“I have a hope that our brothers and sisters will also embrace the fulness of the gospel, and come into the new and everlasting covenant; I trust their prejudices will give way to the power of truth. I would gladly have them with us here, even though they might have to endure all kind of tribulation and affliction with us and the rest of the children of God, in these last days, so that they might share in the glories of the celestial kingdom. As to myself, I can truly say, that I would not give up the prospect of the latter-day glory for all that glitters in this world.”
– Mary Fielding Smith (1801-1852), quoted in The Witness of Women, by Janiece Johnson and Jennifer Reeder
I really like this. It feels very contemporary. I’m sharing this one with my daughters . . .
This is especially poignant in light of her son Joseph F. Smith’s efforts to convert Mary’s relatives in England while on his first mission there. He had no luck with them, even though they were glad to get to know JFS as nephew or cousin personally. Her family was quite comfortable back in England, and did not accept the invitation to learn more about Mary’s chosen religion.