When I was younger these stories seemed to be too cruel. It felt beyond the pale that anyone should have to go through something like that, especially someone who had dedicated themselves to the lord. I have gone through my own trials since. Things that no person should have to go through, but in those trials I learned the lesson that President Monson was referring to. When you are with the lord through something like this, there is a sense that you are not alone. This almost subconscious understanding that God knows and that it will be alright. It doesn't mask the pain or remove the trials. Instead it provides a peace and assurance that surpasses understanding and almost despite yourself, you find the strength to keep going. That is what I understand about these stories now. That is the missing piece that I didn't get, but now through my own experience I do. (edit spelling)
