Family
The first time I went to Japan, my trip had a rough start. I flew across the Pacific ocean in seats too small and landed in Tokyo at about 4PM. I was eager to get to a comfortable hotel for a shower and a place to lay down. In my
Faith
It’s been a week since LDS General Conference. It makes me sad that the world has so much going on that can push the messages from our lives so quickly. It takes a conscious effort to not let that happen. Of all the lessons that were shared, it’s
Faith
I love this picture of Thomas S Monson as he was sitting in the congregation of the old tabernacle. It was taken in 1963 just moments before he would be sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and invited to the stand. While others sit unaware
Faith
Recently I read a speech that taught: “Perhaps the greatest indicator of character is the capacity to recognize and appropriately respond to other people who are experiencing the very challenge or adversity that is most immediately and forcefully pressing upon us.” I love this principle. I thought about all the
Family
Candace and I have coined a new phrase in our life where we need to “put our time where our testimony is” more often. In other words, instead of just talking about it, we need to search for more opportunity to serve others and learn in new experiences. Our family
Faith
I was very honored to spend the weekend with Elder Jeffrey R Holland and Elder Lynn G Robbins. It was a weekend that changed me forever, and will have a direct influence on my life and church service. I took copious notes of the teachings, and my feelings, and will
Faith
Jane has this hopeful look. Her trust increases our desire to be capable parents. “It’s never too early and it’s never too late to lead, guide, and walk beside our children, because families are forever.”
Faith
The church released a new database of Early Mormon Missionaries and I’ve been enjoying it all morning. This picture is of my stud ancestor Samuel Stucki, who was baptized 1859 in Switzerland and then came to the US one year later with his family. I’ve been trying to
Faith
I was released as Bishop today. It was a bitter sweet sacrament meeting. The opportunities to serve in that calling and to nurture good friendships are very rewarding. Being with the youth has been a regular part of my week for 7 years in the bishopric. I’ll miss that
Faith
I really appreciated this video on expiation and redemption. A nice Christmas message delivered in a different light with beautiful music. For me, it reminds me that I need to find opportunity to be more forgiving and patient.
Faith
I’m very sad to see that Elder Scott has passed away. He speaks and teaches so sincerely. I’ll miss him. I think the most appropriate tribute for him would be to memorize a new scripture. “Learning, pondering, searching, and memorizing scriptures is like filling a filing cabinet with
Faith
One of my favorite moments from the funeral of President Packer didn’t make the final video release. I thought I’d share it here since I took a screenshot during the live video. After the casket was loaded in the car in the background, Sister Packer and the family
Faith
I read this talk a couple weeks ago and have really worked to comprehend all that is taught. It’s directed my personal study since then. It was given by Neal A Maxwell in 1978 and has proven to be absolutely prophetic in the 40 years since. I highly recommend
Faith
Jeffrey R. Holland gave a devotional last week about living after the manner of happiness. I loved it. He teaches (and I agree) that people who want to be happy can not also harbor anger, be mean or act unkind. “Think and speak and act positively, that is what happy
Faith
Here is a very powerful message on bullying, how you can stop it, and especially why we should do our part to make sure it isn’t happening. If you have children (or work with youth), I hope you’ll be sure they watch this with you.