It's No Coincidence

I have a friend who is very different from the rest of the world. She has not had an easy life, and because of that, she has a lot of problems. But that doesn't make her less amazing; in fact, she is one of the coolest people I know, but she just can't see that for herself. It's really hard for me to have to watch her fight this internal battle, her own mind telling her she's no good and that she never will be. For the past few weeks, things have been especially hard for her, and it's been killing me to watch her struggle with everything. I've been so worried and have had absolutely no idea what to do.

Today, I sat in the same room as the true and living prophet of the Lord (President Thomas S. Monson), his two counselors, and the 12 apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, along with 22,000 other members and leaders. That was a blessing in and of itself. But one of the apostles, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, spoke to us today. He opened his talk by declaring that this was meant for the people who are depressed, and for those who are struggling to watch their loved ones struggle.

Every word he spoke I felt was meant just for me and my friend, like he had written this advice specifically for the two of us. It was incredible. And I know that this is not a coincidence. No, instead, this was a testimony builder that my Heavenly Father knows me, knows my friend, and is watching out for the two of us. He has heard my prayers for her, asking that she can realize who she is and that I can help her in any way I possibly could. It was a testament to me that my Father hears my prayers, and that He will always answer me.

Listen. Please listen. The Lord does answer your prayers! You don't have to take a number or be put on the waiting list; no, your Father hears you now, and He answers you in His own way. Sometimes, it appears as coincidence, but we know better; it's no coincidence. Ever.