Research Paper Progress

I am really enjoying writing this research paper because it's forcing me to talk to my grandparents about their children's lives with the horrible disease, EB. I have always been afraid to ask questions because I was worried about bringing up awful memories and emotions that they didn't want to feel. It turns out I was completely wrong. My grandparents are very open to talking about it, and look back on their experiences with love and gratitude. I am realizing now that my aunt's and uncle's lives impacted the core values of my family and my upbringing. I have also grown even closer with my grandparents in the process. They truly are amazing people and the testimony they hold through the trials they faced was very strengthening to me. They have lived their entire lives in the service of others and are truly some of the best people I have ever known.

Research Topic

I've decided to write about the role of disease in the family as well as society. Specifically, I wanted to write about the skin disease Epidermolysis Bullosa, which my grandparents' children had. I don't know of any disease that is as unrelentingly painful as Epidermolysis Bullosa. This condition causes skin to be so weak that a simple rub on the arm will rip all skin off exposing flesh. The body is covered in blisters and sores and even things like sitting down for too long will tear the skin open. There are so many horrible things and trials that come from a disease like this, but I wanted to focus my paper on the good things that can come from disease. Some things I thought of are that it brings out the best in others (compassion/empathy etc.) and it gives opportunity to show love and service. It also brought out courage in my Aunt and Uncle. They were so brave and their bravery was an inspiration to others and strengthened the human spirit. Seeing the impact of this disease affects values as well and helps one know what is important in life. It gives gratitude for health that would normally be taken for granted.

My Research Paper

My next assignment in my Writing 150 class is to write a research paper on something that influenced my family. As of right now I have absolutely no idea what I'm going to write about. I'm trying to think of any cool stories my family has but nothing comes to mind. I know my grandparents will have tons of cool ideas so I'm going to their house on Sunday for dinner so they can help me brainstorm. One of the ideas I have is the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. This was a huge earthquake that happened in Northern California and was responsible for 63 deaths and 3,757 injuries. It was also at the time of the cross-town World Series between the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland A's. I can't remember for sure but I think one of my grandparents was at the game. I'll have to talk to them about events in history and how they were effected by those events. I'm sure I'll find a good topic.

General Conference

This last weekend I was able to enjoy General Conference with my older brother and my grandparents. This was the first time I went into conference with a question that I needed answered. I was skeptical about whether I would receive a true personal answer, but I was surprised when the answer came to me in the very first talk by President Uchtdorf! It's amazing how the leaders of our church are able to answer virtually every question anyone could have through sacred doctrine and stories. Another talk I loved was Elder Holland's talk about mothers. It really is true that the unconditional love a mother has for her child is the only thing that can compare to Heavenly Father's love for us. Especially here at college, it made me miss my mom and appreciate all of the things she has done for me.