I first wrote this poem my last year at BYU-Idaho. I was sitting in church one day observing the wife of a member of our Bishopric who was also a new mother. I was inspired. The first two verses I wrote then, the rest I added to it last summer.
The Epitome of a Woman
The epitome of a woman
Is in her touch
Is in her smile
In only doing that
Which she knows is worthwhile
When she looks into tomorrow
Never thinking about today
The link through generations
Love and sacrifice is her way
She is always filled with virtue
She is always filled with strength
Standing tall and firm and steadfast
She will run the greater length
Her life may be a battle
Of truth and right from wrong
Yet never does she weary
She fills the world with song
Against her lies no competition
No enemy can prevail
The Lord is ever with her
She sees beyond the veil
She lifts, she builds, she strengthens
With heaven's mighty pull
Her body may be weary
But her heart is ever full
With wisdom she'll press forward
Generations yet to come
Will remember her in honor
Of the woman she has become
These are the women I think of when I think of this poem. My pioneer ancestors. They gave up everything. They faced so many difficulties and challenges. Each one has a miraculous story. Each one has been a source of strength to many. I honor them. Just in these photographs you can see courage, determination, and even refinement in their eyes. I also think of this woman.
She is not my ancestor. She never had any children, but her legacy is timeless. She is remembered and honored by thousands if not millions. She surely faced many of the trials I am going through, but like a modern-day Nephi she pressed forward with unwavering courage and determination. I want to be more like her: Eliza R. Snow.
