I love the concept of gathering food storage one week at a time. I know you’ve heard this a lot from me lately, but I want to thank those of my favorite website teachers for emphasizing this type of gathering.
Every day the newspapers tell us about a new company shutting down and people being laid off. It can be frightening. My husband was out of work for 2 months a few years ago, and it was not a very pleasant time for me. I suddenly felt myself treading water. My dear hubby, of course, was optimistic, but I couldn’t see farther ahead than a few months. I spent quite a bit of time on my knees, and took a good look inward to evaluate who I was and where I really was in life. His switching careers was an adjustment as well. But I learned that these difficult times teach us to turn to our loving Father in Heaven and admit our true dependance on him. I appreciate that he is always there for me. Time and time again we were blessed. Our home in CA finally sold after 10 months on the market at a reduced price, yes, but it did sell. We somehow kept our heads above water. I carefully looked at our food storage and realized, that even though it wasn’t a year’s supply, it was there. It was a sign of our obedience.
I have to admit that last October was not a pleasant month for me either, however, I think we decide how we face what lies ahead. Sure, the world is becoming more evil and our economy is struggling. It surrounds us. But we must not let others control our attitude nor our perspective.
I have peace of mind knowing that a wise President Gordon B. Hinckley taught us to not go to extremes to gather our food storage: “We can begin ever so modestly. We can begin with a one week’s food supply and gradually build it to a month, and then to three months. I am speaking now of food to cover basic needs. As all of you recognize, this counsel is not new. But I fear that so many feel that a long-term food supply is so far beyond their reach that they make no effort at all. Begin in a small way, my brethren, and gradually build toward a reasonable objective.” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “To Men of the Priesthood,” Ensign, Nov 2002, 56.)
A little at a time. And when he gave this counsel 6 1/2 years ago do you think he saw our world in 2009? I’m sure he did. I hope that those of you who are struggling with the loud negative chatter in our society will look to that anchor that steadies us all. It is through His love, and our obedience to wise leaders that He is bound to bless us. I know this, and have seen His hand. Even if your food storage supply is small, it is still a sign of your obedience.