Have I Done Any Good?

I have stated many times my deep gratitude for the blessings of my life. I wonder at the end of each day if I have done something that would positively contribute to society. There are many people who look for someone to look up to and try to pattern their life after. It is amazing to me the number of people who long for direction. They aren't accustomed to fully understanding what life is all about or where their place is in this world. I want to be somebody that people feel comfortable with to be their friend, someone who will accept them for who and how they are. There is a lot of good that we can do. I hope that I am the kind of person that I am supposed to be. The most important contribution that we can give lies within the walls of our own homes. That is my greatest desire!

Creative Thinking

“The process of creative thinking reminds me time and again of the work we used to do on my uncle’s ranch. The steps used in growing crops offer a good guideline:

“1. Prepare the soil. Start with prayer to clear your mind and set the proper atmosphere. Research the problem thoroughly. Develop a positive attitude that a solution can be found. Establish an atmosphere of trust in yourself and in others.

“2. Plant the seeds. Investigate what you can do to help. Determine where you may need help. Ask for counsel when you are ready to act on the advice given to you, but don’t ask someone else to make the decision for you.

“3. Let the seeds grow. Don’t uproot your idea before it has a chance to grow. Back off and give the idea time to develop. But you must be willing to face failure with a willingness to try again.

“4. Examine your crops. Weed out ideas that don’t belong. Through obedience to the Lord, you are entitled to inspiration.

“5. Harvest. The most productive farmers in the world would be unsuccessful if they didn’t harvest their crops. Do something about your ideas. Take the initiative to share your thoughts with others and to take action on your own.”

Do You Ever Feel Confused?

Experience is a great way to learn the lessons of life that help invite progression to be a part.  I can't begin to calculate in the forty years of life, how many different decisions I've had to make.  Those of you who are older than I have that many more.  In the decision-making process, there are times when confusion dominates and makes the process more difficult. 
I want to discuss two aspects that have helped me in decreasing the confusion that I feel.
First. Everything in life has something to do with somebody else.  During a tough time, have you found yourself thinking about how a particular decision will benefit you?  Our weak human minds tend to think that way.  I am a firm believer in creating a mechanism in yourself that automatically switches to a different way of thinking and thinks of others before yourself.  Now some of you are thinking, "What, I can't ever do anything that I want to do?"  No, that is not what I'm saying.  If you want a true compromise to exist, then 'I' cannot be anywhere in your thinking.  If it is, then there is an increased probability that problems will eventually creep in.
Second.  Communicate, communicate, and then do it some more.  Before you roll your eyes, I want you to think about a time when proper communication helped to quickly resolve a situation that would have otherwise taken a very long time and a lot of expended energy. 
When Becky and I were quite sure that we were done having children after Brady, which is kid #3.  We wrestled with the finality that would come if we moved forward with a permanent surgical procedure.  Becky's health wasn't the best and we had three wonderful children that we adored.  We talked about it constantly but seemed convinced that three was the magic number for our family.  No matter how much we talked, the topic never left our minds.  Now keep in mind that we were young and the older we have become the easier it is to see that when you can't stop thinking about something, it normally means that the decision has some 'holes' in it.  It wasn't until we enhanced our circle of communication and included our Heavenly Father in it, that we realized that there was another baby that would come to our family.  We are richly blessed to have Danny as our last child and what a joy he is!
Becky and I humbled ourselves enough to think of others that would be effected outside of just her and I.  We communicated extensively over this important decision that pertained to our family.  In the end, we were blessed abundantly.  There are other things that you can do but the implentation of these two things has helped me many times over.
Personal experience is invaluable.

Keep It Simple

When I was in the Netherlands, I would awaken early in the morning and during the summer months I would read and study out on the back porch. I would look at the surrounding tulip fields and feel so blessed for the beauty that those flowers offered me. One particular morning I could see something move in my periphery. I looked to the side and saw a large, beautiful spider web. Toward the center of the web was a large spider. I became curious of this spider because of it's intriquette workmanship. I watched it for several minutes as it spun a much larger web than already existed. It's movements were eloquent. I continued my studying, every once in a while peeking over to see it's progress. The next morning, I went out to the porch in anticipation to see the spider. It was there and still hard at work.
Some time ago, I was taught a lesson about spider webs and my mind raced back to Holland. I found this lesson a good one and I want to share it with you. The man stated that our lives are much like a spider web. In many instances, we have over-scheduled ourselves and now that there are so many 'strands' involved, we get stuck in the web unable to break through the stress that our business has created.
I could see that large web in my mind and the hundreds of strands that forked in every direction. I remember the sight of an imprisoned fly as it inadvertantly flew into the web. When it stuck, it was only moments until the spider 'mummied' up the fly and prepared it for later consumption.
I watch as people become so busy and stressed that the activities of life overtake and destroy the things in their families that were once solid and immoveable.
If your life seems like a spider web, simplify and better manage the day-to-day facets. The relief of stress will allow the beauty of your life to return and a feeling of normalcy will again prevail.

An Important Part Of Love Is Touch

The reality is that not everyone is a 'toucher'. Because I was raised by parents who show their affection, no matter where they are, it is just a part of every day life. Our children are being raised in the same sort of way because Becky was also raised in a family similar to mine. I hope that you'll listen and consider what I'm talking about.
The sense of touch is a bonding type of sense. I clearly remember times in my life when I would awaken in the middle of the night feeling very ill. It was during those times that I wanted the touch of my mom to help make me feel better. As a young boy, she would hold me and rock me in the old wooden rocking chair. There was no better feeling in the world. Our children have all had that same experience.
As a grown man, I long for the touch of my sweet wife when things don't go quite how I hoped they would go. In the rare times that I'm sick, her touch is the healing power that I need. To hold Becky's hand is both comforting and soothing to my heart and soul.
I recall a conversation I had with a friend, a number of years ago. He was going through a particularly hard time. This time even took a toll on his marriage. He told me that the problems in his marriage came as a result of no affection being shown by his wife while he was going through this tough time. He didn't mean anything sexual he just said there was never even a hug or a kiss that would clearly show her willingness to empathize with him. Her attitude seemed to be to just toughen up and deal with the problems that he faced. There is a certain amount of truth to that philosophy too. I hurt for my friend because I receive sincere affection from my wife, every single day.
Our children need us to touch them so that they can feel our love. I believe that touch is an integral part of our existance.

They Deserve

There are articles in our nation's newspapers and the news stations cover stories that involve the mistreating of children.  The thought came to my mind as I was sitting in church that our children deserve to be treated in a respectful and kind way.  I understand that they need to be talked to sternly in appropriate times to get their attention.  I am talking about the abusive behavior that some people display because they want their children to do it 'their way'. 
I have mentioned, in the past, that I was raised in a loving home where structure was apparent and expected.  My mom and dad cared deeply about one another.  I knew what the expectations were and I tried my best to adhere to those. My siblings would see it in another light, I'm sure.)  I was never verbally or physically abused in any way. 
I read about a boy who was asked to pen on paper his experience at home.  He talked about the many things about his upbringing; those were touching.  The key part of his writing was the unity of his mom and dad.  Because they were together, it brought unity to the entire family.
Our children deserve the best we can give them.  They thrive on love.  Don't let a day go by where you tell them that you love them.  More importantly is that you show them that you love them.  I know that we all can do it.  It will bring about the unity that a lot of families strive to have.

Of Course It's A Kid That Makes Me Smile

I forgot to tell you about the young man I saw at the St. Louis Cardinals' baseball game.  This boy looked to be between ten and twelve years old.  He particularly caught my attention because he rode in a motorized wheel chair.  He was able to operate the chair with his right hand.  He was a very good driver, I might add.  I wondered what his story was and what his current condition was and what the future would hold for him.  The striking part about this boy was the smile he wore on his face.  His father, I assume, walked next to his as the passed by me.  Without being an obnoxious 'stareball' I watched he and his dad for a few moments longer.  Their interaction was cute and there was no doubt of their love for one another.
I feel extremely blessed because of the people all around me in this world.  I don't know most of the people but their situations are all so different.  What a blessing it is to have people who hit their challenges 'head-on' and strive to do the best that they can for the specific situation that they call, their life.
Sunday brings me great comfort.  I try to make it a day that is noticeably different from all other days of the week.  It is a valuable time to spend with our family and to feel of each other's love.  I want to be a good example of a follower of Jesus Christ.  I want to be a person who takes my situation, of a great life, and help bless the lives of other people.  I want to be like the young man at the ball game who smiled in his own circumstances and in turn blessed my life for good.  It is my sincere desire to be all that I can be and help those whose heads hang low.  There are blessings all about us and I know that our Heavenly Father will bless those who bless my life...there are many who do.

Attitude Is Our Way To Control

I had a conversation with a man who told me about a young woman who he knows that is pregnant.  A bit of bad news came to this young woman and her husband that the baby she is carrying has some serious problems.  It caused me to think about life and the various things that we all experience.  My mind raced as I thought about the miracle of having children, even with the reality of knowing that many things can go 'wrong' during the development of a baby. 
Because there are so many things that are out of our control, in life, it becomes increasingly important to remain upbeat and optimistic. 
I shared several hours with a person who is a complete 'downer'.  I am grateful that I don't think or act that way.  It is difficult to be around a person who thinks and acts that way.
I am personally committed to being the type of person that when others are around me, they feel hopeful.  There is a lot to be said about optimism in every facet of life.
As for this young expecting mom and dad, their hope must be anchored on faith and trust that God will help them in the days and weeks ahead.  That needs to be the focus of our every day life.  Faith, hope, trust, humility.  Those are a few of the characteristics that when practiced and implemented into our own lives will help through the various challenges that we will surely face.  The other things that are in our control need to be done methodically and correctly so that our focus can be primarily placed on the obstacles that lie in front of us. 
The hopeful will always fall back on the positive.  Life is good!  Even in adversity, life is good!

Seems Like Just The Other Day

I attended a wedding reception of a newly married couple.  The bride is the youngest daughter of one of our friends.  I watched the bride and groom very carefully as we stood in the wedding line to greet them.  I watched how they treated each other and the way they interacted.  I was pleasantly pleased with their love and affection for one another.  I must say that I am 'picky' when it comes to how couples treat one another.
Let me share an example of something that has bothered me in the past and continues to do so.  Becky and I have attended weddings and there is excitement all about and the celebration of the wedding is a lot of fun.  The time comes for the cutting of the cake.  I hold my breath every time wondering if the cake portion is going to be a part of the celebration or a nightmare I wish would never happen.  You probably know what I'm going to say.  Yep, you got it.  If the wedding day is one of the greatest days in a person's life, and it's the day when the bride gets to look beautiful and the groom gets all spiffed up to look handsome, then why in the world would either a man or woman smash and smear cake and icing all over their new spouse's face?  I haven't been able to figure that out.  There isn't an explanation that someone can give me that will justify or convince me that there is anything funny or entertaining about that sort of behavior.
Now back to this wedding reception tonight.  There was complete love, gentleness, and, above all, respect for each other as husband and wife. 
It made me very happy to be a small part of their day.  I am grateful for respect and the important role that it plays in all of our lives.  I want to be known as someone who cares enough about myself and others as it pertains to showing respect...no matter what!
It seems like just the other day that Becky and I were starting our life together.  I'm grateful that she has treated me like a million bucks.  My single greatest desire is to treat her the very best that I can on any given day.   It makes life enjoyable.  I love you more than you will ever really know.  Thanks Beck!

A Memorable Visit

I need to tell you about a visit I had today.  May I preface by saying that I love to visit with people, especially the elderly, who really appreciate it.
There is an elderly man who our family has known for many years.  We have loved and enjoyed he and his wife like another set of grandparents.  One year and three months ago, this man's wife passed away.  He was saddened, of course, but has done his best to keep moving forward.  During our visit, today, we sat on the front porch and talked about life and everything that we are experiencing.  We expressed our love for one another and I felt grateful to be in his presence.  I could see that he was thrilled to have a visit and that we were able to 'catch up' on the happenings of our respective lives.
When I was a young boy, my dad was called to be a bishop in the Mormon church.  I remember that he loved to spend his time visiting the elderly and attending to their needs.  I often went with him and watched as he gently cared for them.  He was always willing to show affection for them.  Some of the widows that we visited had lost their husbands to death and probably hadn't hugged a man for many years.  I was grateful that he wasn't afraid to show affection for these old and also lonely people.
The simple visit to someone will brighten and lighten their day.  A phone call to let somebody know that you were thinking about them will bring immeasurable joy to their hearts.  Even the most simple acts, still show that you care for someone else.  The visit today blessed my life too.

Come With Us

Several weeks ago, I drove past an elementary school nearby my workplace.  I have driven past this same school hundreds of times throughout the years, but this particular time was different.  A scene, on the playground, got my attention.  Two boys walked toward a boy who was seated on the asphalt all alone.  The body language of the two boys seemed like they were confronting the single boy in a bullying sort of fashion.  I was surprised when I continued to watch what would eventually unfold.  I obviously couldn't hear the verbal exchange but the 'visual' was good enough.  The two boys stopped in front of the boy, whose head hung down, and began to speak to him.  At first, the seated boy kept his head down and appeared to say nothing.  The other boy, who was standing, exchanged words of his own and the boy's head lifted until he looked up.  One of the boy's motioned with his hand for the seated boy to come join them.  I watched for a minute longer as a boy reached out his hand to the one all alone and pulled him to his feet.  The three boys walked away together and the one who was once left alone was greeted and included by a couple who cared.
What a lesson it was for me.  I love to see other people doing good for somebody else.  I want to be like the two boys who went out of their way to befriend another.

Fair Or Unfair?

When I was a teenager, I decided on a particular weekday that I wasn't feeling up to attending school and had told my mom that I was I'll and was going to stay home from school. My mom lived by the rule that if you were too sick to go to school, then you were surely too sick to participate in any other activities on the day of the illness. There wasn't the opportunity of sudden healing once the hour arrived when school let out for the day. For some unknown reason, I thought that since there was a regional playoff church basketball game that night that she would find it in her heart to allow me to play in the game. She 'stuck to her guns' and told me that I was too ill to be playing in the game. I told her that I would not be playing in the game, only cheering on and supporting my team. (Now isn't that the biggest stretch of the truth you've ever heard?) She did allow me to go, but only as a spectator. Well, to make a long story short, I went against my word and played. Within a short amount of time, I received my second technical foul and was promptly thrown out of the game. In order to participate, the following season, I had to have permission granted from my parents and my church leaders. My parents were going to know about this incident. I went home and informed my parents of my stupidity. It was a hard lesson for me to learn. Moral of this story. Tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Do what you say you are going to do...all of the time! That one experience taught me a lesson I haven't forgotten nor will I ever forget.

He Seemed All Alone.

Between St. Louis and Kansas City, I saw a man walking all alone. He was talking on a cell phone so I figured that he was not just stranded out in the middle of nowhere. He was on a 'frontage road' on the other side of the freeway. My mind couldn't help but draw a parallel between that experience and those who are really 'walking alone' in life. Maybe some of you can relate to that path when you have felt like you were all alone. Let me first state that we are never trully alone. My heart aches for those individuals who tread the pathways of loneliness, either because of average decision-making or by no fault of their own. I have never felt completely and utterly alone. To those of you that have, I ask that you do all that you can so that others don't have to feel that same way. There are many who struggle, without even a strand of hope to hold on to, but we can be that single ray of hope that is all the help they really need. I needed a valuable reminder from the man across the freeway, to help me remember those who long for the help that they so desperately need. I want to be that help. I want to be 'in tune' so that when an urging comes to help someone else, that I will be ready. More importantly, still, is that my eyes and ears will be open and ready to react when the need of another is there. We are blessed, beyond measure!

The Blessings Are Too Many To Count

We arrived safely in Castle Rock, CO. We are grateful to be safe and to have had a good drive from St. Louis. We are so thankful for the bounty we feel in our lives. The generosity that we feel from our family is quite overwhelming at times. All we can say is thank you, thank you, thank you! We love our friends and our family.

Baseball, Hot Dogs, and Peanuts

We were given tickets to attend today's afternoon baseball game at Busch Stadium, here in St. Louis.  I love to go watch baseball in person.  It reminds me of the many games my dad took us to when we were younger.  The Oakland A's and the San Francisco Giants were both fun to watch play because there were players with names like Clark, Thompson, Uribe, Brenly, Williams, Davis, McGuire, Canseco, Eckersley, Lansford, Henderson, Cey, Jackson.  That is just to name a few.  There isn't a better professional sport to watch, in my opinion, in person.  The smell of the freshly cut grass, the immaculate lines that are chalked, the pitcher's mound grooming is a complete art form.  There is a 'buzz' with everyone at the game.
The concessions never taste better than at the ballpark.  I am anticipating this game today will be one that the boys and I will remember for a very long time.  Our seats are right behind home plate so I'm excited to hear the loud call of the home plate umpire as he calls out the 'balls and strikes'.
It's a hot and humid day here in St. Louis but the game will go on and I will be smiling, the whole time.  Play Ball!

Sing A Song

We went to the Missouri Botanical Gardens, last night, to see the beautiful Chinese lantern display all lit up.  It was stunning! 
Some friends of my brother and sister-in-law were also there with us.  One of the young boys in the family has autism.  He is such a nice ten year-old.  Toward the end of the night, the young boy approached me and asked me what song I liked to sing.  I told him that I liked to sing, "We Thank Thee, O God For a Prophet."  That is a favorite church song that I have liked since I was a young boy.  It's lyrics are enlightening and hopeful to my soul.

"We thank thee, O God for a prophet, to guide us in these latter days.  We thank thee for sending the gospel, to lighten our minds with it's rays.  We thank thee for every blessing, bestowed by thy bounteous hand.  We feel it a pleasure to serve thee.  And love to obey thy commands.  When dark clouds of trouble hang o'er us, and threaten our peace to destroy.  There is hope smiling brightly before us, and we know that deliv'rance is nigh.  We doubt not the Lord nor His goodness.  We've proved Him in days that are past.  The wicked who fight against Zion will surely be smitten at last.  We'll sing of His goodness and mercy, we'll praise Him by day and by night.  Rejoice in His glorious gospel and bask in it's life giving light.  Thus onto eternal perfection the honest and faithful will go.  While they who reject this glad message shall never such happiness know."

Each one of us has a song whose lyrics touch our very soul.  When your heart is troubled, those lyrics will act as a strength.  This young ten year-old reminded me of a favorite song and my heart is enlightened today.

A Lesson From The Golf Course

I went over to one of the local golf courses, here in St. Louis, with our oldest son Brady and a nephew.  We went to go hit a bucket of balls.  We spent a little while doing that and had an enjoyable time.  On our way to the practice putting green we walked past an instructor who was teaching several young people how to properly stand, swing, and hit a golf ball.  Because the mechanics of the game are so complex, that is quite a chore for this older gentleman.  He held out his hand to me and introduced himself as Ernest.  I, in return, told him my name and told him that it was a pleasure to meet him.  He spoke with Brady and Dixon and asked them about the game a golf.  He was a kind and pure man. 
It doesn't matter where I meet people, the reality always is the same.  There are great people all around.  I thought that Ernest was an example of a wonderful person just trying to do his best.
What an experience it was for me and the boys thought that was pretty cool, too.

I Can Learn From Young And Older Alike

We spent several hours at a community swimming club, here in the St. Louis area.  I sat and watched for a little while as kids of all ages played and enjoyed the cool water.  As I watched, I observed many different games being played.  One game was played by young kids and teenagers alike.  During the game, I noticed a young girl stand next to the side of the pool trying to get the attention of a teenage girl.  The young girl stood patiently until the teenage girl finally acknowledged her.  I could see the words mouthed from the young girl.  "Can I play?" The teenage girl nodded her approval.  The young girl fixed her goggles onto her eyes and jumped in the water next to all who were playing. 
The 'inclusion' part really put a smile on my face.  I felt grateful that this young girl had been treated kindly.  I admired the courage of the young girl for asking to do something  that she so badly wanted to do.
It doesn't matter where in the world you go, there are valuable lessons to be learned.  It was my turn in St. Louis.

I Want To Be Thankful

I believe that being thankful is one of the most important values a person can have. It is one of the attributes of a good, decent person. From the time that I was a young boy, I have heard my mom say a million times the words, "what are the 'magic' words?" I learned then that the words 'please and thank you' were extremely important. You might be asking yourself, what does this have to do with positive thinking in our lives. Here's my take on this subject. If each of us want to raise up good decent children, who will grow up to be exceptional human beings, they need to be grateful. There are very few things, in this world, that are more concerning than the reality of someone who is ungrateful. I have a strong opinion on this topic, but I feel such an urgency when it comes to our own children. I am grateful to Becky for instilling in our children the import that this characteristic will offer throughout their lives. The implementation of this divides the good from the great, in my opinion.

Puts A Smile On My Face

Today, we enjoyed the opportunity to watch a Swim Meet.  I feel impressed to share a couple of observations about things I saw at 'the meet'.  On two different occasions, during a particular heat, I watched an individual have an especially difficult time with their swim using a specific stroke.  They were much slower than the other competitors but they were still required to finish the race as to not let down their teammates or family who were there to support.  It was fun to watch all of the supporters as these individuals finished even through difficulty.
The other observation was the mass amounts of people there to support children, grandchildren, and even friends.  I always like to see support from those that care the very most.
Life, in many ways, is just that--support for one another.  I love to see love extended from one person to the next.  It is a wonderful sight. 
Our family was there to 'cheer on' our two nieces and nephew.  We enjoyed the time we spent there just like everybody else who came to encourage and cheer for those who they love.
And the night was complete at the sight of beautiful fireflies in the warm, humid air of St. Louis, Missouri.
What a time!

The Funniest Things

I love to laugh.  The feeling of being able to relieve the various stresses of life through a loud outburst from a funny joke or something that is said that is unexpected is awesome.  One of my favorite things is to hear something said from one of our children.  When they were young, they had some really funny things to say.
When our oldest was young, she would say something that seemed inappropriate, but funny, and I was quick to correct her.  As time goes on, I have come to realize that there are just some funny things that they say. Some of life's greatest moments have come from the hiliarious things that were said.  Thank heaven for those things.

Drive Because We're Free

I am so thankful that I live in the United States of America, where the freedoms we enjoy are without number.  That is the case today.  We are able to leave and travel without any problems.  We enjoy the blessing of having vehicles that run well and that we can count on to get us to the places that we want to go.  We have family that care for us and take an interest in our lives.  I feel grateful to be a citizen of a land of great promise.  God bless America!

Nothing But The Bottom Of The Net

I don't know how many of you even like the game of basketball but I thought that I would share a little something about the game as it pertains to me and my life. 
The dimensions of a traditional court is ninety-four feet in length by fifty feet in width. Like with anything in life, there are boundaries.  It is expected, by all participants, to abide by the regulations set. 
There are similar boundaries set in our own lives.  As long as certain rules are kept life seems to move forward at a pretty good clip. 
Our lives can be compared, in many ways, to the game of basketball.  There are fundamentals, that if learned, practiced, and then mastered, can aid the player in a higher level of success.  The is precisely the same with life.  There are countless opportunities to become better skilled in a certain area of life.  There are opportunities that require effort but are character builders in the end.
I love to play basketball.  These days, it's really only fun for me to play on the driveway with our kids.  There are fundamentals that can be learned to better hone your own personal skills of the game.
More important than basketball is our ability to master the things of life.  To be the very best you can be!  Day by day, a little at a time, the day will come where self-mastery is the end result.  That will take a lifetime but the hard work in the journey is worth the end result.

Feeling Great!

It's a great feeling to know that I can think clearly. There is a man I work with who struggles with mental issues and I watch him battle through those difficulties with obvious frustration. My health is something that I take for granted every day. I have never had a reason to worry about whether or not I could make good sound decisions. I believe that I say this almost every day, life is great and even in our most challenging times, there are blessings that are ours if we will look for and then recognize them. I know it's late...but I'm feeling great!

Thinking Of Somebody Else First

Another good story to share for those who want to be uplifted.  It gives me great hope for the future when I see these kinds of nice acts.

On Saturday, West Liberty-Salem (Ohio) High junior Meghan Vogel won a state title. Incredibly, that might not even be what she or anyone else remembers most about her day at the Ohio Division III track and field state meet, because she later committed one of the most selfless acts of the year on the track: She stopped running the 3,200-meter final to help along a foe who had collapsed just 20 feet from the finish line. 
As first reported by the Springfield News-Sun and Dayton Daily News, Vogel had already captured the state 1,600-meter title when she came upon Arlington (Ohio) High sophomore Arden McMath near the finish line of the 3,200-meter final. Both Vogel and McMath were out of contention for the medals in the event at that point, and rather than try and make a final, mad dash, Vogel decided she was better served helping ensure McMath made it to the finish line.
"I was kind of blacking out," McMath told the Daily News. "I wasn't too aware of my surroundings. I was just trying to keep going. When my body gave out, she was there. It was amazing.
"I just told her, 'Thank you.' I just couldn't believe she'd done that for me. We're all in it together as distance runners. Everyone is trying to do their best. It's a lot harder on your body than a lot of the other races. We just try to help each other."
The result was nothing short of electrifying, as you can see from the video above. With each step, the cheering crowd at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Stadium seemed to get louder and louder, finally reaching its zenith when McMath crossed the finish line just in front of Vogel.
In fact, even that final finishing order was Vogel's idea; after all, McMath had been ahead of her when she collapsed.
While McMath and her teammates may have been most touched by Vogel's charitable actions, the state champion insisted that she got just as much out of the charitable act.
"Helping her across the finish line was a lot more satisfying than winning the state championship," Vogel told the News-Sun.

Technically, Vogel should have been disqualified for helping McMath, as regulations call for any runners aiding another to be disqualified from their event. Yet, perhaps in line with the spirit of Vogel's touching act, Ohio officials failed to disqualify either runner, with final standings crediting McMath for a 14^th-place finish and showing Vogel crossing the line in 15^th place.
"She could have just gone around Arden," Arlington coach Paul Hunter told the News-Sun. "But she chose to help. I've never seen that at a state meet. That's real sportsmanship."

The future is bright because there are a lot of people who want to do what's right.

Time Is Flyin'

Yesterday morning at 6:45 AM, I took Natalie to Bountiful, Utah where the bus was that would drive her to Southern Utah University, in Cedar City, Utah, where she would attend Girl's State for this week. We had a nice visit but it didn't seem real that Becky and I were sending her away for the week. I also rehearsed in my mind the fact that she will be a Senior in High School. We visited and when it was time for her to board the bus, I hugged and kissed her and told her how much I loved her. I watched her walk toward the bus with steps of confidence in her stride. I got into the truck and waited until the bus drove away before I headed to work. I couldn't help but cry as a flood of memories flashed through my mind. Nata was a little girl just the other day. I used to love to get down on the floor and play with her. She was the most enthusiastic kid you would ever know. The day we moved into our home in Magna, Utah, Nat was a year and a half. Now she is a beautiful grown woman. She is delightful and full of life. She has a sincere desire to choose the right. She thinks methodically about the decisions she makes in her life. She has done that her whole life. As I drove to work, I could feel a huge lump in my throat. My emotions were clearly at the surface. I wondered if I would feel better if I would just stop the truck and have a good hard cry. Instead, my heart ached for a few minutes and then I began thinking about the great opportunity she had to learn and grow.
I am thankful for our family. It brings me peace to be surrounded by Becky and each of our children. We love to work hard together. Laughter is a constant in our home. We laugh together in a spirit of love and harmony. We work really hard to guard each other's heart. There is safety inside our home. We don't laugh at someone else's expense. We do laugh at ourselves, however. It one of the many reasons I love to go home.
The time of life speeds onward. The future is bright and we look forward to the adventures that await us on any given day. I will see Natalie in a week and be grateful to hear about the fun she has had. I continue to hang on tight and enjoy the bounty that life so kindly offers me.

Gramercy Court

A couple of weeks ago, our three youngest children--Laurel, Brady, and Danny, and I went to Sacramento,California to visit my family and more specifically, to attend the baptism of one of our neices' baptism.  On Sunday morning, we went and visited a facility for the elderly.  Because my dad is the president of the Interfaith Council of Sacramento, he has been able to 'reach out' to some parts of the community that he feels like he can best help.  This opportunity with the elderly has been a touching experience for him and our family.  It was Mother's day so my dad had asked that we be prepared to share a musical number that would uplift and bless the lives of these wonderful people who have grown accustomed to my dad coming to visit.  He teaches them something from the Bible and prays with and for them. 
It was one of those times when I felt very close to heaven.  The gratitude that these people show for coming to spend time with them was touching to me.  When we left this community (called Gramercy Court) our children expressed their thanks for the chance they had to go and love these people and watch the smiles on their faces as they listened to the beautiful songs that were shared and the words of love and encouragement that my dad shared with them.  They were deeply touched, as was I.
One major responsibility I have is to visit the poor and the needy.  The old and those who are not fully capable to care for themselves.  I hope and pray that I am fulfilling that great responsibility.  One day, I will hope that somebody is there to help me when I cannot do things for myself.
Gramercy Court was a life-changer!

Born Of Goodly Parents

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of my mom and dad.  They have always remained a huge part of my life, even if distance separates us.
Let me tell you a few things about my mom that I have admired throughout my life.  She is a very devout person.  When it comes to doing what's right, in life, there is no question with her integrity.  It's like 'right' comes very natural to her.  I have loved that about her.  Her decision-making process is very solid and sound.  The next thing I have loved, (especially as an adult) is that what she says is what she means.  Growing up you quickly realized that when she asked you to do something, there was a very good reason behind her request.  She has a solid, unbreakable 'backbone'.  No matter how long or how committed I was in my endeavor to negotiate, if she already said something, the thought had already been done and there wasn't a way of talking her out of how she felt about something.  As a kid, I didn't appreciate this quality for what it was.  As an adult, that is amazing!  Thanks for teaching this valuable lesson.  The last thing, was her immense ability to love!  When I was serving as a missionary for the LDS church, I would anticipate the weekly letter from home.  I could always identify the letter because it was in a large envelope with various decorative stamps all over the envelope.  I loved it and when I saw that envelope in the mailbox my heart raced with great excitement.  When I opened the letter, it's contents were always uplifting and she knew precisely what to say to me for that particular week.  Even though I was 5,400 miles away from home, I knew of her love for me.
My dad is the best dad in the world. (I hope all of you will be willing to argue with me about this point.)  He is a dad who has always made time for his kids.  There was/has never been a question in my mind of his undying love and admiration for my mom.  He prioritizes his time to be with his family but never neglects the other parts of his life that are important, too.  As a young child, I always remember him being willing to do things that were of interest to me, even if they didn't sound fun to him.  If he wasn't interested in something I wanted to do, he never made that known.  I just felt like he wanted to be a part of my life.  He has an ability to love and accept those people that the rest of the world would rather neglect because of their differences.  He doesn't care who you are, he loves people!  He has always been a terrific example of a follower of the Savior, Jesus Christ.  Thank you, Dad.
My parents are stalwart in the things they believe in and all that they do.  I would put them up against any parents in the entire world.  I'm not saying they're perfect, but they are wonderful people.  My desire is that I can be just like they are in many different ways.  I realize that I need to be myself but great examples are always nice to have. 
Life is great and thanks for your influence, for good, in my life.

I Love When It's Sunny

I awakened this morning to an absolutely beautiful day!  I love to see the sun. 
Several days ago, I was coming out of the grocery store (Smith's) and in front of me was a young mom with her young toddler boy.  As soon as the automatic doors sensed to open, and these two people were outside, the young boy exclaimed, "I love when it's sunny, mom!"  I couldn't help but smile.  I wanted to audibly agree with the boy but opted not to.  I thought it was very cute coming out of the mouth of a youngster but I would have really smiled had that come out of the mouth of an adult.  Children are honest and forthright with their feelings and it was nice to hear.
I love the outdoors and the majesty of the earth on which we live.  There is much to see and it's beauty is breathtaking.
Two years ago, our boys and I went camping up in the High Uinta Mountains, of Utah.  There is beauty all around.  When you're camping it feels like you're the only people around for miles and miles.  That's not actually the case but the vastness of the place makes it feel that way.  We have ventured out for a day hike and we couldn't help but notice the beautiful rock formations that we call mountains.  The surrounding greenery is stunning.  There is a spot called Bald mountain.  It is completely bald of any greenery and because of that, it sticks out as completely different from anything else.  We looked out into the distance and looked at the fluctuating dimensions of mountains in their various shapes and sizes. During our hike we came upon a small brook that had flowing water but very little.  We reached our hands into it and felt of it's cool refreshment.  I wiped the cold water onto my forehead and face.  We looked at how the water had shaped the ground as it ran calmly through the canyon.  There were few clouds in the sky but the sun shone brightly upon us. 
I especially loved the millions of stars that were visible in the nighttime.  The boys and I watched for satellites that are visible as they beam across the pitch-black sky.  We talked about things eternal.  They expressed their opinions on that and the reality of things without number or end.
We are all blessed with the same opportunity to experience life, filled with beauty all around.
I want to be like the young boy and express my thanks, audibly, for all that is given to me, even the honest exclamation, "I love when it's sunny, mom".

On My Wall

I want you to think for a few minutes. Focus on the people that mean the very most to you. Now, think about someone that you haven't thought about for a long time, who has made a positive impact on your life. I want you to think of a person that you would personally put on your 'Wall of Fame'.
I have my own wall of Fame. At the very top of this wall, are pictures of my parents and Becky's parents. These are people who influence my life, in a positive way, every day. There is a beautiful picture of my sweetheart, Becky. She is the person that I care the most about. I try to give my best because I want her to approve of the things I do and the way I act. There are pictures of each of our children. Fatherhood is such a rich blessing!
Below those pictures is a picture of my fifth grade teacher, Mr. Ivan Park. Although he is deceased, the person he was lives on in my life. Let me tell you a little bit about Mr. Park. He was a man in his late fifties or early sixties. He had been teaching school for a long time and he was loved by the kids who were privileged to have him as a teacher. When you walked into his room and sat in your assigned chair, the object hanging on the wall in the front of the class became very memorable. I can still see that large wooden paddle that he has fabricated just for the discipline of his students. I personally never saw him use it on a student, but I will never forget the loud sound it made on the top of one of the classroom desks when he was displeased with our class and demanded our undivided attention. The wood was aged and there were countless holes sporadically drilled in the board as to allow maximum airflow and aerodynamics for the hardest possible hit on a student's behind. That was the story he told and I believed it and wasn't interested in putting his story to the test. As the first few days passed by, I knew, without any doubt, that he would impact my life for good. He was strict but it was because he cared about his students and he wanted us to get the most out of what he could teach us.
He and I got on the topic of pigeons. He raised them and I knew that he had a lot of them. It was he that gave us our first two pigeons and from there we had many more. They were a fun bird to raise.
When Becky and I were first dating, I took her up to where I had lived until I was twelve. Peoa, Utah is the name of the small town. When I was young, many people farmed there. It not that way anymore but it is still a small Utah town. Becky and I drove through Peoa and I showed her around. We made our way through Peoa and drove up the hill that leads out of Peoa and in a short ways enters the town of Oakley. Mr. Park lived on a curve in the road and as we drove past his home, and I told Becky all about him, I saw him on a four-wheeler with a grandchild on the front of the vehicle. I had to stop and see him. We did stop and I reminded him of who I was and I expressed to him my deepest gratitude for the impact he had on my life. I will never forget the tears that welled up in his eyes as he thanked me for saying such nice things to him. They were all true and he deserved to hear them from one of his past students. That was the last time I ever saw him. His memory and character live on and on. I am grateful for all that he did, not only as a teacher but also as a friend.
There is someone, just like Mr. Park, in your own life. Give some deep thought to who that person is and the direct impact they had on your life. Consider putting them up on your 'Wall of Fame'. Their memory will endure and their impact helps to continuously shape who you are.