To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; my God, I put my trust in you; let me not be humiliated, nor let my enemies triumph over me.
Let none who look to you be put to shame; let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes.
Show me your ways, O Lord, and teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation;
in you have I trusted all the day long.
Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, for they are from everlasting.
Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; remember me according to your love
and for the sake of your goodness, O Lord.
Gracious and upright is the Lord; therefore he teaches sinners in his way.
He guides the humble in doing right and teaches his way to the lowly.
All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies. Psalm 25
Dear Aunt Elizabeth,
The last few days have been very challenging. I told you how some of the elders from temple came and gave Papa a hard time. Well, things are getting worse! Mama and I were out in our town market buying some vegetables and grain when we were approached by a group of girls I have known all my life. We thought at first by their smiles and waves it was a friendly visit. But it was not. The got between me and Mama and taunted me, calling me horrible names. Mama was busy with her purchase, but when she turned around, she was shocked to hear what was going on. The tears ran down my face, and I couldn't get a word out. Mama lit into them with a fury I had never seen before! Mama put her arms around me and told me we were going home that instant. She was so angry saying, "I taught some of those girls, and you studied the scriptures with them. How dare they!" She sent me in the door with our shopping and stormed out to talk with the girls' mothers. I told her she didn't have to do that, but she went anyway.
Oh Auntie, being faithful is so very hard. I said yes to the Lord's plan for me, but I couldn't have anticipated the negative consequences. I was devastated and threw myself down on the bed and had a good cry. Eventually, I got up and washed my face and made a meal for Mama and Papa. Around the table at supper, it was decided that I would stay in the house away from people in the daylight. I can go into our garden and feed the animals, but town is now off-limits. I feel a bit like I'm a prisoner and yet, I cannot go through that again. Nor can Mama! She was so exhausted and hurt when she returned that I was glad I had prepared the food. She sat for a long time and didn't say anything.
I'm writing by a candle in my room. Joseph arrived a while ago, and we talked for a time. Now he is in with Papa sorting things out and having a serious discussion. I know they want to protect me and they do care for me. I just feel like a small child without any say in my life. I am praying for you as I figure your time is at hand! pray for me as well.
love,
Mary
