Good Day. Great Memories...

Attended the Ogden Temple Dedication via closed circuit TV this morning.   Enjoyed Elder Clayton's talk about how the Temple is able to heal us much like the Savior does, Elder Bednar's talk about why he loves the Temple and the contrast between it and the teaching of the World, and President's Monson's talk about loving, appreciating, attending the Temple using stories of Saints who made great sacrifices to enjoy the blessings of the Temple.  But the best part for me was the Hosanna Anthem.  It reminded me of the Bountiful Temple Dedication some 20 years ago and the opportunity I had to sing in the choir.   It was while we sang the Hosanna Anthem which incorporates The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning that I had my Kirtland-like moment of feeling the sanctifying and exhilarating rush of the Spirit that I had hoped to experience as part of a Temple dedication.   But even more memorable than that was the time we spent riding back on the bus to our cars and spontaneously signing the hymns of the restoration.  I kind of took the lead in doing that and it was a wonderfully rich and moving experience--the darkness of the night, the quiet of the moment, and the one voice added to by another and another until all were unified in heart and voice.  Well, singing the Hosanna Anthem again this morning brought those memories back...

Also got a chance to spend some time with my grandson, Hayden.  I finally have someone around here who likes the hot tub as much as I do:)  In addition to that we took a little drive with Allie, Lucas, and Chase to first drive around the Bountiful Temple and then the Ogden Temple.  Hayden really wanted to walk around both but the rain got in the way.  He did talk Uncle Chase into racing him in the storm.  Was fun.  Also had a chance to visit my dad who attended all three session today.    When I think about the power of the Temple, I think of him.  His love for the Temple and the joy it has been for him to serve as an ordinance worker in the Ogden Temple has been a great blessing to all of us.  But it was nice.  Hayden couldn't attend the dedication so it was fun to do the next best thing.    

Started reading a very interesting book called "10 Great Souls to Meet in Heaven" by Brad Wilcox.  His proposition is that God has prepared and inspired great men and women throughout the ages and all over the world to bless his children and that we as Latter-day Saints have much to learn about and rejoice in when it comes to their lives and contributions.  So far, I've been reading about St. Patricks who returned to pagan Ireland to introduce them to Christianity after having escaped there as a slave.

And, of course, today's was the start of my blog:)

God Bless.  Always.

Chet

My First Post

Well, I finally started.  I've been meaning to do this for some time.  I have a love affair with life and all of its facets.   I've been blessed with a kind, understanding, and loyal spouse.  A lot of good kids and even a couple of grandkids to share life with.  A very fulfilling, fun, and challenging career.  Ultimate frisbee, cycling, music and BYU football to get me pumped up.  A thirst for knowledge and a desire to serve other and make a difference in my time.  A deep appreciation and understanding of spiritual things that gives life perspective, power, and peace.  And a great place to call home with great friends and dear neighbors.  

Life has been a process and I've learned a lot along the way.  I've come to know what matters and what doesn't.  I know what it is like to do without and to live with abundance.  But mostly I've come to understand that everything depends on the power of one. 

Things don't just happen.  Someone has to make it so.  From the big to the little and everything in between.  But what is remarkable is that no matter how small someone feels their contribution is, something would not have happened without it.  

What is powerful is to recognize the contribution that each of us makes everyday--whether we are in the foreground or the background.  Perhaps someone could take our place if we weren't there, but the beauty of life is that even if they did, it may not be in the same we would and visa versa.  In this way, we each get to make our own mark and spread a little bit of ourselves as we do.  

Over the years, Jenny and I have done a lot of home projects because it has made our home, well, our home.  We have cared more about making a contribution than the quality our work product.  We've needed plenty of help along the way, but we've still tried to do what we can.  

I have a real interest in Faith, Family Relations, Public Affairs, Human Nature, and Leadership.  Ultimately, I view this as a place to put all of my thoughts into a one place as I continue to refine my thinking and live life as it comes.   I'm happy to publicly share that journey with others, like you.  

God Bless.  Always.  

Chet