First of all, I want to say I highly recommend the movie "17 Miracles" for anyone who likes a heart-wrenching story. This one is centered around true accounts from the Willie and Martin LDS handcart companies who travelled on the Oregon Trail to Utah. Be prepared to ball your eyes out, especially if you have ever lost anyone or, frankly, if you have a soul at all.
:::SPOILERS (if you're unfamiliar with the stories):::
I looooved this movie. It was so, so touching, and I love that they did a "where everyone ended up" summary at the end so you knew what happened after the trek. I managed to keep composed for most of it. Then came a portion near the end, where they were showing most of the deaths. What really got me was a woman handing over her bundle -- obviously meant to be a baby. I felt overwhelmed and began to sob. I know what it's like to hand over your deceased child, knowing you won't see them again in this life. I cried the hardest at two points with Sophia: after getting her diagnosis, and immediately following placing her in the coroner's basket. I sobbed then and I sobbed now, watching that scene. From that point on, I was a blubbery mess.
God has blessed me now with another bundle to love, but that doesn't negate what I went through with Sophia. The past made me who I am today. While what I went through is nothing compared to the Saints who traveled on the Oregon Trail, I can at the very least empathize with losing your infant.
Other losses struck me too -- there was a woman who lost the man she was meant to marry, and many who lost children and spouses. Each loss is unique but always difficult. I am in awe over the sacrifices these many people made for their faith, whether it be life, limb, or comfort.
:::End Spoilers:::
This movie was so amazing. I may not make much sense at the moment, but I just wanted to write these feelings down while they were still fresh. Even if you are not LDS, this movie is excellent and filled with true stories, so that makes it even better!
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