1 Nephi 4:38

What kind of a walk home must that have been?!

Nephi had so much to process.

He did "go and do". He trusted in God and saw God's promises fulfilled, though I'm sure not in a way he could have imagined.

He had the plates! He had Zoram! He had wonderful news, and a very different experience to share with his parents when he returned.

What was Zoram thinking about? He didn't go back for a change of clothes or his most precious possessions? He didn't go back to kiss his loved ones goodbye. He would never see anyone he knew and loved ever again. Did he have a dog? Did he have jobs that would be left undone? How was he feeling during this week? Were the brothers being nice to him and getting to know him? I believe the Lord prepared Zoram for this life change. The Lord knew what this day would hold for Zoram and that a new life, wife, kids and blessings lie ahead for him. I believe He helped Zoram be at peace about moving forward with Nephi. Maybe Zoram was even ready to go.

I also wonder what the walk home was like for Laman, Lemuel and Sam? Surely they were processing the fulfillment of both God's and Nephi's promises. Against literally all odds, Nephi got the plates. Only God could have executed that miracle. I believe Sam saw that, but did Laman and Lemuel? Where were their hearts on the way home?

I often ponder "the walk home" in many stories in the Book of Mormon. It makes it all real. These were real people who ate, slept, got injured, had personalities, aspirations and annoyances. They seem larger than life, but they really were just like you and me. We- I- have the potential to be just as faithful as Nephi.

Today I will ponder a promise I can make to God- and then I'll make it and keep it.