Lavona's Lessons

Lavona's Lessons
(read for the tribute to Grandma Richardson at the Richardson Reunion, June 19, 2013)

The time has now come to confess
How our lives have all been blessed
By the sweet lessons taught to us
From our dear mother. They are thus:

A daily record should be kept
Of life's lessons and precepts.
Mom wrote in her journal every day,
Teaching us all this is the way.

Read your scriptures every night--
It will help you choose the right.
She always taught the power you find,
When scripture reading is enshrined.

Every week have family night,
And your clan will e'er be tight.
Gathering round to be together
Will give strength in any weather.

When you’re writing your life blueprint
Make sure that home is filled with music
Voice, piano or on trumpet
Whatever the instrument.

She showed to all of her children,
The importance of serving a mission.
Indonesia, Nauvoo or Temple Square
In Mexico, the gospel to share.

Lifelong education is so important
Don’t let your minds go dormant.
Whether it be at Tempe High
In Israel or at the “Y”.

Whatever the setting or position
At school, church or on a mission,
Taught us we might as well do our best--
Showed us how at America West!

"Remember who you are" was heard
By Mom, with the importance conferred
That more is expected of us.
Our upbringing makes it thus.

The temple is a holy place.
Its importance we must embrace.
Go there often and we will learn
How to heaven we may return.

Most of all, mom taught us well
Her love for us has no parallel.
She gave her all to teach us that
Her family is the most important.

Mom, we love and honor you.
We give thanks for all you do.
You taught us how to find success.
Our lives you have always blessed.

--With love, Vernon and Melvin