Who Is Emma Smith? Compiled by Melody Newey Johnson

For our Dialogue Gospel Study (14 March 2021) on Doctrine and Covenants 25, Melody Newey Johnson asked participants to write down a word, words, or phrases that came to mind when they thought of Emma Smith. Melody compiled these into a concrete poem (best viewed full screen on a computer). On Emma’s birthday, we publish this celebration of this woman’s life, accomplishments, and faith.

:::

Wife
elect
bereft
Scribe

Tolerant
complex
strength
president
conflicted
intelligent

Sovereign
Elect Lady
prophetess
Wife, mother

Presidentess
longsuffering
long-suffering
Strong woman

She is my friend.
supportive seeker
Courageous, spirited
Joseph’s wife. Valiant.
Enduring, faithful sister
somewhat supportive wife

First Lady of the restoration
A remarkably strong woman
Educated, sensitive, beloved
Trailblazer, stalwart, and her own self

Emma = Enigma wrapped in a Conundrum
Strong, enigmatic, independent, heartbroken, patient
Woman of compassion and deep sorrow that guided her

The woman who created the movement of the restoration.
The “right person” needed to accompany Joseph to the hill.
An intelligent woman who endured exquisite sorrow with dignity and grace.
Whatever “Elect Lady” means: Always the first phrase I think of when I hear “Emma Smith.”
With all she went through and lost (children): she was there for Joseph, supported him, never walked away.

Faithful and inspired (I don’t think she gets nearly enough credit, bc BY seemed to dislike her).
Encouraged, inspired Joseph to do right, to listen—truly listen to God & the Spirit.
Joseph’s wife, vilified because of her reaction to polygamy.
Who is Emma Smith? WIFE. Who is Emma? STRENGTH.
Often/Sometimes the WIFE is the LAST one to know.

A woman with a home she loved and cared for.
Companion? Victim? Supporter? Dissenter?
Strength and power of convictions
Unsung hero of the restoration
a faithful, questioning woman

Magnanimous and forgiving
Betrayed by her husband
beleaguered, sad, loving
Too familiar with grief

The one left out
Woman of faith
Joseph’s wife
Prophetess
sacrificing

Matriarch
relatable
gracious
devoted
All of us

:::

Who Is Emma Smith?

From Dialogue Gospel Study, 14 March 2021
Responses from attendees asked for a single word, words, or phrase. 

Compiled by Melody Newey Johnson