There is a passage in the Book of Mormon in the first chapter of the Book of Alma:
24 For the hearts of many were hardened, and their names were blotted out, that they were remembered no more among the people of God. And also many withdrew themselves from among them.
25 Now this was a great trial to those that did stand fast in the faith; nevertheless, they were steadfast and immovable in keeping the commandments of God, and they bore with patience the persecution which was heaped upon them.
I've always interpreted this passage to mean that the people who remained faithful endured the trial of persecution by those who were unfaithful--no more, no less. Today, however, I read this passage and discovered another meaning.
Recently, I discovered that a very close friend of mine had lost his testimony of the LDS faith. This tore me apart inside. The closer we became, the more this hurt. He was very respectful of me and my beliefs. That wasn't the problem. I don't think it is unreasonable to want the best for the people you love. The more you love somebody, the more you wish there was something you could do to make them happy. In this case, though, one of my best friends had willingly turned his back on everything he had known and there was nothing I could do.
I'm sure there are many, many others who have been in similar and worse situations with friends, spouses, and children. I don't mean to say that I understand their pain or the pain of the people of Alma, but I do understand a bit better now, I think. I have cried and prayed for many hours over this one person. I understand a bit now the true meaning of having a "harrowed soul" over somebody.
Can you imagine the feeling the Prophet has over all of us? I hear the apostles in General Conference express their love for each of us individually and how they pray for us, and I believe they are sincere and that the feelings and earnestness they have in that regard are at a level incomprehensible to me at this point.
Imagine, then, how the Savior feels. He can't make me change, but I can choose to change and become the way that He would have me be.
