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Show 74 Milford gives examples from nature-corn, peaches, apples-of the time and toil necessary prior to a satisfying harvest. Her husband's counsel is music to Ellis's ears, and she tenderly recounts his advice: If those we deem our friends treat with apparent ingratitude kindnesses we have bestowed or sacrifices we have made for their sakes let us regard them as weeds, let us pluck them out-with gentleness-lest we dwarf the plant we wish to nourish. Let us Be" noble unselfish and charitable, "Giving honor to whom honor is due," and strive for the progress and advancement of others, for let us draw from the fount of intelligence as we will-the volume diminishes not.8 A couple of weeks later there follow two brief, but firm, affirmations of her desire to honor Milford's mentorship. August 30 I must seek to overcome and be a true wife, mother and saint, be patient, kind, charitable and noble in all my actions. September 1st 1872 The first of the week, first of the month and first of the season and I fervently desire to date from this day a higher, holier and nobler life.9 Nothing short of perfection will do for Ellis. How similar to her goals were those of other women in her society? Going early in the morning of September third to Mother Shipp's for milk, Ellis is surprised to find that ...Sister Zina and Sister P. Kimball were there by request to attend to the ordinance of washing and anointing. My dear Sister Flora was the recipient of these heavenly blessings. They remarked that the greater number present, where strong in faith, gave them greater strength and permitted me to remain with them. I felt so happy for I realized that the spirit of the Father dwelt in each heart, that holy angels hovered near-and Oh I felt that I would renew my efforts to be a better and more faithful saint and live so as to claim the blessings promised the faithful. |