The greatest moments in my life have been when I have felt as Lehi did when he said, “I am encircled about eternally in the arms of his love” (2 Nephi 1:15). I consider these occasions to be sacred and treasured. I am thankful that on a regular basis a loving Father allows me to have those precious experiences and moments, for they mark my soul and give me the desire to experience them more often.

In my last ward was a young man named Corey. He is an awesome young man who is mentally challenged, yet at the same time he challenges all those around him to be more Christlike. He is filled with warmth and love and amazing insights and inspiration. When I served as one of the adult leaders in the deacon’s quorum, Corey would often share some amazing thoughts with the class. He was difficult to understand and did not speak very much, but when he did it was usually powerful. Corey reminds me of a small piece of heaven because of what he says and does.

Every time I see Corey he says with excitement, “Brother Erickson!” and he comes over and gives me a big warm, sincere hug. Corey greets and embraces everyone he knows. There is something powerful and wonderful about a precious spirit sharing the love of God through a powerful embrace. Corey reminds me when he demonstrates these divine Godly attributes of how thin the veil truly is for these celestial beings. Corey’s gentle arms and warm embrace are reminders to me of a tender Godly embrace.

God wants us to remember where we came from and who our Father is. He wants us to remember our potential. He wants us to remember our great worth. May you remember you are a child of God, He is your Father, and His arms are open.