooo Ooo Ooo

The blind will see.
The deaf will hear.
The dead will live again.
The lame will leap.
The dumb will speak
The praises of The Lamb.

Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy would one day rule the nations?
Did you know
that your Baby Boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
The sleeping Child you're holding is the Great, I Am.