tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46785239458796620272024-03-13T04:15:02.880-06:00@RYPSKIPThe Fusion of God, Science, Music, Sports, Business, History, Personality, Literature and Entertainment to explain life according to an OptimistRYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-11689325802773958782015-11-08T00:54:00.001-07:002015-11-09T13:57:44.487-07:00The Generational Effects of Humility and Pride<div>
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This week, there was a firestorm over a policy clarification by the LDS church.
Due to the legalization of Gay Marriage in the US and other countries, new
situations have arisen that the church needed to answer enough that leaders
needed to make a blanket policy to keep the will of the Lord very clear. In
fine, gay marriage was defined as apostasy, and children of gay couples have
been given the privilege of choosing baptism for themselves after they are
legally able at the age of 18, so they don't have to ask their
"apostate" parents for consent. The reaction has been polarizing to
say the least. Most have acted as Nephi, humbly taking the revealed amendments
as God's will. Yet, many members have questioned, been angered, or felt ashamed
by giving ear to those who have pointed the finger of blame at the church!
Also, there are those who have been downright mean about it. I encountered a
few of these treasured souls on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rypskip/posts/10153317280060208" target="_blank"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">my Facebook post</span> </a>over the weekend. The gray areas
have faded to black. Which side of the line are you on? Here's my
admonishment to all those looking for answers:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana";"><u><span style="font-size: large;">THE BOOK OF MORMON: a guide
for our time</span></u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Do you
think it is by chance that the Book begins with the story of a Prophet (Lehi)
receiving a hard revelation (to move his family from Jerusalem), and his
family's subsequent polar opposite reactions to that revelation? Nephi, humbly
submissive and trusting in the prophet, not only obeyed, but risked his life
numerous times for that revelation. Laman, full of pride, disagreed. He thought
he had a better plan, that Lehi was a visionary man. How, oh how, could
Jerusalem, that great city be destroyed? Well Lehi left J<span style="background: white;">erusalem in 600 BC, Jerusalem was plundered in 597 BC,
Nephi arrived in the Americas in 592 BC, and in 587 BC </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solomon%27s_Temple" title="Solomon's Temple"><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Solomon's Temple</span></a><span style="background: white;"> was
destroyed. Its quite possible Nephi had a temple constructed in the Americas
before Solomon's temple was ruined. Had Lehi listened to those pointing their
fingers and mocking, staying in Jerusalem, we wouldn't have the Book of Mormon.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">As the
story goes, Nephi continued this habit of humility, and God helped him and his
progenitors through the 1000-year history, as long as they humbly sought God's
guidance. When deferring to God's will, they were blessed with peace, success,
clarity, revelation above their mind's origination and God made up for their
weaknesses by adding strength. When pride set in, as it did in the beginning
for Laman, they were left to their own human reasoning, without the vision and
eternal perspective. They became carnal, savage, cold, hateful and even blood-thirsty.
Laman leaves the safe haven of the gospel every chance he gets and he always
gets stung! How clear do the words need to be? Don't leave!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Like I
said I was bombarded today with haters. I was called every swearword in the
book for standing up for agreeing and voicing my support for the prophet...
wait... that kind of sounds familiar...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">OH
YEAH! Lehi! Continuing on with the first story in the Book of Mormon, Lehi
speaks of a vision he received regarding the Tree of Life (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">1 Ne 8</span></a>). In that vision <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Lehi,
guided by Christ, finds a tree with the most sensational fruit! After trying
it, he wants everyone he loves to try it as well! He looks for them and sees
a rod of iron along a strait and narrow path through the mists of darkness that
enshroud men. He sees his family and beckons them to come. Much of his family
arrives at the tree at eats the fruit, but the ever prideful Laman and Lemuel
refuse. His family, filled with joy, ushers in multitudes of others to come and
partake of the fruit and they do! Then (v. 27-28), in the distance, a great and
spacious building is described. "I</span>t was filled with people... in
the attitude of mocking, pointing their fingers towards those
who had come and partaken." I kind of imagine the Wynn in Las Vegas, with
Electronic Dance Music blaring out of it (that would get my attention for
sure). Some, after they had arrived AND partaken were "ashamed",
because they turned their eyes from the tree (which notably represents the Love
of God), quickly forget the sweetness of the fruit and are mesmerized by those
that are scoffing at them; and tragically, they fall
away into forbidden paths and are lost while seeking their way to that
floating building. How clear is this parallel?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Is it
by mistake that the first few pages of the Book of Mormon are there to remind
us that there are mists of darkness that will cloud our view to make it to
the tree, only to be defeated by the continuous grasping of the Rod of Iron
(The word of God)? Or that the Great and Spacious building (The World)
will always be there to mock those partaking weekly of God's love? </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Thus, regarding the children who everyone is up in
arms about, let us notice (V. 23) "</span><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">they who had commenced in the path</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> did
lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost". Does this not
parallel the theoretical situation of an 8-year-old kid who has gay parents,
who outwardly oppose the prophet's counsel against their marriage; yes that
very prophet he will say he believes in during his interview before the
baptism. The day he "commences his path" in baptism, he will also go
home to a mist of confusion. Every single week for 10+ years, that child will
spend 165 hours in a home with parents who have acted in opposition to follow
the prophet (a commitment he made at baptism) and will spend 3 hours partaking
of eternal doctrines that oppose his gay parent's union. No matter the
faithfulness of his leaders, family and especially his parents, the odds of
such a child "holding to the rod" are nearly insurmountable. The
vision says this child would be "Ashamed" and "Lost in forbidden
paths." Is this new policy not a merciful one that would keep such torture
out of the life of an 8-year-old child?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">How
wonderful is the Book of Mormon, translated by the miracle of a 3rd grade
education, with the depth of Deity. Is it not God that gave that humble
14-year-old boy Joseph an answer, because he trusted in the most recent
scripture given to him? How gracious is God to the humble who ask for help? In
contrast, how abandoned do the prideful feel when things don't go the way they
think they should.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Are you going to question the Prophet? From the depths of my
soul, I urge anyone who has any question whether the LDS church's policies are
"discriminatory, unfair, or uninspired" to crack open the Book of
Mormon (grab hold of the Rod), get on your knees (arrive at the tree), and
HUMBLY ask God if LDS leadership is inspired. Partake of the Fruit, I urge you!</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">You'll feel God's love wash over you, and you'll know. Keep
eating! And by all means, don't leave!</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana";"><u><span style="font-size: large;">A TALE
OF PRIDE: 2 sisters and their fate</span></u><br />
</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana";"><br /><span style="background-color: white;">
The topic of Apostasy hits close to home for me. I won't bore you with the
personal details. I will however share what I have learned from a couple of
personal experiences in dealing with apostate Mormons. I've learned to
recognize the causes and effects, and how the choices of prideful parents can
ripple through generations harming dozens.</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
First, is a true story about the beautiful families of two dynamic sisters and
how pride affected one, and humility the other. To keep things anonymous, one
was brunette (we'll represent the pride side with her) and one was blonde (lets
represent the humble side with her). Get it? Dark Side vs. Light Side?</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
Both of these beautiful sisters were raised with high expectations and lived up
to these expectations throughout their formative years. The brunette fell in
love with a brilliant man. This man was so smart, he found he could smart his
way through life without asking much help from God. A genius, he can tell you
where every single scripture is on the page and quote it from memory. Prideful,
this bright mind became self-dependent, needless of the opinions of others and
thinking he himself knew the will of God. His way was the right way. He always
sought positions and wanted everyone to know just how smart he was. His
beautiful brunette wife and he began to raise a family. Money and appearance
was always important to he and his children. They piled on the debt to try to
appear wealthy before they had the means.</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
Right next door lived the blonde sister and the humble, hard working man she
fell in love with. This man, in contrast, loved and trusted in God more than himself.
His genius was based on his ability to pray and seek God's direction for his
family. He gave no ear to those who questioned his faith or mocked his humble
beginnings. He had a quiet confidence about him and raised his family to love
God, the Prophet, the Church and to trust that Christ led His church. This man
and his stalwart wife knew and recognized they had weaknesses and humbly
depended on God to make up the difference for them. Through hard determined
work, they slowly started putting money away. They never lived beyond their
means, not caring what the outside world thought of their appearance.</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
Lets fast forward 30 or so years from the time these sisters were next-door
neighbors. Both sisters had homes full of kids. Both families had talented children
born to them. Both families continued in their habits to live by pride, or
humility as aforementioned. As you could easily foresee, the brunette's family
struggled through life. Although they had the big houses in the nicest
neighborhoods, drove the nicest cars and had the nicest attire, the truth is,
they had nothing! The prideful husband had to turn to illegal means to provide
for his family. He was called to leadership positions in the church and taught
his opinions from the pulpit. Having been reprimanded by his stake president,
he continued to preach his own philosophies mingled with scripture.
Unrepentant, he earned himself a church disciplinary council. What's worse, his
pride told him not to attend. Kids, if there's one thing you can't do, its not
show up to your disciplinary council. He was excommunicated. Of course from his
view, and the view of his family, HE was the victim. They hold to the story
that he was sought out and has a gift. Today he lives in hiding. Only his
immediate family knows his address. In fact he has separated himself from his
birth family all together! Sadly, He has forced the brunette and his children
into his cavern with him, living by his strange laws. They are forbidden from
conventional medicine, as well as relationships with her sister and parents.
His children are filled with hate and envy for their cousins. He pays
everything with cash and coupon cards, to keep him anonymous. His children are
ashamed of his story, yet too set in the cycle of pride to do anything about
it. His children have struggled through their own marred relationships with
failed relationships of all kinds. A true tragedy that even Shakespeare
couldn't write: The product of pride!</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
The blonde's family has enjoyed success that can only be attained by divine
intervention. Their worthy trust in God has allowed them to ascertain wealth
enjoyed by very few. Of course, they share that wealth with open hands.
Charitable donations a plenty, children with professional degrees, happy
marriages, and bright-eyed grandchildren. Their home's hard earned walls show
state championships, awards, accomplishments, and hundred of smiling memories
as a family. He has been is leadership positions, teaching and holding to
doctrines that Christ taught. They both maintain a close relationship with
their honey-sweet parents, children and grandchildren. Paramount is their
relationship with God. The community holds them both in highest regard for all
that they have accomplished in life. Yet they still humbly return to their
knees each night, pleading for God to heal their ailments and weaknesses. God
blesses them with his grace for trusting him to make up the difference for what
they lack. Over time, they've accomplished more using humility than the
brunette's family could ever imagine using their pride.</span><br />
<br /><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u>
NEXT GENERATION UP: setting straight what their parents did not</u></span></b><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
Finally, is a quick explanation of two children who came from homes where their
fathers were excommunicated. Again, I speak from the perspective of a personal
witness to this.</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
There was a wonderfully intellectual man with a supportive wife. They had 6
gorgeous children. He studied and worked at universities and companies across
the country and had the ideas of the world bombarding him non-stop. He loved
his daughters with all his heart. One of his daughters had a run in with
officials at Ricks College (Now BYU-Idaho, in Rexburg, a church owned school).
He, with pride in his daughter and acceptance of everyone in his profession,
wouldn't accept that the officials could possibly have merit. His anger
festered so much that he decided to leave the church (there's more to it, but
pride is the main thing to focus on here). He went so far as to not allow his
daughters to attend seminary, and wouldn't let those turning 8 to be baptized!
The mother did her very best to raise her family in the gospel and give her
children the very basics, but the conflict in the home over religion left
lasting questions and confusions in his daughter's minds.</span><br />
<br /><span style="background-color: white;">
One of those daughters went off to college and found a humble, hard working,
worthy husband (who came from a family with a repentant father who had
committed egregious mistakes and made his way back). After a year, they were
married. This young husband would get up every day, study scriptures, pray, and
go to church solo on Sundays. In the beginning, his wife, the daughter of the
apostate father, didn't really see those basic things with much importance.
However, over time, his goodness of this penitent father's son began to awaken
his wife's spirit. The vacuum that had been created by her father's pride was
filled as she humbly dove into full activity in the church. The false teachings
she had been brainwashed with were healed by her new understanding and a new
eternal perspective. 35 years later, they are the worlds happiest parents and
grandparents. She grew into the biggest fish in her pond, but don't tell her
that. She lives humbly, having served weekly in the temple for years. He has
had a successful career in his field and continues humbly working and serving
the Lord. They are currently serving a mission together and weekly report about
the successes they see in the lives of those they are teaching. Oh the
blessings of humility!</span><br />
<br /><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">TRUST IN A MERCIFUL GOD</span></u></b><br /><br /><span style="background-color: white;">
Bottom line: God loves us. He wants to bless us all. We have to ask for it! We
are all affected by our parent's actions, yes. But what really matters is how
we encounter life and how we play the cards we've been dealt. We all have
weaknesses and strengths. If we act as the humble husbands above, those
weaknesses become strengths by grace and we can truly accomplish anything! If
we look at life through prideful, know-it-all eyes, we'll stay right where we
are. Our progression would stop with our pride. Those children born to
sinful parents are not "punish</span><span style="background-color: white;">ed" by their parent's prideful actions. <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">The 2nd Article of Faith was written with eternity
in mind. </span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><br />
As Elder Christofferson stated: "Nothing is lost for them in the
end". </span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">"Where much is given, much is
required." Therefore, If nothing is given, nothing is required! If a child
from a gay marriage home dies without baptism, Christ would make up the
difference the same way He makes up the difference for children who die before 8.
The child didn't choose its fate (the gay parents did), and we're only
accountable for our own choices. </span>T</span><span style="background-color: white;">he church just added a new policy. Do
you humbly accept it? If you're questioning, are you trusting God to make up
the difference? I hope so! Because, trust me. You don't want to be like that
poor prideful apostate old man in a dark cave, abandoned by the adversary.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Here's
Elder Christofferson's (who has a gay brother that he loves very much) explanation
of the updated policy if you haven't seen it yet: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana"; line-height: 18.2px;">If you're having doubts, doubt your doubts. If you're not having doubts, do what you can to understand where those advocating gay marriage are coming from. Be firm and assertive, but respectful of their views and ask for respect for your own. I bear testimony that Christ is the head of the LDS church, the it is led by a true prophet, that the Book of Mormon is a guide to our time, that through humble application of the gospel we can overcome our weaknesses, and that through prayer, we can receive comforting answers to the problems and questions we encounter in life.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana"; line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="line-height: 18.2px;">Additional Study:</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana"; line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="line-height: 18.2px;">https://clarityforall.wordpress.com/2015/11/06/lets-set-a-few-things-straight/</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana"; line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="line-height: 18.2px;">https://www.lds.org</span></span><br />
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RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-15757204228481660772015-01-09T21:49:00.001-07:002015-01-11T20:14:31.115-07:00Choose Your Love, Love your Choice; no matter the result<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_8ZkSBuLmh_9WIl2PpbrtoUQBpeWY6nAB7XAjLOLWCemhOF5aPrt9Lsr-Yv-zW5_fSWhlG36DfttmEcCmD_15nzeKInH8ZMwRYTnv3JT9B13cv9k0ToHmpz9PzXvZe-q8tcl6CbxQnw/s1600/ChristWalkingOnWater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_8ZkSBuLmh_9WIl2PpbrtoUQBpeWY6nAB7XAjLOLWCemhOF5aPrt9Lsr-Yv-zW5_fSWhlG36DfttmEcCmD_15nzeKInH8ZMwRYTnv3JT9B13cv9k0ToHmpz9PzXvZe-q8tcl6CbxQnw/s1600/ChristWalkingOnWater.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Recently, I was asked to be one of the men "The Bachelorette" gets to <b>choose</b> from this upcoming spring 2015 season. While I was flattered, I didn't exactly see myself finding love through reality TV and I chose to decline last minute. It has, however, been a cool experience getting to know the casting process over the past 6 months. Their questions made me reflect on how fortunate I am to know what it takes to find love. I've learned through trial and error what works. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A recent report said that over 70,000 LDS young single adults (ages 24-35) slipped out of church activity in 2014. Many reported they left for feelings of loneliness and depression. </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I see thousands of frustrated singles of all beliefs in my travels and I've gathered that many don't know how to progress a relationship. Some seem distracted by the plethora of options, careers, and hobbies. Others feel hopeless as the gray hairs creep in or fall out, without caress. A common theme I see is the Fear of making the wrong </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">choice</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. The following is a formula to help dissipate those Fears using </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Agency</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/ensign/2007/09/seek-learning-by-faith?lang=eng" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Faith</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, and </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng#3-" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Prayer</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />"<b>Choose</b> your Love; Love your <b>Choice</b>." Words that sunk deep into my heart when I heard LDS President Thomas S. Monson say them in the <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/priesthood-power?lang=eng" target="_blank">April 2011 Priesthood session</a>. I recommend listening to his advice before proceeding <i>(8:43 to the end he addresses Singles specifically)</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As a 20-something LDS guy, who has paid for that first date hundreds of times, had a handful of girlfriends, been engaged once, and even been married, ending in agreement to annul; my experience has allowed me to understand what it takes to get married. Simply put, what it takes is Faith in <b><u>Choice</u></b> or <u><b>Agency</b></u>, the greatest gift Heavenly Father has given us. In fine, if you're worried about choosing the wrong person, you're focused on the wrong thing. The right <b>choice</b> is to <u>MAKE A <b>CHOICE</b></u>. The wrong <b>choice</b> is to sit by and let opportunities to love and grow pass you by.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is my <b><u>Guide to Making Marriage Happen</u></b>:</span><br />
<ol><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<li>Make a list of people you're interested in. Prayerfully whittle the list down to one.</li>
<li>Go to the Lord with a <b>Choice</b> of one you've <b>chosen</b> to date: Humbly ask "Father, I <b>choose</b> this person! I love this <b>Choice</b>. Please help me take this relationship as far as I can. I won't quit until it isn't the best <b>choice</b> if it be Thy will." Pay attention to your feelings and listen for approval.</li>
<li>Trust Him that He will stop something before it goes too far if it isn't what is best for you both.</li>
<li>Take action! Get the number, ask them out, be creative, have an open heart. Love fully!</li>
<li>Don't give up. Unless you get a "No," trust in your <b>agency</b>. If it is to end, make sure it isn't you going back on your <b>choice</b>. Take it as far down the road as you can.</li>
</span></ol>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Here's how that formula has blessed my life, or essentially my love-life in a nutshell. It has proven to bring me happiness and many great, healthy friendships and relationships with members of the opposite sex over the years: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">While preparing to finish my mission in Brazil, I was weighing out going to SUU or BYU at the beginning of 2008. I prayed about SUU (where my best dating option at the time was in school) and didn't feel good about it. I then prayed about BYU and got a "Yes" answer. Obviously, returned missionaries are focused on getting married the second they touch down so it was a faithful leap to follow that "Yes" away from the girl. I started classes at BYU and tried to maintain a long distance relationship with that girl of my <b>choice</b>. After a couple of months I went to the temple about her and I certainly got a "Yes" that I could marry her and be happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">However, SHE <b>chose</b> to end things just weeks after that revelation at the tail end of a wonderful night. I was puzzled! How in the world?! THE LORD SAID YES TO ME! I spent the next few months trying to figure out how to maybe impress her into getting back with me or whatever but she was on a whole different level than I was. She went on to marry a guy at SUU and has achieved a beautiful young family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Broken hearted, I tried my best to get those butterflies with other girls. It took a while before I felt anything, and I broke some hearts along the way myself. There were certainly great options, and I definitely passed up on some absolute gems. I helped 3 of those gems go on missions, rather than pursuing something serious with them. Almost selfishly, I wanted time to heal, rather than diving in on that "<b>choice</b>" again. I was afraid to be vulnerable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Then there was the night I met my ex-whatever-we-aren't (annulments are a strange anomaly where there needs to be a word between ex-fiancé and ex-wife/hubby created to define it). Finally I felt butterflies again, but chickened out on getting her number. In fact, it took me TWO YEARS to get up the courage to ask for her number.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">During those two years, she had moved away to Arizona and only become more beautiful, which I witnessed over Facebook as my roommates and friends of the time can attest. I continued to date around, kisses and mistakes a plenty. Again I passed on numerous opportunities "waiting for the right person" or "waiting for the right timing." What I now realize is that had I "<b>Chosen</b>" any one of those girls, I would have been just as happy. Let me explain:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">2011: President Monson's advice above, "<b>Choose</b> your Love, Love your <b>Choice</b>." I became determined to make a list of "<b>Choices</b>" and to go to the Lord with the name of ONE who I would faithfully pursue as far as it could go. I assembled quite the roster of prospects that year, each of whom is now happily married to another lucky guy! September came, and to my surprise Arizona girl moved back just a few buildings away from my Belmont apartment. I was much more mature and courageous, however I still felt she was out of my league. I certainly inserted her into the top of my list. We played the "Facebook Like" dance and played the "Oh hey" game at social events for the next couple of months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Then it hit me. Man Up! It's time to "<b>CHOOSE</b>!" I took a good hard look at my options and determined, without even going on a first date with her yet, that I would go to the Lord and ask him to help me make it happen.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>"Father, I </i><u style="font-style: italic;">choose</u><i> her! I love this <u>choice</u>. Please help me take this relationship as far as I can. I won't quit until it isn't the best <u>choice</u> for us if it be Thy will." </i></b></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">With His approval of my righteous desire, I had confidence that I could "<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/philip/4.13" target="_blank">Do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me</a>." It turns out, she was having similar prayers at the time. She had recently experienced heartbreak of her own and was asking for divine guidance. She was blessed with a vivid dream during a Falltime Sunday nap at her parent's house and saw my face. She woke up, definitively told her parents she was going to find me, and we locked eyes at a dessert party that night. It was amazing how quickly things progressed from there! We both had a certain confidence about us, because we were following God's advice and had <b>Chosen </b>to follow it. I finally manned up and asked her out around Thanksgiving and we dated all of December. I quickly gained parental favor by being there to help her move in the snow (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/17.21-25?lang=eng" target="_blank">think Ammon and Lamoni</a>). To that point, it was the best first 5 dates of my life, best first kiss of my life; it all seemed so magical!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Just as all couples do, we had our first tests. She had options and things she wanted to do before getting serious and seemed to lose interest. In the meantime, I kept dating around but I was determined to make it work and waited that month out. Enter February, the time for both of us! We both felt it. I was "the best friend [she'd] ever had" (her words). She was all I'd ever wanted. The marriage discussion came soon and I went to the temple, again. <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng#3-" target="_blank">Instead of a "Yes" the Lord gave me a "Keep Going" answer</a>. Remember, I had ALREADY made a <b>choice</b> and He had ALREADY signed off on that before my first date with her. I was my Bishop's executive secretary at the time and he guided me to where I needed to be personally to prepare for marriage. My stake president, a longtime friend of her dad, offered his blessing, gave me specific guidance and challenged me to bless that family's life with my faith.</span><br />
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I did just that! Full of excitement, we were engaged, married and sealed just 6 months after our first date. The highest honor of my life was kneeling across the altar and pledging my forever to my best friend. That was a very emotional day! I blubbered like a baby through the entire ceremony. She and the members of her family who attended were probably thinking "This dude is a wreck!" After the ceremony I went into the dressing room, knelt down and felt the most surreal hug as I gave thanks to God for blessing me with my <b>choice</b>. He was proud of me! "You did it!" I heard Him say. It all started with that <b>CHOICE</b>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Believe it or not, I loved being married! To that point, I had never been happier in my life. There's a certain peace that comes to your mind as you make a home with someone else. The advantage of being sealed in the temple is that you can <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/the-eternal-blessings-of-marriage?lang=eng#watch=video" target="_blank">envision the eternities</a> with your spouse. I was very proud to have a wife and very proud of her work, her job, her family, her interests. For proof, ask me about <a href="http://www.sunset.com/garden/flowers-plants/great-peony-varieties" target="_blank">peonies</a></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> and designer brands like <a href="http://www.katespade.com/" target="_blank">Kate Spade</a> or <a href="http://www.toryburch.com/" target="_blank">Tory Burch</a>. I was extremely motivated in ways that I'd never felt before. I'd say 95% of the time was enjoyable, the other 5% was work. That's just how life is! I echo Elder Scott's sentiments on marriage (click for the full discourse, its worth it!):</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00784314); color: #2f393a; font-size: 15.4545450210571px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/the-eternal-blessings-of-marriage?lang=eng#watch=video" target="_blank">It is so rewarding to be married. Marriage is wonderful. In time you begin to think alike and have the same ideas and impressions. You have times when you are extremely happy, times of testing, and times of trial, but the Lord guides you through all of those growth experiences together.</a>"</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">
Like every newlywed couple, she and I had our eye-opening differences. Nothing was irreconcilable but i</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">t wasn't long before we each realized we hadn't married into what we had hoped. Our goals were universes apart which numbered our days</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">; the marriage didn't last long. </span><a href="http://rypskip.blogspot.com/2013_03_01_archive.html" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">No matter how much I desired to do so and tried</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, expectations went unfulfilled and her </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">agency</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> led her to want a different life than I could offer her. I would have done anything to "<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng#3-" target="_blank">Keep Going</a>" but just like that first girl from when I came home from my mission, I had learned to respect </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Agency</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Abruptly, that cold, dark winter night we agreed to part ways and to be friendly, knowing we would be going back to the same group of mutual single friends as before. I helped her to her car with her things and with tears in our eyes we hugged for the last time, and said our final goodbyes, agreeing that we would work together to get things annulled. After all, she was my best friend! She drove away and strangely enough I felt a weight lift off of my shoulders. I still did my best to hold to my marriage covenant with her until everything was finalized. I had </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chosen</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> My Love, and Loved My </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Choice</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">... all the way to the end of that relationship. Although truly heartbroken, I was noticeably optimistic about it because I understood the power of </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Choice</b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">!</span><br />
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As a former husband (my best definition of "annulee"), I get asked questions all the time: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"So do you feel like you married the wrong person?"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"Do you hate her?"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"What went wrong?"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"What's the real story?"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"Are the rumors true?"</i> (I've heard everything under the sun about us both,<b><i> "NO!" They're not!</i></b>)</span><br />
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The fact of the matter is that I married the person I <b>CHOSE</b>. I made the right <b>choice</b>, TO <b>CHOOSE</b>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I love that <b>CHOICE</b> and I still cherish the fact that we, together, had the courage to make that jump! To be honest I'll never stop loving that former best friend and hoping the best for her and those around her. A Breakup is not a failure. A Breakup proves that you have Hope and Courage. It proves you know how to be Open, Vulnerable and how to Love someone else. It proves you have the guts to care for someone else no matter the circumstance. It means you've learned Patience and Charity for someone else in their weakness, and you're Humble, Meek, and Willing to Work to perfect your own weaknesses. All those capitalized words above are Beattitudes, not vices.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">To <a href="http://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2015/01/04/bts-espn-anchor-stuart-scott-dies.espn" target="_blank">paraphrase the late inspirational ESPN anchor Stuart Scott</a>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>"When you die, it doesn't mean you lose... <span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; line-height: 30px;">You [win] by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live. So live! Live! Fight like hell!"</span></b></i></span></blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I would say the same of Love. When it ends, you have not lost. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If your heart aches, you know that the love was real. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you loved fully, made someone else your "why", gave </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;">everything you had to make them happy and lived to ensure their comfort, then you can go to bed at night, rest assured, that you gave it everything you had. The last 2 years, as those around me have noticed, I've had no trouble sleeping at night. </span><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/alfredlord153702.html" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">"</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/alfredlord153702.html" target="_blank">Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all"</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> as the saying goes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The end of a relationship doesn't have to be ugly. In fact, it can open new doors to greater opportunities! I've been able to maintain close friendships with almost everyone I've ever courted AND their families AND their friends. I believe in Strength of Schedule, like in college football. If my exes are dating great guys, they are making me look great! I hope everyone I've been close with is better for it and that they are able to make positive </span><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">choices</b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> and remain faithful. My cousin divorced one of my best friends and they are still close friends. It is a beautiful thing to see two people who love beyond their pride. It has made things easier for everyone around them. They realize they're best as friends and support each other in their endeavors to remarry, rather than tear each other down and spread falsehoods about each other with the small-minded perspective that if an ex-lover is a failure, they're somehow vindicated; exonerated from blame. But why blame? Absolutely, the relationships and experiences I've gained since my annulment are some of the most cherished of my life. I could never question God's purpose for me being single again. I've been too blessed with too many new friendships and opportunities to "blame."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have to chuckle when people who have never tried or been through the above complain, judge, spread rumors, or look down on those who have stepped up to the plate and become vulnerable. I feel like Robin William's character </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEIQSbul9Os&feature=youtu.be" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Sean McGwire in Good Will Hunting</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> at those times (<i><b><u>End it at 3:03, </u></b></i></span><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><u>language warning after that</u></b></i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">).</span><br />
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So with all that explanation, here's the Guide to Making Marriage Happen, again:</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Make a list of people you're interested in. Prayerfully whittle the list down to one.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Go to the Lord with a <b>Choice</b> of one you've <b>chosen</b> to date: Humbly ask "Father, I <b>choose</b> this person! I love this <b>Choice</b>. Please help me take this relationship as far as I can. I won't quit until it isn't the best <b>choice</b> if it be Thy will." Pay attention to your feelings and listen for approval.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Trust Him that He will stop something before it goes too far if it isn't what is best for you both.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Take action! Get the number, ask them out, be creative, have an open heart. Love fully!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Don't give up. Unless you get a "No," trust in your <b>agency</b>. If it is to end, make sure it isn't you going back on your <b>choice</b>. Take it as far down the road as you can.</span></li>
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I promise that this process yields results. Whether it simply ends after your first date (as it most often does), or things end just before your attempts to have kids (like me), or you end up with kids and things end years into the marriage (wow, that must be hard), or of course you've found the Happy Ever After that we all desire; there are blessings to be had along the way if you will simply <b>Choose</b> your Love, and Love your <b>Choice</b>.</span><br />
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RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-20452046986344730422014-10-09T02:32:00.000-06:002014-10-09T16:28:35.635-06:00Gaining Eternal Momentum<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-Y1SeUDQWbsN5-tNKMfLzGgQ6OrLQjm1gsJavHuSgeXDvtNq_elWQVU0qBb0-s7TacWDSDUdaya1uhiRv2aMCze2d-jNn2efKvoOZxhVkS0b-T3u9FfkcsUblRPpFAfHv5P_YLN4hH8/s1600/received_m_mid_1412034540425_46586d91ae84b3ef78_0.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-Y1SeUDQWbsN5-tNKMfLzGgQ6OrLQjm1gsJavHuSgeXDvtNq_elWQVU0qBb0-s7TacWDSDUdaya1uhiRv2aMCze2d-jNn2efKvoOZxhVkS0b-T3u9FfkcsUblRPpFAfHv5P_YLN4hH8/s1600/received_m_mid_1412034540425_46586d91ae84b3ef78_0.jpeg" /></a><br />
One of my favorite movies is The Dark Knight Rises. In the film there's a key moment where a recuperating Bruce Wayne has to jump across a huge chasm to get back out of a pit to save Gotham. He tries leaping over a chasm a couple of times with a rope attached to his waist, comes up short and hurts himself twice. The rope, a symbol of safety "just in case" he were to come up short, held him back from getting across the chasm. The third time, he ditched the rope and leans on momentum created by his faith and self belief; taking his body forward just enough to make it across. This is a microcosm of our earthly experience. Life is full of these chasms and full of struggles. We attempt to overlook them by setting goals and achieving milestones. We live by them and look forward to them. Sweet 16, graduation, church missions, college, marriage, kids. Whether we're checking off a list, crossing out days, or making resolutions we always start from a beginning. Often we use January 1st, the end of a quarter, or Sundays as a fresh start to these milestones.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphFSIneKVsjRd6MT6VkqQK5Vo-1iGTLbtdBRR3rHmcHTOXsUz6KD8WpwxM_Dm9PO02KteNYja-5Lst_PxGXOKpbqJwET52fHCSsu3_dc49Uktvk5PeT5GnGtkGk018yfUyWQGGFC41t8/s1600/imgres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphFSIneKVsjRd6MT6VkqQK5Vo-1iGTLbtdBRR3rHmcHTOXsUz6KD8WpwxM_Dm9PO02KteNYja-5Lst_PxGXOKpbqJwET52fHCSsu3_dc49Uktvk5PeT5GnGtkGk018yfUyWQGGFC41t8/s1600/imgres.jpg" /></a></div>
One thing we forget with such road signs in our lives is that we came from somewhere. For example, while flying to a tropical island vacation, we forget the importance of our home for those few days when in reality where we're from has more to do with who we really are. <br />
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The same goes with our short time here on Earth. We came from somewhere before this life. We made choices that put us where we are here. Those choices continue to gain momentum as we progress through our lives and each of our choices will forever affect our eternity. Yet there's times we get distracted from our eternal roots, forget who we really are and lose sight of what our real potential is. These are the times when we're vulnerable to make decisions that will impede our eternal momentum...</div>
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<b>Momentum</b> is the product of <b>Velocity</b> and <b>Mass</b>. Velocity is speed measured <i><b>in a given direction</b></i>. Mass is commonly defined as <i>matter</i> or <i>weight</i>. So if we desire to gain momentum, we need to add the right material into our lives as we continually jet in a certain direction.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VaHLe-YZLnmo4tE8Qs4gZS6f02Kungh_OYw39tD-7UAGMf_VeE9L-rq4LOH2XKxhWkD1Ez_HHFmBgHIjXpNr6v1QQOFEvADlPs5xCfq8YTdHed3KCuknYRxIJUr15TOAFFdmuEUEapY/s1600/imgres.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VaHLe-YZLnmo4tE8Qs4gZS6f02Kungh_OYw39tD-7UAGMf_VeE9L-rq4LOH2XKxhWkD1Ez_HHFmBgHIjXpNr6v1QQOFEvADlPs5xCfq8YTdHed3KCuknYRxIJUr15TOAFFdmuEUEapY/s1600/imgres.png" /></a>This life is full of things out there that would impede our momentum. Scientifically speaking, these are things that cause us to lose direction, lose "mass", or slow our growth. Included in the long list of impediments are temptations, pride, those who seek to destroy lives while Satan manipulates their own, trials, misunderstandings, confrontations, lack of support, among many others. The fact of the matter is that if you haven't built enough momentum to withstand these bumps in the road, then they'll slow you down greatly, or perhaps even cause you to stop moving all together. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zbevGsM-ZAcRqaTwHSygUh8Rthzjo0KkDhPqIcEtNt5Vu-bi997gNF846_ukz1gPrnfNF5aZXLXA2RLVtyyeX4iZkLuQpWFZhg5GYiwPpxhpoFC2QIuI6Ztr0BMYN8bnVxMMLU5VoRM/s1600/10703611_10152680543326550_7632390353452037294_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zbevGsM-ZAcRqaTwHSygUh8Rthzjo0KkDhPqIcEtNt5Vu-bi997gNF846_ukz1gPrnfNF5aZXLXA2RLVtyyeX4iZkLuQpWFZhg5GYiwPpxhpoFC2QIuI6Ztr0BMYN8bnVxMMLU5VoRM/s1600/10703611_10152680543326550_7632390353452037294_n.jpg" height="320" width="195" /></a><br />
So what <b>matter</b> do we build our lives out of to withstand these roadblocks? In the Book of Mormon there's a passage that gives clarity, in Helaman 5:12:<br />
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"<i>It is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.</i>" <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULP9yulk6sYIsyvCb5J6JyndrWIX4tTT-tE6u_w69wAJSI81XQKXDYGe4-7lg3Hn1xLQgMHZLCc8KtSNY0abWrX_0PBPsnFav8Dlvkq3DjrrSDMACNb3WjvJz0DnNDayX62wH6EVNi50/s1600/IMG_19705202906136.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2Icwxv5XZjm3TeojKZGe9wS_cvlY5qnpyVKcjeqeN0-bGXdG4dMRvG6n5u_OP2LQbPZuD1keUuenRJzWhiabQPnu-rgRY-NgHzzJcnWHRgruV95g9sgl1-avqVfLgdXi4iaNmB-hhHA/s1600/7e287bb0f1774df717befe5c949b0cde+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2Icwxv5XZjm3TeojKZGe9wS_cvlY5qnpyVKcjeqeN0-bGXdG4dMRvG6n5u_OP2LQbPZuD1keUuenRJzWhiabQPnu-rgRY-NgHzzJcnWHRgruV95g9sgl1-avqVfLgdXi4iaNmB-hhHA/s1600/7e287bb0f1774df717befe5c949b0cde+(1).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>Simply put, there is only <b>one</b> direction and <b>one</b> matter that provides us with that perfect momentum necessary to make it through everything life throws at us. Christ!<br />
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The direction to follow was a path established by Christ: His gospel of Faith in God, constant improvement through repentance, covenant making and keeping, following the Spirit as it aides in Enduring to the End. This course helps keep an eternal perspective of where we really came from, who we really are and what potential we really have if we follow the route at His pace as He showed in New Testament and Book of Mormon times. </div>
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The matter is becoming like Christ, increasing our knowledge and faith in Him, serving others continually as He did, supporting worthy causes, family and friends; letting your light shine without shame, guiding others to the momentous path that follows Him, and together amassing greater momentum. We gain this matter by following counsel of inspired leaders, following the guidance of the prophet Thomas S. Monson today. Christ has extended his arm to pull us up. It's up to us reach up and get through whatever life may throw our way!<br />
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I'm grateful today for the simplicity of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Any variance from it can cause generations of harm, slowing the roll of those who don't follow His clear path and build themselves from His material. I'm glad I have been blessed with a family and friends who understand how important it is to build up the eternal momentum necessary to get across the chasms in this life... And save the world, like Batman!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhDQoKVMrqm7Np1ztsH5M33WM15tX01trmoQVVITR0ANWDEN3rNHk-iU_Ft1yd3D6vJKZuOQA2AoCHbqw3WHz9bAcnrIaHrGrP7tFr8V1MZJHxbAJCi8zmqURA1P-S5Vkp1eiAqnVKho/s1600/Lehi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhDQoKVMrqm7Np1ztsH5M33WM15tX01trmoQVVITR0ANWDEN3rNHk-iU_Ft1yd3D6vJKZuOQA2AoCHbqw3WHz9bAcnrIaHrGrP7tFr8V1MZJHxbAJCi8zmqURA1P-S5Vkp1eiAqnVKho/s1600/Lehi.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First of all, this isn't to be critical of those who call Provo home, or are flourishing professionally there or matriculated for Spring/Summer terms. I love Provo! Probably too much. I feel like many single LDS people have put into their minds that Utah is the only place they can possibly live if they want to be successful in the dating world. I'm writing to dispel that rumor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My first semester at BYU we studied the story of Lehi's Journey into the Wilderness. To review, Lehi, a visionary prophet and dreamer, felt prompted to leave behind a lifetime of connections to Jerusalem. He was very wealthy, had very deep roots, and half of his family disagreed with him leaving. Some even called him crazy! However, he felt there was a greater purpose for his family outside of that city. We all know how that turned out. (if you don't, I urge you to read the Book of Mormon and find out).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now before I continue, it needs to be mentioned that we know there are prophets and good people who STAYED in Jerusalem. They accomplished great things there and found worthy purpose in staying. We also know that Jerusalem continued to flourish in ways and became more worldly in ways. Its also the place where Jesus Himself came 600 years later. Jerusalem was the Holy City, The Choice Land, Zion, the place of Peace. Jerusalem was THE PLACE TO BE! Kind of like many of us see Provo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, God saw a greater purpose for Lehi, and his family left. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXavTC-UvNwZePuycc4mxYH9INwb1cwlE2ZBblDVs316iP6LACbSJz8k_izcNK5zDeE2L1jjhEAgJcZS7KEwqsBn98dNx-wROyQufluZ0LUcTpmWlP8QktjrsgodA7qQuDUG9Lhz86UTU/s1600/1546245_10151864639833062_2088988354_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXavTC-UvNwZePuycc4mxYH9INwb1cwlE2ZBblDVs316iP6LACbSJz8k_izcNK5zDeE2L1jjhEAgJcZS7KEwqsBn98dNx-wROyQufluZ0LUcTpmWlP8QktjrsgodA7qQuDUG9Lhz86UTU/s1600/1546245_10151864639833062_2088988354_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXavTC-UvNwZePuycc4mxYH9INwb1cwlE2ZBblDVs316iP6LACbSJz8k_izcNK5zDeE2L1jjhEAgJcZS7KEwqsBn98dNx-wROyQufluZ0LUcTpmWlP8QktjrsgodA7qQuDUG9Lhz86UTU/s1600/1546245_10151864639833062_2088988354_n.jpg" height="320" width="318" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Six years ago, this story weighed heavily on my mind before I went out to sell alarms with Vision Security. I knew I needed to leave during that summer following that class. I knew that the Lord had purpose for me elsewhere. Eventually I was led to San Antonio where I was astonished to find some of the best Singles I've met to date. I also met one of my best friends, Mike Scott, who was introduced to the Gospel that summer, then came back to Provo with me that fall, went on a mission, and is one year happily married to his pregnant dream wife, who he met on an airplane; not in Provo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In succeeding years I've left "The Scene" at times for different opportunities, and met some of my favorite people of different ages. My dreams have become more attainable because of the wide array people I've met. Many, if not most of those people, are not LDS. Some have been, such as one of my most cherished friends Christian Parker, who I met 3 years ago when I left to Tacoma/Seattle for a month before spending the rest of the summer in Provo training BYU's basketball team. That one month in Washington completely altered my future forever! So have the other months I've spent outside of Utah.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most importantly, I've had missionary experiences. I speak Portuguese. I can communicate pretty well in Spanish. Many of you have multi-lingual talents and have served missions. What in the world can the Lord use those gifts for in Utah? I remember standing in a Best Buy in California once and overhearing a couple who struggled with their English. I recognized the accent and was able to help them out. Obviously they were shocked I know Portuguese and one thing led to another and now they know a little more about the LDS faith. Opportunities like that don't exist in Utah, they do almost EVERYWHERE else. Another experience has been meeting a hero of mine named Victoria. She lives in the suburbs outside of Philly and hires ONLY LDS nannies because years ago, some girl got the guts to leave Utah and nanny and live a higher standard. As Victoria and I have kept in touch, she continues to learn more and more about the church with each succeeding nanny. That first nanny is now married by the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">SO, what about dating? OBVIOUSLY, there are close to a HALF MILLION single people in Utah, mostly LDS, looking for that special someone. The theory has proven successful for MILLIONS before us who have gone to school in Utah or moved to Utah for their professions. It will continue to yield marriages, no doubt. Yet, I've gathered that most of those relationships aren't by people sitting by the Belmont pool, playing volleyball at King Henry, or spending their weeks getting a tan at Seven Peaks. The successful relationships are forged by two people chasing their dreams, who happen to collide in pursuit of such dreams, and support one another in such quests.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've learned that dating outside of Utah isn't as non-existent as people say it is. Sure, the numbers are fewer. There's a much lower concentration of LDS singles outside of Utah, duh. BUT... of those LDS Singles outside of Utah, are those pursuing their dreams in a Wilderness. They are forging their own trails and accomplishing great things no matter where they are. I've been impressed by them in my travels. There are recent converts, looking for support. What a HUGE opportunity for love! I know a guy who baptized his wife in California in his 30's after drawing a blank in Provo. I know a guy from Monticello who lived in Belmont and a lady from Orem who met in Dallas, TX, are now happily married and have two beautiful children. My own sister left Utah and married a guy she met IN UTAH, but reunited in Mesa, AZ.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yes, "The Utah Summer Dream" is here. But, before citing that you're staying in Utah for "greater dating opportunities", I invite you to consider these 2 things:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First, there's more to life than dating and getting married. "Opportunity" presents itself in many ways, even when it doesn't make sense. Lehi was called crazy for leaving the "Land of His Inheritance." He became the Father of the Western Hemisphere's entire population for 2,000 years! The Lord has a purpose for you BEYOND your "inheritance" and Provo. Be faithful enough to ask the Lord what your purpose is. If it is to leave "Zion" take courage and take action. There's always a plane ticket that can get you back to Lake Powell, the Rex Real Estate barbecues and the 4th of July at the Social 7-11. Speaking of Rex Real Estate, their CEO, Utah's most eligible bachelor, just skipped Utah in grander pursuits. Think about it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Second, your main purpose in life IS to get married. Be presentable. Keep in perspective what marriage is for... ITS FOR FOREVER! Sure, we find each other as eye candy by the pool, but Tinder does the same thing, right? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Guys, the ladies don't find a guy "eternally attractive" if he's laying by the pool and doing nothing that will provide for his future family or serving the world. I can promise this legion of returned missionaries you say you're waiting on wants more in a guy than bronze muscles and 800 Instagram followers! As my married friend Kellen says: "A girl who chooses who she dates because she knows a guy can provide for her isn't shallow; She's using common sense!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gals, the dudes might want a girl with a tan but if she's making less than the sum of her dropout-model lifestyle, apartment and dream car payment; or worse not even working, nor going to school; yet she goes to Vegas or other concerts every other weekend and pools out the rest of the week; We can do the math! You're not providing for yourself and that scares the dickens out of a man and he will run from you! I can't imagine anything more abhorrent. Do something with your life! It'll make you more "eternally attractive" and dating will come to you and it won't be dressed in a bikini or swim trunks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Men and Women are that they might have joy; and how great shall be your joy if you shall bring one or many souls unto Christ by laboring all your days! (</span><a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2.25?lang=eng" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">2 Nephi 2:25</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/18.15,16?lang=eng" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">D&C 18:15,16</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you're single and in Utah this summer, you better be doing something with your life! If you're not, use your talents, get out and serve the world!</span>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-43052857071587957542013-12-20T09:54:00.001-07:002014-01-20T18:39:39.742-07:00People of 2013<div>
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<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2013 - THE YEAR OF RELATIONSHIPS</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"When we understand our relationship to God, we also understand our relationship to one another."</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dallin H Oaks</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNoaxIQxfR4kHD_fG2nfdiTDHD9PiW0RVN3imKQtTJv6Jv_iE14IvemoWo0zv5rhrSekWNUA-M7dENdIgeyvctXolqM1itn92L9ye6AzDtFJocIjoeMv8uS4ikvozYuTfNDZtHQXit6c/s1600/531988_10151510408010208_981463782_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNoaxIQxfR4kHD_fG2nfdiTDHD9PiW0RVN3imKQtTJv6Jv_iE14IvemoWo0zv5rhrSekWNUA-M7dENdIgeyvctXolqM1itn92L9ye6AzDtFJocIjoeMv8uS4ikvozYuTfNDZtHQXit6c/s1600/531988_10151510408010208_981463782_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I review my 2013, I realize I've been blessed with hundreds of incredible relationships. I worked most of the year as a Relationships Expert at Corporate Alliance. I learned many worthwhile principles I was able to apply to my own relationships. For that reason, I'm going to highlight the people who stood out each month. <span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">Learn to c</span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/cherish" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">herish</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"> every moment and relationship in life and you'll always be happy! </span>Also, I'm including lessons I learned experiences and quotes that struck me and motivated me to be a better person! ENJOY!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>DECEMBER:</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />"I never lost faith in the truth or in who I am." - Jameis Winston</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />No matter what challenges life is throwing at you or those who you love and are suffering with, they'll pass. They always do. I heard some pretty bizarre things about myself all year. I guess it comes with the territory of standing up for values and making some bold moves. I learned that lesson back in high school and got a lot of flack for it, so I wasn't surprised by the storms of 2013. I set out to find the source of all the malarkey and I actually found it with the help of some incredible people. What a relief! There are no coincidences in who you meet. They're put into your life at just the right time to help achieve your righteous desires if you'll pay attention and cherish every stranger you come across. Those who set out to collude, create falsehoods, and set traps are eventually brought to justice and will pay the price for their wickedness. It's called justice, and it always wins!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">If you're relying on artificially flavored Kool-Aid to know a fruit's taste but never tried the fruit's juice, you'll never know a fruit's true taste. At times we find our loyalties lie with the Kool-aid simply because we haven't tried the juice. Upon tasting the fruit for yourself, you can tell the difference. So it is with relationships. If you hear something terrible about someone, go to them directly, look them in the eyes, and ask them. "Ye shall know them by their fruits!"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"Who believes an Orange is Black? Only someone who has never seen an Orange!" - </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=788955253&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A0%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/taylorchurch44" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Taylor Church</a></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jimmy Rex</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also one of my heroes. A fantastic speaker, Jimmy has build quite the network of social influence through his business as well as turning service opportunities into a great time. Every year he throws a charity auction and raises thousands of dollars for Sub 4 Santa, then opens his office doors for volunteers to wrap and deliver presents. Its quite the ordeal and I imagine it takes more time than anyone realizes. This year Jimmy and I grew closer from a distance. He was the first to relay to me some "concerns" he had heard about and informed me about them. His concerns were based on a misunderstanding and no fault of his own, nor the person who had told him's fault (things taken out of context). Yet, at the time I was offended that he would even entertain the ideas he had heard, but then over time, by serving each other "Just Because" we came closer. We were able to hear the quiet truths through the noise and see each other for who the other really is. He then went out of his way to let me know how he felt which isn't easy to do. That December night I felt a weight off my shoulders as I knew one more great friendship was solidified.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Sean Peterson</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He came into the world a fighter, odds against him. He continues to succeed at everything he puts his mind to. Sean and I have come closer than ever through working on business ideas as well as rolling in the same social scene for the first time in our lives. Often he gets called "the older brother" because of his solid, consistent demeanor and maturity. I can't help but agree when people tell me that. He has learned and shared many secrets to the abundant life, such as "The Secret". He has put his mind to incredible goals and he's already crossing many off the list. His design skills are going to be known worldwide some day, I don't doubt it. He loves that stuff. We relate on the most important subjects, but we have such different interests, yet, we support eachother's dreams incessantly. 2013 brought my family closer, and it wed out the tares from among us. I appreciate Sean's unwavering support and sticktoitiveness. There's no shortage of favors he's done for me without expecting anything in return. "Love ya bud"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Dave Jackson</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We actually connected very unconventionally. Last year we played flag football against eachother and I sensed a goodness about him, just by the way he carries himself. Later in the year, I lived with another Dave Jackson, and accidentally added this Dave on Facebook, then saw him around more often. Each time we passed, without knowing anything about him, I could sense his goodness. Finally in December, I had to opportunity to start what I hope to be a lifelong friendship as he and I worked on a little project. I think we both benefitted, but I feel like I gained more because Dave is a friend you want to have: loyal, understanding, open, and he stands for truth above all. Those consistent habits have given him a character that all can feel in his countenance. Grateful for his solid example.<br /><br /><u>Jessica Maughan</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I met Jessica years ago when she was a Cougarette, I was with BYU's Basketball team, and at least once a week we would bump into eachother. She was dating a friend of mine at the time and decided to serve a mission, a move that will always be respected and sustained by me to any lady who takes it on. 2 years ago, when she came home from her mission, we met at a little dance and we went to dinner. That planted the seeds to a wonderful friendship. From dinners, to tennis, to crashing family parties, Disneyland, hiking the Y, long gospel conversations, service projects, ect, we share so many interests. Our roadtrip to Disneyland on a whim in December was absolutely one of the highlights of 2013! She brought back the magic! Such a happy person who's only option is to do good, she doesn't even consider the bad in life. I dare say Jessica is the purest person I know, and I truly mean that. Words can't describe my gratitude for her allowing me in her life and home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>John Curtis</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Mayor of Provo had an incredible 2013, and I feel like its worth noting. As members of Corporate Alliance, I gained the confidence to speak with him. He brought Provo Google Fiber, facilitated flights to San Fran and LA from Provo, and my personal favorite, HE SOLVED THE TOWING PROBLEM!!! The more I learn about this man, the more I realize what a timely leader he has been for Provo. I hope he continues his political career beyond Provo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>NOVEMBER:</u></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Success has much to do with choosing who to surround yourself by:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Surround yourself with 4 losers</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">and become the 5th.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Surround yourself with 1 winner</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">and become the next.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"Respect yourself. Do not feel sorry for yourself. Do not dwell on unkind things others may say about you. Polish and refine whatever talents the Lord has given you. Go forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, but with great and strong purpose in your heart." - Gordon B. Hinckley</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Sonny and Folola Parker family</u>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are some people you meet that change you from the minute you meet them. That's how it was for me when I met my friend Christian Parker's parents. Sonny is a fighter! A former NBA player and Texas A&M legend, its not his basketball pedigree that makes him a great man. Its his fatherhood to the city of Chicago and to his kids! He runs the Sonny Parker Foundation which benefits the youth of Chicago and he has lived a life of service to those around him. He and his fabulous wife allowed Christian and some of my best friends to stay over for some basketball games in Chicago. The respect the local and basketball communities have for this family was eye-opening to me. When Rahm Emanuel, mayor of Chicago, goes out of his way to give you a hug at your son's basketball game, you know you're a big deal! YET, they are so humble! Lola is such a loving caring person, and exceptional networker and mother. Her vision of what life is about is motivating to me. Its all about God's work to her. All else follows in importance. Its hard not to walk away from a weekend with the Parkers without a sincere love for each of them, and now that I know where Christian comes from, I get why he is such a knowledgable guy beyond his years. The trip was THE top highlight of the year for me.</span><br />
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<br /><u>Nicole Peterson:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rarely do Coco and I get to spend to ton of time together on the road. On our way home from Phoenix for Thanksgiving, I was able to cherish some time with her. Coco conquered a lot in 2013, from employment promotions to the loss of a close friend, to helping her best friend through a pregnancy. Her year was extremely selfless. She's one of those people who never seek out their own honor, but love to make others feel good about themselves. Everyone who meets her, loves her. Her fierce loyalty never goes unnoticed.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rachel Peterson:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two years in a row, I've been able to spend Thanksgiving with Rachel and her young family. She is so incessantly positive! This year she hosted us for Thanksgiving Dinner in her home and I was able to see a side of her I rarely have seen in our 27 years together as siblings. I love seeing her as a mom. She was made for it. She is so loving and selfless. She has been there for me 100% of the time when I need it, always. Grateful for her leading example in my family.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Brady Wright</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are people you meet that you know you were friends with before this life. Brady is one of those. From the minute we met, we related on like every level. Employed by the same parent company and making a living on business relationships, we get eachother! I had the privilege of chatting with Brady at Corporate Alliance's Innovation Reunion Tour in Park City during November. Learning about someone's background and history gives you a greater perspective and respect for who they are. Brady looks everyone he meets eye to eye and loves them for who they really are, because he senses their goodness.</span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Kayla Cook</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kayla must be the most mature person for her age that I know. She has charisma and a solid positivity that has gotten her through life. She reminds me of my sister Rachel in ways. She's the oldest, and takes on the challenges of life with a smile. If you ever get the chance to get to know Kayla, do it! She comes from an entrepreneurial background, she has a great work ethic, lives what she preaches and doesn't allow her successes lead to pride. Her maturity will do her well as she goes through fulfilling her dreams in life. Glad to have her as a friend.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>OCTOBER:</u></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">When stormy times happen, anchor yourself with milestones and goals that validate you and your character. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">When the sun breaks through, your foundation will have become stronger than before.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Those momentous tender mercies increase our capabilities, purpose, and faith.</span><br />
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General Conference is always just what the doctor ordered. Favorite quotes:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"From the pillow wet with tears we shall be lifted heavenward by that precious promise, "I will not fail thee nor forsake thee." </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"Shall I falter Or shall I finish?"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">- </span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/presmonson" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">P</a>resident Thomas S. Monson</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"Our destiny is not determined by the number of times we stumble; but by the number of times we get back up, dust ourselves off and move forward." Deiter F. Uchtdorf</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"Satan's desire is to alter revealed truth and deceive. " - L. Tom Perry</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"The vicissitudes of life help us fashion an eternal relationship with God and engrave his image in our countenance." - T. Dyches</span></span><br />
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<u>Michelle Davis:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To reiterate, every person comes into your life for a reason. I first saw Michelle at a Root Beer Halloween party for Luke's (see below) birthday. Obviously, she's gorgeous. Quickly, though, I began to learn there's a whole lot more under that pretty skin. She has conquered life and has so much life experience for her young age. Her laugh is contagious and you can't help but smile and have a good time when you're around her. She has some amazing talents! The Lord uses her often to accomplish his purposes when people misunderstand each other. A born leader, pacifist, and mediator. I'm extremely grateful for her timely friendship in my life. I can't say enough about her loyalty and sensitivity.</span><br />
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<u>Luke Salisbury:</u> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Individuality! In life you meet people who create their own trail to success without caring how the rest of the world does it. Luke is king at that! He's loved by all who get to know him, he lives his dreams, travels the world, is headed to Sochi, works hard... just a great human being. Lucky to have met Luke.</span><br />
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<u>Alex Hone:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In March I wrote a blog post that was felt by many, including Alex. It was worth the effort if only for the friendship that has been borne with Alex. He's a business man from Ogden, and lives to serve the Lord. He has a foundation that takes him to Fiji yearly to serve the people there, but you'd never know it. He doesn't want the credit. His family business depends on his young leadership skill for success, and business is booming! On top of everything, he's my Jazz game teammate. The more I get to know him, the more I'm convinced he's going to be among the most successful people the state of Utah ever sees.</span><br />
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<br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>SEPTEMBER:</u></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When the Root is Deep----- There is no Reason to Fear the Wind - </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">To the haters, the liars, the feeble, the fakes, the quitters... your diabolical shafts in the whirlwind are massless, baseless, and show your heartlessness. You've noticed nothing gets me down? I'm not scared of you, but you fear my success. My roots are DEEP. Your words...? Ha... they're just wind lifting my wings.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"When you're all alone and your back's against the wall and its all on you; that's when your best self comes out!" - </span>Justin Englebright</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Justin Englebright</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A lifelong hero asked to go to lunch in September. Justin build an absolute dynasty in the Highland/Alpine area for State Farm. His successes led State Farm to begging him to take on a leadership role. All year we had plenty of dialogue with his unwavering support. He later invited me to his home for dinner with his wonderful family. He is so blessed by his strict obedience to the gospel they believe in and live faithfully. He is the definition of how a priesthood leader should live their lives. His wife is the sweetest lady in the world and such a great inspiration for good. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Thomas Wright</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I learned more from Bishop Wright as his Executive Secretary than any other Bishop I've ever had. His support last year was unsurpassed by anyone. Some of the best memories, though, were moments in his home or up in the hills talking about life. I wouldn't be who I am without his friendship and love. Glad I get to see him more often now, and I'll cherish every moment he's around to gain from his example of how to live life.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Si'i Mafi</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've had many roommates over the years from different cultures but none have been like Si'i. I've learned so much about the good people of Hawaii and Tonga. They live life based on principles and they don't shake. I love that about him. He works hard and knows where he is from, yet he's not afraid to take on new challenges. That said, he knows exactly what he wants out of life and he is on his way to getting it. Love this big hearted guy, and I'm glad he's teaching me how to fight and box. Quite a few years overdue.</span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Josh Larson</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Its safe to say I live with a bunch of superstars. Josh might be the greatest of all of them. A vet, entrepreneur and writer for the LDS Church's magazine "The Ensign", Josh and I have built a great friendship. I love our talks about gospel and life topics. His example makes me better and the way he just goes through life doing what he's supposed to do inspires me. Grateful the Lord put me in the same condo to meet this giant.</span><br />
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<br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>AUGUST:</u></i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">“The liar's punishment is, not in the least that he is not believed, but that he cannot believe anyone else.” </span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/trust" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">#trust</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">― George Bernard Shaw</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">Some confuse effort with difficulty. You'll know them by the way they pull the victim card every day of their lives. Don't be that; rather push through the "hard times" and you'll find an enjoyable life.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">When a dog poops inside does it hide in shame from its master or does it show off its work excitedly?</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">By the same token: When someone you've wronged walks into the room and you shrink, hide your face, and avoid eye contact; you've proven a guilty conscience to be correct, proven a low level of character, a shaky self-esteem, and your words lose all credibility, especially in regard to he whom was wronged.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">You can love the dog, just don't trust the poop.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">Minor details can make a huge difference. A field of grass is just a field of grass, but organize it with lines and it becomes something magical!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Adam Thomas</u>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ever since we were roommates years ago Adam and I have been friends. He just loves people. All who know him well know him as someone who would truly do anything for his friends. He has created a successful life for himself by building lasting friendships with all those around him. A true example to me of unconditional love, I'm grateful for his receptivity. He will always be a friend to me, no matter what happens.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><br /></u><u><br /></u><u><br /></u><u><br /></u><br /><u>Jace Crawford:</u> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jace and I have been friends since birth (literally born in the same hospital bed only 6 days apart). We've lived together many times and I've seen him develop as a human our entire lives. He had a dream to go to grad school and he made it happen. He didn't let anything get in the way of that, including me! I'm going to miss him when he moves away but we'll always be in touch. We always pick up where we leave off. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqmIwjAf01Lb7R-ee_dAVFANvdwyFkVZxGE09TI8A2OvaXE1dInYnXoIrwgdvCA0DG1gTXGhJ-f4PfsgTOzyxtI9frKG6XBK6aAv7KSXFNG1jWo3FcVFZOaTILyyH0U5WVXfOO8Q2Reik/s1600/1016066_10151621501250208_1402863307_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqmIwjAf01Lb7R-ee_dAVFANvdwyFkVZxGE09TI8A2OvaXE1dInYnXoIrwgdvCA0DG1gTXGhJ-f4PfsgTOzyxtI9frKG6XBK6aAv7KSXFNG1jWo3FcVFZOaTILyyH0U5WVXfOO8Q2Reik/s1600/1016066_10151621501250208_1402863307_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jeremy Lebaron:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few years ago, a distant friend was down and out. I invited him to live with me for free for a month until he got his feet under him. He soon moved in permanently! Then life sent him across the country to work for Microsoft and he eventually made his way back to Utah. A second time we lived under the same roof, this time with an even greater respect for each other. He's probably the longest winded friend I have, but seeing what he has made out of his life inspires me. Where much is given much is required and he is right on pace in my mind. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #37404e;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">"I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends" - Abe Lincoln</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">If you're in the business of burning bridges, you're in for a rude awakening when you need to cross life's crevasses. Instead, i</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">f someone offends you, try to find a way to serve them. The results will amaze you! During July I gained a closer relationship with an apostle and tickets to Stadium of Fire through people </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Jordan Moss:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had to pleasure of building a friendship with a spiritual giant, beginning on Tinder of all things. It was worth it just for the chance to meet Jordan. We have so much we relate to, but the greatest thing is her commitment to building a God-fearing home. I love the fight that she shows in the battles of life she faces. Long drives and Spotify jam sessions highlight a wonderful friendship that was forged. She is an incredible woman!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">L. Tom Perry (and Co):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rarely do people get a personal experience with an apostle. I got that in my mission and gained a true testimony of the Twelve Apostles of Christ's living church today. That was strengthened in June. I have family connections to L. Tom Perry that proved valuable as I followed his guidance. The truth always comes out and you can find it when you are as transparent as possible. There are many people who you never know you'll need to draw on for strength when you meet them, but they always rise to the surface if you treat every single one of your relationships with respect. When you play games with family, or hold grudges against people for whatever reason, you paint yourself into a corner and cannot win at life, while the rest of the world is enjoying the rest of the mansion. My experiences in July taught me how to be a wise painter.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">If you're not making someone else's life better, then you're wasting your time.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Its not prideful to expect blessings you've earned through obedience, its the law. If you're humble enough to obey, then you merit the things you've earned. In time and after a couple of proving bumps in the road, the blessings always come.</span><br />
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<u>Chris O'Neill</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Relationship arrogance. I was guilty of it when I first met Chris years ago. He and I are so much alike in the way we compete on the basketball court and football field that he was actually on the short list of people I disliked. To be honest I was intimidated and didn't like him because of my own insecurity. When I came back to Provo with an open mind, he was one of the first to befriend me. He invited me to play in the Spokane Hoopfest 3 on 3 in June. That car ride is one of my treasured moments of the year. I learned about a great man, who hasn't had it easy, but he has made an incredible life for himself. The more I get to know him, the more I realize that I love this cat!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Patton Pettijohn</u>: </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJU0MkVONECvk5f3sv6BexN3Jg2fNtGfr0iKPKJ7bvhM-Pzcq5OnuwLAbETUflRyHEESOxpMCqbk6vY5XyMrsekcWf10RHEwTT-9bvBls0ijvDURSaZLfk9wjQnLgjrzsFwD3BIZj1xfo/s1600/21376_10200915051012268_498322335_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJU0MkVONECvk5f3sv6BexN3Jg2fNtGfr0iKPKJ7bvhM-Pzcq5OnuwLAbETUflRyHEESOxpMCqbk6vY5XyMrsekcWf10RHEwTT-9bvBls0ijvDURSaZLfk9wjQnLgjrzsFwD3BIZj1xfo/s1600/21376_10200915051012268_498322335_n.jpg" height="375" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With a name like that, he has to live up to a superhero-like status. Patton and I have come closer than ever this year as we've tried to capitalize commonalities we have. Admittedly, we haven't always seen eye to eye. However, deep discussions have revealed he is more of a brother to me than I thought years ago when I met him. That puts the fault on me for assuming the worst. He's as good of a guy as I've met and has stood up for me in times when I didn't know he had my back. One of those guys I truly would want in my foxhole, he's crafty, clever, and self dependent. I look forward to numerous activities in the future with Provo's best bachelor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Thomas Saunders</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Loyal integrity. Those are the 2 words that describe Thomas best. He has a good sense of what is right and what is wrong and does what's right because its right. Hard to find someone who is so good just on the principle of doing good. Incredibly responsible and dedicated, his drive gets him what he wants, even if it means running through a brick wall. Regardless of times I've wronged him, he has stood firm as my friend and I cherish that more than I let him realize. </span><br />
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<u>Weston Gleave</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another one of those friends who always has your back no matter the down and distance. Now living together for the third time, he has been there for the biggest events in my life. A hard worker and incessantly happy human, I'm grateful to call Weston a friend. I've seen the way he gives, and gives, and gives, and gives, while expecting nothing in return. The interesting thing is to watch how much he receives by giving. Talented in many ways, Weston works hard to provide for his comfortable lifestyle. Very much a family person, he cares so much for his brothers and sisters and it shows in the way he talks with them. He's one of the easiest people to get along with I've ever met, yet he doesn't settle for mediocrity. He'll go far.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><u><i><b>MAY:</b></i></u></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZrygmnrATEXqhxLIVOmfLdfNrBYPmtM5MtoPFoZJhwQKpZPBegjnAUieZFE8hjVguMQS6_z5Q7TsdxEL3tl_bm0jYBxl12xeYvDpCWdpnr_nFZ2TVnWGmiB7w60txqSFFvqilR64JG8/s1600/Team+Powell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZrygmnrATEXqhxLIVOmfLdfNrBYPmtM5MtoPFoZJhwQKpZPBegjnAUieZFE8hjVguMQS6_z5Q7TsdxEL3tl_bm0jYBxl12xeYvDpCWdpnr_nFZ2TVnWGmiB7w60txqSFFvqilR64JG8/s640/Team+Powell.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you." </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">- Dale Carnegie</span></span><br />
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I think May was the best month of the year. On a complete whim, 45 strangers organized a trip to Lake Powell where we became friends for life. Those relationships will last forever. Every one of Team Powell should be listed here but that would take forever. Supportive friends continued to pour in. I saw miracles happen and cities of influence grow. Mentally, I was able to rid myself of dragons of the past and jet forward 90 miles an hour on a Jetski with some of the best friends in the world.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Making difficult choices is what life is all about, so we shouldn't be afraid to act.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">In life we hope for happiness, but we have to take a leap of faith to get it. That's what walking on water is. If you sink, God will be there to carry you back to the boat. If you walk, you made the right choice.</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">So if a choice has caused you to sink in the past, its probably not your best path to take or repeat... but if you've stayed steady and faithful above the water, you should keep walking... and enjoy that experience to its fullest!</span><br />
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<u>Christie Cerenzie</u>: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Co-Founder of the Provo Adventure Club, she an incredible person and such an amazing friend. No matter what is going on in her life, she sets out to serve others and puts her own problems behind her. I'd say she's a female Walt Disney in ways. Her adventurous spirit has led her across the globe looking for opportunities to help. Fun-loving, loyal, and always inclusive no matter the circumstance, our friendship during the summer months is one I'll always look back on with smiles and gratitude. I look forward to seeing her continue to brighten the lives of those around her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Zander Jensen</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the most infectious personalities I've ever met. Most are initially intimidated when they meet Zander, as was I 4 years ago, because they realize they just can't compete with the presence he commands. Fearlessly himself, he is able to befriend anyone because he is truly unbiased. As one who has conquered his own set of challenges, his open and creative mind allows him to embrace anyone who will allow themselves to feel his warm heart. Rare are his enemies regardless of opinion. All of the above takes a special human being and certainly there's only one Zander, aka Thor. He has been there for me this entire year and I can't thank him enough for it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Zack Oates</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Separated at birth, he is my older twin brother I never had. The kind of guy who will serve anyone and wrap his arms around anyone, he has an innate sense of people's needs and he sets out to serve them, often anonymously. His faith drives his goodness, and what you see isn't too good to be true; he's REALLY that good of a human being. Hot tub club, Lake Powell, and hundreds of other memories will make 2013 unforgettable.</span><br />
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<u>Brian Cameron</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I never would have met Brian had I not come back to Provo. My life would have been missing a great friend and one of the greatest examples of a man that I've ever known. Brian, a fellow serial-entrepreneur, played basketball at SUU, graduated with his Masters in Business Management and tried to hire me to help him build his company B&C Entertainment. This guy is a creative genius, a spiritual giant, and he'll keep you laughing all day. Fun, fun friend, and I'm grateful our paths have crossed in April as we planned Team Powell and have recrossed as fellow VP's in taking XOJO across Earth.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TJ Nelson:</span></u><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I met Tarl knocking doors 3 and a half years ago. That was before he was SUU's student body president and one of the most sought after marketers to ever graduate from SUU. He's got a great business mind and I look forward to working with him in the future as our ideas take over the world!</span><br />
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<u>Kinley and Bridget Peterson</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The best parents in the world! In May my mom and dad celebrated year 32 of their marriage. I'm going to go out on a whim and say that is no easy task! On top of that, they opened yet another business, a Carls Jr, in Salina, UT. This is a team effort! To add to the whole shebang, my parents were called to serve a mission for the LDS Church in the Anti-Addiction Program and help guide those stuggling with addiction on their road to recovery. I cannot imagine 2 people I'd rather call Mom and Dad than these two. I'm so grateful to them for their consistent examples of service to the Lord and those around them. As Boyd K. Packer says: <span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"There are few things more powerful than the faithful prayers of a righteous mother." I'm a grateful recipient of those powerful prayers to the Lord.</span></span><br />
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">APRIL:</span></u></i></b><br />
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"Every opportunity has its root in a relationship" - Jeff Rust</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">In every person you meet there is a blessing to be earned or a lesson to be learned. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">If you don't value each person you cross paths with, you're throwing away opportunities to succeed. </span>In April I flew to Hawaii! Balm for the human soul. That was the highlight of April and the awesome ability to within 24 hours see my mission president in Salt Lake, drive to Vegas, hop on a plane, listen to prophets speak, land in paradise to be picked up by one of the best friends in the world and go straight to the beach to listen to more General Conference is a testament to what a wonderful world we live in. I almost stayed out there! I also considered moving home to Annabella for a while with my parents to clear my head and simplify my life. Luckily I had a friend back home who talked some sense into me and gave me the perfect opportunity of working under his supervision at Corporate Alliance, truly a life altering experience.</span><br />
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<u>Brian Varley</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The month did begin on a somber note. My cousin Brian Varley died early on in the month. Brian was one of my favorite people to talk to because of his contagious laugh. I had the honor of being one of his pall bearers. Fun memories flooded my mind as he was remembered. I don't believe Brian had any enemies. I can't imagine anyone disliking someone so kind and loving as him. His example lives on through those he affected in his short 26 years. Love you Brian!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Elder Victor Asconavieta & family</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My ultra inspired mission president and currently an Area Seventy in Brazil for the LDS Church. Every April, he visits Utah and meets up with his missionaries. He's taught many lessons over the years but none has affected me like the advice to marry into a family with a priesthood leader. I'll continue to hold out for that. A true friend and hero to me, he looks deep into the eyes of those he knows as well, as well as strangers, and sees them as God sees them, with infinite potential. His wife is an inspiration to me and the perfect example of what a beautiful wife can be inside and out. Both incredible teachers, leaders, and friends. <span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"Expect miracles!"</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Jeff and Lakota Sorensen</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like a brother. Jeff allowed me to live with him for a week in Hawaii while I honestly explored job options out there. We went spear fishing, snorkeling, knocking, saw the daily sunsets, watched General Conference (on the beach...) resumed our workout schedule we used to do (only this time on the beach). Jeff is another one of friends who time, distance and events don't play into the friendship. He loves everyone and his loving ways are being well received in Hawaii, where he's killing it selling solar. Grateful for a friend who refuses to be mediocre or let those around him fail.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Chad Ahearn</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the most inspired teachers I've ever had! When I came back to Provo, I found refuge by going to Institute, where Chad gifted all in attendance with his teaching abilities. A mega successful individual, hard worker, and someone I can relate to on many levels, I really look up to this guy. Sadly, he is a Mercedes fan and gets stuck in the snow without Audi Quattro technology but he doesn't let his one weakness get in the way of conquering the world. I appreciate his closeness to the spirit in those times as he followed promptings and taught with power that touched my heart. He's a hero of mine.</span><br />
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<u>Logan Wilkes</u>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I received a random phone call from an old friend one day while sitting in my car. It was from Logan, President of Corporate Alliance of Utah Valley. He essentially offered me a job as a relationships consultant right over the phone. His call was very timely. Over the next few months I was given the opportunity to learn from some of the best relationship makers on Earth. The principles taught at Corporate Alliance work. Learn, Serve, Grow. Logan gave me the chance to focus on other people's needs and taught me how to sell on a relationship basis. For the next 7 months I gained timeless friendships and a million experiences I'll never forget, rubbing shoulders with some of the best business minds in the state. Logan, the same friend who gave me cuff links 4 years ago at church and told me to keep them, continues to find subtle ways to serve others without expecting things in return, but Just Because. I'm so grateful for this old friendship forged years ago. He's moving onto bigger things now and I wish him the best of luck!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Hdc-Q2W5bQGiDh3A9lr215sKe9-vcwoSCLkl8grQMyc38JZlUo4N9foW3R0HAzRLftNASGQdlPjnoh-ktF9CE939VrjdGnmivNsz6M2CjQ5AvO1Yt2gxmxxTVdclJq1vJFD6ybsgGEY/s1600/911843_10151380393388062_893970765_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Hdc-Q2W5bQGiDh3A9lr215sKe9-vcwoSCLkl8grQMyc38JZlUo4N9foW3R0HAzRLftNASGQdlPjnoh-ktF9CE939VrjdGnmivNsz6M2CjQ5AvO1Yt2gxmxxTVdclJq1vJFD6ybsgGEY/s1600/911843_10151380393388062_893970765_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></span></a><u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mike Scott:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fate had it that Mike and I landed in San Antonio as strangers 5 years ago. I was a recently returned missionary, and he was a lost kid looking for God. He found it there and I've watched him grow into the man God has meant for him to be ever since. In April I was honored to watch his marriage and sealing in the ever-so-meaningful Draper Temple. </span></div>
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MARCH:</i></u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it." - <span style="color: red;">Mosiah 2:41</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Often we get answers to our prayers after a trial of our faith. When we dive in by trusting the Lord with our whole hearts, we're blessed immensely, even if we get the answer we didn't expect or want some time later. I'm grateful today for the simplicity of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Any variance from it can cause generations of harm, and I'm glad I have been blessed with a family and friends who understand my commitment to building God's kingdom on Earth; which can't be accomplished alone. </span>March was memorable in the way I had to accept change. Changed cities, apartments, roommates, and added an incredible amount of friends while strengthening old relationships. I saw support from a million angles, I should say angels as well. I felt spiritually held up on a level I have never felt before. I felt inspired to conquer the world. I felt as if a runner who had been running for a year with ankle weights on, with weights finally removed. Strangely joyous, my perspective of the sky was no more inhibited by a pavilion of uncertainty overhead. Diving into pools like institute, attending the temple and hopping back into the boat we call Provo, I was able to immediately forge strong relationships with loving, open hearts, regardless of the whirlwinds that swirled about. This couldn't have happened without the help of the great people listed below!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><u>Jared Bingham</u>:<br />Jared and I have been friends for 5 years through thick and thin! We've been roommates 4 times, probably more. When I suddenly sold my apartment, he was there for me to let me share his little bedroom for a month while I figured things out. Our friendship is one of those that doesn't matter how frequently we run into each other, we always pick up right where we left off. I'm proud to see his steady progression through life (school, work, etc) and his example of goalsetting and creative fun. His family has wrapped their arms around me numerous times over the years and made me feel like one of them. Whether it be pulling a sled behind my car in the snow or just being a friend to go to church with, Jared is truly a friend for life. <br /><br /><u>Ben Rittmanic</u>:<br />This guy is one of the most honest and sincere men I've ever met. We met a few years ago when we were neighbors at Belmont, but in March and throughout the rest of the year, we've built lasting friendship. He was there for me March 1st when I had an extra ticket to Secondhand Serenade of all things, and helped me move out of my apartment. From that point, tooltime at the gym and pool, deep talks, girl drama to and from Provo to Lake Powell and beyond. My favorite memory of Ben is when we were in Lake Powell in May. A girl from another camp hit her head wakeboarding and we participated in a blessing to calm her ailments. That worthy Ben is who I'll always remember. He has such an innate sense of goodness in him and I can't thank God enough for allowing me another chance at meeting this buff dude for his real strengths.<br /><br /><u>Kent Tuttle</u>:<br />Aka, the Greek god. We've always joked around about him being perfect, but this year his understanding friendship, trust and example have truly lifted me up in hard times. We see eye to eye on so much, so a respected friendship between us is just natural. As great as he is, he always looks up to find people who will motivate him to do his best. There's a sense of humility in trying to emulate your heroes that he possesses. This gifted individual understands better than most that where much is given, much is required. I appreciate him reaching out and having the manly sensitivity to see things as they really are in life. He's quite the blogger too: KentTuttle.com.<br /><br /><u>Yvonne Shaver and Family</u>:<br />Growing up, Yvonne was like a second mom to me. Her kids are considered siblings and they're all doing exactly what they should be at this stage in life. She has been there for me numerous times, and I love the way expects so much out of those she loves. In early March, she reached out to me with unlimited love and understanding. We've had lots of marathon talks over the years but the ones we've had this year have been extra precious to me. Her son Morgan (lifelong friend) gave me the greatest honor I can imagine by asking me to participate in the blessing of his son later on in the year. Eternal friendships prove unshakable through thick and thin. <br /><br /><u>Christian Parker</u>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />This dude... Truly my brother from before this life, continues to be now as my roommate and will forever be a great comrade. My temple buddy throughout the year, we've grown closer as we've tried to push each other to greatness as the year has gone by. He's a trusted friend who trusts my abilities and makes me want to be my best. Grateful our lives recrossed paths again in March. <br /><br /><u><br /></u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Taylor Church</u>:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFoKpVG8feIfHWFBFTOiXaDAa-mVDpKjAfMc65uWCsJY0Q-P_eQyGvaZryX-LkCKjyNC9Vazjo3P0H3z0jDIzyKAYJXq7HU1a-JFteMGbo5ZGFVjHBMdYDhBgjA76FhhcZDB019ymEaG4/s1600/67042_10151470478405208_1550333576_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFoKpVG8feIfHWFBFTOiXaDAa-mVDpKjAfMc65uWCsJY0Q-P_eQyGvaZryX-LkCKjyNC9Vazjo3P0H3z0jDIzyKAYJXq7HU1a-JFteMGbo5ZGFVjHBMdYDhBgjA76FhhcZDB019ymEaG4/s1600/67042_10151470478405208_1550333576_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Friend at first sight 13 years ago, my guy through thick and thin. Tay could be on a my weekly MVP list. Its almost token that I throw him on here because he deserves to be on a more important list than this, but here is your real estate on my site man. Check out his blog at www.billymoney.com for some sweet reads. The kid reads more than anyone, is a human dictionary, and is always available to give you just the advice you need. You know when you're stressed, up all night working on a project and you just need someone to grab a burrito with you? How about when you're in the dumps about a girl and you need a good laugh? Or how about when you're itching for a trip across the USA and need a co-pilot? Taylor is a friend fit for every single occasion. Going on a decade and a half of terrestrial friendship, but many experiences in the eternities before that no doubt, Taylor knows me inside and out. He puts up with me and keeps on keeping on. Love Taylor. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>FEBRUARY:</u></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 28px; white-space: pre-wrap;">“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 28px; white-space: pre-wrap;">.” - </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 28px; white-space: pre-wrap;">C.S. Lewis</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">"Should you find yourself on a chronically leaking boat, energy devoted to changing vessels is likely to be more productive than energy devoted to patching leaks." - Warren Buffett</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">One life is all we have and we live it as we believe in living it. To sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">It's impossible to push an unwilling someone up a latter. No matter how hard you try, it just doesn't work. If they won't ignore their comfort zone on the ground, or ignore their fear of heights and stretch their arms and take the steps, then they'll just stay right where they are, no matter how hard they're pushed, missing out on the better view. Its best to just leave them be with the chickens on the ground so you can enjoy your climb with the eagles. </span>February was... eventful! Midway through the month, two dear friends filled me in on some important information that I suspected and changed my life. To those 2 men I'll always be grateful. I have reason to believe that their selflessness in telling truths I needed to hear got them in loads of trouble and that they're still paying the price for it. They obviously have to deny our conversation ever happened. Yet, I know their true desires and I'll always appreciate them looking out for me. Even though I don't have as much contact with a couple of of the People of February 2013 anymore, all of them will be on my street in heaven. Sometimes its necessary to pause friendships for a greater purpose in the future. A hard lesson to realize, but a good one to learn!<br /><br /><u>Jon Parrish</u>:<br />Jon co-founded Citygro and involved me early on when he opened up the Utah County market a few years ago. When he contacted me about the challenge of building a national sales force I was super excited. We had a couple business trips, dinners and conversations that really strengthened me and made me better. He has the cutest young family and a work ethic that can't be compared to anyone I've ever met. He's a very young religious leader and will continue to affect the community and people he leads in a positive way.<br /><br /><u>Justin Prince</u>:<br />Justin is a hero to me. Early in the year we had marathon phone calls, played basketball at 7AM on Saturdays and afterwards we would discuss business ideas. He had me critique videos and content he had on his website iamjustinprince.com. He is quite the network marketer, and business relationships creator. This year he launched Modere on a unique social retail multi-level (network marketing) platform of his own genius. His example of love for his children goes unsurpassed. It drives each decision in his life. I envy his stick-to-it-ive-ness. Our conversations while doing service and hour long pump-me-up phone calls with him will always be some of my fondest memories.<br /><br /><u>Jared Dowell</u>:<br />A former neighbor, ward-member, and fellow south Utahn, I can probably empathize with him more than most that he treats. I appreciate this great man's example. He is my chiropractor (Accident and Chiropractic Treatment in Provo) and treated me for free numerous times out of the goodness of his heart. A loving father to a couple adorable kids and husband to the sweetest wife, they have a special bond that has endured some tidal waves of their own. His openness to sharing his own feelings about enduring those challenges is something that I'll cherish for a long time. His transparency to me in moments of tumult revealed the best of him. As a member of the same ward, we found ourselves seeking service opportunities and helping eachother selflessly at times. I'll always love Dr. Dowell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Kellen Madsen</u>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In high school Kellen and I were tennis doubles partners, football and basketball teammates, and went through some political struggles side by side when our parents got partial blame for a coach getting fired. Really though, we and our families had nothing to do with it! However, that experience of being allegedly guilty taught me alot about being head strong. I'm grateful I had Kellen as a friend then. He saw right through my 2012 Walk on Water, waved every red flag he could, yet still humbly subjected himself to culpabilities he never deserved.Eric Kramer:<br /><br /><u>My Family</u>:<br />Surprise surprise! My family hit the ball of the park in February! Their support in moments of transition and earth shattering findings was just what I needed. <br /><br /><b><u><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">JANUARY:</span></i></u></b><br /><br />During January I found myself slaving away in San Antonio on a project my friend had asked me to help out on. The opportunity to leave Utah and go make enough money to pay for what I forsaw as an expensive year ahead (I had just signed on 2 cars in December, had the nicest apartments Utah Valley offers, and wanted to put money towards a house). Although the money was great, the true treasures were in the people and accompanying experiences I had in what is one of my favorite cities! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><br /><u>Jordan and Mandy Potter</u>:<br />Mandy has always been one of my favorite people. We grew up in the same ward, her dad was my bishop, and I've always looked up to her for simply being a member of the Farmer and King families. To top it off, her husband, a guy I've loved since the day I met him bowling almost 6 years ago, is one of the best husbands / dads I could ever look to as an example. <br />When they found out I was working in South Texas for a month, they opened their doors wide open for me to stay. I enjoyed the peace I felt in their home daily, the awesome dinners I would come home to, and of course their 2 bundle of joy boys that were SO intrigued that I would drink "chalky milk", AKA protein shakes. Jordan allowed me to play on the ward basketball team as well, such a fun experience! <br />I learned from their example on how to build a happy home, based on gospel principles. They gave me a safe haven. I'll forever be grateful! <br /><br /><u>The San Antonio Assistants Elder Dan Thornley and Elder Jon McMurray</u>:<br />While in San Antonio, my nights were pretty open and for those who know me well, I was in quite the "committed relationship" so going out on the town wasn't an option. I called the San Antonio Mission office and volunteered my nights to bearing testimony of the gospel I love so much! The Assistants put me right to work, and let me come along for the ride as much as possible. Gosh, I miss those San Antonio nights with those stellar men.<br /><br /><u>Laura Ketterman</u>:<br />One woman they were teaching was Laura Ketterman. She was passing through her own ups and downs having lost her mother, and watching her eyes light up as she accepted the gospel and saw the hope of God's Plan of Salvation and committed to her life to Christ made me forget about my own problems and lightened every day. She is such a stellar example to me: loving, warm-hearted, hilarious, a great cook, and just so humble and happy, despite all the talent in the world. She works as a lawyer in Texas but we have kept in touch as she has family nearby, also fabulous people!<br /><br /><u>My Family</u>:<br />I should also note that my family came up big in January! They spoiled the noogins out of the pretty face back home I was working to afford, and gave me daily motivations and support. I'll forever be grateful for January 2013.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i><u>Additional Quotes from the Year</u></i></b><br /><br />Alma 27:16-18 - Friendship</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">16 And it came to pass that as Ammon was going forth into the land, that he and his brethren met Alma, over in the place of which has been spoken; and behold, this was a joyful meeting.<br /> 17 Now the joy of Ammon was so great even that he was full; yea, he was swallowed up in the joy of his God, even to the exhausting of his strength; and he fell again to the earth.<br /> 18 Now was not this exceeding joy? Behold, this is joy which none receiveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Minor details can make a huge difference. A field of grass is just a field of grass, but organize it with lines and it becomes something magical!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">No matter the trial, there is something each day to embrace, cherish, and bring gratitude and joy if only we will see it. - Deiter F Uchdorf</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">You get what you commit to, based on your level of commitment in it. Commit 100% and you'll get all of what that thing can potentially give back to you! The key is committing to something fruitful #roomiechat - Michael McConkie</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">I believe in Christ, so come what may</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"Its not about what happens to you, its about what you do with what happens to you that matters!" My favorite motivational speaker, Dan Clark</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">It's impossible to push an unwilling someone up a latter. No matter how hard you try, it just doesn't work. If they won't ignore their comfort zone on the ground, or ignore their fear of heights and stretch their arms and take the steps, then they'll just stay right where they are, no matter how hard they're pushed, missing out on the better view. Its best to just leave them be with the chickens on the ground so you can enjoy your climb with the eagles.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">“Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses, applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more. He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benefit.” -Richard G. Scott</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Trial: A God-Given opportunity to stretch, self examine, self correct, step into the dark in faith and succeed against all odds. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">There's no better feeling than looking at the man in the glass eye to eye and confidently determining he has been refined by Him and is much better off than had he shrunk in the face of difficulty. Restraint builds strength. Satan will always lose this battle!!! For God and His faithful are well prepared for all tribulation because their faith is in the One who already descended, defeated, and rose above all vice and mediocrity, nourishing His with awesome optimism, unlimited virtue and excellent power!</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Just as faith and doubt cannot coexist, neither can paradise and a lone heart #realtalk</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">It isn't "God or nothing." It is God First; then everything else follows.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"It eluded us then, but that's no matter--tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther... So we beat on, boats against the current..." The Great Gatsby</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">"The flame shall not hurt thee, I only design, thy dross to consume, thy gold to refine...</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">The soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake, I'll never, no never, no never forsake!"</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">"Man is more himself, more manlike, when joy is the fundamental thing in him, and grief the superficial. Melancholy should be an innocent interlude, a tender and fugitive frame of mind; praise should be the permanent pulsation of the soul. Pessimism is at best an emotional half-holiday; joy is the uproarious labour by which all things live." </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px;">- GK Chesterton </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come." Jeffrey R. Holland</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">No one lets it be except that circumstance where people out of the blue give criticism towards you and saying look at this guy, we thought he was perfect but look at him, he made a mistake."</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #898f9c; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">God left the world unfinished for man to work his skill upon. He left the electricity in the cloud, the oil in the earth. He left the rivers unbridged and the forests unfelled and the cities unbuilt. God gives to man the challenge of raw materials, not the ease of finished things. He leaves the pictures unpainted and the music unsung and the problems unsolved, that man might know the joys and glories of creation.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">If you can't handle the heat, don't tickle the dragon</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #edf1f7; color: #003399;">“</span><a class="sqq" href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/so_comes_snow_after_fire-and_even_dragons_have/152188.html" style="background-color: #edf1f7; color: #003399; text-decoration: none;">So comes snow after fire, and even dragons have their ending.</a><span style="background-color: #edf1f7; color: #003399;">”</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #edf1f7; color: #003399;">“</span><a class="sqq" href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/the_man_who_fights_too_long_against_dragons/158291.html" style="background-color: #edf1f7; color: #003399; text-decoration: none;">The man who fights too long against dragons becomes a dragon himself</a><span style="background-color: #edf1f7; color: #003399;">”</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">"To love another person is to see the face of God." </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">-V.H.</span><br />
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If i'm gonna be knocked off this pedestal I'm gonna make sure I do something and I do something, to be knocked off. I'm not gonna let someone else knock me off for no apparent reason or for comments I didn't say - Michael Jordan</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michael McConkie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bryce Forbush</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">John Allred</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michael Easterling</span><br />
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A mountain of others who made 2013 the best year yet!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 17px;">Often we get answers to our prayers after a trial of our faith. When we dive in by trusting the Lord with our whole hearts even without knowing all the details, we're blessed immensely. The recognition of those blessings comes even if we get the answer we didn't expect, or want, some time later when we're drowning in it. The Lord's hand is always there to pull us up out of the water before we drown.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I once worked at an "opportunity" to "walk above the water" that lasted for a few years. I wanted this righteous desire with all my heart. I prayed and told the Lord that if He would give me the "opportunity" that I would jump in and walk unless He told me otherwise. I had dreamed it could be possible, chosen it, and I loved it. My desire quickly became my reality and the time came to decide whether I would commit.<br />
<br />Puzzled at how quickly my prayers had been answered, I approached a dear friend who had been in my situation just months earlier, seeking clarity. Her sage advice was that "concerns and doubts are two different things. [There's] serious concerns, [and then there's] your typical 'cold feet'," and it was up to me to "follow the spirit" and determine which I was encountering. She taught me the valuable lesson that doubting means there's a lack of faith on my part, whereas concerns are legitimate reasons to choose a different path. Her words and example fortified my faith and I went to the Hill of the Lord in fervent prayer to know for certain whether it was to continue my desired pursuit. God showed me that day that He trusted me to make the best decision I could! <i>At that time</i>, I wasn't given a "Yes", or "No", but instead a "Keep going and you'll be fine" answer. All doubt disappeared and the enthusiasm of realizing my dreams cloaked my concerns.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Armed in affirmed faith, I took my leap! I dove in with both feet and began my own proverbial walk on water. I was blessed beyond belief in every facet of my life. I felt as Joseph in Egypt "<a href="http://www.lds.org/scriptures/ot/gen/39.2-6?lang=eng" target="_blank">goodly, favoured and prosperous</a>". The blessings were so tangible and evident. I felt the Lord embrace me so tightly and felt his approval for trusting Him. I made Him proud! The Thrill of the ride outweighed all potential cruxes. When doubts arose, I didn't give up, because I knew it was a gift the Lord had given me. I learned so much from that stroll about being patient and charitable, and felt the Lord molding me in ways I never imagined. Sure there were moments when things weren't peachy, but going back to the boat was the last thing on my mind because of the absolute peace and levity I felt inside; I was living my dream and I wanted this experience to last forever!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, those clandestine concerns began to lose their illusion and take their true shape. Storms arose. The miraculous rock platform of water decomposed from concrete into quicksand. The opportunity swiftly morphed into an obstacle. My encumbered feet began to sink until I couldn't continue; my head suddenly submerged in a realization that my castle in the sky was crumbling. Abruptly, that desperate moment when all seemed to be lost came upon me. I optimistically made every effort to swim, but towering waves were too much. With my final bouyant</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> stroke, I caught the grip of a Hand extended to save me. His Strong Hands took hold and pulled my exhausted soul Up to safety. Finally I was given vivid answers about my "opportunity" and</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">those concerns: </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"<a href="http://www.lds.org/scriptures/ot/gen/39.15-16?lang=eng" target="_blank">Get Thyself Out</a>;</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">" I was to retract my own will in favor of a greater commission without the millstone that had been thrown around my neck that was thwarting my future capacity. Admittedly, I was astonished. Why would the Lord allow me to make my way out into the water so far, yet allow me to sink after successfully cultivating that course for so long?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've concluded there are 6 reasons He allowed Peter to walk on the water, and allows us to do the same with our own desires:</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Desire - He gives us our heart's desire. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The character and virtue of what we desire enhances our experience greatly. The character and virtue of my next endeavor will now enhance my life to an even greater level.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Confidence - We can develop confidence in attributes we never thought we had. In my situation, it was patience and the ability to love unconditionally.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Action - Peter's only desire was to follow Christ. He wanted to do what was right and he invested his whole heart into the opportunity and committed, rather than being idle, and was blessed with a remarkable experience. W</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">hat is most important isn't what happens to us, its what we do with it that defines the experience.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Endurance - We are taught to never ever ever ever give up, because His strong arm is always extended to help if we'll keep trying, even and especially if we feel like we are doomed to a deep despair.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Putting His Will First - Although I sought His will previously, He taught me that k</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.1875px;">nowing His will does not solve life’s problems, but it gives flavor, purpose, and strength to master them.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.1875px;">Life is a Lesson - Everything we experience in life is to mold us for a greater future. Tribulations are trampolines to propel us upward to greater heights. If we don't get what we want, it's because we're getting what the Lord wants, which is <i>always</i> better!</span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://education.byu.edu/mckay/69APR6.html" target="_blank">President David O. McKay</a> testified, “It is true that the answers to our prayers may not always come as direct and at the time, nor in the manner, we anticipate; but they do come, and at a time and in a manner best for the interests of him who offers the supplication.”</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So now what? That experience has passed by and I'm safely back in the boat! Like Peter surely didn't regret jumping into the water, I have zero regrets for trusting in <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng#3-" target="_blank">what Elder Richard G. Scott</a> describes as the "keep going" answer. I was able to exercise my mind, spirit, body, and heart in ways I never imagined. I grew at a pace more rapid than ever. I'll never regret taking that faithful leap into deep waters to follow that opportunity. If someone had to go through that, I'm glad it was me, so that I could learn and grow from it. I developed grandiose courage to take on life's challenges, and gained momentum in my journey back to His presence. I am much better off than had I stayed aboard the ship and not been willing to act upon that righteous desire of my heart. Now it's time to move on to a better challenge, a greater opportunity facing the direction of my destiny. I've been trained by trial and experience in the crucible of the unashamed. I'm confident that next time I jump, I'll again walk; unsinkable, effervescent, blessed, and forever:</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18.1875px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I won't look back. let up, slow down. or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, worldly talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need pre-eminence, positions, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded . I now live by Faith, lean on HIS presence, walk with patience. I am uplifted by prayer, and labor with power . My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven. My road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions are few, my Guide is reliable, my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, divided, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the advesary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, or let up until I have stayed up, stored up, and paid up for the cause of Christ. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He returns for His Own, He will have no problem recognizing me. My Banner will be clear." - Henry B. Eyring</span></span></span>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-79294151237865040782011-07-25T17:54:00.003-06:002013-03-06T03:35:22.148-07:00RISE UP!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Citygro, a dreamed Utopia where entrepreneurs are given ways to connect with their consumers, and the economy grows. I'm blessed, happy to see that all that hard work in the winter trying to make a company is starting to pay off, and excited to see where the next year takes us. Anyway, enough journal ish, lets get to the meat! Supports, crutches, and props... spiritually speaking.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634645874983990914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLw8zbpvGtwPdEBbg0DOSOLqRvacLJzqjYdAMcdvIXiKnmyN96iFgcQiqRYKEL98bblVaM4iL7ny3Zp1vgi8OovSWrr4a4zNBEs3aaeaZ_nwRTS3tbkOQiBTj4Mw_FKD5MYO1G-5i07U/s640/jimmer.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">At Jimmer's Shooting Camp, Dan Clark (author of Chicken Soup series) spoke to the camp about Rising to the occasion <span class="Apple-style-span">like Jimmer always would. He's an incredible speaker. The whole 45 minutes he talked my head was spinning! </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span">I wish I had recorded it, but all I had was my phone, so I noted as much as I could. The quote that struck me hardest was:</span></span></div>
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<span id="internal-source-marker_0.4194484220352024" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span">"Before we can expect Support from 'someone else', we must first give it to 'someone else'. Support is the magic that allows us to make the most of any occasion."</span></span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="238" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634657510831651234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi254hwbTt4lp3rhBECztD1vUpNnZ6gos2Cg-zt4GmxAUDDEwRZJsIjKc2i8fvFpRZwcVUpPCF9lva7nIfRqmx_7MCdyrAB7Njvxg1wPdE4Ulx49zj5UFPWJFU1BxlxpOawzkL5qU_2XrI/s400/271852_10150242702040208_640465207_7441165_6874041_o.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;" width="400" /><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.4194484220352024" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The rest of the week I looked at the word "support" from every possible angle, trying to better understand its MAGIC. E</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span">arly Sunday morning (after an incredible weekend with my mom, dad, sister and friends), pondering my lesson, "support" continued to weigh on my mind. I came up with the following:</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">"A Crutch </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><u>can</u></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> strengthen in time of need but </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><u>will</u></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> weaken if misused. Yet a Support rectifies growth, accelerates arrival and produces power"</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">The Spirit is our everlasting Support for progression in all things. Bad habits and weaknesses are Crutches we return to when we lose our ability to stand on our own. There certainly are times we might need a crutch, but then again, <b>isn't a crutch only necessary AFTER an "injury"?</b> Most, if not all such, "injuries" come from lack of caution, or preparation. In Thor (great movie...) King Odin says "A wise king never makes war, but he must always be prepared for it." If one takes a corner too fast or comes too close to the edge, inevidibly there will be a fall. Falls are when injuries are incurred.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Its important for us to understand, we all have weaknesses. I used to arrogantly say I didn't need ankle support. Then I learned the hard way by spraining both ankles. Now I'm conscious of what kind of ankle <u>support</u> is necessary to prevent injury. In the book "Weakness is not Sin" by Wendy Ulrich it defines Weakness as a port to Strength if used faithfully in correct perspective; and also as a slide into Sin if feared, ashamed or ignored. It's all based on our choices. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">"This mortal form grows weak. I require sustenance!" - Thor (who overlooked his source of power and had to depend on others to regain it)</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634636836670265986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsB_ryQzrv4A4xPcRiy5xZtG43lwI8JqFvWwDHXpoDt_O6oIHK8MsPM6cOH_wg0z0W7KCR0_h0CuBMpzRxiZt9NNDH_hRMdNsC4KgLS_x_J0Y9U_G64EHFfFDHexYSaxReuietmBT08MM/s400/captain-america-and-thor-costumes.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 236px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 400px;" /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Once healthy (speaking physically or spiritually), we can move forward into building strength on that weakness. Why not take it further and be excellent in whatever endeavor you might be involved in? How do we get there? Support! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">We start with our set of weaknesses. If we make the wrong choice, a crutch is necessary to nurse us back to health. "</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Support is THAT magic that allows us to make the most of any occasion. Knowing that we need "supports" to make the most of any occasion requires humility. Humility (something I hope to gain someday) requires 7 P's according to the book: ponder, prioritize, pace, <b>Prop Up</b>, patience, and prayer. Propping up requires a realization that Support is necessary to achieve our goals. <b>We can't do it alone. No shame in that, its part of life! </b><a href="http://ryp24.blogspot.com/2011/07/wendy-ulrichs-prop-up-stanza.html">Click here to read the whole schpill from the book.</a></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZ0FDzOU6Cpvw09iyuVhemcg2Xy-m90U7TscMZxeGj7IW8CPNELbjl-oX-KnmHCfhX0aNwYsw_DQgsX0Grzxhk7cxS2Lq8CtE4vNl-w3Do2BNB2pQ-nu5K45YNOEOvAPy0wBibg5IUYY/s1600/283585_10150260110463439_508068438_7618686_7633357_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634657519108296258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZ0FDzOU6Cpvw09iyuVhemcg2Xy-m90U7TscMZxeGj7IW8CPNELbjl-oX-KnmHCfhX0aNwYsw_DQgsX0Grzxhk7cxS2Lq8CtE4vNl-w3Do2BNB2pQ-nu5K45YNOEOvAPy0wBibg5IUYY/s400/283585_10150260110463439_508068438_7618686_7633357_n.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="300" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To begin the summer, I had no idea where to take my company GIVE. I started to realize that with school, ect, I needed to piggy back on the support of a bigger company. I found Bluecache and a great friend in Jeff Sorenson! We have the exact same vision, but they were a couple years ahead of me. I joined up with them and together we</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">'re driving a potent new force: CityGro. The Power of Support!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzve_vX3s0fvL7GwZT1XntQBSFCn0rZALzIV05GI0-bS4ExkwS2ui9wIzRHReFl4gIcHj9CJtw2L9-lrGV1Ugy8oqsui5fOTCVL0maXxjok1QlqZ-5w4d9BPlMVypnCctoHlb-bzW7y0/s1600/bluecache.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634652212834869490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzve_vX3s0fvL7GwZT1XntQBSFCn0rZALzIV05GI0-bS4ExkwS2ui9wIzRHReFl4gIcHj9CJtw2L9-lrGV1Ugy8oqsui5fOTCVL0maXxjok1QlqZ-5w4d9BPlMVypnCctoHlb-bzW7y0/s320/bluecache.png" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 119px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">To hit the point home, here's a line from one of my new favorite flicks Captain America:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Steven Rogers, in his measly yet courageous frame inquires "Why me?" to Dr Erskine before his operation to become Captain America. His wise reply says it all: </span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;">Because a weak man knows the value of strength; knows the value of power."</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px;">He also says,"Whatever happens, stay who you are. Not just a soldier, but a good man."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Strength comes from conquering weakness, and only grace attained in humility can maintain that force!</b></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Paul understood this well: </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">“My grace is sufficient for thee: for <b>my strength is made perfect in weakness.</b> Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2f393a; line-height: 22px;">Therefore I take pleasure in </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2f393a;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;">infirmities </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">in reproaches, in necessities, in </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;">persecutions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for <b>when I am </b></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;">weak</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">, then am I </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;">strong</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">." </span></span>(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/2-cor/12.9-10?lang=eng#8">2 Cor 12:9-10</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">I know that Christ's support is always there for us if we will humble ourselves. He is my Prop.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"> That is what grace is. <b>Grace is that "magic" support that allows us to "Rise Up" and make the most of every occasion in life. </b>For that Support as well as the wonderful props I have in my family and friendship circle, I'm grateful!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">"Find the 'Why' in life and the 'How' becomes pretty easy" - Dan Clark</span></div>
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RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-43043058791692467662011-04-13T14:45:00.000-06:002013-03-06T03:35:47.928-07:00Spiders or Tortuga<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span">MAHALO JJ AND RACHEL!!! Had a great "Vacation" to Maui and their wedding!</span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595172988262920626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPSC4-SXdg_rOVE6w3Tk0eoyw1SLgbYNImZ14DPY1m04JUXnJPtIh2lJrJA0GRVw9ptxzLmDiXlyYhv0cNw7o53MWh5xBRKCuKWtof1-2FrspByTGFFzM2PhefLtWpYWbn0GW188LMrE/s400/IMG_0613.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Well, I finally have an older brother! While I was in Hawaii for the wedding, I noticed some pretty amazing things, however simple. Of course I love deriving lessons from this stuff so here we go: Two animals that got me thinking: Spiders and Turtles. The contrast between the two is obvious, but on a spiritual sense, we should strive to be more like turtles. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Spiders: Creepy, crawly, recluse, camouflaged by its surroundings, using deceit to retrieve success, poisonous, despised, over-reactive, cold-blooded, scary, infesting, villainous just to name a few of the ideas that come to mind about the spider. Their success if everyone else's failure. They feast on the weak, and hide from the strong. They are carried in the wind to a residence,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"> then set up their traps, and sit idly waiting for their next victim.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595175711471948962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQsHLLrBvtw-m1LSWY2kgb99W8zt7EzB3oUSo6ho0cU03e8bNFgX0mJApGBifNqpkaenVWrS7uIumFK6sJEdQqu3vBWSkTF_gh5WTDqMNKwuMG1IHUQ6IICkOq0ZpmxD1o5zOYbyO_Jk/s400/PICT0328.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Turtles: Majestic, dedicated, shielded, intelligent, intuitive, navigated, tested, unchanging, patient, friendly. Turtles can support nearly 200 times their own body weight in pressure. From birth, they are targets of predative creatures, but with maturity, they find safety in being close to their family, using their shell, and navigating with a magnetic detection system. They use all their senses to their advantage, and help transport other animals along the way. Among the sharpest of their senses is that of vision, with which they communicate through visual signals and actions. They have a structured daily routine. They are sensitive to subtle vibrations, bright lights, and noise. Turtles are confident when alone, but thrive in a group setting.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634628120824866322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizds0JwGzrVnObW0k9y-lRfYQcltRm9_tV-QNFbbUI3kQAImQOYLk9iWoWDNUgW0iq-PTe4WtKpoGccgmbnvCOoVIBl7TxRD1bRoQnqtBmjBCyxDrpc_gXHEE2fa7wYfUmHhwPFk3Gjf0/s400/Sparrow.gif" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 169px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Hopefully you see where I'm going with this. We, as children of God, have great "majestic" potential. We are to let our light shine for others to be strengthened along the wa<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">y. There is no glory in putting others down, or hiding ourselves completely in darkness. Look at the above mentioned traits of a spider. They sound criminal. Hiding in dark alleyways awaiting their next underdog to prey on.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">Or there's the turtle, who uses all of its strengths to offset its weaknesses. It withstands pressure, uses imagination, has structure, and is a vehicle to others in its surrounding.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">"Together, there is nothing your minds cannot accomplish. Help each other, draw upon one another, and always remember the power that binds you." - Master Splinter (Ninja Turtles)</span></span></span></div>
RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-65557545441385601072011-02-02T22:01:00.001-07:002013-03-06T03:37:44.492-07:00LOVE<span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjNuWZm3a7-gCKD5Xh4UBAuEBgEotbs_7ATT79YGeAh3_TazFp-EWPjoOMKe4IdqG60piPVuY2rLT_3FnY4m424W9boZPXOyVtzex5p7iKxkY-LJMyX331Bp0PEOf12HMOQMo5I3PPNI/s1600/LoveAVA1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="399" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569325880055540754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjNuWZm3a7-gCKD5Xh4UBAuEBgEotbs_7ATT79YGeAh3_TazFp-EWPjoOMKe4IdqG60piPVuY2rLT_3FnY4m424W9boZPXOyVtzex5p7iKxkY-LJMyX331Bp0PEOf12HMOQMo5I3PPNI/s640/LoveAVA1.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;" width="640" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span"> Fe<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">bruary, one of two months in the year that makes single people cringe at the thought of being single. To be honest, I'm chill about it, but while this term "LOVE" gets thrown around over the next couple weeks, I thought I'd make my best effort in describing what it means to me.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">For starters, my sister Rachel sent this to me today, and I liked it</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">“Opposition turns up almost anyplace something good has happened. It can happen when you are trying to get an education. It can hit you after your first month in your new mission field. It certainly happens in matters of love and marriage. … There are cautions and considerations to make, but once there has been genuine illumination, beware the temptation to retreat from a good thing. If it was right when you prayed about it and trusted it and lived for it, it is right now. Don’t give up when the pressure mounts. … Face your doubts. Master your fears. ‘Cast not away therefore your confidence.’ Stay the course and see the beauty of life unfold for you." -- Elder Jeffrey R. Holland</span></span></span></div>
</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Sometimes we let our mind cripple something that could be potentially wonderful. If we overthink, we're going to overdo. I guess the same goes for underthinking. Either way, LOVE is made by learning to make it through those doldrums, as long as both people are living correctly!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"> In my portuguese class, we have to compare a couple of love ballads. One is by Camões titled "Love is a fire that burns unseen". The other is Paul's epistle to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians, chapter 13. I'll make my best effort at interpreting:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixh-lXTNbE0tmSpXFjboaXFGiM07vO5yu5nSEtG2zoQ6105JMe7VCqUXHJgp7PaJ183AV-A5IwnY2UJLOdVwv2whA0M4N7eDqCijD0nutaLxoi1GAFo2Q0kHY66MRY3F_TrSaLU516hss/s1600/mormon_temple_spires.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569381408559504082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixh-lXTNbE0tmSpXFjboaXFGiM07vO5yu5nSEtG2zoQ6105JMe7VCqUXHJgp7PaJ183AV-A5IwnY2UJLOdVwv2whA0M4N7eDqCijD0nutaLxoi1GAFo2Q0kHY66MRY3F_TrSaLU516hss/s1600/mormon_temple_spires.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><span class="Apple-style-span">Amor é um fogo que arde sem se ver</span></u></div>
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<u><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></u></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Love is a fire that burns unseen</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is a wound that hurts, yet goes unfelt</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is a discontent contentment</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is pain that rages without hurting</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is not wanting what is much wanted</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is walking alone among many</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is never happy with just being happy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is an idea that wins in losing itself</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is wanting to be held captive with your will</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">It is serving who wins, the winner</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">It is being with them who kill, in loyalty</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">But how its causes can hold favor</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">In the hearts of mankind's friendship</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">If exactly the opposite is the same LOVE</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">In comparison my interpretation of <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13?lang=eng">Paul's words</a> are as follows:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.1">
<span class="Apple-style-span">No matter how strong my words might be, if I don't have a perfect LOVE, my words </span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.1">
<span class="Apple-style-span">have lost their power</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.1">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">And having the gift of prophecy, understanding all mystery and having all knowledge, and even having enough faith to move mountains, without a perfect LOVE, I am nothing</span></span></div>
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<a class="bookmark dontHighlight" href="" name="3" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: absolute; text-decoration: none !important; vertical-align: baseline; z-index: -1;"> </a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">Even though I give to the poor and would sacrifice my own body to be burned, without perfect LOVE, it doesn't help me at all</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.4">
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">A perfect LOVE suffers an infinite amount of patience, it is ever kind; perfect LOVE doesn't envy; perfect LOVE doesn't brace or lift itself up, and is not self </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span">absorbed</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">It doesn't violate its good standards, doesn't look out for itself, is calm in the face of anger, and has wiped its mind of all evil</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.6">
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<span class="Apple-style-span">It cannot rejoice in iniquity, instead rejoices in truth</span></div>
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<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.7">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">It is </span>ever-bearing<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">, trusting, hopeful, and enduring in all things</span></span></div>
<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569379712895133522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1r9mQZDGE2CLqSdXcCEhqnANBM02JLqWfeCFpNuTjxb1c5QGSOJUYa0YqF9ds0Jer-tA-QODk5-x2b7-oCO5mnqLjJRqyc4BK_T5CYUXUTuhCps9xvIpoo9W0g9aV3QgP-wiTMjeTUcY/s400/slctmple.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 236px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 350px;" /><br />
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.8">
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<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.8">
<span class="Apple-style-span">Perfect LOVE never ends: in contrast there are prophecies that are fulfilled, tongues that finish, and memories fade.</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.9">
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<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.9">
<span class="Apple-style-span">Because we know partially, and we prophesy partially</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.10">
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<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.10">
<span class="Apple-style-span">But when perfection arrives, the individual pieces are insignificant</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.11">
<a class="bookmark dontHighlight" href="" name="11" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: absolute; text-decoration: none !important; vertical-align: baseline; z-index: -1;"> </a></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.11">
<span class="Apple-style-span">When I was a child, I spoke, understood, and thought as a child; as a man I put away childish things</span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.12">
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<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13.12">
<span class="Apple-style-span">Right now peering through a mysterious mirror; face to face; now I know in part, but then I know even as I am known.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"></span>Now remain faith, hope, and perfect LOVE, these three; the greatest of these being that perfect LOVE!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569378182716818338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lXMMBehl0gxD1D-3qQhIuO6E43qL1ENkbQredKBu49kta_R-iPgABzQWYqzPdFnGMm5ja6SU69l0G-E3o2nMXu6UA0sFuZX0cYzhdITbRZJXWwbXG5VXUYOhCMxOexs2d_aE5ljZ7js/s400/orlando-mormon-temple.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 300px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 400px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">Paul's rendition is obviously a bit more inspiring, but Camões isn't too far off of my feelings at times. Many have tried to define LOVE in so many ways.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">How do you show LOVE? Physically? In action? In word? In service? In example? In consent? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">When it all comes down to it, there's two perfect descriptions shown by Our Savior:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/14.15?lang=eng"><span class="Apple-style-span">John 14:15 - If ye LOVE me, keep my commandments</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">-and-</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/15.13?lang=eng"><span class="Apple-style-span">John 15:13 - <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">Greater </span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;">LOVE</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"> hath no man than this, that a man lay down his</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;"> </span>life<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"> for his </span>friends<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;">.</span></span></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">He really is the example of perfect LOVE, and if we follow him, no matter how cliché it might sound, we'll be on track to developing and enjoying this LOVE.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">And you really thought I was going to blog about dating? Pshhh, that's a LOVE I just don't comprehend, but hopefully will soon! All I know is that for some reason when you want it, she runs. When you don't want it, she finds you. When you're ready, she's not. When she's ready, you're scared. That's the gist on my experience with LOVE, ha! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">But there's a deep sense in me that there's something beautiful ahead...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">I love the temple, and I love the hope it gives me. The temple is all about LOVE: God's Love for us, Our LOVE to our family, and our everlasting LOVE to an eternal companion. That is the LOVE that transcends all romantics! It'll come in due time, I'll be ready so she can recognize me and I can recognize her!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">Here's Angels and Airwaves' latest attempt</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><u>Some Origins of Fire (ending)</u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">So heres my heart</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">It's only the cycle</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">It's deafening though</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">This age old recital is king of all sounds</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">There is no release, free, we are silently numb</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">A sole, lonely wave with the weight that's yet to come</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-80449625122009492212010-12-13T15:20:00.001-07:002010-12-15T12:42:47.295-07:00The Orange<b><span class="Apple-style-span"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkm9Nb9P7NxYpQYe5uZo1B8tIhiUijXuFGXp7lt0fcdJ-QBKgHl58LByiOZq_qHjswkMzx_mBdKwOIk5-UjpfwIzIWWm29_J0ucSVXvFJmY6bR1lgIa0WInTjqt4r6_-ZKYlefN7uf1A/s1600/orange.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkm9Nb9P7NxYpQYe5uZo1B8tIhiUijXuFGXp7lt0fcdJ-QBKgHl58LByiOZq_qHjswkMzx_mBdKwOIk5-UjpfwIzIWWm29_J0ucSVXvFJmY6bR1lgIa0WInTjqt4r6_-ZKYlefN7uf1A/s400/orange.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550283932376039698" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">Recently I viewed the latest installment of Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Strangely enough, the scene that hit me hardest was when (in concise summary) a punk kid who didn't want to be aboard the ship stole an orange, and was caught. That very orange was given to a daughter of a man who was in search of his wife who had disappeared. The girl sneaked onto the ship in concern and love for her father, and upon being discovered was given the orange. The crew accepted her along for the journey, and the orange symbolized the warm reception.</span></span></b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><b>The orange...</b></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><ul style="list-style-type: square; margin-top: 0.3em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 1.5em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; list-style-image: url(http://bits.wikimedia.org/skins-1.5/vector/images/bullet-icon.png?1); "><li style="margin-bottom: 0.1em; ">Blood oranges are used as a symbol of the death of Jesus<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.5em;">.</span></span></li><li style="margin-bottom: 0.1em; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 1.5em; ">In some European countries, a "Christingle" is a Christmas decoration using an orange and a candle to symbolize Christ's love for the world.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 0.1em; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 1.5em; ">In cold countries, an orange represents a warm tropical treat during the coldest winter months.</li><li style="margin-bottom: 0.1em; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 1.5em; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); ">Known for its vitamin C and blood-protecting antioxidants, <a href="http://news.byu.edu/archive10-dec-holidayorange.aspx">it is healthier to eat a whole orange than to take a vitamin supplement by far</a>.</span></li><li style="margin-bottom: 0.1em; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 1.5em; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><br /></span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; ">So for Christmas, all I really want, is an orange! I want to be healthier. I want to be thoughtful of Christ. I want to be grateful for all that I already have. I want others to be better off for knowing the whole me, and not just part of me. I want all of my ingredients to be helpful to others. </span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 19px; "><br /></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 19px; ">I love the following story:</div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><div class="post-body" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.6em; "><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.6em; "><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; line-height: 1.6em; clear: both; "></div><img src="http://www.luvzbluez.com/images2/orange.jpg" align="right" width="150" style="padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-right-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-left-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); " />Sometimes it is easy to forget the true meaning of Christmas. The busy traditions of the season and the appealing advertisements for material goods can leave the pure and simple truths far, far behind.<p></p><p>Jake was nine years old with tousled brown hair with blue eyes as bright as a heavenly angel. For as long as Jake could remember he had lived within the walls of a poor orphanage. He was just one of ten children supported by what meager contributions the orphan home could obtain in a continuous struggle seeking donations from townsfolk.</p><p>There was very little to eat, but at Christmas time there always seemed to be a little more than usual to eat, the orphanage seemed a little warmer, and it was time for a little holiday enjoyment. But more than this, there was the Christmas orange!</p><p>Christmas was the only time of year that such a rare treat was provided and it was treasured by each child like no other food admiring it, feeling it, prizing it and slowly enjoying each juicy section. Truly, it was the light of each orphan's Christmas and their best gift of the season. How joyful would be the moment when Jake received his orange!</p><p>Unknown to him, Jake had somehow managed to track a small amount of mud on his shoes through the front door of the orphanage, muddying the new carpet. He hadn't even noticed. Now it was too late and there was nothing he could do to avoid punishment. The punishment was swift and unrelenting. Jake would not be allowed his Christmas orange! It was the only gift he would receive from the harsh world he lived in, yet after a year of waiting for his Christmas orange, is was to be denied him.</p><p>Tearfully, Jake pleaded that he be forgiven and promised never to track mud into the orphanage again, but to no avail. He felt hopeless and totally rejected. Jake cried into his pillow all that night and spent Christmas Day feeling empty and alone. He felt that the other children didn't want to be with a boy who had been punished with such a cruel punishment. Perhaps they feared he would ruin their only day of happiness. Maybe, he reasoned, the gulf between him and his friends existed because they feared he would ask for a little of their oranges. Jake spent the day upstairs, alone, in the unheated dormitory. Huddled under his only blanket, he read about a family marooned on an island. Jake wouldn't mind spending the rest of his life on an isolated island, if he could only have a real family that cared about him.</p><p>Bedtime came, and worst of all, Jake couldn't sleep. How could he say his prayers? How could there be a God in Heaven that would allow a little soul such as his, to suffer so much all by himself? Silently, he sobbed for the future of mankind that God might end the suffering in the world, both for himself and all others like him.</p><p>As he climbed back into bed from the cold, hard floor, a soft hand touched Jake's shoulder, startling him momentarily and an object was silently placed in his hands. The giver disappeared into the darkness, leaving Jake with what, he did not immediately know!</p><p>Looking closely at it in the dim light, he saw that it looked like an orange! Not a regular orange, smooth and shiny, but a special orange, very special. Inside a patched together peal were the segments of nine other oranges, making one whole orange for Jake! The nine other children in the orphanage had each donated one segment of their own precious oranges to make a whole orange as a gift for Jake.</p><p>Sharing what we truly value is the true spirit of Christmas. Our Heavenly Father gave us His beloved Son. May we, like the children in the orphanage, find ways to share His love with others less blessed.</p></div></div></span></div></span></span>An orange is a symbol of discipleship. I recently stumbled onto this quote, and its suitable to be my motto as I move forward!<br /></span></b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><b>I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The dye has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.<br />I won't look back, let up, slow down, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.<br />I'm finished and done with low living, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, worldly talking, cheap giving,and dwarfed goals.<br />I no longer need pro-eminence, positions, promotions, plaudits,or popularity.<br />I don't have to be right, first, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded.<br />I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk with patience, am uplifted by prayer, and labor with power. My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven.<br />My road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions are few, my guide is reliable, my mission is clear.<br />I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, divided, or delayed.<br />I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.<br />I won't give up, shut up, or let up until I have stayed up, stored up, and paid up for the cause of Christ.<br />I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me.<br />And when He returns for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me.<br /><br /><br />My banner will be clear.</b></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><b>Have a Merry Orange Christmas!!!</b></span></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-234383052396740822010-12-05T01:19:00.005-07:002015-03-30T01:12:30.193-06:00How Great Will Be Your Joy<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">Remember the <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/18.10,15-16?lang=eng%5C#" id="footnote20" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=dc-testament&bookUri=dc&chapterUri=18&noteID=10a&lang=eng" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">worth</a> of <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/18.10,15-16?lang=eng%5C#" id="footnote21" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=dc-testament&bookUri=dc&chapterUri=18&noteID=10b&lang=eng" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">souls</a> is great in the sight of God;</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0YdCuY96EOw7fPqbMO6M4zxDtMjECZQfAD2lR4CdeICu6LPLmVjqSz9KPTzzLMaOmwG0Qd8K0Bi5oJDYiCsMPnB1Lj1g8TzLXiirZOFClj2PbJ6uM2zv1DEeSj4aUWy6SuFLF8RXbhM/s1600/mission19.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0YdCuY96EOw7fPqbMO6M4zxDtMjECZQfAD2lR4CdeICu6LPLmVjqSz9KPTzzLMaOmwG0Qd8K0Bi5oJDYiCsMPnB1Lj1g8TzLXiirZOFClj2PbJ6uM2zv1DEeSj4aUWy6SuFLF8RXbhM/s400/mission19.jpg" height="240" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547659806175190946" style="display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genibau Ward Baptismal Font until 2011</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No other pool has had the effect the one pictured above did on my life! This is the baptismal font from the first area of my LDS mission to Fortaleza, Brazil. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPoXp-nxRP3hW2P5okjD_r0EIAK_peDFpCvvd-cJBJBxbcIgFq6yimLNAI5YDhuF7YVyWjiV8Zqmsarb3k_yz9psliP6prHzwBJSrociKVRIOvXJTqE-QvR-G73l9uCBaZxXGeLr_ifds/s320/mission6.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657675831909234" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 214px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 320px;" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's my words of advice to any men or women who are considering serving an LDS mission.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I can only speak from my own experiences of missionary work, but I did give it my all and for that reason I loved it and was successful. Its clear that as the world continues to turn more and more sour towards the good, the Lord needs more and more qualified re</span>presentatives (young and old, male and female) to preach the plan of peace. I hope all who consider going will make a serious effort to go; you'll NEVER regret it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Whether a potential </span>Elder or potential Sister missionary, or just someone who loves the Lord, seriously consider it. For me, it was the greatest two years I could have ever had. I miss it: the people, the smiles, the tears, the country, the food, the heat, all of it, EVERY DAY.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Its important to note that we are all missionaries in a way, by example and action; but the best way to serve is to be a called servant of the Lord.</span></div>
<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdnaJnKLbRb79v24NW1diKBXQsnkEfnIIeKU6hZRxZdo7IACX5IVO5txSNpo7jEq-An_jDfgq8Wpvb9ufkapv4fx3yx1aAHLNtHJS0wzrN0-0wlWhBla_EEP1rIZQT4SciM9Zz_b0XTU/s320/mission8.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657678611353906" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 214px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 320px;" /></div>
<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLeJ6w3Z2c9QPxCtTeXaLxI0FLdmB4X8iB8WD_H1I0xkMPTlpWyNDSZMOEQSu-3N2-8EosU9CoU2Ch2igx9Uu3gUmoE4lrOpqXMKsjAwLuBeGewzCgbqRoMRpnRR82zCkSoRML3K4OwfM/s320/mission4.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657355078517618" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 214px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 320px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdlucdLuq0jWW3ITNypMxEmjz6xP5c4f0XauI4Gz8dPEtldAFL4MfSOPhEU_Vemfd7N3Uw_cuUS-b-WIYhAakstWPvGzDINziCP3mMoZvmCAq9zB5BVzNsRcoPrdVhW07CPYR3AfXnQU/s320/mission2.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657347785743458" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 214px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 320px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Through dedication and following the spirit, I witnessed miracle after miracle that I still find myself dwelling on now, years later. I was fortunate enough to pick up a second language, which has opened doors for me since. Looking back, its impossible to find a single reason why it would have made sense to stay behind. I think for those who actually make it through the whole 18 to 24 months, they never live regretting having gone; yet those who don't go will always question, "What if?" So my first advice is to JUST GO! Nothing in life is more important than teaching people about Jesus Christ.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The great thing is that ANYONE (yes, YOU) can do that, if you'll live the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and develop a desire to serve through prayer. I challenge anyone who has the bleakest consideration to go on a mission to SERIOUSLY consider it. Yes, you women, not just 19-21 year olds, but all of you! I have various female friends who served as Sisters and they're so grateful they did go on a mission, after questioning previously. GO!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To those who are close to making it there, the following is my advice to you:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dear Elder/Sister!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The moment you've dreamed of is right around the corner! From my experience I've come up with three important principles to getting the most production out of you mission:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Focus, innovation and productivity! All are attributes of a great fisherman, a metaphor that should be applied daily in your work!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpNLrku8cLdSI4zKyF8_eIyW5vKdxxSgbJnJzO10i81atAfXMi4Wh6Wu_ttp-Q_BqrBK-yyXowOTIwx_-bm8NOdvkeYOWSr3HZoXrAE8wPlbGkkKI1xqLo2HCY58swRC8DnuWoEUcOWw/s400/mission16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpNLrku8cLdSI4zKyF8_eIyW5vKdxxSgbJnJzO10i81atAfXMi4Wh6Wu_ttp-Q_BqrBK-yyXowOTIwx_-bm8NOdvkeYOWSr3HZoXrAE8wPlbGkkKI1xqLo2HCY58swRC8DnuWoEUcOWw/s400/mission16.jpg" height="480" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547659794137756306" style="display: block; height: 300px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3Cq7lKYLYxweXSLOAVfe_vX3MQmtKr6rZ6nid1l-YV-pkva-mn9bE0dVHXL9I8T6UkcyPU4-Yh89HfzZ8b1Plt1H9gqr48Z3tufRWjDO1Qh8KQ52ikPV8oSlKOgUPDgc2yBq6oyT-ZQ/s320/mission5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3Cq7lKYLYxweXSLOAVfe_vX3MQmtKr6rZ6nid1l-YV-pkva-mn9bE0dVHXL9I8T6UkcyPU4-Yh89HfzZ8b1Plt1H9gqr48Z3tufRWjDO1Qh8KQ52ikPV8oSlKOgUPDgc2yBq6oyT-ZQ/s320/mission5.jpg" height="428" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657368335873346" style="height: 214px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" width="640" /></span></a> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Focus: Keeping your line in the water refers to Jesus’ admonition to Peter and the disciples that he would make them “fishers of men.” You have been called to do the same. The most successful fisherman does three things: He has his line in the water ALL the time; He finds new ways to catch those fish; and then he finds other productive "lines" to catch fish at a faster rate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86yhFhMqB84ZTKQ1gYqWcvAuZ4RJTlClB-ycUTWPU1REeb-HjyuA7cGkGYwRWwaSuunSGFlxLnB_tDBbSWlvhUhC6XFEIEW2B1pIibxw07t6Uhfyw-MAfoxHQRcPc_JrkhMWO-lxPQfI/s320/mission15.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547658025146084706" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">Refer to D&C 4. Keeping your line in the water all the time means staying focused on the task of “catching fish”. You must use every Nano-second of time, The Lord’s Time, in finding His Elect. Your Heart must always reflect your desire to catch fish. Your Might is your Willingness to do what the</span> L</span>ord wants you to do, this requires full humility. Your Mind, in my opinion is the most important concept of missionary service.</span><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigswq6AT0yFPcNrv7uWd2DbvI5WxfNS6S8EZt8vyxLdh1vsK1_LEmBKfT7f8H-ay7zB1DyGChwr7X1m9z4LW_JnnkOWn7dj_xJ1O-wI5wzZVnSyADNDL-OYiE9X5ekSTO1xaaTy1oLkgY/s320/mission14.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547658005997615282" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 240px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sooner you stop thinking about song lyrics, home, friends, relationships, what you’ll do on Preparation-day and other distractions, and start putting prayer, scriptures, strategy about investigators, and other God-like thoughts into your mind, the more successful and able you’ll be as a missionary to the people all who surround you.</span></div>
<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlug8P99xPob_YPqXn8FV9Zry0tTAS_qt7ZFYPxKhG0o3jjpL_GDBmh59YoPqtmr9I_TyrPnBZeWa38Qxbk-t6QKq-66R_B2viZ7dOuznBoI3RTT14zj_J0-Z-s6DD6vDII3eqijJhzJ4/s320/mission9.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657684921303874" style="float: left; height: 240px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px;" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Your Strength is your physical ability given to you by the Lord to do his work. He will stretch that ability further than you can ever imagine!</span></div>
<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6wHTkehU0nMUxJirNao796ofUy-yN6DgRPoUbAGllc98-GfheS5aR4xoVg9A_tdTQmwag93xVhvqhfNWxI-2nBPuPwA7gPE5toLM1-lpzSu9oMmi50icXJpgAj_5WPGQMAnVVj-1ycco/s320/mission12.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657995641441394" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 214px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Innovation and Productivity: They're in Alma 26:21-22 and 1 Ne 18:2-4. Let the Lord teach you, and don’t live by logic of Man, but by His logic! The Lord will open your mind to these innovations. His thoughts are not our thoughts, unless we yield to His will.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Learn to put more than one line in the water. Replicate! Using other lines like referrals, and doubling your work through splits and exchanges with members, whose trust you must gain and maintain. I cannot overemphasize the power of prayer and fasting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pray always and you will never faint in your preparedness to know exactly what you must say in that very moment that you need it. I promise you that!</span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUNw4eVQ_KCRiBSvXmJ9mX0xOyEt1n-rnKkYL12ub5OynM5KkEJ7-dGLT0sUazk3AvcTs_m1RXZwmbI1yr5g8K10797284WgSQbJkOmETpDSQNW8ulBGvRmTvcZHP_0MCnt5Dbk5zhZE/s320/mission11.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657990567718658" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 240px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" /><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimMrGuR2ETI4fVMy06WBAEP9kB77sYdR1eyixCHE9qZ4syBDdYs5X6E8KK6sZMA524R1_viIpv1wnLjkbGYYvG2bnpYAtTAPGH3gBFJnLWVyj7fQSMKh5w21ME3OQHD5hm_Qm9l2k7TAE/s320/mission10.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547657689630208450" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 240px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; width: 320px;" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Prayer will give you confidence even in the gloomiest moments. It will help you combat the </span>adversary’s tool of discouragement. Prayer is the alignment of your will with His Will, and a declaration of your Righteous Desires to His. As He sees that your desires are His desires, He will open new flood-gates of knowledge and blessings to you and lift clouds of spiritual fog from areas you serve in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fast often! This shows the Lord your willingness to sacrifice your desires for His. Don’t forget how important it is to Live what you Pray!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> BE SPECIFIC! Pray for each investigator, their house, their work, their difficulties, be mindful of their potential tripping-stones, and view with an eye of faith their potential and ask God to help them achieve it. Pray for members, wards, areas and their progression. Pray for those you lead, and pray for your leaders, all by name. Your specification shows the Lord your dedication to those desires. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Overall, the Lord loves you. </span>He will find favor in you, as He did in Joseph in Egypt, one of my greatest heroes. Pray for the gift of discernment early, that you might have the ability to look people in the eyes and know of their potential, their desires, and their difficulties. Pray for all the gifts of the Spirit and equally important, pray for the attributes of Christ that they might recognize you as His servant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The first step might seem scary, but don't worry at all. You’ll do a great work. You’ll be an advocate of your mission president and mission rules and obedience will and already are second nature to you. Waking up at 6:30 is a small sacrifice to see even one extra soul come unto Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My mission made me into a dreamer, a Visionary, which has blessed me a million times over since. I began my mission in the area of the ward that had to split, so the stake could split, so the mission could split, so there could be justification for a new temple to be built. At the time, I had no idea what the Lord had in store for the people of Fortaleza. Now, with the benefit of hindsight, I was able to see how the hard work of our mission will bless millions of people. The Fortaleza Brazil mission </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">has split twice since I've been back and the Fortaleza Brazil T</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">emple was announced after I came home. That murky pool pictured above has been replaced with a beautiful chapel. I was fortunate to see both the ward and stake divided while I was still in the mission. A handful of those I taught have served missions since, some have been sealed in the temple, many have been called to leadership, including a Bishop (pictured below with his family). Surely, the Lord would have accomplished His work through someone else, but I feel fortunate to have been prepared, willing and worthy to be His servant to fulfill His work. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those ripple effects are what will form your unshakeable foundation for the rest of your life. The mission is a unique crucible the mold the best you that the Lord can mold. It is the nearest you'll ever feel to Jesus Christ in your life to this point.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoksDKcXof9uB4O3UasxtJW0ZrbdlLkpyx2S9GNN9Vjdsy5DfG0WwDBP5KblzE0qVwsZspfuWj1zrKUjscLCTm_5_HFHMFjHU6DIDMuZTWDwb3-pcGTWpckSUDPhsSGI5v1zIJJNPt-TU/s1600/fortaleza-mormon-temple1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoksDKcXof9uB4O3UasxtJW0ZrbdlLkpyx2S9GNN9Vjdsy5DfG0WwDBP5KblzE0qVwsZspfuWj1zrKUjscLCTm_5_HFHMFjHU6DIDMuZTWDwb3-pcGTWpckSUDPhsSGI5v1zIJJNPt-TU/s1600/fortaleza-mormon-temple1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rendering of the Fortaleza Brazil Temple (Under Construction)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isn't it going to be GORGEOUS?!!!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">GO!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Bishop" Ediva Freitas, his wife Lena and Clarinha (daughter)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I love The Work. My eyes tear up as I declare my love for missionary service. It is the best life there is. It will stretch you. I know that Christ is the Head of the work you are enlisted in. He is your Boss, and He has prepared your way. He IS Your Way. Continue to grow in Christ and you’ll be the best missionary in the world. Live that gospel you teach, study it deeply and love it. I’ll continue to pray for all the success for the Lord's missionaries. Pray for those at home last, as there are more important things for you to exert your prayers about, but do pray for those you love back home, lastly. Carry your family’s names with honor! Do your best, work hard, and DO IT FOR CHRIST!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Faithfully step onto this ocean of blessings just waiting to shower over you. You'll truly learn to walk above the ways of the world, and walk along His side as His representative!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2f393a; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 21px;"> unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the Kingdom of my Father!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!"</span></span></div>
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In short, it is a mythical bird, which dies, and is reborn from its own ashes, and then soars again in triumph. He is a large swan-sized scarlet bird with red and gold plumage, along with a golden beak and talons, black eyes, and </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">a tail as long as a peacock. Its scarlet feathers glow faintly in darkness, while its golden tail feathers are hot to the touch. Phoenixes are known for nesting on the highest mountain peaks much like </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VkUl-Knh_E">eagles</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0em0qYkqiCGIZjMcFWIUXxkGBfrAuTA_2chk1z-I9wMYVyADCyBqLXN8DsKWlq7kRDFMyGA5emSHvcAwO3JQ_nj6VgyH82Ntrf9fOcbPQ7Px2Ty2ZilKb5tUry_KnPzgzgVB9pHon94/s1600/christ.htm" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0em0qYkqiCGIZjMcFWIUXxkGBfrAuTA_2chk1z-I9wMYVyADCyBqLXN8DsKWlq7kRDFMyGA5emSHvcAwO3JQ_nj6VgyH82Ntrf9fOcbPQ7Px2Ty2ZilKb5tUry_KnPzgzgVB9pHon94/s400/christ.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538719988110634082" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">And so I feel privileged to be reborn from the ashes. The Lord humbles us if we need it, even until we are in "</span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://institute.lds.org/manuals/old-testament-institute-student-manual-2/ot-in2-04-2kg-9.asp">sackcloth and ashes</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">." He then allows us to be reborn in Hi</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">m, if we'll let him build us back up with faith in Him. </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/ether/12/27">He takes our weaknesses, and converts them into strengths</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">.</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">"A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord... [for] the root of the righteous </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">shall not be moved" (</span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://scriptures.lds.org/prov/12/2,3">Proverbs 12:2,3</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">)</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Never in my life have I been so happy as I am right now. I recently moved from the safeharbor of some wonderful friends (Thomas, Ben, and Dallas) into a situation that I felt deep down </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">like I needed to move into, but didn't know why. I faithfully followed the guidance of the Spirit on this one... and I've been blessed. I moved in with Logan Webber and Adam Thomas. Logan is getting ready to serve a mission, and just submitted his papers. Adam just arrived from a mission, and is now getting ready to go to school. Looking back in my life, the stages of life they are living through were truly the happiest (excluding my own mission of course) in </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">my life. I enjoy seeing Logan's enthusiasm for the Gospel, and it invigorates me to see him doing all he can </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">to prepare. Adam's enthusiasm for life is very contagious.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">"Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge... a man shall be commended according to his wisdom; but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised." (</span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://scriptures.lds.org/prov/12/1,8">Proverbs 12:1,8</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">So at times we find ourselves behind in life. At times we feel like we can practically throw experiences or certain things down the toilet, because they were directed at things that we aren't deeply passionate about, and riding the waves of what we think is easy, when in reality, it is more difficult because our heart isn't there.<br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Enter <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCiHOpNJXnc">Paul Millsap, the author of one of the greatest comeback's in NBA History</a>:<br /><br /></div> <a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7RohkGeXqMvxeJv34c5GTocuHecvtoTKrP5ujERHtAnRs7pF_55jGgoiirMyQobhjYoaoEdog7OWRTLkJovlVhp3j__cmjE-DmJ6xAgu37_hJ_kX1bHkghjyOLbr66sDaXYhotFoPAQ/s1600/paul-millsap-526-110910.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7RohkGeXqMvxeJv34c5GTocuHecvtoTKrP5ujERHtAnRs7pF_55jGgoiirMyQobhjYoaoEdog7OWRTLkJovlVhp3j__cmjE-DmJ6xAgu37_hJ_kX1bHkghjyOLbr66sDaXYhotFoPAQ/s400/paul-millsap-526-110910.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538720504415287538" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Quick recap of this week's Jazz's game vs the Heat, and then I'll relate it to my life. The Jazz fell behind 22 points to the NBA's Hyped Heat squad. It seemed like they should just roll over and die. LeBron was on his way to a triple-double, the free-throw disparity was horrific, and D-Wade was en route to 39 points. Yet, there was a warrior on the Jazz's side, who didn't let discouragement get the best of him, but rather used the tribulation as a trampoline into the spotlight. Millsap finished the night with 46 points, including a blazing 11 points in the last 28 seconds of regulation. Although the Jazz fell behind, that deep fighting belief and character of one player earned them an overtime win against all odds.</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">So I fell behind, but clearly its not too late to make it back. "Be humble, or be Humiliated," </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfuDUD7uiNi-rnUhAhSRsCR75xWoFkghyVSFcO7EgheB2E5dAcchIHcKJIK8FW7neyO9NlaDfc-ze7fMZ9B7W-rCgvAOzq6GjCy7M_aAI21ZA4_b30KIsi8jqDD3-2Cqrp1d3xjE6en2A/s1600/eAGLE.htm" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfuDUD7uiNi-rnUhAhSRsCR75xWoFkghyVSFcO7EgheB2E5dAcchIHcKJIK8FW7neyO9NlaDfc-ze7fMZ9B7W-rCgvAOzq6GjCy7M_aAI21ZA4_b30KIsi8jqDD3-2Cqrp1d3xjE6en2A/s320/eAGLE.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538736500358828690" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">a quote visible in the Brimhall Building on BYU's campus. After being nourished in humiliation in the Lord's nest of <a href="http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=fc82d7630a27b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD">repentance (having "shubed")</a>, I have now been nudged off the proverbial </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">cliff, and He trusts me to fly and make the decisions that will again benefit my life, because it is now directed at Him, and not worldly sights, but what He sees. Why be cooped up with the chickens, when I can soar with the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ob3Vpi1u_0">eagles</a>? No more need I peck around with the chickens. He can give me the lift under my wings to succeed in life. I can still make up my 22-point deficit, even if it requires overtime!</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtyWwZYN0b5AUDakGDvShAoB8wMDVp2W2018GjQeTVp3VBaD0bhg0IIzSwxMYoGSpFrvZSzLeR7JWOdW3Jpup8wenvr9sKRyhbsj8vGhDXlMm4sWJatQRo1pHuPxXna-6xT5M90VEOUg/s1600/m_russell_ballard_MD.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 328px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtyWwZYN0b5AUDakGDvShAoB8wMDVp2W2018GjQeTVp3VBaD0bhg0IIzSwxMYoGSpFrvZSzLeR7JWOdW3Jpup8wenvr9sKRyhbsj8vGhDXlMm4sWJatQRo1pHuPxXna-6xT5M90VEOUg/s400/m_russell_ballard_MD.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538730407088573026" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Elder M. Russell Ballard gave a great discourse this past Sunday on the <a href="http://lds.org/video/ces/index.html?lang=english">simplicity of the Gospel of Jesus Christ</a>. I was pleased to be able to answer his gauging questions in a positive way. He warned against the adversary's Fake Flies that are used to deceive, </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">although they might appear to be appeasing (in reference to fly-fishing). He counseled to be anchored in the Lord, so that we might not drift. Fitting counsel for me in my life.</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Although it be cold outside, I feel warm in the arms of the Gospel, and as Thanksgiving and Christmas approximate, I feel that special warmth in remembering My Savior, and being grateful for Him in my life, as well as the opportunities He has given me to serve others.</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">A good summary of my feelings is from a techno mix by Armin Van Buuren and Adam Young titled "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utopia#Religious_utopia">Youtopia</a>" or in Mormon terms, Zion:</span> <div style="text-align: center;"><pre style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">I can feel you in the raising tide<br />Can you feel me by the fire side<br /><br />From the moonlight<br />Through the cherry trees<br />Open the roof and take in the view<br />Cuz you’re my sweetest dream<br />Come true<br /><br />Colour the dusk, deep navy blue<br />And try to be brave<br />Cause I’ll be right beside you<br />There’s a world so high<br />Hold out your hands<br />And you can go anywhere<br />So reach for the stars<br />Cause I’ll be waiting up there<br />And you can finally fly<br />Cause you’ll be lighter than air<br /><br />Colour the dusk, deep navy blue<br />And try to be brave<br />Cause I’ll be right beside you<br />There’s a world so high<br />Hold out your hands<br />And you can go anywhere<br />So reach for the stars<br />Cause I’ll be waiting up there<br />And you can finally fly<br />Cause you’ll be lighter than air!<br /></pre><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs66T5uWAi41xoaJhepx9yRJ8dEiB5Elj4WB-g0DfBzexuTy-kw_xoFuCR8nWZ1ebH1ThsePsqplQS9HrcPfA-H9PUTpW6tmNZRngRl37tY0gunDmByCdhveBOie-agKAw_zoEVgRR5A/s1600/ck.htm" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 392px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs66T5uWAi41xoaJhepx9yRJ8dEiB5Elj4WB-g0DfBzexuTy-kw_xoFuCR8nWZ1ebH1ThsePsqplQS9HrcPfA-H9PUTpW6tmNZRngRl37tY0gunDmByCdhveBOie-agKAw_zoEVgRR5A/s400/ck.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538733149079414306" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">So I return to my Utopia, being lighter than air, soaring with His sights in the forefront of my intentions, and being strengthened, in contrast to being discouraged, in<br /><a href="http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=fc82d7630a27b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD">The Comeback</a>!</span><br /></div></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-72725009473291966092010-10-28T11:13:00.002-06:002010-10-28T13:07:22.436-06:00What Should I Do?<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">What Should I Do??? Today I reflect on some near my age who influenced </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">the outcome of American History forever, who undoubtedly asked the same question when they were called to serve the United States during WWII! Assigned to go to war, they must have been sheer full of fear! But many hearkened to this council from Heber J. Grant at the April 1942 General </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">Conference of the LDS church:</span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMcF0YGOqRoBN4QAf_XGIdd-i8Zk7tlXXK9OpZZB0e9KPfFxqufwdLRss5NAgbsN_fBzzKKbu3IopWD8RBVLy8drSujTwVzxv9cuEfM9wMgCDqQEMazci0IeGQf3lWkh9-ptr3Xx2et2k/s320/heber.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 262px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533168785774839682" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">"To our young men who go into se</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">rvice, no matter whom they serve or where, we say live clean, keep the commandments of the Lord, pray to Him constantly to preserve you in truth and righteousness, live as you pray, and then whatever betides you the Lord will be with you and nothing will happen to you that will not be to the honor and glory of God and to your salvation and exaltation. There will come into your hearts from the living of the pure life you pray for, a joy that will pass your powers of expression or understanding. The Lord will be always near you; He will comfort you; you will feel His presence in the hour of your greatest tribulation; He will guard and protect you to the full extent that accords with His </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">all-wise purpose. Then, when the conflict is over and you return to your homes, having lived the righteous life, how great will be your happiness — whether you be of the victors or of the vanquished — that </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">you have lived as the Lord commanded. You will return so disciplined in righteousness that thereafter all Satan's wiles and stratagems will leave you untouched. Your faith and testimony will be strong beyond breaking. You will be looked up to and revered as having passed through the fiery furnace (Dan 3:26-27) of trial and temptation and come forth unharmed. Your brethren will look to you for counsel, support, and guidance. You will be the anchors to which thereafter the youth of Zion will moor their faith in man.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Wow... look at those promises, look at how all of them were fulfilled for those WWII vets who served in faith, and look </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">at how we can apply and receive those same promises in our own lives!</span></span></p></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5MY1qGGFvvXtd9fPG_h-6qJBQAsTXRPbSbqWZeesE93c6Sxlh49cyBtaQsMl5p4_ZRfAihjPZ3sLy8Hi-5n-1gFOYu_j_FML8OxfMGmCft7p7NR_Aegd_5AyFXyaWnAQojrXUKfrAoM/s320/lebron-james-decision.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533169226350719074" /><span class="Apple-style-span">Lots on the mind this week. As usual, I'm prompted by a</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"> sports reference. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdtejCR413c">LeBron James and Nike recently released a commercial "LeBron Rise"</a>. He is quoted saying: "What Should I Do?" over and over. The commercial, to those who haven't heard, was prompted by his "Decision". He made the unpopular choice to do the hard thing and join the Miami Heat, and leaving his home state of Cleveland. We'll see how that works out for him. I initially disagreed with what he did with his "Legacy", but the best line in the whole video is the last, "Should I be what YOU want me to be?"</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">What Should I Do? I don't think a day goes by that this </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span">question hasn't been on my mind, whether I was conscious of it or not.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Before a young man in the LDS church serves a mission, he kind of knows what he is expected to do. Graduate high school, live worthy, prepare to serve a mission, and go on a mission prepared, and serve the Lord with all his soul. Its very outlined for them.</span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">When a young man gets back, its different! There is only the 2 broad expectations of: (1) Get a job, and (2) Get Hitched. Those are two TOUGH</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"> decisions. You mean I have to choose one thing I want to do for the next fifty years? You mean I need to find a woman that I don't drive nuts, and someone to build eternity with?</span></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43V8GIndVAKkyEFnqfB49oyZRHnNEudvIX6DDjVnHpedHVJ_OcRE40XqQZ2F7PFG0VS4em-d_UelCMd6JECk4fNgCDE11hZUDVNPsXj3gjzM5ldAvKcowAYg80sVnjwaUxhNI-HJN4Yo/s400/Temple+-+WA,+DC+Temple.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 263px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533172626238694498" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">For some, it seems to come easy. For me, I'm very scattered. I can see myself being great at many things, but I struggle being great at something I don't care for... who is?</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">So here I am at the original question: What Should I Do?!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXp5z2AxVe6PwFGPbNzRbM4HiIo61ptE-xTmjNRJiJ_h4oOMWGiq1D_8Fc_w4_z1oGjWQAORujBcOh6VwATqONvJ_EFHyo3NNUv-LUMI_DZfzTtGyICsn9s-ZgamZgLOVGvIxCAAhl_Q/s320/widtsoe.gif" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 172px; height: 212px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533169971880598194" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Enter October 2010 General Conference, a weekend that I would like to think marked my life for the better. <a href="http://ryp24.blogspot.com/2010/10/to-better-engage-myself-in-learning.html">There were lots of talks that touched me, as I already reported earlier</a>. Also, I'm comforted by the admonition of John A. Widstoe (pictured right) in that same 1942 conference. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">I think I'm afraid of making just good choices, instead of the BEST choices. This causes fear of commitment...</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">"Fear, which "shall come upon every man," is the natural consequence of a sense of weakness, also of sin.</span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Fear is a </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">chief weapon of Satan in making mankind unhappy. He who fears loses strength for the combat of life, for the fight against evil. Therefore, the power of evil ever seeks to engender fear in human hearts. In this day of sorrow, fear walks with humanity. It directs, measurably, the course of every battle. It remains as a gnawing poison in the hearts of victors as of the vanquished."</span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">So... weakness? I can count a million of those in myself. What I love about weakness, it that it is by those weaknesses that we're perfected. <a href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/ether/12/27">It is by weakness that we call upon the Lord to strengthen us</a> says a popular scripture in Ether. We are strong, BECAUSE we are weak, as <a href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/2_cor/12/9">Paul</a> says.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsvtu3Ms4dMqKzfKk8BFo8XvG6tYpQJHnB_kjMu8RGRkZqrHE3zvudzgvrEMAjIlMfMRrACx8I8_QKcQShn8p-9X092RgOBkPwxIJBedgJPR6LxHjZKMeEcmzLdDExpHArytSXOzDkUA/s400/Bible_book_of_Mormon(1).jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 321px; height: 400px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533171202381735282" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">What Should I Do? I will move forward in faith, praying, and living what I pray. I can draw on those prophetic promises given to those WWII vets, and I will come away from life's daily battles "</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"> having lived the righteous life, how great will be [my] happiness — whether [I] be of the victors or of the vanquished — that [I] lived as the Lord commanded. [I] will return so disciplined in righteousness that thereafter all Satan's wiles and stratagems will leave [me] untouched. [My] faith and testimony will be strong beyond breaking." That sounds like the kind of person I want to become! NOT what everyone else wants me to become, but what the Lord will mold me to become!</span></span></span></span></div></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-70105474031934808322010-10-21T10:36:00.001-06:002010-10-21T11:45:02.318-06:00General Conference Notes<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; ">To better engage myself in learning from the Prophet, Apostles, and other General Authorities of the past conference, I'll be blogging my study journal. I figure the best way to remember talks, and feelings felt from them, is to document those portions of the Conference discourses that hit me hardest. I'll first be studying the talks that touched me most, then I'll go back through to study all of them.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(119, 119, 119); line-height: 13px; "><h1 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-weight: normal; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(60, 66, 78); font-family: OFLSortsMillGoudyRegular, Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 50px; letter-spacing: -1px; width: 484px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng">The Transforming Power of Faith and Character</a></span></h1><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibGLS5pDkWQB3866XNnSs3X3KwFCJkq9t78jIfXAk86don-XLsDsLBCsyNBzXReOrLsQQ4oXKQ3x5apNgYemQME7Z6JlCPoGO3ZnvvzP02wz5Tw3lHAAi81-HJSlWE0F313wwLzQ4HqB4/s320/richard-g-scott-10.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 105px; height: 131px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530541034539176754" /></span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(42, 55, 83); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 15px; text-transform: uppercase; ">RICHARD G. SCOTT</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; ">-"</span>Your exercise of faith in true principles builds character; fortified character expands your capacity to exercise more faith. "</div>-"A sterling character is converted into worthless ashes when eroded by deceit or transgression."</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">We <i style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">become</i> what we want to <i style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">be</i> by consistently <i style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">being</i> what we want to<i style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">become</i> each day. Righteous character is a precious manifestation of what you are becoming."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">Neither Satan nor any other power can destroy or undermine your growing character. Only you could do that through disobedience. A sterling character is converted into worthless ashes when eroded by deceit or transgression."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">Strong moral character results from consistent correct choices in the trials and testing of life. Such choices are made with trust in things that are believed and when acted upon are confirmed."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">Your happiness on earth as well as your eternal salvation require many correct decisions, none of which is difficult to make. Together those decisions forge a character resistant to the eroding influences of sin and transgression...</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">When protected by self-control, righteous character will endure for eternity.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">It is nobility of character, that fabric of inner strength and conviction woven from countless righteous decisions, that gives life its direction. A consistent, righteous life produces an inner power and strength that can be permanently resistant to the eroding influence of sin and transgression.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">Your faith in Jesus Christ and obedience to His commandments will strengthen your character. Your character is a measure of what you are becoming. It is the evidence of how well you are using your time on earth in this period of mortal probation."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">-"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "> You get what you pay for in obedience, in faith in Jesus Christ, in diligent application of the truths you learn. What you get is the molding of character, the growth in capacity, and the successful completion of your mortal purpose to be proven and to have joy."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "><b>-"</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "><b>You cannot be passive in life, or in time the natural man will undermine your efforts to live worthily. You become what you do and what you think about. Lack of character leads one under pressure to satisfy appetite or seek personal gain. You cannot successfully bolster a weak character with the cloak of pretense."</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>-</b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "> In early life I found that I could learn gospel teachings intellectually and, through the power of reason and analysis, recognize that they were of significant value. But their enormous power and ability to stretch me beyond the limits of my imagination and capacity did not become reality until patient, consistent practice allowed the Holy Spirit to distill and expand their meaning in my heart. I found that while I was sincerely serving others, God forged my personal character. He engendered a growing capacity to recognize the direction of the Spirit. "</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "><b>-"</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "><b>Humility is the precious fertile soil of righteous character. In it the seeds of personal growth germinate. When cultivated through the exercise of faith, pruned by repentance, and fortified by obedience and good works, such seeds produce the cherished fruit of spiritual direction. Divine inspiration and power then result—inspiration to know the will of the Lord, power to provide the ability to accomplish that inspired will."</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">To summarize:</p><ul class="bullet" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 20px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; line-height: 18px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">God uses your faith to mold your character.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Character is the manifestation of what you are becoming.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Strong character results from consistent correct choices.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">The bedrock of character is integrity.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">The more your character is fortified, the more enabled you are to exercise the power of faith.</p></li></ul></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I love this talk! I feel like it was written for me. I have felt a need to serve more, and to be the best me I can be, and this talk offers a step-by-step guide on how to do that! He lists the following as such steps, SIMPLE STEPS, to true and abiding happiness</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; ">:</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-size: 13px; line-height: 13px; "><p uri="/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character.p24" id="/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character.p24" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="tools-left-container dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; position: absolute; left: -195px; top: -28px; width: 195px; display: inline; z-index: 10; height: 156px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="tools-left dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(253, 251, 248); border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(144, 137, 114); border-right-color: rgb(144, 137, 114); border-bottom-color: rgb(144, 137, 114); border-left-color: rgb(144, 137, 114); width: 170px; list-style-type: none !important; list-style-position: initial !important; list-style-image: initial !important; -webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.398438) 2px 3px 6px; position: relative; display: block; line-height: 18px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="highlighter dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 8px; padding-right: 12px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 12px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: none; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; display: block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://new.lds.org/resources/images/common/tool-icons.png); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; width: 18px; height: 18px; display: inline-block; background-position: -8px -240px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; "> </span><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-1 dontHighlight" title="yellow" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 248, 170); color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; position: relative; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-right-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-bottom-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-left-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </a><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-2 dontHighlight" title="blue" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(170, 246, 255); color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; position: relative; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-right-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-bottom-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-left-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </a><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-3 dontHighlight" title="green" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(214, 255, 170); color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; position: relative; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-right-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-bottom-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-left-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </a><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-4 dontHighlight" title="red" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 194, 233); color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; position: relative; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-right-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-bottom-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-left-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </a><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-u dontHighlight" title="underline" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 19px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(255, 0, 0); text-decoration: underline; position: relative; border-bottom-style: none; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; font: normal normal normal 19px/19px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">U</a></span><span class="dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 8px; padding-right: 12px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 12px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 0px; 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outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px !important; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://new.lds.org/resources/images/common/tool-icons.png); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; color: rgb(61, 58, 49) !important; text-decoration: none; display: block; height: 18px; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; background-position: -7px -269px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Add a Note</a></span><span class="triangle" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; 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outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><ul class="bullet" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 20px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; list-style-type: none; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; line-height: 18px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His program to acquire the power to achieve.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Repentance to rectify the consequences of mistakes of omission or commission.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Obedience to the commandments of the Lord to provide strength and direction in our lives.</p></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="label" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">•</span> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; position: relative; display: inline; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Selfless service to enrich the lives of others.</p></li></ul></div></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Elder Scott finishes with this powerful invitation and promise:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"If you have determined to live righteously, don’t become discouraged. Life may seem difficult now, but hold on tightly to that iron rod of truth. You are making better progress than you realize. Your struggles are defining character, discipline, and confidence in the promises of your Father in Heaven and the Savior as you consistently obey Their commandments. May the Holy Ghost prompt you to always make decisions that fortify your character and yield much joy and happiness. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I pray that my character can be fortified as I strive to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I love it, and I love Him for allowing me the privilege of prophetic guidance in my life. This talk was literally an answer to my prayers!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(47, 57, 58); line-height: 18px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 13px; "><p uri="/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character.p8" id="/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character.p8" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; 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vertical-align: baseline; background-image: none; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; display: block; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-1 dontHighlight" title="yellow" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 248, 170); 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margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 194, 233); color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; position: relative; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-right-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-bottom-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); border-left-color: rgb(43, 43, 43); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "> </a><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="hl-color-u dontHighlight" title="underline" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 4px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 19px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(255, 0, 0); text-decoration: underline; position: relative; border-bottom-style: none; width: 15px; height: 15px; display: inline-block; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; font: normal normal normal 19px/19px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">U</a></span><span class="dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 8px; padding-right: 12px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 12px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: none; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; display: block; border-top-style: dashed; border-top-color: rgb(203, 202, 200); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><a href="http://new.lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng#" class="note dontHighlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 26px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px !important; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: url(http://new.lds.org/resources/images/common/tool-icons.png); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; color: rgb(61, 58, 49) !important; text-decoration: none; display: block; height: 18px; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; background-position: -7px -269px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Add a<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(47, 57, 58); ">Strong moral character results from consistent correct choices in the trials and testing of life. Such choices are made with trust in things that are believed and when acted upon</span></a></span></span></span></p></span></span></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-58303079113957287532010-10-19T09:55:00.001-06:002011-07-29T01:58:28.885-06:00I've Been Hiding In...<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvm8XMRf4VynfVzTl4d4qcCWg1I1P0Crd_ZAP8qAWJAZaE3uyMEkHeH7mX7pF5BFxThByDyzyBAj51zVRs6XS1Dn-xwVIupkFanrzfb1HED9XEqqzYfXXEc65ILBVSSya3-6CfEdWOg0/s1600/Lime+Tree.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 327px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvm8XMRf4VynfVzTl4d4qcCWg1I1P0Crd_ZAP8qAWJAZaE3uyMEkHeH7mX7pF5BFxThByDyzyBAj51zVRs6XS1Dn-xwVIupkFanrzfb1HED9XEqqzYfXXEc65ILBVSSya3-6CfEdWOg0/s400/Lime+Tree.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529830649306193922" /></a></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Today I feel a sense of... </span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/self-abnegation"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">self-abnegation</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">... I had to look that one up. Its the best description of how I feel though. I've now been home from Brazil for over 34 months. In those 34 months I've done alot. I've traveled from Cabo, to Boise, to Corpus, to Lexington, to Northern Alabama, to New York to Chicago, and basically everywhere in between. I've earned money sufficient to survive, and funded my own education, rent, and vehicle along the way. I've been extremely blessed socially, with so many wonderful people and experiences. I've taken a diverse array of classes, from Norwegian to Basketball Coaching to wannakillmyself-Chem, and found myself self employed in various ideas, as well as the ideas of others.</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">During this entire time, I've been blessed by He who has more patience than than any, God. How He, my family, friends, or anyone else, has put up with my forgetfulness, rebellion, inconsistency and lack of focus is beyond me... but He</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> has. I'm so grateful for Him.</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">All the above said, I still feel very unaccomplished. I'm not 3 years wort</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">h of credit further into my education, I don't have a million dollars, I don't own residence in any of the places I've visited, and most evident is that I don't have a certain one person to love and dedicate my entire life to, to ensure her comfort above all else.</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">I've made thousands and thousands of mistakes along the way, and this today, I'd like to think that I've finally come to a realization that I've learned from those mistakes. From those mistakes I'm going to "</span></b></span><a href="http://www.ldsliving.com/story/5670-the-miracle-of-forgiveness-spencer-w-kimball-4"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">about-face</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">" from, and run away from with all my energy of heart.</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4b0XLv5MDGHNVEuoHnO0kMU_lb6cyenHrREqrhqqvlgSfDuDKg0AentodvD6g6CnugyEzHoAnkCNs61FXJkl_wKUhB29dhSJbnlHDoFf_fX8_4J73kQZLSUJzGEZSoMPG1vKfQJAknws/s400/humble.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 160px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529834878560094626" /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Don't</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> get me wrong, I haven't killed anyone, nor</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> stolen, nor committed that which is ne</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">xt to murder in seriousness: I still have my virtue. Y</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">et, I am behind where I would like to be at this time in my life. More abundant have been my sins of </span></b></span><a href="http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=41e997a7c1d20110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=198bf4b13819d110VgnVCM1000003a94610aRCRD"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Omission</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">, rather than sins of</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><a href="http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=41e997a7c1d20110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=198bf4b13819d110VgnVCM1000003a94610aRCRD"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Comission</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">, meaning I just haven't done all I could do. I've been more concerned with my own fairy tale ending than concerned with making other's fairy tale happen. I haven't been zealous enough in applying my study of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, digging deep with the profoundness it deserves. I have studied much, but have I applied it? Have I served? Have I made other's burdens a little lighter? Have I facilitated the way for others to be their best? Have I been an light to all those around me? I hope so, but I don't think I've attained anywhere close to my potential in this regard.</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Today, I move forward. My inspiration based from a small slice of Greek</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> mythology. I found it through a lyric from Trevor Hall (and soon found its also</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> referred to in the New Testament):</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span">---</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> "The Lim</span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">e Tree"</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "></span></span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QKT9rnRe4MyVvSCSqCjPWrMuc6LwIKeh_HLLNKU9SAOMFKOX2n49sZjf-vrswrUGlMEjggbi4eEbhoFXDTgFqt0gGnTALe2AQE5xZ2L6kEFni_JHelVgzF3iausJ6ezVm3WTgN2N3q4/s400/0004861am.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529830657773544754" /></span></b></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">I spark a match and watch the candle burn</span></b></span></div></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">The wick runs out and love takes its turn</span></b></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">On fallen angels and broken sounds</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">We will last past the final round</span></b></span></span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></b></span></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">It took a while for you to find me</span></b></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">But I was hiding in the lime tree</span></b></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; line-height: 20px; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Above the city in the rain cloud</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">I poked a hole and watched it drain out</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">And parallel to the city streets</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Our broken crowns beneath our feet</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">But as we walk across the diamonds</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">We know that love is always shining</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">So save me love save me all the time</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">I'll wash you down with a simple sip of wine</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">And toast my glass to all my loved ones</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">To let them know that the stars oh they still shine</span></b></span></div></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">---</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Ever wonder why the Saints in Acts 14:11-12 refers to Paul and Barnabus as Jupiter and Mercurius (Roman God's)? Well...</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">The "lime tree" the song refers to is that in the story of </span></b></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baucis_and_Philemon"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Baucis and Philemon</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">. In short, Zeus and Hermes are testing a city. They dress as peasants, go down and ask the residents of the city for </span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 20px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span">a place to stay. Only the elderly humble couple of Baucis and Philemon let them in. As a reward, they are given their wish to live together forever, being turned at death into intertwining trees, one being of oak, the other a lime tree.</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">To get what we want in life --i.e an eternal companion-- we need to be humble enough to open our door to those in need.</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZLX5K0g5idjIfVcKNg5wozZg5IQRI0KH7qnqXof1tMmdrNu8cFycjO9bsmfjbbiAlUtAX1ig3U2e9TbEVQdHfxpmN97s_Yfxn-OFlwl8sH8_YAsFc35Mnkg9usyZ-Y5Mx-LhZPGjYDU/s400/todinner.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 160px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529834884902131730" /></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><a href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/heb/13/2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Hebrews 13:2</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> paraphrased "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it."</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/acts/14/11_12">Acts</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="http://scriptures.lds.org/en/acts/14/11_12"> 14:11-12</a><span class="Apple-style-span"> is the ecstatic reception received less than two generations after Ovid's publication of the tale by </span></b></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_of_Tarsus" title="Paul of Tarsus" style="text-decoration: none; background-image: none; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Paul of Tarsus</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b> and </b></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barnabas" title="Barnabas" style="text-decoration: none; background-image: none; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Barnabas</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">: "The crowds shouted 'The gods have come down to us in human form!' Barnabas they called Jupiter (Zeus), and Paul they called Mercurius </span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">(Hermes)".</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">In other words, I want to be that kind of person who is always ready to serve, like </span></b></span><a href="http://gapages.com/monsots1.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Thomas S. Monson</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">. He has lived a life a service, and that's always been number one to him!</span></b></span></span></div><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t9cvVP7mhkf7fTBcUFXR3q4IQ64I34_zJtWn4Ax9bycZpFz-UxOwNsYt9tB3ZWgohifawS7XztizpsScJUIueWWZMLC36ZcRbGqmJ2fMjtDKDO6s5LZkmQ7fBiAuB5gW_CD-1JVozmA/s200/president_thomas_s_monson.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 200px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529827509699344354" /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"> I want to always have my door open. I want to be Christlike. </span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 19px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span">I want to be ready for that certain someone to recognize that the door is open for her, too! This is my preparation towards that.</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">So I've been hiding in the lime tree, before actually deserving to be there, having thought I was already there! I have preparations to make. I need to be better, and much more receptive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost, and to the ministering of angels about me. Its time for me to come out of my hiding place, from behind the shadows of uncertainty. Its time for me to let my light shine.</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJ9isW0tFzf3ZOYJtSF7_ARXDCM4MrZ7i8asN4DJMe3TVA__UBehs93MNTaT-nOKrpE7_wb0qN8EUZNHgn_FJRkogVq9Irjlsq0MISJSwNdLMOHsOLYAE_dzH-niUiAlJdRBKVzJn4MM/s400/imgp6153.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529851893170152130" /></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” -- </span></b></span><a href="http://jmm.aaa.net.au/articles/4564.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Nelson Mandela</span></b></span></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></b></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">It's time to shine...</span></b></span></span></span></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-41414939741619490502010-06-15T15:15:00.002-06:002011-07-29T01:54:36.611-06:00Hills and Valleys<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW33K2BZESkzU3Ln715SH9Rs75e-z4rvcP_vC629SMvX4rjwFAW2KEvF7VGglDI5_oOiQvSEbJ8-MVkN-plETphRztzd7MD7kqnLhqYynyYl-YF2kg6hGUyJd1zSCMDXRT6GfaNZX6pu0/s1600/rymad.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW33K2BZESkzU3Ln715SH9Rs75e-z4rvcP_vC629SMvX4rjwFAW2KEvF7VGglDI5_oOiQvSEbJ8-MVkN-plETphRztzd7MD7kqnLhqYynyYl-YF2kg6hGUyJd1zSCMDXRT6GfaNZX6pu0/s400/rymad.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483115898319409490" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pyVvDUT3UQMaAMyuXh-FMSV9QKSJQ3lMHvhvSaxmk4hf02Rs-7hQFOtYQm1uEHysDiZcwsghefVDocQvhQuVKBZYivoEXt5zjbt5WQxdSFrmmvNAGBtWJMizCKtgy8CItnGKTMOPLzo/s1600/rykay.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pyVvDUT3UQMaAMyuXh-FMSV9QKSJQ3lMHvhvSaxmk4hf02Rs-7hQFOtYQm1uEHysDiZcwsghefVDocQvhQuVKBZYivoEXt5zjbt5WQxdSFrmmvNAGBtWJMizCKtgy8CItnGKTMOPLzo/s400/rykay.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483115601460463762" /></a><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyKOPbX06C5xxogiOveOiNtljJkidm7BESL-MxCZIDKaTeuvAPLN4mngq7IupJIR4caMxcGMfNUPsAwRF-4-tHyE4CDNn8FTbeGFvvjdMhwK_vkkKDVSBDe22wujUYF2SMzIS3tNYMtw/s200/jazznew1.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 174px; height: 126px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483121487680805826" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAX1etvPcITba_ihXRxRuOtjQquNKCidk3eDUZOUwou7R_M-cRWpjI7DujU52ZI2yptUAHmTSW_F3btPTdVm803vKeYHJmkW0rgXlDj1LvGw0-G7o-_PYZ4NPDVdn0mpzvot5_cTrRRb0/s1600/IMG_2756.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; ">SUMMER!!! I really can't get enough of it!</span></a><div><br /></div><div>Spring semester is coming to a close, helping with BYU's Basketball camps has me busy, but not too busy to have some fun along the way. ENTER WORLD CUP!!! I loved watching the USA draw with England, as well as Brazil playing with the North Korean's defensive attack. Where have I been my whole life??? I love this!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Along with that, mini-golf has taken over my life. What a sweet game!!! I find myself migrating north</div><div>to take advantage of new scenes. GREAT sushi place in downtown Salt Lake, Shogun... great food... AFTER some putt putt...!</div><div><br /></div><div>Its clear to me that I'm certainly more interested in the World Cup than the NBA Finals. I'm sick of the Lakers vs. Celtics jabber. I hope it goes to seven games then both teams lose. Props to the Jazz's new logo for integrating both the Celtics and Laker's colors into their new logo... or maybe they're feeling the Brazilian flavor?!</div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytMhjeUW0moEg4WXPaanZGHU-uj6bM5GWJJgZwqwBM0yfB8eKs-e1z9AyWbdmdrI3oWGHJQB5YpDkVfrrY_3YlOYsnVyE2NdgM4-EIHR7SF_ofs9Y1SHOSJtuz-gLY0LHcvd3rpmZVfo/s200/brazil.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483121368948730050" /><div><br /></div><div>There's nothing like the temple, nothing like the Gospel, and certainly nothing like the Book of Mormon. What a great advantage I have as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ to be able to go to the House of the Lord, and counsel with the Lord about big decisions coming up in life. Currently I'm leaning toward bouncing to Louisville, Kentucky to sell pest control for a month and a half. I know, I know, I just barely said in my previous post how much I love being home, and despised selling, but the great thing about selling pest with my friend Ben is that I actually get both a summer home, and a summer working! It'll be nice to get some extra cash, and I think its definitely necessary for me to take the opportunity that has presented itself. On top of that, I'll still be in Utah for Independence Day and Pioneer Day --which</div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIqfeiAX0tu0Z7qLjYKGnjT1XXSbDhm_473dJIw37ZK_123jcSlNEcjneopqGvKsYQt8iTEhWz_BNHh7AJfGvUVQWo68zUA9zsaCOQxPvR5lPRJuhOk3Mv4__vLyBUadjrKrxY5eCKgvU/s200/rocketsummer.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483121136055481906" /><div> to me IS summer.</div><div><br /></div><div>Among other things, a goal of mine for summer has been to remaster my piano skills. Last night I spent a couple of hours figuring out two Rocket Summer songs: Of Men and Angels, and Hills and Valleys. That guy has some special talent! I really actually enjoy playing the piano. I wish I had taken it more seriously when I had parents to pay for lessons and time to practice daily.</div><div><br /></div><div>Back to the Book of Mormon. I'm restarting, so I just read I Nephi 1, probably for the millionth time. The final verse in the chapter never ceases to touch me: "...I will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their fath, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance." Great promise. If we have faith, and follow Him, he will bless us in abundance with his mercies and we are delivered from our trials and weaknesses!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-52199871333137489422010-06-04T01:48:00.002-06:002011-07-29T01:51:20.144-06:00Of Men and Angels<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpmH0hkigfAR-NuHYtPjkInSaOWKxK_pX9jb_4CEtE8b6u87s2II4fZADlMG0DS9_7L3A-_N4JuI16vC2-Rrn2aTZ-mwdYpkjDFNTnI8_lTj91YHUZ0sRUXJxm8encH2DblHNc-3-utc/s1600/40.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpmH0hkigfAR-NuHYtPjkInSaOWKxK_pX9jb_4CEtE8b6u87s2II4fZADlMG0DS9_7L3A-_N4JuI16vC2-Rrn2aTZ-mwdYpkjDFNTnI8_lTj91YHUZ0sRUXJxm8encH2DblHNc-3-utc/s400/40.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478843168039982738" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnPCXDRSssao5cvgIjmhdcfy_v1Ln1bDW7SlmhTJ0xunIW7XNIfXezx5HzPvZFpad_WL4MwJu1vnPZpxryHtaDjrLXZ7PIjufH9VcDzpRqKOBIrZ8APC_v9IkQ_MFld5LllLn4-vUy8g/s1600/37.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br /></a><span><span></span></span>I feel like this is a summer I'm learning more about myself than ever. Previously, summer was a time to just make money or vacation time. This year its been a time to meditate and build up my spiritual battery, doing my best physically, expanding myself socially, and figuring out my career interests. So far its been a great summer.<div><div><br /></div><div>The summer started with my dad and I starting up our own Surveillance and Security Monitoring business, KRS Security. Its been an adventure getting our name out there. Our clientel has grown and we seem to be rolling.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was nice being home so often so I could see Sean before he left on his mission to Washington DC South. He's as ready to serve as anyone I've ever seen. His farewell talk was outstanding! It was clear he was prepared, and he had complete command of the congregation. The Spirit was as potent as I've ever felt it during a discourse.</div><div><br /></div><div>This was my first Mother's Day home since my senior year of high school in 2005! Same story with my mom's birthday. Its been great being home instead of out selling security systems door-to-door. I truly feel more at peace with myself going to school and preparing myself for a real career. I don't regret going out the last two years. I see them as a journey across the USA where I learned a lot about business and sales, as well as myself, my limits, integrity, friendship, and just how much I need to be at the top of my game to be successful in life. Regardless its been great to be home in Utah weather and having my family and friends so close by.</div><div><br /></div><div>A typical Utah summer is full of vacations and fun summer activities. I totally forgot about that side of things, but some classmates at BYU reopened my mind to it. Flag football, late night basketball, hot tubbing, softball, and the highlight thus far has been a trip to Zion National Park. It was nice to catch up with some old friends as well as meeting a new crew. Angel's Landing is a great view for anyone who needs a killer great hiking place.</div><div><br /></div><div>My summer is full of personal goals. Somehow, I believe I'll be more financially stable than ever after this summer. I also see myself at the top of my game spiritually. I want to visit every temple in Utah this summer, and hopefully stop by a few outside as well. Physically, I've been consistently hitting the gym and I hope to be in the best shape of my life by summer's end.</div></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-41000050035000545302001-01-01T22:59:00.000-07:002011-07-29T00:45:34.569-06:00Wendy Ulrich's Prop Up Stanza<div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap; ">"When we are truly humbled, we know we can do so little by ourselves. Just fixing myself a piece of toast means I must depend on many other people who plant, grow, harvest, sort, clean, package, prepare, bake, transport, and market the bread I will eat. That doesn't even get into the number of people it takes to produce the toaster oven with all its components or the electricity to run it. A simple piece of toast probably reflects the work of thousands of people, all helping me get breakfast. It also reflects the bounteous goodness and blessings of a loving Father in Heaven who provides us all with sun and air and life.<br /></span></span></div><div><p><span class="Apple-style-span">Fixing ourselves is at least as complicated as fixing toast. We need people to teach us, encourage us, support us, and model for us. Humility means we acknowledge this interdependence. We listen to people who know what we do not. We read and study their research and experience. We let others show us how and appreciatively accept their tutoring. We watch their example and actively try to learn from it. We invite their encouraging words and supportive actions. And we gladly provide all of these things for others. People who help and teach us, PROP UP our efforts to change and grow.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span">Even more than we need others, we need God to sustain, befriend, and direct us. Without the gifts of the Holy Ghost and the grace made available through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our efforts to grow and change will always fall woefully and utterly short. No matter how much we try, learn or improve, we will never be like God without the application of His grace to our lives.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span">I addition to God and other people, we also prop up ourselves with plans and goals, calendars and budgets, rewards and reminders, study and seeking. Whether learning to write, teach, eat healthy, be less critical, or enjoy the temple, I benefit from many props: the help of many capable people, my own careful plans and goals." - Wendy Ulrich</span></p></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4678523945879662027.post-15223892740048704372001-01-01T22:49:00.000-07:002011-07-29T00:57:31.621-06:00Preparation for an exam...Funny GoogleDocs/Chat convo reviewing for Exam 2 in a BYU Business Marketing Class...<br /><br />Went as Follows!<br /><br /><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>sup?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">Anyone else find this incredibly boring?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Please study.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>my bad am I not allowed to talk?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Lol.</div><div class="docs-chat-message">No worries</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>hello</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whats up 531... hows the studying going?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>its ok not the best u?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>Well as you can see I am having a hard time paying attention... so about the same</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>where are u now?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>creeper...just kidding lol. I am at my apartment. you?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>in the lrc</div><div class="docs-chat-message">u are the one creeping on me</div><div class="docs-chat-message">lol</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>haha girl or guy?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 525: </span>hey, are you single?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Oh baby oh baby!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 528: </span>oh SHUT UP and get back to studying.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>heck yea or I wouldnt be studying right now</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>This google doc is getting HOT! and bothered.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>are you?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 525: </span>haha... what are you gonna do about it?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>hey 536 are u a gal or a guy?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>am I 536?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 525: </span>this is so nasty</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Yes</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>guy</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>oh cool</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 525: </span>ooo... so 536, are you single?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 528: </span>are you really trying to flirt with 536 bu aren't sure if they're a guy ora girl?....</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>You are 536, or should I say five thirty sex, bwahaha!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>nasty? for real. this is so G rated</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Lol.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 525: </span>haha</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>HAHHAHA</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 525: </span>go 522</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>omg</div><div class="docs-chat-message">getting too nasty and hot here</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Double rainbow!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>oh baby</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>wow that was interesting</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>cant wait to see tha end results</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>yep thats me</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 522: </span>Double jimmer all the way!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>no... jimmers hot brother</div><div class="docs-chat-message">I got the looks and he got the skills</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>wait so u are gay?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Any score predictions?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>for the game or this test</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>for Jimmer dummy</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>gay? how did you get that out of what I said</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well u said Jimmer's hot</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>jimmer going to hit the big 50</div><div class="docs-chat-message">I said I was jimmers hot brother</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>cul my bad</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>its cool 531 no offense taken man</div><div class="docs-chat-message">or woman </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 537 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 528 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whoever you are</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well u don wanna know?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 537 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 538 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>all u gotta do is ask brava</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 539 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>If you're female, I gotsta know!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>why do u wanna know</div><div class="docs-chat-message">?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>im getting all sorts of confused up in here</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>why whats up boo?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whos girls and whos guys</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Dude</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>gal</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>531 thats what I like to hear</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>why the anonymity?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>single gal?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>erm we can say that or the other </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>I pray that this conversation ends in marriage</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>whicheveer u prefer</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>me too 507. marriage is always good</div><div class="docs-chat-message">got to take it slow though</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(I'll go ahead and be the play-by-play to this spark of 536 and 531)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>lol</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I prefer single 531</div><div class="docs-chat-message">507 are you a guy or a girl?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 538 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>hooo its getting hot in here</div><div class="docs-chat-message">he said he id a DUDE</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>oh my bad</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(um... not that much play by play...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>what?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 539 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 540 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>531 are you really single?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>what if i am or what if i am not?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">what are the chances?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">spread the word brava</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>lol I dont know. what class are you in</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 495 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 541 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(This is glorious)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 542 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>no one else wants to get in on this convo?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>its the 8:00 class</div><div class="docs-chat-message">u?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>people are taking this studying thing a little too seriously</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 543 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I am in the next class at 930</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>oh cul</div><div class="docs-chat-message">how do u like it?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 544 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>at first it was great but then i couldnt resist the urge to sleep</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>pls try and stay awake for my sakes</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>your sakes?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>yep u heard right</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>hows it for your sakes?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>u know</div><div class="docs-chat-message">do u wan me to spill everything?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">c'mon boi</div><div class="docs-chat-message">grow up</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>you hitting up on me 531?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(LOL)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>erm wont exactly put it that way</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>playing hard to get eh?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>u single?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whats it going to take 531?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 462 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>chocolates? flowers? promises I dont intend to keep?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well a lil more than meets the eye</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 540 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 543 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>maybe Im single maybe Im not</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(As tension mounts, the damsel ponders her response)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 525 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>thanks for that 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well until we see the blink u will remain single</div><div class="docs-chat-message">i meant bling</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I guess I am single then</div><div class="docs-chat-message">cause I aint got no bling</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>thats what am talking about</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>what year are you?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>what yr are u?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 545 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>junior</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>may be too old for u sugar</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(prediction: frosh)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>junior too</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I doubt that</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(dangit)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>how old?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>am serious boi</div><div class="docs-chat-message">how old are u?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(sp: boy)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I answered first last time</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well u know diff sp same ponunciation</div><div class="docs-chat-message">22</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(shut up, you don't know i'm here)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>24 boom I wim</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>u wim?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>could you correct my spelling for me 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(by science, a perfect match)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well so..................</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>hmmmm (win?)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>so I am now going to ask the big shallow question. Are you a cutie?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(the prince to be craftily replies)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>not jus a cutie but a hottie too</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whew then what are you doing not married</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(hot dang, the plot thickens!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>enjoying single life</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>every had a bf?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>u know once u get hitched there is not turning back</div><div class="docs-chat-message">tons</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(except divorce)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(tons in weight or quantity?)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>haha indeed 507, but not a conventional method for us mormons</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>yep thanks 526 u understand me</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(true, i take it back, due to doctrinal forbiddance)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>536</div><div class="docs-chat-message">in quantity 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(cupid showed up late for this one)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>its cool 507 we will let it slide</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(thanks 531)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>yep</div><div class="docs-chat-message">so lets go on 536</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>any boyfriends?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>many boys holla ba i don let them</div><div class="docs-chat-message">too hot for them</div><div class="docs-chat-message">u think u got the flex?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>man you really talk yourself up</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>with the booty yep i do</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(flex, not to be confused with flix)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>question...are you from the hood?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>which hood?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(prediction: no)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 546 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(burbs?)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 522 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>from 5k and ova miles away</div><div class="docs-chat-message">UK507!!!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>are you Caucasian?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(considering that distance... Hawaii could be a correct guess)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(i love you Katie)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>mission accomplished!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>katie?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">what mission?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">im lost</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>erm neva about that one</div><div class="docs-chat-message">just a hith</div><div class="docs-chat-message">hitch</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(ignore the hitch)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(nothing to do with Will Smith...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>536</div><div class="docs-chat-message">u there?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>yea...</div><div class="docs-chat-message">im not down with the lingo i guess</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well jus ignore it then</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>im merely a country farm boy</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(536 softly nuzzles his keyboard)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>oh poor boi</div><div class="docs-chat-message">come to mama</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(arms open)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(eyes full of tears)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>just kidding not a farm boy. just a nerd from idaho</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(by nerd he means knight)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>hmmmm chocolatey nerds</div><div class="docs-chat-message">i love them</div><div class="docs-chat-message">yum yum</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>so 531 give me the run down on what you look like</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(never tried em... sounds delectable)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 547 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(gangsta from latest observation)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>lets play the guessing game</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>guessing?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>:)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">yep</div><div class="docs-chat-message">waiting</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>well from previous conversation I am picture a saucy black woman named laquisha with a large boo-ta</div><div class="docs-chat-message">pictureing*</div><div class="docs-chat-message">I won the spwlling bee in middle schol yo know</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 3081 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>first part correct second part wrong</div><div class="docs-chat-message">try again</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>black woman with no booty?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>perfect booty is what we wanna say</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(not named Laquisha)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>yep</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(booty was the 3rd adjective mentioned)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 548 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(make that a noun... and now its a perfect noun)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>are you for real or are you just playin me?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 548 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>boo am for reals</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(his love for perfection is through the ceiling)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>where are you originally from</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 549 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(I think this needs to be read to the whole class tomorrow before class)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>nope 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message">i disagree</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>you let me know how that goes 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message">you ashamed 531?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(you have your rights to privacy)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>not ashammed young man</div><div class="docs-chat-message">i love me</div><div class="docs-chat-message">fyi</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>i can see that</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 550 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>young man? I could get used to that</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 551 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(Hey 550, listen in!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>guess where i am from</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>hes too busy studying</div><div class="docs-chat-message">atlanta over the rine</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(appearantly)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>What is going on here?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Love....</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>549 mind yo buswiz</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>sup 549 girl or guy?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>hahahaha</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>cmon dont be shy 549</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(To those who just tuned in, 531, female, and 536, male are courting a relationship)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>guy</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(and 536 has wondering eyes for a man)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>hey now 507, I was just beginning to appreciate you</div><div class="docs-chat-message">now Im not so sure</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>na ah from Ghana</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 550 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(sorry, made for a fun punchline)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>ghana... long way from home</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>this is a very interesting conversation to walk in on...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>yep</div><div class="docs-chat-message">549 whats ur probs?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>studying gets lame so you got to keep yourself entertained</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>I agree</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>agreed</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>thanks for the entertainment... please continue</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 542 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 552 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(549 sees that 531 is a smokin hot ghana babe, and wants in on the action)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>thats better 549</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>Any more ladies in the house? ( no offense 531)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 512 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 511 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 553 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 554 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>omg!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>you figured me out 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 7322 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>one woman can't tame the heart of this lion</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(thats what I do... i'm narrator, duh)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well 536 suit urself</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(drama!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>to help u out</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>please do</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(536 is about to save the day with the following:)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">:</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 555 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>dont leave me 531</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>Ladies 536 is a poor lonely heart who is lookn for a babe cos this one is too smaking hot for him to handle</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(eh, that works)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>smoking*</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(531, you are talking to yourself)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I liked smaking actually</div><div class="docs-chat-message">adds character</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(hahahaha... very VERY true)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 556 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(556, look us up on Facebook!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>check out the first page of the review</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 557 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 558 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>HAHAHAHHAA</div><div class="docs-chat-message">none...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>look who up on face book</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(the cast!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whats the page?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">looks like we lost 531</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 551: </span>Did you hear they're making Capn Crunch walk the plank?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>my heart is breaking</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>nope still here</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 3459 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>whew I am renewed</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>why?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">u don want ay Ghana babe right?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>baby baby baby wooo ohh baby baby baby woo ooo thought youd always be miiiine</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(Google Doc Conversation of Love (BUS 241)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">Its a facebook event</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 7322 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>anyone appreciate my biebes quote?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 551: </span>no</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>any takers?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 559 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>haha ok</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(very nice)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 560 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>551 guy or girl?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 529 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 561 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>wheres the love 551?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 561 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(also a quote from a song...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 551 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 562 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 563 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>531 why the silent treament?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(referring to the world having lost all its love for one another, such as 551)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>hello babe</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(true 531, why the face?)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563.....girl?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(563 just made this interesting)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>yeah</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 541 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>sup </div><div class="docs-chat-message">hows studying going</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(as 531 was out for a stroll, and 551 showed some major hate, 563 caught 536's wondering eyes)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>lol</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>studies is fine</div><div class="docs-chat-message">sup?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(are*)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>hello who is takn ova from me?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">am back</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>not much just looking for love</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 564 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(sorry its my job to make sure this stays Broadway quality)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>went for a drink</div><div class="docs-chat-message">536 u there?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(bad timing 531)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563 you cute?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">Im just going to cut straight to it</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>very cute</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>heck no!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(no shame in that 536, no shame at all)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>who is this new 562?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(3)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>actually 563</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(good eye)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>how old are you?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>23</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>536 u there?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">i missed u</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>that cute and still havent found a guy yet?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(for the record 507 is 24, single male and a fantastic narrator)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>536</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>507 I think I caught 531 eye ballin gyou</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 533 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>maybe I have just not found the right guy yet. </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>im still here 531 just making new friends thats all</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>so we on sometime?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(great save)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>online? why sure how about right now</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>can someone update me on who 531 is?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563....blonde or brunett?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>i don mean online</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>past love</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(for a complete recap of the conversation, search Google Doc Conversation of Love (BUS 241) on Facebook Events</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>brunett</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>meaning we shd get together sometime</div><div class="docs-chat-message">like real life </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>i dont know 531 thats alot of commitment for me</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>hmm thot u were up to it</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 7395 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>im ugly 531. you dont want to meet me...(563 thats not true)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(7395 thats alot of numbers...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>i saw that</div><div class="docs-chat-message">well boo i like it ugly an nerdy</div><div class="docs-chat-message">and*</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>Im just teasing 531</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(awe... tear)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563 where you at.. I have more questions</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>I am here</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>How many bfs have you had?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>2</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(in multiples of 10 of course)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>unless you count high school</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>long or short term relationships?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 565 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>long. almost was engaged when I was 19</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>wow what happened( if you dont mind sharing in front of fellow class members</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(weren't we all...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>its private. just didn't work out I guess.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>gotcha sorry to hear that</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(thanks heavens... 19??? married???)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>its ok. I am totally over it.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 3459 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>yeah it would have been a mistake</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>what happened with number 2</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(correct answer)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>wasn't right for me. broke up about a year ago</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>i guess i am lost in this pic</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>no prospects at the moment?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">sorry 531, dont mean to disrespect</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well if u don wanna chat with me again 536 then will holla at ya later</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>k 531 your awesome</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>not really. </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>thanks for talking</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>531 please stay. I don't want to be the only girl here</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Look at the event!!!</div><div class="docs-chat-message">and attend it duh!!!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>well if your as cute as you lead on shouldnt the guys be knocking down your door</div><div class="docs-chat-message">you dont have to stay if you dont want 563</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>I go on a lot of dates.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 3459 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>no winners though?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>nobody has impressed me that much yet I guess. </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>so what made you start talking to me?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>boredom</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(haha)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>ouch....</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 531: </span>well a sis was showing u some love ba i guess the brava declined</div><div class="docs-chat-message">serves u right 536</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>double burn</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>oh sorry I didn't mean it that way...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 535 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 531 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 566 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>regaining dignity....one moment please</div><div class="docs-chat-message">k im good</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>lol</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 567 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>566 good to hear from you</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 567 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>thanks</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I could have sworn I would have got a good comment from our narrator on that one</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 556 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563 would you ever go on a blind date?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>I have before...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(tuche')</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(results?)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(prediction: negative)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>they are usually not the best</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 565 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>true that</div><div class="docs-chat-message">im not a fan</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>sorry</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563 would you want to be random facebook friends?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 568 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(worst is getting set up with our cousin...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>haha</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=140041922729378</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>lol</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(there's your start!!! a link to this whole conversation)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>is that a no 563?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>maybe it wouldn't hurt to go on a blind date...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 557 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>well how about we be facebook friends first. One step at a time?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>It is a blind date so you shouldn't know anything about the other person</div><div class="docs-chat-message">also I don't add people on facebook who I have not actually met</div><div class="docs-chat-message">in perso</div><div class="docs-chat-message">*person</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>bummer 563</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 564: </span>bummer indeed</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>why?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 554 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I just hate blind dates. Never had one that goes well.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(hey 564, thanks for hopping in and helping with the narrations... but your work is done here...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 560 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 553 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(so make it so its not blind...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>One of my best friends got married from a blind date</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I usually like to at least see a pic or something. Yess I know that sounds shallow</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>how about that?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>lucky friend</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(thats like a 1 in a million chance 563)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>good call 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>so you're saying there's a chance?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>hahah well played</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(that line will never get old)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 569 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(chalk 2 for 549)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>well I need to go now. It was good talking to you.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 564: </span>don't back down now</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 569 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=140041922729378#!/event.php?eid=140041922729378</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>563 at least give me an email...</div><div class="docs-chat-message">I dont want this to be the end</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>well if he is not interested in a completly blind date...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>fine Ill do it</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(i'm 100% certain if you both add yourselves to this event, you'll figure this out... http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=140041922729378#!/event.php?eid=140041922729378)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(and hey, if its marriage material, you'll be able to show it off to everyone!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>number? email? how do you want to do this</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>ok cool</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>what do you want to do?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 564 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>email. I don't want to give everyone on here my number.</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>k whats your email</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>tarsilatila123@gmail.com</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 570 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 520 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>alrighty 563 I will be in touch</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 571 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 571 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>haha what a blessing</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>ok. I look forward to hearing from you :)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">need to go now though. bye</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>and they lived happily ever after!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>have a good night</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>lol</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 563: </span>you too</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>now what am I suppose to do ?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 563 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Search the rest of the story on Facebook</div><div class="docs-chat-message">Google Doc Conversation of Love (BUS 241)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>any other takers?</div><div class="docs-chat-message">haha jk</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>just email her, dude</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>wow one is not gd for u?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I will</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>or just at the link http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=140041922729378#!/event.php?eid=140041922729378</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>Im just teasing, dont get to literal on me</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Bro i think she's a dime!!!</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>dime a dozen?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 572 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>10 cents!</div><div class="docs-chat-message">out of 10 cents</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I dont follow 507</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 572 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>10 = dime... scale of 1 to 10...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 562 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>how do you figure that?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>haha i'm just playin</div><div class="docs-chat-message">531 sure bolted...</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>yea I feel bad about that</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>well don be so sure</div><div class="docs-chat-message">am still here with a diff number</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>so sure about what</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>about?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>566 who are thou? reveal thyself...guy or girl?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(and the plot thickens!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>girl</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 573 has opened the document.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>I am 531 too</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(My mind is blown!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(Perfection has two identities!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>you can say that again</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>I was accidentally logged out</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(My mind is blown!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>so i got back in</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>566 you sly fox</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>yep i am</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I underestimated the sneakiness </div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(also a wonderful quote)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>well thats u boo</div><div class="docs-chat-message">saw u are going to go on a blind date</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(and they, also, lived happily ever after!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>hmmmm</div><div class="docs-chat-message">crazy</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(its a mormon thing, don't worry about it...)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>yeah yeah yeah</div><div class="docs-chat-message">i get that all the time</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 549: </span>hahah, 507, you crack me up</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 549 has left.</span></div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>549 makes a comeback</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(K peeps, i'm out, but this whole convo is linked at the above facebook link )</div><div class="docs-chat-message">(549, you take the reigns!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>How many people are actually reading this? can I get some replys?</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(Reading)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>thanks 507 </div><div class="docs-chat-message">well it was fun but I am out as well</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(lol... wow... apparantly no one)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>leave the studiers in peace</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(Til class tomorrow!!! haha)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>no class tom</div><div class="docs-chat-message">test remember</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>oh duh</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>enjoy the sleep in</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(there's a test???)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>what? for real</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>ha ha thats why we are here in the first place dummy</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(oh ok... i get it!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>I was wondering what the heck this document on mh left is</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(ha, me too, such cool, interesting stuff you know!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 536: </span>yea I will have to actually look at it..........................tomorrow </div><div class="docs-chat-message">se ya everyone</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>see ya</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>Prestige Pricing... anyone else think this is gonna be cake???</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">Anonymous User 566: </span>yep i do</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-name">me: </span>(peace!!!)</div><div class="docs-chat-message"><span class="docs-chat-status">Anonymous User 536 has left.</span></div>RYPskiphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01638800458590168454noreply@blogger.com0