In this episode, hosts David Mickelson and Kori Andrews welcome 17-year-old Scout Malufau, a "ball of energy" and "sunshine," to share her unique perspective on loss and faith. Following the interview with her mother, Cassidy, Scout discusses the impact of losing her older sister, Cael, and her father, Ammon, when she was only ten. She reflects on the "divine intervention" of her sister, whose short life led specialists to identify a condition that saved Scout’s own life.
Scout recounts the "doozy" of a night in 2018 when her father passed away during the Christmas season. She describes navigating intense feelings of anger and resentment toward God before choosing to "flip the switch" and find the path again. A central theme of her journey is the belief that discomfort is not punishment but a divine opportunity for growth and an increased capacity for joy.
Now a high school senior preparing for a mission, Scout shares her philosophy that "life becomes magical" when everything is appreciated and nothing is expected. She emphasizes the importance of not grieving alone and allowing the Savior to multiply our small efforts. Ultimately, Scout testifies that Jesus Christ provides "covenant confidence" and the promise of a "happily ever after" for those who try.

Resources: Hallmarks of Happiness by Elder Sabin

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In this episode of the Grief and Belief podcast, hosts David Mickelson and Kori Andrews welcome Cassidy Nelson to share her powerful journey of loss and hope. Cassidy recounts the heartbreaking passing of her firstborn daughter, Cael, who lived for only six days, and the sudden death of her husband, Ammon, in 2018.

Cassidy reflects on navigating life as a young widow while six months pregnant with her fifth child. She describes the raw reality of feeling inadequate for her children's needs during such intense sorrow. Through "sacred moments" in her grief, she discovered that when she was not enough, the Savior was there to fill the gaps and provide strength.

The interview explores how Jesus Christ provides "tailormade" support, illustrated by a touching experience involving a primary song that calmed her grieving daughter. Cassidy’s testimony serves as a powerful reminder that the Savior does not "casually step in" but "dives right in" to sustain us through our most difficult trials.

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David and Kori interview Hayden Limb, a close friend of David’s daughter, Ava, who passed away from leukemia during high school,. Hayden reflects on their friendship formed through cross country and Ava’s legacy of purposeful service. He recounts the sudden shock of her diagnosis and the spiritual impression to trust God despite the pain.

Hayden discusses the "dichotomy of healing the body and the soul," explaining that while physical recovery is an inward effort, healing the soul requires turning outward. He describes how running served as a therapeutic outlet and how serving a mission in Washington helped him find "beauty for ashes". By serving others, he discovered that Jesus Christ is the master healer who provides peace when we feel most out of control.

The episode also honors Elder Holland, whose teachings on discipleship continue to provide hope. Hayden testifies that Christ is his best friend and that His light makes the hope of a celestial reunion real. He encourages those struggling with grief to acknowledge their pain while choosing to act as agents in their own healing.

Resources:

Video - Lift

Transcript of Hayden's Talk at Ava's Funeral - Link

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