The alarm went off this morning and I hurried out of bed to turn it off. I stood in the dark for a minute to get my 'bearings' about me. I went into the bathroom and as I turned on the light, the fuzziness that your eyes go through after having just awakened was funny feeling. I stood there momentarily and allowed my eyes to adjust and focus on the task at hand of getting ready for the day.
Life has its focusing moments and some of those moments are easier than others. I believe that there are things that help us stay focused so that there isn't as much adjusting that needs to happen. Let's talk about those things for a minute.
I firmly believe that if things are good and well as far as your relationships with your family go life's focus is easier and more manageable. When those things are not anchored life's challenges seem like the Himalayas.
A clean mind and a clear conscience are imperative. Life is full of various activities--running here and there. The hectic pace is sometimes unbearable. What is put in our minds is important. I would suggest that each of us watch, read, and speak uplifting material. I'm not even talking pornographic material. I'm trying to keep the trash and filth, that surrounds me, out of my life. There are enough tough things to deal with, without the filth that is all around us.
The opportunity to help someone else is uplifting. It builds up the spirit. It gives strength to overcome.
The focus on life keeps a solid perspective on the things that are the most important.
Just keep plugging along. There are blessings, in abundance, around every corner.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
What A Blessing
When I awakened this morning, I thought about all of the things that I take for granted. I am able to get out of my bed, when the alarm goes off. I go into the bathroom to get ready for the day. I do these things without a second thought given to how they all happen morning after morning.
This has been on my mind all morning. I find it a complete miracle that I am able to accomplish all that is required of me each day.
I work as a assembler of the main instrument panel that goes into the cockpit of the Boeing 737 commercial airliner. I wouldn't say that the work is hard but it does take recognition of detail and the ability to assemble each part the way that the engineering drawing requires them to be. I don't even give a thought to what I need to accomplish.
Three weeks ago, I was at the store and I noticed a young boy who was just learning how to walk. He could walk but in a very wobbly and slow way. He had that new walking look on his face. There was fear written all over his face that at any moment he could fall down. It is the skill and confidence combined that allows us to do what we can do.
I need to pay clearer attention to what I am able to do without taking the things of life for granted.
When I awaken, in the morning, I am going to start my day off by giving more thought to all of the things that I am richly blessed to be able to do throughout my life.
I am the luckiest guy alive! I thank heaven for my life.
This has been on my mind all morning. I find it a complete miracle that I am able to accomplish all that is required of me each day.
I work as a assembler of the main instrument panel that goes into the cockpit of the Boeing 737 commercial airliner. I wouldn't say that the work is hard but it does take recognition of detail and the ability to assemble each part the way that the engineering drawing requires them to be. I don't even give a thought to what I need to accomplish.
Three weeks ago, I was at the store and I noticed a young boy who was just learning how to walk. He could walk but in a very wobbly and slow way. He had that new walking look on his face. There was fear written all over his face that at any moment he could fall down. It is the skill and confidence combined that allows us to do what we can do.
I need to pay clearer attention to what I am able to do without taking the things of life for granted.
When I awaken, in the morning, I am going to start my day off by giving more thought to all of the things that I am richly blessed to be able to do throughout my life.
I am the luckiest guy alive! I thank heaven for my life.
Monday, February 27, 2012
We Thank Thee
Yesterday was an amazing Sunday for me. We attended our regular church meetings and all was quite normal, that way.
Becky fixed a delicious meal for our family. My mother and father in law and Becky's grandpa joined us for dinner in celebration of my 4oth birthday, a few days ago. We had a great time, with the kids taking turns performing various songs, musical numbers, hip-hop dance arrangements and an all around great time enjoying one another.
At the end of the evening, as we were wrapping up the night, I asked grandpa if he would offer a prayer, to end the night. During his prayer, he thanked Heavenly Father for the many blessings He pours upon us in our life. I was personally impressed when he asked that the windows of heaven would be opened and blessings would be showered upon the head of each member of our family. I was touched by his prayer of sincerity.
Let me share one more reason why I am thankful for all of the blessings I receive.
I got to work, this morning, and was approached by a man I have worked with for many years. He began to tell me about his teenage son whose good friend decided to take his own life, yesterday. That news made me feel bad for the people that loved and cared about this sixteen year-old young man.
It made me think about the responsibility that I have to be a good listener to those who lack hope in their lives. Although I have no idea what was troubling this young teen, I assume that his heart was indeed troubled.
I feel an immense amount of gratitude for my Father who blesses my life, each day.
It is Him who I thank.
It's been a great day. This week is going to be one of growth. I can't wait to see what is in store.
Becky fixed a delicious meal for our family. My mother and father in law and Becky's grandpa joined us for dinner in celebration of my 4oth birthday, a few days ago. We had a great time, with the kids taking turns performing various songs, musical numbers, hip-hop dance arrangements and an all around great time enjoying one another.
At the end of the evening, as we were wrapping up the night, I asked grandpa if he would offer a prayer, to end the night. During his prayer, he thanked Heavenly Father for the many blessings He pours upon us in our life. I was personally impressed when he asked that the windows of heaven would be opened and blessings would be showered upon the head of each member of our family. I was touched by his prayer of sincerity.
Let me share one more reason why I am thankful for all of the blessings I receive.
I got to work, this morning, and was approached by a man I have worked with for many years. He began to tell me about his teenage son whose good friend decided to take his own life, yesterday. That news made me feel bad for the people that loved and cared about this sixteen year-old young man.
It made me think about the responsibility that I have to be a good listener to those who lack hope in their lives. Although I have no idea what was troubling this young teen, I assume that his heart was indeed troubled.
I feel an immense amount of gratitude for my Father who blesses my life, each day.
It is Him who I thank.
It's been a great day. This week is going to be one of growth. I can't wait to see what is in store.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Let's See Him
When our oldest daughter, Natalie, was just a young toddler, she asked us one Sunday afternoon if we could see Jesus. Becky and I were puzzled by her inquisition. We asked her several times over what exactly she meant, hoping that we would better understand her. Becky and I still didn't understand what she was talking about. Finally after some thought, Becky realized that she was talking about seeing the statue of Jesus at Temple Square, in Salt Lake City. That afternoon, the three of us took a little trip to Temple Square. As we walked up the rotunda and she saw the statue of 'The Christus', we could see that He was familiar to her. For several times in the following weeks, we went to Temple Square to see Jesus.
Becky and I are so grateful we took those opportunities. Those are 'gems' that we have saved in our memory banks. We talk about them, once in a while, and feel grateful for the way they touch our lives. The time flies by so swiftly and yet those memories are deeply etched into our hearts and minds.
I am grateful for my own feelings of Jesus. I know that He is my Savior and the Redeemer of all mankind.
Natalie taught me that even a visit to Temple Square to see that large, beautiful statue of Jesus would impact us for the good.
Today, I want to pay close attention to Him and all that He has done for me. By the things that I say and do, I too can see Him. That is the greatest desire of my heart and I hope it is for you.
Becky and I are so grateful we took those opportunities. Those are 'gems' that we have saved in our memory banks. We talk about them, once in a while, and feel grateful for the way they touch our lives. The time flies by so swiftly and yet those memories are deeply etched into our hearts and minds.
I am grateful for my own feelings of Jesus. I know that He is my Savior and the Redeemer of all mankind.
Natalie taught me that even a visit to Temple Square to see that large, beautiful statue of Jesus would impact us for the good.
Today, I want to pay close attention to Him and all that He has done for me. By the things that I say and do, I too can see Him. That is the greatest desire of my heart and I hope it is for you.
Hokey Pokey
There is a lot of rain in the country of Holland. I got familiar with that reality in a hurry. I also learned a very valuable lesson from the rain.
One day, my companion and I rode our bikes to a person's house that we had met two days before. Their home was a long bike ride from where we lived. The ride was great on the way there but on the ride home, it began to rain--very hard! My companion and I looked at one another surprised by our situation. I have to admit that the experience wasn't that fun up until we decided to do something way out of our norm. Jeff Reeves and I began to sing 'The Hokey Pokey.' Visualize two Mormon missionaries, in suits, riding bikes like the ones straight out of the movie 'The Sound of Music', singing the extended version of the hokey pokey, with actions and all. By the time we had thought of everything that we could sing about, and done them, we had arrived back to our apartment. Reeves and I laughed about that experience not only then but for many days thereafter. We had learned a lesson of having fun no matter what situation we found ourselves in. I felt extremely blessed to have a companion that I really enjoyed, who would look at things on the bright side.
Not everything that we do in life is that fun. Sometimes we are expected to do things that are either out of our comfort zone or that we're not that interested in. I challenge you to create a 'Hokey Pokey' moment of your own during these times of your life.
Let me piggyback something else onto this thought.
I talked with a good friend, just the other day. I called him and asked him how he was doing. "I'm alright." He muttered back. You might not see anything wrong with his response. Life is wonderfully generous to each one of us. When someone asks how you are doing, I believe that it requires a more enthusiastic resonse than "I'm alright." Once in a while, I would expect that kind of response but all of the other times the response ought to be "I'm great or I'm good."
Look on the bright side. It's easier to get through life and its much easier to listen to someone who is doing better than 'alright.'
That's the challenge of the day. 'The Hokey Pokey' always reminds me of that rainy day many years ago. I am thankful for that great day!
One day, my companion and I rode our bikes to a person's house that we had met two days before. Their home was a long bike ride from where we lived. The ride was great on the way there but on the ride home, it began to rain--very hard! My companion and I looked at one another surprised by our situation. I have to admit that the experience wasn't that fun up until we decided to do something way out of our norm. Jeff Reeves and I began to sing 'The Hokey Pokey.' Visualize two Mormon missionaries, in suits, riding bikes like the ones straight out of the movie 'The Sound of Music', singing the extended version of the hokey pokey, with actions and all. By the time we had thought of everything that we could sing about, and done them, we had arrived back to our apartment. Reeves and I laughed about that experience not only then but for many days thereafter. We had learned a lesson of having fun no matter what situation we found ourselves in. I felt extremely blessed to have a companion that I really enjoyed, who would look at things on the bright side.
Not everything that we do in life is that fun. Sometimes we are expected to do things that are either out of our comfort zone or that we're not that interested in. I challenge you to create a 'Hokey Pokey' moment of your own during these times of your life.
Let me piggyback something else onto this thought.
I talked with a good friend, just the other day. I called him and asked him how he was doing. "I'm alright." He muttered back. You might not see anything wrong with his response. Life is wonderfully generous to each one of us. When someone asks how you are doing, I believe that it requires a more enthusiastic resonse than "I'm alright." Once in a while, I would expect that kind of response but all of the other times the response ought to be "I'm great or I'm good."
Look on the bright side. It's easier to get through life and its much easier to listen to someone who is doing better than 'alright.'
That's the challenge of the day. 'The Hokey Pokey' always reminds me of that rainy day many years ago. I am thankful for that great day!
Friday, February 24, 2012
Listen And Obey
Its time for another blog post that deals with the inner feelings of the heart.
When I was a teenager, I attended a church meeting with my dad. It was a stake priesthood meeting and because my stake president had been seriously injured in an accident, my dad was conducting and overseeing the meeting. He sat up on the stand in the chapel. During a part of the meeting, my dad motioned for me to follow him out of the meeting. I wondered what was wrong. I stood up from my seat and followed him out to the car in the parking lot. I asked him what we were doing. He told me that the Holy Ghost has prompted him that he needed to go and visit an older couple, in our stake. The woman was an active member of the church but the man was not. The impression that he received was that he was to go and invite the man to be baptized and become a member of the church. I must confess that I was thinking that there was no way that I was going to be the one extending the invitation. My dad put that all at ease when he told me that we needed to go make that visit and that he was the one who was going to invite. We arrived at the home of this couple and were warmly welcomed into their home. They loved my dad and he loved them in return. "What are you doing tonight?" They asked. Without hesitation, my dad told them exactly why we were there. He invited the good man to become baptized and become a member of the church. Now I honestly thought, at the time, that because my dad was doing what he was supposed to that this man would accept the invitation. As courageous as my dad invited, this man declined the invitation. My dad didn't even flinch. He didn't seem bothered it either. I was devastated, inside. We had a great visit and when we left their home and got back into the car, dad taught me two valuable lessons. One, he stated that we learned to listen and obey an impression with boldness. Two, God knew that he could give an impression and know that my dad would listen and then act.
I got to learn some good solid things that night. Can I share one other thing that I thought was neat? My dad received that impression during a meeting that had required planning. It didn't matter to him. I really admire and love him for the lessons he teaches me.
Each one of us receives similar whisperings just like my dad did. I am trying to listen and then obey on the first time. The blessing of helping somebody else is remarkable.
Be ready, because today might be the day that you are called on to listen. We are all in for a rewarding treat!
When I was a teenager, I attended a church meeting with my dad. It was a stake priesthood meeting and because my stake president had been seriously injured in an accident, my dad was conducting and overseeing the meeting. He sat up on the stand in the chapel. During a part of the meeting, my dad motioned for me to follow him out of the meeting. I wondered what was wrong. I stood up from my seat and followed him out to the car in the parking lot. I asked him what we were doing. He told me that the Holy Ghost has prompted him that he needed to go and visit an older couple, in our stake. The woman was an active member of the church but the man was not. The impression that he received was that he was to go and invite the man to be baptized and become a member of the church. I must confess that I was thinking that there was no way that I was going to be the one extending the invitation. My dad put that all at ease when he told me that we needed to go make that visit and that he was the one who was going to invite. We arrived at the home of this couple and were warmly welcomed into their home. They loved my dad and he loved them in return. "What are you doing tonight?" They asked. Without hesitation, my dad told them exactly why we were there. He invited the good man to become baptized and become a member of the church. Now I honestly thought, at the time, that because my dad was doing what he was supposed to that this man would accept the invitation. As courageous as my dad invited, this man declined the invitation. My dad didn't even flinch. He didn't seem bothered it either. I was devastated, inside. We had a great visit and when we left their home and got back into the car, dad taught me two valuable lessons. One, he stated that we learned to listen and obey an impression with boldness. Two, God knew that he could give an impression and know that my dad would listen and then act.
I got to learn some good solid things that night. Can I share one other thing that I thought was neat? My dad received that impression during a meeting that had required planning. It didn't matter to him. I really admire and love him for the lessons he teaches me.
Each one of us receives similar whisperings just like my dad did. I am trying to listen and then obey on the first time. The blessing of helping somebody else is remarkable.
Be ready, because today might be the day that you are called on to listen. We are all in for a rewarding treat!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
We Are All Very Rich
A number of years ago, Becky and I traveled to the Mexican Riviera with my parents. It was a wonderful time. We enjoyed seeing a different section of the world with a varied culture from that of our own.
I must preface this conversation by stating that Becky and I weren't completely content with our home at that time.
We took a day tour into the jungle of Mexico and were amazed at the poverty we soon encountered. We passed by a home where an older woman was sweeping the dirt that we would call the walkway leading to the front door of the house. She didn't seem the least bit dissatisfied with what she had. We felt like we were being ungrateful because of our 'rich' circumstances. In reality, the beautiful home that we have was a mansion in their eyes. Since we arrived home from that wonderful vacation, we have felt extremely blessed for what we have been given. As a matter of fact, we have made improvements so that our house has become our home.
It is truly a blessing to see and experience another culture. Our lives are blessed over and over again.
Contentment is a blessing too.
There is a church song that I sing with our boys. One line from the song is good sound advice.
"Count your many blessings, name them one by one."
Give it a try. Maybe it will surprise you how many blessings are actually showered upon your life.
We are a blessed generation with opportunities that are never-ending. I love everything that is done for our immediate family out of the love that our extended family and friends have for us.
Have a great day!
I must preface this conversation by stating that Becky and I weren't completely content with our home at that time.
We took a day tour into the jungle of Mexico and were amazed at the poverty we soon encountered. We passed by a home where an older woman was sweeping the dirt that we would call the walkway leading to the front door of the house. She didn't seem the least bit dissatisfied with what she had. We felt like we were being ungrateful because of our 'rich' circumstances. In reality, the beautiful home that we have was a mansion in their eyes. Since we arrived home from that wonderful vacation, we have felt extremely blessed for what we have been given. As a matter of fact, we have made improvements so that our house has become our home.
It is truly a blessing to see and experience another culture. Our lives are blessed over and over again.
Contentment is a blessing too.
There is a church song that I sing with our boys. One line from the song is good sound advice.
"Count your many blessings, name them one by one."
Give it a try. Maybe it will surprise you how many blessings are actually showered upon your life.
We are a blessed generation with opportunities that are never-ending. I love everything that is done for our immediate family out of the love that our extended family and friends have for us.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
A Look At Life
I find it interesting the way I look at different facets of my life. In the past week, I have a niece who entered the missionary training center in Provo, Utah to prepare for the next eighteen months she will devote to serving God. Becky and I knelt down to pray together and Briana is now a constant part of those prayers. I love that things are changing and getting better. We pray for Briana that she will be strong as she learns the way that she needs to teach in order to find and instruct those who are waiting to hear her invitation to come unto Christ.
Also, last night, our youngest daughter Laurel, got registered for high school. I can’t believe that it was just yesterday that it was just Becky and I. The years fly by and we enter another chapter with anticipation and great excitement. The growing up of children is part of that change of which I speak. Their maturing is remarkable. What they live for is fascinating. I love it!
I heard a woman tell me years ago that her husband just wasn’t the man that he was the day they got married. I must have given her a strange look as she spoke those words to me. I then responded with, “Do you really want to be married to the same man he was all of those years before?” I want to be somebody that accepts change with gladness. Change gives us the opportunity for growth and maturity. If Becky said that I was the same man she married in 1994, I would be sad that there hadn’t been any growth.
Last night, I went and did some church related visiting into a couple of homes in our neighborhood. Both visits were very good. The people invited us into their homes generously. A man at one of the homes spoke of being somewhat of a troublesome kid when he was younger. I looked at him as he spoke and thought about the journey he had made to be the man he currently has become. The past is good to learn from but the future is bright and there is much to be grateful for in each of our lives.
I am blessed beyond imagination. I hope that I will always allow change to be a part of my life. It is the molding process. The refiner’s fire will shape us into what we are ultimately to become.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
I Can Hear You Now
I attended a stake Youth Conference one year, and a part of that involved a service project. We helped to clean up the church buildings that resided in our stake boundaries. The Youth Conference was a two day event and the Saturday night portion was a youth testimony meeting where we could share our feelings about the events that we were a part.
The meeting was to be held out back of the large piece of property, behind the stake center. A man who was a member of the stake high council assigned to help with the youth brought a portable microphone/amplifier combination to help so that the speaker could be heard. I still remember the first girl standing in front of all of her peers to share her feelings of youth conference. The sound was great. About a minute into her speaking, the microphone went silent and the young girl could no longer be heard clearly. The man stood up and attempted to wriggle the cords to try to get the setup to work. To no availe. He grabbed the amplifier and walked out into the long grass until he disappeared from sight. I thought that he was walking back to the church to change out for another one. The meeting continued and those who stood to speak were asked to speak loudly so that everybody would be able to hear what they were saying. The man was gone for about ten minutes.
My dad was serving as a counselor to the stake president, at this time. I arrived home that evening after a very nice evening. He asked me how the night had gone. I told him about how spiritual and uplifting the testimony meeting was. I also told him about the microphone problems that we had encountered.
The man came back a short time later and plugged the microphone into the amplifier and it worked perfectly throughout the entire meeting. It was nice to be able to hear each of the kids as they shared personal feelings about youth conference.
A couple of days later, my dad arrived home, one evening, following a church meeting he had attended. He asked me if he could speak with me, in private. He began to share with me an experience I will never forget. The high councilor had told my dad that he had enjoyed a spiritual experience at youth conference. He talked about the trouble he had experienced with the microphone and amp. He then said that he wanted so badly for the youth of our stake to have an enjoyable experience. He had grabbed the amplifier and walked out into the tall grass, where he could be alone. He placed his hands on top of the amplifier and pleaded with God to allow it to work during the testimony meeting. He ended his prayer and excercised faith that God would hear and answer his prayer. As soon as he plugged the microphone in and it worked, he knew that God had indeed heard and answered his prayer.
I am trying to live my life so that I know that when I pray, I will be heard. He does hear and answer our prayers. Of these things, I have no doubt.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Self-Classification
Okay, you need to bear with me while I share a personal belief with you.
This is not intended to be a 'pass judgment on somebody else' blog post. My intention is to give you something to think about.
Most people believe that financial status dictates whether a person has class. I don't believe that. I suggest that we break out the CLASSOMETER.
What is a classometer, you are asking yourself? It is our personal measurement device that we can use to know how and who we really are.
For instance, will somebody please tell me how many people were taught that when one's mouth is full of food you should chew so that the mouth is closed and the rest of us don't have to enjoy the sight of that food? By observation, there are not a lot who remember.
Also, Becky has a hilarious saying that states that just because the clothing manufacturer makes it in your size, doesn't mean that it is right for a person to wear it.
How about just being soft-spoken, gentle, easy to get along with, calm, pleasant, teachable, slow to anger, a person that is okay with being second in line, open the door for your neighbor (either man or woman), accepting, tolerant of all people. You get the idea.
I'm talking about taking the lead by demonstrating that you have some class. Taking the time to look presentable, even if you're just going to the store. The pajamas and slippers can stay home. The small details show that you care about yourself.
My grandma has always stated and firmly believes that, "birds of a feather, flock together." Look at yourself and you'll see that this is true.
From today on, I will be a frequent classometer user. I am going to try to measure the way that I live--without being an overly critical nut job. I plan on taking a couple of small facets of my own life and measuring myself to make sure that I am being someone that people can look to and be positively lifted up.
It's up to each of us whether we want to be someone with class or if we're content with less than our potential dictates. If there is room for improvement then take this as a challenge. If you're satisfied with your efforts, then you are probably somebody who I already look up to.
I want to be somebody that possesses a little class.
This is not intended to be a 'pass judgment on somebody else' blog post. My intention is to give you something to think about.
Most people believe that financial status dictates whether a person has class. I don't believe that. I suggest that we break out the CLASSOMETER.
What is a classometer, you are asking yourself? It is our personal measurement device that we can use to know how and who we really are.
For instance, will somebody please tell me how many people were taught that when one's mouth is full of food you should chew so that the mouth is closed and the rest of us don't have to enjoy the sight of that food? By observation, there are not a lot who remember.
Also, Becky has a hilarious saying that states that just because the clothing manufacturer makes it in your size, doesn't mean that it is right for a person to wear it.
How about just being soft-spoken, gentle, easy to get along with, calm, pleasant, teachable, slow to anger, a person that is okay with being second in line, open the door for your neighbor (either man or woman), accepting, tolerant of all people. You get the idea.
I'm talking about taking the lead by demonstrating that you have some class. Taking the time to look presentable, even if you're just going to the store. The pajamas and slippers can stay home. The small details show that you care about yourself.
My grandma has always stated and firmly believes that, "birds of a feather, flock together." Look at yourself and you'll see that this is true.
From today on, I will be a frequent classometer user. I am going to try to measure the way that I live--without being an overly critical nut job. I plan on taking a couple of small facets of my own life and measuring myself to make sure that I am being someone that people can look to and be positively lifted up.
It's up to each of us whether we want to be someone with class or if we're content with less than our potential dictates. If there is room for improvement then take this as a challenge. If you're satisfied with your efforts, then you are probably somebody who I already look up to.
I want to be somebody that possesses a little class.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
I Know
On Monday evening, our family went to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to watch the movie, Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration. The movie is produced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It is a movie that highlights several parts of the life of Joseph Smith the Prophet.
Becky and I had gone to see it the week before on a day date. I want to share some feelings that I had during that production.
I must first tell you, that the testimony that I gained of the truthfulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ was received with the knowledge of Joseph Smith as a true prophet of God as told to me by the Holy Spirit. I know that the things that he said he saw are true. I feel like it is important to gain the full understanding of his own efforts as a young fourteen year-old boy searching for sincere answers from God.
"So, in accordance with this, my determination to ask of God, I retired to the woods to make the attempt. It was on the morning of a beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty. It was the first time in my life that I had made such an attempt, for amidst all my anxieties I had never as yet made the attempt to pray vocally.
Becky and I had gone to see it the week before on a day date. I want to share some feelings that I had during that production.
I must first tell you, that the testimony that I gained of the truthfulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ was received with the knowledge of Joseph Smith as a true prophet of God as told to me by the Holy Spirit. I know that the things that he said he saw are true. I feel like it is important to gain the full understanding of his own efforts as a young fourteen year-old boy searching for sincere answers from God.
But, exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction—not to an imaginary ruin, but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being—just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.
It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!"
Joseph Smith received an answer to the desires of his heart.
We are children of our Heavenly Father. He loves us and will give us answers to our prayers.
As our family watched the film, my heart was moved, once more, by the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. I know that Joseph Smith is a chosen prophet of God. I know that we are currently led by a prophet of God. Thomas S. Monson is that prophet who does the will of our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon is a book of God. Each one of us can gain a witness of its truthfulness by prayer to our Father, in the name of Christ. We will grow closer to God by studying from its pages.
I thank heaven for the personal knowledge I have gained. I challenge all who read this to do the same thing.
When I was in the missionfield, Elder L. Tom Perry, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, challenged us missionaries to ask God for a confirmation of the truthfulness of the Gospel many times throughout our lives. That confirmation keeps the converting knowledge fresh.
I am thankful for divine knowledge. It keeps me focused in my life.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Now Is The Time
I rarely remember my dreams of the night. This morning, I awakened and my dream of last night was clear. I want to share some of what I got from that dream.
I spent the night with my mom. I am blessed that she is still alive, today. The entire dream was just her and I. She said something in my dream that resonates in my head. "The time you spend with your children, now, is more important than anything else you can do." Now let me clarify to you that the thing of greatest import to my mom is the relationship she has with my dad. If that is healthy and strong then everything that follows, will be too. So what she told me in my dream comes after her relationship with my dad but I already knew that beforehand.
I have spent some time thinking about my dream. When I was a kid my parents did a really good job at rendering support. I remember a time in junior high when I received an academic award. That award was given to me in front of all of my piers, in a school assembly. My name was called to receive the award. I accepted it from the school principal and as I looked out into the audience, I saw my mom sitting in the back of the gymnasium with all of the other parents. I wasn't aware that she knew about the award. I was overjoyed. My heart felt like it was going to jump out of my chest.
That is only one instance of the support I received.
There are many things that can occupy our time. You can begin to list them one by one. I must say that when it comes to the support that our kids need, right now, those other things seem very insignificant.
I read an article that stated one of the greatest heartaches that teenagers currently feel. They don't feel like their mom and dad are really there. There is a lack of support because everything else in life has pushed parenting to the background.
I have long held out the opinion that while our kids are at home, I need to take every opportunity to attend their various functions to lend my support.
Our youngest daughter, Laurel, and I walked down the Jr. High School hallway, this week, and visited with each of her school teachers. It was parent/teacher conference time at the school. Becky and I alternate going to parent/teacher conferences. It give us both the chance to visit with and get to know them better. It also shows the teachers that we have something invested in our kids education. I was so grateful for Laurel's efforts to be a great student. I felt a great deal of gratitude for the teacher's efforts in teaching Laurel.
Becky and I believe that the support we give to our children will instill in them the belief and confidence that they can achieve anything if they want it bad enough.
So back to my dream. My mom said to me, in my dream, that she was proud of the efforts that I was making in teaching my(our) children by the example they were seeing.
Let me say this. There isn't a project in this world that is important enough to overshadow the desire to support your children. Another professional sporting event will be on the television tomorrow. Turn off the T.V. and spend some time with your son or daughter. The PlayStation can wait for another time. Grab your bikes and a ball or two and make your way over to the elementary school playground. When school is out, there is no one there. The playground awaits you! A Big Gulp is in your future. Ask your teenage son to go for a ride with you in the car. He's got a lot on his mind. Take some time, today, to listen to him. He needs a listening ear not a talking mouth. Although it may not interest you, your teenage daughter wants to tell you of her future aspirations. Take the time to hear all about today's cutest boy.
The key is time. Throw aside all of the worthwhile distractions and spend the time that is the most needed, right now.
There aren't any of us that have perfected what my mom taught me in my dream of the night. She doesn't even know how important her insight is to me--and that was in a dream. I love her so much and I have and will always value her opinion.
We need to give a special concerted effort to using the 'now' time. I will do it and I hope you will too.
I spent the night with my mom. I am blessed that she is still alive, today. The entire dream was just her and I. She said something in my dream that resonates in my head. "The time you spend with your children, now, is more important than anything else you can do." Now let me clarify to you that the thing of greatest import to my mom is the relationship she has with my dad. If that is healthy and strong then everything that follows, will be too. So what she told me in my dream comes after her relationship with my dad but I already knew that beforehand.
I have spent some time thinking about my dream. When I was a kid my parents did a really good job at rendering support. I remember a time in junior high when I received an academic award. That award was given to me in front of all of my piers, in a school assembly. My name was called to receive the award. I accepted it from the school principal and as I looked out into the audience, I saw my mom sitting in the back of the gymnasium with all of the other parents. I wasn't aware that she knew about the award. I was overjoyed. My heart felt like it was going to jump out of my chest.
That is only one instance of the support I received.
There are many things that can occupy our time. You can begin to list them one by one. I must say that when it comes to the support that our kids need, right now, those other things seem very insignificant.
I read an article that stated one of the greatest heartaches that teenagers currently feel. They don't feel like their mom and dad are really there. There is a lack of support because everything else in life has pushed parenting to the background.
I have long held out the opinion that while our kids are at home, I need to take every opportunity to attend their various functions to lend my support.
Our youngest daughter, Laurel, and I walked down the Jr. High School hallway, this week, and visited with each of her school teachers. It was parent/teacher conference time at the school. Becky and I alternate going to parent/teacher conferences. It give us both the chance to visit with and get to know them better. It also shows the teachers that we have something invested in our kids education. I was so grateful for Laurel's efforts to be a great student. I felt a great deal of gratitude for the teacher's efforts in teaching Laurel.
Becky and I believe that the support we give to our children will instill in them the belief and confidence that they can achieve anything if they want it bad enough.
So back to my dream. My mom said to me, in my dream, that she was proud of the efforts that I was making in teaching my(our) children by the example they were seeing.
Let me say this. There isn't a project in this world that is important enough to overshadow the desire to support your children. Another professional sporting event will be on the television tomorrow. Turn off the T.V. and spend some time with your son or daughter. The PlayStation can wait for another time. Grab your bikes and a ball or two and make your way over to the elementary school playground. When school is out, there is no one there. The playground awaits you! A Big Gulp is in your future. Ask your teenage son to go for a ride with you in the car. He's got a lot on his mind. Take some time, today, to listen to him. He needs a listening ear not a talking mouth. Although it may not interest you, your teenage daughter wants to tell you of her future aspirations. Take the time to hear all about today's cutest boy.
The key is time. Throw aside all of the worthwhile distractions and spend the time that is the most needed, right now.
There aren't any of us that have perfected what my mom taught me in my dream of the night. She doesn't even know how important her insight is to me--and that was in a dream. I love her so much and I have and will always value her opinion.
We need to give a special concerted effort to using the 'now' time. I will do it and I hope you will too.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Service With A Smile
When I was a young boy, our family planned an evening when we could go help an elderly woman in town. She was Aunt Jessie to everyone who knew her.
She was in her early nineties and still drove her car. She was blessed with strength and a great amount of determination to press forward in life.
We got to her house and we were each given an assignment of what to do in her yard. We were there to clean things up a bit in her yard.
My parents always taught us the importance of hard work. It was fun to work together to accomplish a project, especially one that would help someone else.
I can remember the feeling I had as we worked together. We were able to pull weeds from the flower beds. The lawns needed to be mowed and my dad took care of that including edging the grass next to the sidewalk. It was a memorable project. Aunt Jessie was pleased with our efforts and she wasn't shy about letting us know how thankful she was for all that we did.
I enjoy helping other people out. The feeling that I get while serving someone else is a special one.
Service is the sure way to bring a smile on someone's face. It puts a smile on the face of the one rendering the kind act.
You can't ever serve too much. Give it a try today. Your day will be brighter, guaranteed!
She was in her early nineties and still drove her car. She was blessed with strength and a great amount of determination to press forward in life.
We got to her house and we were each given an assignment of what to do in her yard. We were there to clean things up a bit in her yard.
My parents always taught us the importance of hard work. It was fun to work together to accomplish a project, especially one that would help someone else.
I can remember the feeling I had as we worked together. We were able to pull weeds from the flower beds. The lawns needed to be mowed and my dad took care of that including edging the grass next to the sidewalk. It was a memorable project. Aunt Jessie was pleased with our efforts and she wasn't shy about letting us know how thankful she was for all that we did.
I enjoy helping other people out. The feeling that I get while serving someone else is a special one.
Service is the sure way to bring a smile on someone's face. It puts a smile on the face of the one rendering the kind act.
You can't ever serve too much. Give it a try today. Your day will be brighter, guaranteed!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Follow The Sign
I was driving down the freeway today and I passed many different signs with various directional information for all drivers. I thought about the importance of the signs but because I drive the same exact way to and from work, I never pay attention to the signs.
I have thought about this same scenario when it comes to every day life. I thought about the many signs in my own life that point to various things that are important to a happy and safe life.
Let's talk, for a minute, about a few of those signs that should be important to me and maybe will be of benefit to you.
Because my family is extremely important to me, I automatically think about the signs that keep me grounded and headed in the direction that will keep us together, happily. I make a concerted effort to always be where I say I am. That means that if I am going to late home from work that I inform Becky and then I am either at work finishing some last minute things or I am somewhere else. But being anywhere else than where I say I am going to be, is not an option. That 'sign' keeps trust fully intact with no wondering questions to be asked.
In our home, we have a standing rule that when anyone is on the computer they have to be out in the open. There are never any questions about the content being viewed. Following that sign keeps our spirits healthy and strong.
I talk a lot about our marriage. It is extremely important to me in my life. The signs that are influential in creating and maintaining a great marriage state words on them such as, "Speak kindly to each other all of the time." "Compliment Regularly." "Be Positive." "Have a Great Time." Liking each other is as important as Loving." "Date. Date. Date" These things are just a few of the keys to a successful recipe of a happy marriage.
The signs in our lives will keep us focused on the things that are the most important. I am committed to doing these things, and more to make life the best that it can be.
I have thought about this same scenario when it comes to every day life. I thought about the many signs in my own life that point to various things that are important to a happy and safe life.
Let's talk, for a minute, about a few of those signs that should be important to me and maybe will be of benefit to you.
Because my family is extremely important to me, I automatically think about the signs that keep me grounded and headed in the direction that will keep us together, happily. I make a concerted effort to always be where I say I am. That means that if I am going to late home from work that I inform Becky and then I am either at work finishing some last minute things or I am somewhere else. But being anywhere else than where I say I am going to be, is not an option. That 'sign' keeps trust fully intact with no wondering questions to be asked.
In our home, we have a standing rule that when anyone is on the computer they have to be out in the open. There are never any questions about the content being viewed. Following that sign keeps our spirits healthy and strong.
I talk a lot about our marriage. It is extremely important to me in my life. The signs that are influential in creating and maintaining a great marriage state words on them such as, "Speak kindly to each other all of the time." "Compliment Regularly." "Be Positive." "Have a Great Time." Liking each other is as important as Loving." "Date. Date. Date" These things are just a few of the keys to a successful recipe of a happy marriage.
The signs in our lives will keep us focused on the things that are the most important. I am committed to doing these things, and more to make life the best that it can be.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Give Him The Ball
You know by now that I love good stories that motivate. I love this one and it seems appropriate for today.
CBS) It was the stuff of Hollywood, but it was real.
Senior Jason McElwain had been the manager of the varsity basketball team of Greece Athena High School in Rochester, N.Y.
McElwain, who's autistic, was added to the roster by coach Jim Johnson so he could be given a jersey and get to sit on the bench in the team's last game of the year.
Johnson hoped the situation would even enable him to get McElwain onto the floor a little playing time.
He got the chance, with Greece Athena up by double-digits with four minutes go to.
And, in his first action of the year, McElwain missed his first two shots, but thensank six three-pointers and another shot (video) , for a total of 20 points in three minutes.
"My first shot was an air ball (missing the hoop), by a lot, then I missed a lay-up," McElwain recalls. "As the first shot went in, and then the second shot, as soon as that went in, I just started to catch fire."
"I've had a lot of thrills in coaching," Johnson says. "I've coached a lot of wonderful kids. But I've never experienced such a thrill."
The crowd went wild, and his teammates carried the excited McElwain off the court.
"I felt like a celebrity!" he beamed.
McElwain's mother sees it as a milestone for her son.
"This is the first moment Jason has ever succeeded (and could be) proud of himself," reflects Debbie McElwain. "I look at autism as the Berlin Wall, and he cracked it."
His teammates couldn't be happier.
"He's a cool kid," says guard Levar Goff. "You just get to know him, get used to being around him. A couple of weeks ago, he missed practice because he was sick. You feel different when he's not around. He brings humor and life to the team."
Jason's next goal: to graduate.
We can do anything we want to do, no matter how impossible it may seem. I love real life stories that illustrate one's hope to conquer the world.
It's every day life and we are all a part of it!
CBS) It was the stuff of Hollywood, but it was real.
Senior Jason McElwain had been the manager of the varsity basketball team of Greece Athena High School in Rochester, N.Y.
McElwain, who's autistic, was added to the roster by coach Jim Johnson so he could be given a jersey and get to sit on the bench in the team's last game of the year.
Johnson hoped the situation would even enable him to get McElwain onto the floor a little playing time.
He got the chance, with Greece Athena up by double-digits with four minutes go to.
And, in his first action of the year, McElwain missed his first two shots, but then
"My first shot was an air ball (missing the hoop), by a lot, then I missed a lay-up," McElwain recalls. "As the first shot went in, and then the second shot, as soon as that went in, I just started to catch fire."
"I've had a lot of thrills in coaching," Johnson says. "I've coached a lot of wonderful kids. But I've never experienced such a thrill."
The crowd went wild, and his teammates carried the excited McElwain off the court.
"I felt like a celebrity!" he beamed.
McElwain's mother sees it as a milestone for her son.
"This is the first moment Jason has ever succeeded (and could be) proud of himself," reflects Debbie McElwain. "I look at autism as the Berlin Wall, and he cracked it."
His teammates couldn't be happier.
"He's a cool kid," says guard Levar Goff. "You just get to know him, get used to being around him. A couple of weeks ago, he missed practice because he was sick. You feel different when he's not around. He brings humor and life to the team."
Jason's next goal: to graduate.
We can do anything we want to do, no matter how impossible it may seem. I love real life stories that illustrate one's hope to conquer the world.
It's every day life and we are all a part of it!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Everyone Is Different
The reality of life is that everyone is different. Sometimes that can be a difficult thing and most times that is a great part of life.
I recently learned a valuable lesson. It doesn't matter whether it is at work, church or anything else. When people are involved,(that would be every part of our lives)there are disagreements about the way things are done. Our personalities are just so different.
The part of this that I love the most is that our differences also play an important role in the happiest moments of our existence.
I want to learn all that I can learn. That happens with the many associations I have with different people. I am trying to be tolerant of all people no matter if I agree with the way they do things or not. I want to be someone who can get along with everyone. That is hard to do.
I am grateful for those people who I love the very most.
I realize more than ever the great sense of humor that God must have. I look at who I am and realize that He really must be a funny person.
I want to be accepting of all people. It doesn't mean that I will always agree with everything that everyone does. But I understand that others don't agree with the way I do things. Our individual personalities make the world go around.
This is a great life and I'm glad to be a part!
I recently learned a valuable lesson. It doesn't matter whether it is at work, church or anything else. When people are involved,(that would be every part of our lives)there are disagreements about the way things are done. Our personalities are just so different.
The part of this that I love the most is that our differences also play an important role in the happiest moments of our existence.
I want to learn all that I can learn. That happens with the many associations I have with different people. I am trying to be tolerant of all people no matter if I agree with the way they do things or not. I want to be someone who can get along with everyone. That is hard to do.
I am grateful for those people who I love the very most.
I realize more than ever the great sense of humor that God must have. I look at who I am and realize that He really must be a funny person.
I want to be accepting of all people. It doesn't mean that I will always agree with everything that everyone does. But I understand that others don't agree with the way I do things. Our individual personalities make the world go around.
This is a great life and I'm glad to be a part!
Monday, February 13, 2012
The Joy of Time Spent
I have told you before how grateful I am for my dad. When I was a young boy, my dad taught me to ride a bike. It was a memorable occasion, I am told. I don't remember much about the day but one thing that is clear in my mind is the apprehension that I felt with learning something new.
Think about when you first learned to ride a bike.
My dad held on to the back of the bike seat and followed along probably letting go, momentarily, to watch me unknowingly ride under my own power without my knowledge of what was really happening behind me. The panic would set in when I somehow suspected what he was doing. Then everything went wrong and I would lose my balance and end up on the ground. He would encourage me to just keep riding without looking back. That sounded good but there isn't a kid on the planet that understands that sound advice and believes what is being told to him, at the time, and that was the same way with me.
I am grateful to parents who always spent meaningful time with me and my siblings. I rode a bike just a few days ago. I even did it without running into something on the side of the road. Our boys are impressed, at times, that their dad can ride a bike. Quite frankly, I'm impressed too.
Those days of the past are neat to remember. My parents could probably tell you a lot better version of the story but suffice it to say...I learned how to ride and I have never forgotten its skill.
Keep on riding and keep making the memories that last for a lifetime.
Think about when you first learned to ride a bike.
My dad held on to the back of the bike seat and followed along probably letting go, momentarily, to watch me unknowingly ride under my own power without my knowledge of what was really happening behind me. The panic would set in when I somehow suspected what he was doing. Then everything went wrong and I would lose my balance and end up on the ground. He would encourage me to just keep riding without looking back. That sounded good but there isn't a kid on the planet that understands that sound advice and believes what is being told to him, at the time, and that was the same way with me.
I am grateful to parents who always spent meaningful time with me and my siblings. I rode a bike just a few days ago. I even did it without running into something on the side of the road. Our boys are impressed, at times, that their dad can ride a bike. Quite frankly, I'm impressed too.
Those days of the past are neat to remember. My parents could probably tell you a lot better version of the story but suffice it to say...I learned how to ride and I have never forgotten its skill.
Keep on riding and keep making the memories that last for a lifetime.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Going Forward With Faith
I sat in church today, feeling especially grateful for the blessings that are showered upon me in my life. My Heavenly Father, and His Son, care about me a great deal--and I can feel it.
I need to mention a couple of personal things that I feel in my heart.
This Wednesday, my oldest niece enters the Missionary Training Center, in Provo, Utah. She is about to embark on one of the greatest adventures she will ever have. It will be her privilege to serve as a full-time missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, called to labor in the Indiana Indianapolis Mission. I love her and I am extremely grateful that she has decided to go and serve.
Because of her upcoming opportunity, I have thought about some of my own experiences as a missionary.
I attended a missionary conference where Elder Robert Dellanbach, who was a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy. When he spoke, he reminded me of my own dad. He was loving and sincere in the delivery of his message. He challenged us to go home, that evening, and express our gratitude for all that we had in our lives, in our personal prayers.
I accepted his challenge. I knelt down on my knees and began to thank my Heavenly Father for everything that He had blessed me with. When I closed my prayer and opened my eyes, the night had passed completely and the sun was beginning to rise. I had spent the night on my knees in prayer. I still had energy to go throughout the day. I felt grateful to have had that experience. It taught me that I was extremely blessed.
No matter what the circumstances are in life and no matter how difficult things seem to be, Elder Dellenbach's challenge is still very real. Take the opportunity to thank heaven for all of the good that you have in your life. You might be very surprised.
I am committed to move forward, in faith.
I need to mention a couple of personal things that I feel in my heart.
This Wednesday, my oldest niece enters the Missionary Training Center, in Provo, Utah. She is about to embark on one of the greatest adventures she will ever have. It will be her privilege to serve as a full-time missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, called to labor in the Indiana Indianapolis Mission. I love her and I am extremely grateful that she has decided to go and serve.
Because of her upcoming opportunity, I have thought about some of my own experiences as a missionary.
I attended a missionary conference where Elder Robert Dellanbach, who was a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy. When he spoke, he reminded me of my own dad. He was loving and sincere in the delivery of his message. He challenged us to go home, that evening, and express our gratitude for all that we had in our lives, in our personal prayers.
I accepted his challenge. I knelt down on my knees and began to thank my Heavenly Father for everything that He had blessed me with. When I closed my prayer and opened my eyes, the night had passed completely and the sun was beginning to rise. I had spent the night on my knees in prayer. I still had energy to go throughout the day. I felt grateful to have had that experience. It taught me that I was extremely blessed.
No matter what the circumstances are in life and no matter how difficult things seem to be, Elder Dellenbach's challenge is still very real. Take the opportunity to thank heaven for all of the good that you have in your life. You might be very surprised.
I am committed to move forward, in faith.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
I Watch With Great Hope
Tonight, I felt like it was a good idea to write about an observance I had today.
Our oldest daughter, Natalie, attended her first formal school dance, Sweethearts. I have listened with anticipation of the plans for this date. She went with a nice young man. She has been on a date with Nathan before and we think that he is a soft spoken gentle person. I'm grateful for people like him.
I was particularly satisfied as I walked into the house this evening to find Nat and Nathan and two of their friends sitting around a fantastically decorated table eating a yummy meal together. I couldn't help but look at our daughter and marvel at her beauty. She is a wonderful daughter, full of delight. I looked and saw her and I crawling around on the floor, together, when she was a little girl. I have felt grateful for her current station in life and all of the goodness that this time offers.
We have an obligation to love and enjoy the various stages of life that our kids will experience. These times only happen once and now is the time to enjoy.
I am a grateful dad who thanks heaven for the choices that our children are currently making. It doesn't mean that they are perfect but I know that they are giving their all to being the best that they can be.
There is hope for good 'todays' and better 'tomorrows'. I have hope that the feelings I have will be duplicated over and over again.
A grateful heart is unmatched. I feel grateful tonight!
Our oldest daughter, Natalie, attended her first formal school dance, Sweethearts. I have listened with anticipation of the plans for this date. She went with a nice young man. She has been on a date with Nathan before and we think that he is a soft spoken gentle person. I'm grateful for people like him.
I was particularly satisfied as I walked into the house this evening to find Nat and Nathan and two of their friends sitting around a fantastically decorated table eating a yummy meal together. I couldn't help but look at our daughter and marvel at her beauty. She is a wonderful daughter, full of delight. I looked and saw her and I crawling around on the floor, together, when she was a little girl. I have felt grateful for her current station in life and all of the goodness that this time offers.
We have an obligation to love and enjoy the various stages of life that our kids will experience. These times only happen once and now is the time to enjoy.
I am a grateful dad who thanks heaven for the choices that our children are currently making. It doesn't mean that they are perfect but I know that they are giving their all to being the best that they can be.
There is hope for good 'todays' and better 'tomorrows'. I have hope that the feelings I have will be duplicated over and over again.
A grateful heart is unmatched. I feel grateful tonight!
Friday, February 10, 2012
Put Into Focus
I read this story and felt like it was a great one to end the week. We need constant reminders to help keep our perspective clear.
Stories like this, always have a way of putting the right perspective on life.
Jean Thompson stood in front of her fifth-grade class on the very first day of school in the fall and told the children a lie. Like most teachers, she looked at her pupils and said that she loved them all the same, that she would treat them all alike. And that was impossible because there in front of her, slumped in his seat on the third row, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard.
Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed he didn't play well with the other children, that his clothes were unkept and that he constantly needed a bath. And Teddy was unpleasant.
It got to the point during the first few months that she would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold X's and then marking the F at the top of the paper biggest of all. Because Teddy was a sullen little boy, no one else seemed to enjoy him, either.
At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review each child's records and put Teddy's off until last. When she opened his file, she was in for a surprise. His first-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is a bright, inquisitive child with a ready laugh." "He does his work neatly and has good manners...he is a joy to be around."
His second-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is an excellent student well-liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle."
His third-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy continues to work hard but his mother's death has been hard on him. He tries to do his best but his father doesn't show much interest and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken."
Teddy's fourth-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and sometimes sleeps in class. He is tardy and could become a problem."
By now Mrs. Thompson realized the problem, but Christmas was coming fast. It was all she could do, with the school play and all, until the day before the holidays began and she was suddenly forced to focus on Teddy Stoddard.
Her children brought her presents, all in beautiful ribbon and bright paper, except for Teddy's, which was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper of a scissored grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents.
Some of the children started to laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of cologne. She stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume behind the other wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed behind just long enough to say, "Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my mom used to."
After the children left she cried for at least an hour. On that very day, she quit teaching reading, writing, and speaking. Instead, she began to teach children. Jean Thompson paid particular attention to one they all called "Teddy."
As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more she encouraged him, the faster he responded. On days where there would be an important test, Mrs. Thompson would remember that cologne. By the end of the year he had become one of the smartest children in the class and...well, he had also become the "pet" of the teacher who had once vowed to love all of her children exactly the same.
A year later she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her that of all the teachers he'd had in elementary school, she was his favorite. Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy.
He then wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she was still his favorite teacher of all time.
Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with it, and would graduate from college with the highest of honors. He assured Mrs. Thompson she was still his favorite teacher.
Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a little further. The letter explained that she was still his favorite teacher, but that now his name was a little longer. The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, M.D.
The story doesn't end there. You see, there was yet another letter that Spring. Teddy said he'd met this girl and was to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering...well, if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit in the pew usually reserved for the mother of the groom. And guess what, she wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. And I bet on that special day, Jean Thompson smelled just like...well, just like the way Teddy remembered his mother smelling on their last Christmas together.
We can make a difference!
Stories like this, always have a way of putting the right perspective on life.
Jean Thompson stood in front of her fifth-grade class on the very first day of school in the fall and told the children a lie. Like most teachers, she looked at her pupils and said that she loved them all the same, that she would treat them all alike. And that was impossible because there in front of her, slumped in his seat on the third row, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard.
Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed he didn't play well with the other children, that his clothes were unkept and that he constantly needed a bath. And Teddy was unpleasant.
It got to the point during the first few months that she would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold X's and then marking the F at the top of the paper biggest of all. Because Teddy was a sullen little boy, no one else seemed to enjoy him, either.
At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review each child's records and put Teddy's off until last. When she opened his file, she was in for a surprise. His first-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is a bright, inquisitive child with a ready laugh." "He does his work neatly and has good manners...he is a joy to be around."
His second-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is an excellent student well-liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle."
His third-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy continues to work hard but his mother's death has been hard on him. He tries to do his best but his father doesn't show much interest and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken."
Teddy's fourth-grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and sometimes sleeps in class. He is tardy and could become a problem."
By now Mrs. Thompson realized the problem, but Christmas was coming fast. It was all she could do, with the school play and all, until the day before the holidays began and she was suddenly forced to focus on Teddy Stoddard.
Her children brought her presents, all in beautiful ribbon and bright paper, except for Teddy's, which was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper of a scissored grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents.
Some of the children started to laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of cologne. She stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume behind the other wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed behind just long enough to say, "Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my mom used to."
After the children left she cried for at least an hour. On that very day, she quit teaching reading, writing, and speaking. Instead, she began to teach children. Jean Thompson paid particular attention to one they all called "Teddy."
As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more she encouraged him, the faster he responded. On days where there would be an important test, Mrs. Thompson would remember that cologne. By the end of the year he had become one of the smartest children in the class and...well, he had also become the "pet" of the teacher who had once vowed to love all of her children exactly the same.
A year later she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her that of all the teachers he'd had in elementary school, she was his favorite. Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy.
He then wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she was still his favorite teacher of all time.
Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with it, and would graduate from college with the highest of honors. He assured Mrs. Thompson she was still his favorite teacher.
Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a little further. The letter explained that she was still his favorite teacher, but that now his name was a little longer. The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, M.D.
The story doesn't end there. You see, there was yet another letter that Spring. Teddy said he'd met this girl and was to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering...well, if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit in the pew usually reserved for the mother of the groom. And guess what, she wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. And I bet on that special day, Jean Thompson smelled just like...well, just like the way Teddy remembered his mother smelling on their last Christmas together.
We can make a difference!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
I Am Trying To Be A Good Person
I attended a funeral of a woman who I have come to know over the past eight months. During the funeral, I began thinking about who I am and how I feel about myself.
Each one of us has our own distinct personality and a whole bunch of God-given characteristics that make us who we are. It is up to us to use those to help others and also to become better. In spite of our faults, who we are can bless the lives of those around us.
All four children of this woman took the opportunity to speak to those in attendance. They are all very different. What they had to share was good and each one is trying to do the best that they know how to do.
I took a few minutes to review, in my mind, my own life. I asked myself the question, "Am I trying to be a good person?" I believe that I am giving it a good shot. I understand, better than anyone, my own weaknesses. I also know my own strengths and the strategy I am using to utilize those strengths to lift the heads of those whose hang low. I am trying to forget about myself and focus on somebody else.
I would ask the same question to you.
Life is an opportunity to grow and get better. The happenings of life require us to stretch and see what we are made of.
When my days are through, I want those who I love to reflect on the good things that I tried to do every single day. I want to be someone who fought through all of life's challenges, without speaking negatively. I want to have said of me that I was a good person.
Each one of us has our own distinct personality and a whole bunch of God-given characteristics that make us who we are. It is up to us to use those to help others and also to become better. In spite of our faults, who we are can bless the lives of those around us.
All four children of this woman took the opportunity to speak to those in attendance. They are all very different. What they had to share was good and each one is trying to do the best that they know how to do.
I took a few minutes to review, in my mind, my own life. I asked myself the question, "Am I trying to be a good person?" I believe that I am giving it a good shot. I understand, better than anyone, my own weaknesses. I also know my own strengths and the strategy I am using to utilize those strengths to lift the heads of those whose hang low. I am trying to forget about myself and focus on somebody else.
I would ask the same question to you.
Life is an opportunity to grow and get better. The happenings of life require us to stretch and see what we are made of.
When my days are through, I want those who I love to reflect on the good things that I tried to do every single day. I want to be someone who fought through all of life's challenges, without speaking negatively. I want to have said of me that I was a good person.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
I Found A Friend
This is an experience sent from my older sister. Friends touch each of us differently and in ways that help us the very most.
"When I was 15 years old, my dad took a job with a firm located in another state. I was just finishing my sophomore year, and EVERYTHING was important: my classes, my position in the school, my friends, my boyfriend, my music. We were moving from a small (and I mean SMALL!) ranching community to what I was sure was going to be worst place on earth! My dad moved to our new home before the rest of us did. He found a house to rent, he set up the furniture, he attended church meetings, he met the neighbors. By the time we arrived, I already had stacks of information from the church’s youth leaders. I kinda rolled my eyes—who needed another adult looking over my shoulder? What I needed was girls! Six days after we moved, I went to help out at a fund raiser. It was a car wash, and it was a lot of fun. Water, soap, dozens of girls—what’s not to love? But the best part of the entire day was when Jana asked if I wanted to go to a dance with them that night and a movie with her in a couple of days. After the movie, we became fast friends. It turned out the pining for my former life lasted less than a week, and my time in that (not so) HUGE city was not only formative, but happy! Jana was one of my very best friends during my adolescent and young adult years. I’m so glad she invited me along!"
Friends are miracles in our lives. They touch us and help us. I am grateful for friends that bless my life.
Thanks, Aundrea. I love you!
"When I was 15 years old, my dad took a job with a firm located in another state. I was just finishing my sophomore year, and EVERYTHING was important: my classes, my position in the school, my friends, my boyfriend, my music. We were moving from a small (and I mean SMALL!) ranching community to what I was sure was going to be worst place on earth! My dad moved to our new home before the rest of us did. He found a house to rent, he set up the furniture, he attended church meetings, he met the neighbors. By the time we arrived, I already had stacks of information from the church’s youth leaders. I kinda rolled my eyes—who needed another adult looking over my shoulder? What I needed was girls! Six days after we moved, I went to help out at a fund raiser. It was a car wash, and it was a lot of fun. Water, soap, dozens of girls—what’s not to love? But the best part of the entire day was when Jana asked if I wanted to go to a dance with them that night and a movie with her in a couple of days. After the movie, we became fast friends. It turned out the pining for my former life lasted less than a week, and my time in that (not so) HUGE city was not only formative, but happy! Jana was one of my very best friends during my adolescent and young adult years. I’m so glad she invited me along!"
Friends are miracles in our lives. They touch us and help us. I am grateful for friends that bless my life.
Thanks, Aundrea. I love you!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
A Friend Forever
Our daughter, Natalie, has enjoyed a friendship with Isabel. Here's what she has to say about this friendship of a lifetime.
"I met Isabel in my seventh grade cooking class and we hit it off instantly. We were always in the same cooking group. She didn't care for chopping, stirring, measuring, or washing dishes, but she'd throw the food in a bowl or come up behind me and give me a hug while I was mixing batter. The class only lasted a trimester and I figured that was probably the end of my association with her. Ninth grade came, and to my surprise we were in the same seminary class! It soon became my responsibility to walk her to and from the building and sit next to her in class. She loved seminary and our class and sometimes she would even lead the music for us. She added so much to my experience that year! When I became a sophomore, Isabel was not in my seminary class. Those first few weeks were kind of rough. Something was missing for me, and I later found out for her as well. A change had to be made, and soon we were in the same class again. This year she was the designated chorister. She would stand up at the beginning of class, write the page number on the board, and promptly tell everyone in class to "Sit in your chairs! Quiet down! It's time to sing because I'm the leader." It was this year that our friendship really took off. She came over to my house and watched a movie once, but for the most part, if we hang out, I go there. This school year I think she has had her greatest impact on me yet! We're not in the same seminary class, and there isn't a way to move schedules so we can be. Earlier in the year I was so sad! Something was definitely missing. I needed Isabel. So, I transferred into her Special Education class room to be a peer tutor/TA. This class is food for my soul. I get to be with Isabel, and some of my other new found friends, Heavenly Father's most perfect children. I love it! It's amazing to me what one person can do. For as long as I can remember (I can't pinpoint when it began) Isabel has sent me a text goodnight, every night. Never at one specific time, just whenever she goes to bed! Isabel is my true friend. She's a constant friend. Through fickle teenage friendships she is always there to hang out and be there for me. She loves completely, speaks truthfully, and exercises loyalty. I hope that everyone can have an Isabel in their life. Friends like her are hard to come by. I truly hope I can grow up and be like Isabel, the truest friend anyone could ask for."
Thanks, Natalie. These are the kinds of stories that each one of us have. They are inspiring! It makes me want to be a better friend.
.
"I met Isabel in my seventh grade cooking class and we hit it off instantly. We were always in the same cooking group. She didn't care for chopping, stirring, measuring, or washing dishes, but she'd throw the food in a bowl or come up behind me and give me a hug while I was mixing batter. The class only lasted a trimester and I figured that was probably the end of my association with her. Ninth grade came, and to my surprise we were in the same seminary class! It soon became my responsibility to walk her to and from the building and sit next to her in class. She loved seminary and our class and sometimes she would even lead the music for us. She added so much to my experience that year! When I became a sophomore, Isabel was not in my seminary class. Those first few weeks were kind of rough. Something was missing for me, and I later found out for her as well. A change had to be made, and soon we were in the same class again. This year she was the designated chorister. She would stand up at the beginning of class, write the page number on the board, and promptly tell everyone in class to "Sit in your chairs! Quiet down! It's time to sing because I'm the leader." It was this year that our friendship really took off. She came over to my house and watched a movie once, but for the most part, if we hang out, I go there. This school year I think she has had her greatest impact on me yet! We're not in the same seminary class, and there isn't a way to move schedules so we can be. Earlier in the year I was so sad! Something was definitely missing. I needed Isabel. So, I transferred into her Special Education class room to be a peer tutor/TA. This class is food for my soul. I get to be with Isabel, and some of my other new found friends, Heavenly Father's most perfect children. I love it! It's amazing to me what one person can do. For as long as I can remember (I can't pinpoint when it began) Isabel has sent me a text goodnight, every night. Never at one specific time, just whenever she goes to bed! Isabel is my true friend. She's a constant friend. Through fickle teenage friendships she is always there to hang out and be there for me. She loves completely, speaks truthfully, and exercises loyalty. I hope that everyone can have an Isabel in their life. Friends like her are hard to come by. I truly hope I can grow up and be like Isabel, the truest friend anyone could ask for."
Thanks, Natalie. These are the kinds of stories that each one of us have. They are inspiring! It makes me want to be a better friend.
Monday, February 6, 2012
The Worth Of A Friend
Just as I promised, this week I am going to share some experiences that other people have had with good friends in their lives. If you have something to share, please email them to me dfish0223@yahoo.com.
This story comes from my mom.
"I was an extremely shy girl. I would get sick to my stomach if I went to stay overnight anywhere that my parents were not with me. When I was a Beehive (12 or 13) in Young Women at church I had the most wonderful leader. Her name was Edith Van Sloten. She pulled me in and loved me like I was the only girl in the class. I know she did the same with all of the girls. It was springtime and she started talking up what a fun summer we were going to have and that she wanted all of us to go to Young Women camp. As I remember the cost of the camp was sizeable for that time and she was willing to help us with ideas to earn the money to pay our way. Sister Van Sloten hired me and another girl to wash all of the outside windows in her home. We worked very hard all one Saturday. We did several other fund raiser projects and finally had our money. A couple days before we were to go to camp I started to get very anxious and nervous about being away from home, but we had worked so hard that I hoped that I would be okay with Sister Van Sloten. So with the encouragement of my parents I packed my suitcase and my sleeping bag and off I went with my group. I only made it one night at camp and my parents had to come and get me. I was sad that I would have disappointed the leader that I loved so much, but she assured me that it was okay and that there were lots of other fun times ahead. I have never forgotten what a wonderful friend Sister Van Sloten was to a very shy young girl." Thank you, mom. I love you.
The affects of one person are far-reaching. Friends are those we can count on to accept us for who we are, all of the time.
This story comes from my mom.
"I was an extremely shy girl. I would get sick to my stomach if I went to stay overnight anywhere that my parents were not with me. When I was a Beehive (12 or 13) in Young Women at church I had the most wonderful leader. Her name was Edith Van Sloten. She pulled me in and loved me like I was the only girl in the class. I know she did the same with all of the girls. It was springtime and she started talking up what a fun summer we were going to have and that she wanted all of us to go to Young Women camp. As I remember the cost of the camp was sizeable for that time and she was willing to help us with ideas to earn the money to pay our way. Sister Van Sloten hired me and another girl to wash all of the outside windows in her home. We worked very hard all one Saturday. We did several other fund raiser projects and finally had our money. A couple days before we were to go to camp I started to get very anxious and nervous about being away from home, but we had worked so hard that I hoped that I would be okay with Sister Van Sloten. So with the encouragement of my parents I packed my suitcase and my sleeping bag and off I went with my group. I only made it one night at camp and my parents had to come and get me. I was sad that I would have disappointed the leader that I loved so much, but she assured me that it was okay and that there were lots of other fun times ahead. I have never forgotten what a wonderful friend Sister Van Sloten was to a very shy young girl." Thank you, mom. I love you.
The affects of one person are far-reaching. Friends are those we can count on to accept us for who we are, all of the time.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
There Is Power In Knowledge
About eight months ago, I was asked to visit an older couple who live in our neighborhood. He is retired from the Boeing company. She has had average health over the past several years. Me and my good friend, Michael, were asked to visit this couple as part of a church assignment. It has been an enriching opportunity. We have been faithful in visiting them each month and sometimes several times.
On Friday afternoon, Penny passed away. I was notified of her passing later that afternoon. I spoke with her husband, Don. We chatted with each other. He cried on the phone to me. I listened intently as he spoke of his great love for his sweetheart.
My mind has thought about the short time I had to know Penny (short for Penelope). I found great joy in being around her. A couple of short weeks ago, Michael and I were called to their home to give them both a priesthood blessing. As we laid our hands upon her head, and I offered the blessing, I felt a great peace come over me as I assured her that her health would be strong enough until her time would come to leave this existence. I knew that a Heavenly Father was there and He was aware of all that she needed. I still feel that same way. I now know that His comforting presence will be with Don.
Even the thought of Becky being gone is about more than my heart can bear, I know with a surety that the kids and I would be watched over and our hearts would be comforted through such a tremendous loss.
We have all had a loss of a loved one at one time or another. We know of the sting that the loss of a loved one brings. We can be assured that God is with us. He will fill our hearts with peace. He will make His love perfectly manifested. He loves us more than we can possibly comprehend.
I spoke with Don last night and I assured him of these same truths. I told him that I loved him.
We have knowledge of the light we can have even during our darkest days. Don will feel and see of the light I am talking about. We can too. There is peace in knowing that one day, he will see her again. I am thankful for this knowledge.
On Friday afternoon, Penny passed away. I was notified of her passing later that afternoon. I spoke with her husband, Don. We chatted with each other. He cried on the phone to me. I listened intently as he spoke of his great love for his sweetheart.
My mind has thought about the short time I had to know Penny (short for Penelope). I found great joy in being around her. A couple of short weeks ago, Michael and I were called to their home to give them both a priesthood blessing. As we laid our hands upon her head, and I offered the blessing, I felt a great peace come over me as I assured her that her health would be strong enough until her time would come to leave this existence. I knew that a Heavenly Father was there and He was aware of all that she needed. I still feel that same way. I now know that His comforting presence will be with Don.
Even the thought of Becky being gone is about more than my heart can bear, I know with a surety that the kids and I would be watched over and our hearts would be comforted through such a tremendous loss.
We have all had a loss of a loved one at one time or another. We know of the sting that the loss of a loved one brings. We can be assured that God is with us. He will fill our hearts with peace. He will make His love perfectly manifested. He loves us more than we can possibly comprehend.
I spoke with Don last night and I assured him of these same truths. I told him that I loved him.
We have knowledge of the light we can have even during our darkest days. Don will feel and see of the light I am talking about. We can too. There is peace in knowing that one day, he will see her again. I am thankful for this knowledge.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
I Believe In You
I've been thinking, over the past two days, about some of the things that are the most important to me. If you're married, think about the one thing that makes your marriage special. If you're not married, give some thought to the friends that you have and what makes those friendships unique.
I have given some thought to my own marriage, and, the friendships I have with people and what one common thread makes them all special.
When Becky and I hadn't been married that long, we had a conversation that involved trust for one another and the vital part that it played in maintaining a strong and successful marriage.
I worked with a woman who was nearly old enough to be my mother. She was someone that I cared about. I enjoyed the conversations we had about life and about our families. Our relationship was always appropriate. This woman asked me one day if I wanted to go get a burger for lunch. I responded that I would if someone else came with us. She gave me a funny look as if I was crazy. I explained to her that I knew it might sound crazy but that it just doesn't look good. It would be my luck that I would run into somebody that I knew and then their thoughts would run crazy about me being alone with another woman. Becky and I vowed to each other that even at work we would not go to lunch with someone of the opposite sex, alone. The appearance doesn't look good and I wouldn't ever want Becky to have reason to not trust me. "Self-trust is the first secret of success."(Ralph Waldo Emerson) I want to do things that allow me to maintain trust for myself.
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about the decisions I make. Each one is based on trust or the trust that would be lost by making a poor one.
I have friends that I would trust with my own life. I believe that no matter what, they would guard my heart and all would be well. The number of these kinds of friends is smaller in number but important none the less.
I want to be a person that others can trust. When I say that I'll do something, there should be no question that it will get done. When I say that I'm in one place, it is sure that I am there. When someone tells me something in confidence, they can be sure that I will not tell another person...PERIOD!
These are the things that I want to do. There is a saying,"that it is better to be trusted , than it is to be loved." I believe that is true.
I have given some thought to my own marriage, and, the friendships I have with people and what one common thread makes them all special.
When Becky and I hadn't been married that long, we had a conversation that involved trust for one another and the vital part that it played in maintaining a strong and successful marriage.
I worked with a woman who was nearly old enough to be my mother. She was someone that I cared about. I enjoyed the conversations we had about life and about our families. Our relationship was always appropriate. This woman asked me one day if I wanted to go get a burger for lunch. I responded that I would if someone else came with us. She gave me a funny look as if I was crazy. I explained to her that I knew it might sound crazy but that it just doesn't look good. It would be my luck that I would run into somebody that I knew and then their thoughts would run crazy about me being alone with another woman. Becky and I vowed to each other that even at work we would not go to lunch with someone of the opposite sex, alone. The appearance doesn't look good and I wouldn't ever want Becky to have reason to not trust me. "Self-trust is the first secret of success."(Ralph Waldo Emerson) I want to do things that allow me to maintain trust for myself.
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about the decisions I make. Each one is based on trust or the trust that would be lost by making a poor one.
I have friends that I would trust with my own life. I believe that no matter what, they would guard my heart and all would be well. The number of these kinds of friends is smaller in number but important none the less.
I want to be a person that others can trust. When I say that I'll do something, there should be no question that it will get done. When I say that I'm in one place, it is sure that I am there. When someone tells me something in confidence, they can be sure that I will not tell another person...PERIOD!
These are the things that I want to do. There is a saying,"that it is better to be trusted , than it is to be loved." I believe that is true.
Friday, February 3, 2012
We All Want A Friend
I love a good story. Here is one for you that I read and enjoyed immensely.
There was a time when Whitney didn't have a lot of friends. She was a bit shy and reserved. She never really wanted to be popular, but she did want to have someone to share secrets and laughs with. All through high school, though, she just slipped in and out of "light" friendships where she didn't find a lot of comfort or companionship.
When it came time to go to college, Whitney was quite nervous. She was going to be rooming with someone she didn't know and living in a town 300 miles away from home. There wouldn't be a single person she knew in town. She had no idea how she was going to make friends in this new environment. The first week of classes, something happened that changed Whitney's life forever. In her English Composition class, she was asked (as were all the students) to share a little about herself. She told everyone where she called home and all of the other ordinary details that students share in such situations. The final question for each student was always the same: "What is your goal for this class?" Now, most of the students said it was to get a good grade, pass the class or something similar, but for some reason, Whitney said something entirely different. She said that her goal was to make just one good friend. While most of the students sat in silence, one student came to Whitney and held out his hand and introduced himself. He asked if she would be his friend. The whole room was silent – all eyes focused on the Whitney and the hand extended just in front of her. She smiled and stretched her hand out to take his and a friendship was formed. It was a friendship that lasted all through college.
Everyone wants to feel needed. Several years ago, I was leading a group of young men at church. After church, on Sunday afternoon, I would take two boys to visit a few elderly people. One visit was to a ninety-two year old woman. She was very friendly but old and fragile. She didn't remember who we were until we had been there a few minutes and then her mind would spin into action and she remembered precisely who we were. One Sunday afternoon, we stopped by for our visit and her seventy year old daughter answered the door. She invited us in. I said hello to this elderly friend of ours. She sat silent and starred at me. "You are the most handsome man I have ever seen," she said. I didn't know who she was talking about but I took what she said as a compliment. I walked over and sat next to her on the old couch. I reached over and held her hand. When I looked at her face she smiled and gently squeezed my hand.
Each one of us longs for someone to love and care about us. We can brighten someone else's day by acts that we consider simple. Let's be that friend.
I want to try something a little different beginning on Monday. I hope that all next week the blog will be devoted to uplifting personal stories from the readership of this blog. Will you please send me your own personal stories about friendship and the impact a good friend has had in your life? I would like to hear from some of you all next week. Email those to dfish0223@yahoo.com.
I want to try something a little different beginning on Monday. I hope that all next week the blog will be devoted to uplifting personal stories from the readership of this blog. Will you please send me your own personal stories about friendship and the impact a good friend has had in your life? I would like to hear from some of you all next week. Email those to dfish0223@yahoo.com.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Family Time
I love to spend time with my family!
Becky and I just got home from taking the boys to see a movie. We saw "We bought a zoo." Great show!
I called home, this morning, to chat with Becky. I asked how everything was at home. Becky said that her and the boys were getting ready to go to the movie. She asked if I could go with them. At first, I thought that today was probably not the best day for me to do that. I got off of the phone with her and thought about the memories that I could make by taking a little time off of work to go to the show. My decision was a no-brainer.
There isn't anybody that doesn't understand how busy life can get. Our family is the exact same. I encourage you to take the opportunity to spend quality time with your family. It may seem inconvenient at times but the pay-off is huge.
The memory I made today was one that I will remember and think about for a long time.
Let me share a personal experience I had in my childhood. My older brother and I were out in the front of our home playing catch with the baseball. We could throw the ball back and forth for hours and never tire or get bored. While we were playing catch, our dad pulled in the driveway from a long day at work. We understood that he had church responsibilities that he was leaving to fulfill and so we never pressured him to play. He got out of the car and said hello and asked us about how the day had gone for us. He went into the house to check on mom, like he always did. Ten minutes passed by and the front door of the house opened. Dad had changed out of his suit and had his baseball glove on his left hand. We asked what he was doing because we knew that he had other commitments. He said that he had made other arrangements for the evening and that he was going to stay home and play catch with us boys. We played until our arms were sore. It was a memorable moment in time. I was happy that dad had spent that time with us.
That was many years ago and yet, my mind sees it as very clear.
I want to make decisions that will impact the lives of each member of our family positively. I love to spend time with my family and I hope you do too!
Becky and I just got home from taking the boys to see a movie. We saw "We bought a zoo." Great show!
I called home, this morning, to chat with Becky. I asked how everything was at home. Becky said that her and the boys were getting ready to go to the movie. She asked if I could go with them. At first, I thought that today was probably not the best day for me to do that. I got off of the phone with her and thought about the memories that I could make by taking a little time off of work to go to the show. My decision was a no-brainer.
There isn't anybody that doesn't understand how busy life can get. Our family is the exact same. I encourage you to take the opportunity to spend quality time with your family. It may seem inconvenient at times but the pay-off is huge.
The memory I made today was one that I will remember and think about for a long time.
Let me share a personal experience I had in my childhood. My older brother and I were out in the front of our home playing catch with the baseball. We could throw the ball back and forth for hours and never tire or get bored. While we were playing catch, our dad pulled in the driveway from a long day at work. We understood that he had church responsibilities that he was leaving to fulfill and so we never pressured him to play. He got out of the car and said hello and asked us about how the day had gone for us. He went into the house to check on mom, like he always did. Ten minutes passed by and the front door of the house opened. Dad had changed out of his suit and had his baseball glove on his left hand. We asked what he was doing because we knew that he had other commitments. He said that he had made other arrangements for the evening and that he was going to stay home and play catch with us boys. We played until our arms were sore. It was a memorable moment in time. I was happy that dad had spent that time with us.
That was many years ago and yet, my mind sees it as very clear.
I want to make decisions that will impact the lives of each member of our family positively. I love to spend time with my family and I hope you do too!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Faith In Every Footstep
There is always a lesson to be learned and today was no different. Let me share an experience that touched my heart.
Our oldest daughter, Natalie, spent some time up in the night ill. Becky and I didn't hear her at all in the downstairs bathroom.
Becky and I had no idea that she had been up until she told us this morning. She questioned whether to stay home from school. There really wasn't that option, today. She asked my opinion and I thought back on the many times in my life, for many different reasons, I have gotten little sleep. I told her that she needed to go to school and that I would give her a blessing of strength and that she needed to exercise faith that she would have the strength that she needed to make it through the day.
I wondered how her day had gone. When I got home from work, I asked her how her day had gone. She smiled and told me that it had gone well. She expressed her gratitude to Becky and I for teaching her about faith. She was thankful that she had learned a valuable lesson today on faith.
I love when a lesson is learned. It's been another great day of learning.
Our oldest daughter, Natalie, spent some time up in the night ill. Becky and I didn't hear her at all in the downstairs bathroom.
Becky and I had no idea that she had been up until she told us this morning. She questioned whether to stay home from school. There really wasn't that option, today. She asked my opinion and I thought back on the many times in my life, for many different reasons, I have gotten little sleep. I told her that she needed to go to school and that I would give her a blessing of strength and that she needed to exercise faith that she would have the strength that she needed to make it through the day.
I wondered how her day had gone. When I got home from work, I asked her how her day had gone. She smiled and told me that it had gone well. She expressed her gratitude to Becky and I for teaching her about faith. She was thankful that she had learned a valuable lesson today on faith.
I love when a lesson is learned. It's been another great day of learning.
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