Nana Ruby

Jesus Christ has told us "For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

My great grandmother, Nana Ruby, passed away yesterday. She was the epitome of a graceful woman of courage, and bravely endured to the end. She had 100 years of learning, inspiring, obeying, and loving. I feel incredibly blessed to be one of her descendants. Some of my favorite memories with Nana include driving to her house in Bountiful, usually after purchasing a new pair of pointe shoes at Pat's Dancewear. We always seemed to have an audition, performance, or workshop to report back on, and Nana always responded with blissful memories of her own impressive arts career. And of course gladness that we, her family, had opportunities to experience how "wonderful" the arts are. Visits always ended with orange chocolate sticks, and a glimpse of her standing in her driveway waving.

Later, I could conveniently drive to her home near my high school during lunch. I love gaining some much needed perspective from a wise 98 year old. Amid the drama, triteness, and stress of teenage life, Nana Ruby taught me the most important lessons. Kindness, grace, consistency, and cheerfulness.

She told me her dad told her to "Be the highest peach on the tree." That quote has graced my mission desk for many months.

My mother has been keeping me updated on Nana for a few weeks now. Still picturing the healthy, lively Nana I said goodbye to, I didn't realize how serious her condition was. It took me a few weeks to finally type a message that I wanted to be read aloud to Nana. I sent one last week, which one of my friends from my ward read to her. My mom also expressed how she wished she could physically see the spirits that were aiding and comforting and helping Nana during the last few weeks. I responded in a short email, "I can! In the form of butterflies!"

Since the beginning of my mission, I have seen the common Hong Kong butterflies as a heavenly sign of those on the other side of the veil, helping and aiding me. Last P day, they were especially common in a shaded pathway near the shore of a small island. As I walked down the path, I admired the butterflies weaving in and out of the green light. They were beautiful, even regal or divine, yet butterflies are so fragile. It's like all of us. We are daughters and sons of a King, but this life is temporary. I also thought of Nana Ruby and all the wonderful memories I have of her. 

My mom emailed me today and told me she saw a giant yellow (Nana's color) butterfly, then not long after, received a call about Nana's passing. Heavenly Father is aware of His children. He is kind and tender enough to send one yellow butterfly, and knowing and merciful enough to send His Son. 

I am thankful families are forever. God be with you till we meet again.