Pioneer Day is a holiday celebrated here in Utah on July 24. It commemorates when Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers entered into the Salt Lake Valley.
For me, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Pioneer Day is somewhat of a day of reflection. It’s a day when I can remember that some of my ancestors came across the plains to find a better life for their families, many of whom sacrificed all that they had to follow a dream. They followed their hearts and turned their faith to God to lead them to a place where they could have the freedom to practice religion without persecution, where they could learn to sustain themselves and build a life. Today my reflection is on following a dream.
I am unaware of any of my ancestors that came into the Valley on July 24; however, I have several family members who traveled for months on end to come to Utah. In the words of William R Walker, “although they were uncertain of the future, they were certain of their faith.” There are times in my life that I need that strength. That motivation that although the future is uncertain, I know that if I continue to follow my dreams with faith all will be well.
President Thomas S. Monson in the July 2016 Ensign said: “The path of a pioneer is not easy, but we follow in the footsteps of the ultimate Pioneer-even the Savior-who went before, showing us the way to follow.”
I also associate Pioneer Day with the Hymn
Come, Come, Ye Saints
1. Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear;
But with joy wend your way.
Though hard to you this journey may appear,
Grace shall be as your day.
’Tis better far for us to strive
Our useless cares from us to drive;
Do this, and joy your hearts will swell—
All is well! All is well!
2. Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard?
’Tis not so; all is right.
Why should we think to earn a great reward
If we now shun the fight?
Gird up your loins; fresh courage take.
Our God will never us forsake;
And soon we’ll have this tale to tell—
All is well! All is well!
3. We’ll find the place which God for us prepared,
Far away in the West,
Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid;
There the Saints will be blessed.
We’ll make the air with music ring,
Shout praises…
As I reflect on following a dream, I gain strength in knowing that with faith, perseverance, and courage I can attain any dream that I pursue.
I hope everyone has a great day today wherever you may be, and I pray that you may look to your future with the faith of the pioneers and remember that no matter what your religious belief or faith is that blessings come from enduring today and believing in yourself and your future.
~Heather
It’s really fascinating to get a peak into the history of the residence of that area.
Thank you Beth. I love history and it is fun to be a part of it