King of Kings

A visit to Paris was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I wish I could share with you the ecstasy of being in the City of Love and enjoying crepes and gelato and beautiful architecture and art daily. The neighborhoods in Paris are themselves artistic. The food, impeccable. The people and resilient city are a joy to behold. And to do all this with my wife and daughter was a priceless experience.

"Paris has many nicknames, but its most famous is ‘La Ville-Lumière’ (literally, ‘The City of Light’), a name it owes both to its fame as a center of education and ideas as well as its early adoption of street lighting" reads the travel brochure description.

However, words don’t do justice to the city of Paris. I have heard beautiful descriptions of the cathedrals, the museums, the quaint and attractive city streets and magnificent architecture, much of it bordering the Seine River. But the real thing surpassed my fondest expectations.

One of our excursions during our ten-day stay in the Paris was a visit to Versailles. The train ride was lovely yet uneventful, and the station is a short 5-minute walk to the chateau itself. I am so glad now that we decided to take this tour.

The Palace of Versailles is a royal château in the quaint little city and a short distance from Paris. Louis XIII came to Versailles for his first hunting trip. The palace was once the hunting lodge for the king but is now open as a museum and a very popular tourist attraction. Every luxury imaginable was used in abundance. No expense was spared both inside and out. They say that orange trees outline a myriad formal gardens at Versailles, once the epicenter of French royal power. The Versailles gardens alone took 40 years to complete. These expressions showed a deep respect for the king.

We get the chance to adore and honor our King much more frequently right here in our own communities. We need not travel the world to express this sentiment. More on that in a moment.

Yet, while we were there in Paris, the capital of France, we enjoyed visiting a major European city and a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture. Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine. Beyond such landmarks as the 12th-century, Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, the Louvre, and of course the Eiffel Tower, the city is known for its cafe culture and designer boutiques along the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, one of the most fashionable streets in the world thanks to the presence of virtually every major global fashion house and an iconic place for luxury shopping. Our hotel was not far from the Arc de Triomphe, which is one of the most famous monuments in Paris, standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. We stayed near this monument and explored much of the cityscape from this central feature, which honors those men and women who fought for France.

One can stand atop the Arc de Triomphe and both bask in the beauty of this memorial to veterans and revel in those who have been so instrumental in forming that beloved country. Words fall far short of describing the magnitude of this experience. I have taken photos, written anecdotes, and logged an itinerary during this adventure, but it all is just reminder to me of the rapture and splendor we felt among these good people, their cherished monuments and tranquil, beautiful city. This experience has become a unforgettable and cherished event which has been logged for me among my most treasured memories. Too lavish of praise? I think not.

The significance of this to me is to realize that some of life’s most remarkable experiences occur during a chance-of-a-lifetime opportunity. Other opportunities-of-a- lifetime, however, can be found in the realm of everyday life experiences. It is the latter of these choices that I would like to discuss today.

11 And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.  Alma 7:11

One example that stands out to me is the preparation and expense that we may go to have a wonderful experience. Months of planning, hosts of participants, recommendations, and seeking the best advice are all part of the preparations. With the expense, time off work, and scheduling around other events, the sacrifice may be very significant. And I would be the first to agree that family experiences of this caliber are worth it, but I would also point out that frequently the most meaningful experiences in life are all around us every day just waiting to be discovered and appreciated. Realizing and acknowledging that truth is the beginning of the wealth of joy ready and waiting to be found. When my father would hear Josh Groban’s You Raise Me Up tears would well up in his eyea and stream down his cheeks. As he listened to that song, I knew he was considering those beautiful words in the context of his source of strength, the Savior Jesus Christ. Why is that significant? Because when we view the world through the lense of appreciation and gratitude for the Savior of mankind, everything takes on new meaning.

As I share these words with you, there are hundreds of homes in California that have been destroyed by fire. The neighborhood where my wife grew up today is unrecognizable. Thousands have had their homes, businesses, and livelihoods obliterated because of this tragic fire that took everything in its wake. Rolling hills with beautiful homes and well-manicured landscapes and yards are gone. Where is the hope? How can these people and communities recover?

Instead of happy lyrics and melody of song; rather than fun, games, and the constant laughing of children; in place of skipping from school or returning from work to family and a warm, comfortable home, there is hopelessness, sadness, loss, and misery. These feelings are shared by both the afflicted and those that witnessed these tragic circumstances from San Diego to Santa Barbara, and it’s not over yet. Devastation is everywhere. I don’t claim to understand or grasp the tremendous loss and heartbreak this has caused. These feelings are beyond my personal experience or capacity to fully comprehend. But I know Someone who can and does acknowledge the recent sorrow, loss, anguish and heartbreak. And for me, that hope is what I latch on to at times like these.

He not only understands, but he weeps with us. That is the kind of being that he is. He loves each one of us and understands our heartbreak. More than that, he experienced our sorrows, loss, and afflictions of all kinds, so that he can raise us up and give us an eternal gift beyond our fondest imaginations. The scripture story of Martha comforts me. Her brother died and the Lord was not there to prevent this tragedy. Nevertheless, he comforted and wept with the distraught, then he raised Lazarus from the dead. What was lost had been found. Pain and sorrow was replaced with joy and gladness.

Full talk

“Among the realities we face as children of God living in a fallen world is that some days are difficult, days when our faith and our fortitude are tested. These challenges may come from a lack in us, a lack in others, or just a lack in life, but whatever the reason, we find these excuses can rob us of the songs we so much want to sing.“

And the hope and joy he gave to Mary and Martha and all those that mourned the loss of their friend and brother is the same hope and joy he offers to us in the time of our trials. He can and will remove our pains and suffering if we let him. He knows them all because he had borne them for us.

Amid the many great gifts you will receive or give this Christmas, the gift from the Father of his Son is by far the supreme favor that you or I can or will ever receive. For God so loved the world that he gave his Only Begotten Son. It is with his stripes that we are healed. When we feel we have nothing left to hold on to, we have Him. And for the time being—every day through every trial—we can adore and honor Him.

He is the King of kings. And because he lives, we too can live in peace and happiness despite the uncertainties of our day.

Glory to God for the gift of his Son.

The greatest gift is the Lamb of God who taketh away all our sins and our sorrows.

For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.¹

It is the grand truth that in all that Jesus came to say and do, including and especially in His atoning suffering and sacrifice, He was showing us who and what God our Eternal Father is like, how completely devoted He is to His children in every age and nation. In word and in deed Jesus was trying to reveal and make personal to us the true nature of His Father, our Father in Heaven.                             Jeffrey R. Holland

“I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me. I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” ²

^{Praises be to the Lord Jesus Christ this Christmas}

#LightTheWorld

Once again, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ by serving others this Christmas season. As we follow His example, we help #LightTheWorld.
25 Ways in 25 Days to brighten the world around us.

Surrounded by greatness

I was reading in my journal today about an incredible man, Floyd Johnson. You probably haven't even heard of him. Neither had I, until he became our bishop at Wymount Terrace when your mother and I were students at BYU.

It was interesting being in that ward. Many of its members were athletes at the Y during that time. They wanted to be in Floyd's ward. Now I know why. It turns out he was BYU's equipment coach for many years. He continues to be one of my heroes, because when I was with him, I felt like I was his favorite.

And now I know that he made everyone feel that way. Great men always do.

So this week I want to share with you a remarkable essay.

What would you look at if you had just three days of sight? Helen Keller, blind and deaf from infancy, gives her answer.

As you read it, notice the bounty that you have been given because of who you are and recognize the wealth of blessings at your fingertips.

Like the heroes that surround and edify us, this gift is made possible because of a loving Heavenly Father and his Son Jesus Christ.

It would be tragic to overlook the abundance of good examples all around us for failure to simply look to see those who have been ordained to bless us. These people are just waiting to be discovered, valued, and appreciated--like their stories--that reflect the Light of Christ and the answer to your hopes and dreams.

And joy you don't now even realize is possible will become your life.

It is his promise to you and me. I am already seeing this covenant fulfilled.

Everyone of us on his team is assured this outcome...every one. 

Step into His Light

EMILY

Some time ago, Emily was given the assignment to write an autobiography of sorts for one of her classes at school. The teacher for this course of study insisted on a project that revolves around her personal history for the threads that form the tapestry of her own life. 

Emily's research was significant and involved discussions and interviews with family members, investigative reporting, letter writing, gathering photos, and so on. It included a series of personal writings and explorations which she completed and presented in a creative format. 

She compiled all of this into a special book, something unique and creative, rather than the usual stapled pack of papers. When she finished, I thought this collection was too good to let fall back into the files of remedial school assignments and fade out of memory, so I posted it.

Her personal tapestry follows:

PERSONAL TAPESTRY

tap es try (tap ǝ strѐ), noun: a heavy woven fabric made up of multiple, many-colored threads, which, in combination with one another, portray an overall design or picture.

My personal tapestry began long ago in a location far removed from my current residence. I was born on Fidalgo Island in Anacortes, WA. I am the last of six children born to my mother and father. I don’t remember a lot about Anacortes. We moved from there just two years after my birth. I have of course been back to Anacortes a couple times and we have many friends from that area though our stay there was relatively short. That has also been true for my life. Though my interaction with my friends has been fleeting and brief, each one has made an impact on who I am and the values I hold dear. Some brushes with comrades have simply impressed me to choose one way or another similar to the highlight of a filament or fiber among the pattern of my life, while other friends and family members have influenced my core decisions and are like deeply woven threads in my personal tapestry that make me who I am today. My personal searching for the threads that form the tapestry of my life have grounded my perspective and given me encouragement that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. Searching involved discussions and interviews with family members, research, letter writing, gathering photos, and so on. It includes a series of personal writings and explorations which I present in a creative format below. My personal tapestry contains the following:

My autobiographical incident helped me begin to understand what has made me the way I am. This is a most important thread in my tapestry, as well as longest. But it is not finished yet. My personal tapestry is a work in progress and changes regularly as a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and a friend.

I have always loved to go down to Castle Valley and visit my grandparents…

My explanation of how my family came to America and where they are from originally follows. My grandparents were involved in the westward migration, and their story is included below. As in all families, there are cultural or ethnic traditions, folklore, and superstitions that are part of the family heritage. These are included as well. Enjoy what I learned as I interviewed family members to discover this valuable information.

EMIGRATION TO UTAH   paternal great, great grandfather

I will now give a brief account of our experiences while emigrating in the year 1860 compared to now.

My parents, wishing to be well prepared with good clothing and bedding when they arrived at their destination, had enough new clothing and bedding made to fill two large boxes which my Father had made extra strong. These boxes were about the size of a large trunk. These they packed solid with good clothing and bedding besides what we could carry in our hands.

They were just beginning to build the first railroad ever known in Switzerland and I remember well that instead of nice cushioned seats and backs like they have now, they were flat, thick plank seats without any backs to them. They surely did get hard and tiresome in the long run. Other than this we got along fairly well until we came to what they called the North Sea. There we were hurried down a step ladder into a tightly enclosed box ship covered on the bottom with straw. The stench that met us, coming up out of the hole where we had to go down, was enough to turn anyone sick. The ship did not much more than get started when a severe storm came and sailors had to put a lid over the hole tightened with some kind of pitch. This closed out all the fresh air and the ship seemed as though going over waves like high hills. The people soon got awfully sick to their stomachs and there was no light in the ship all night. That was a terrible night for all the company never to be forgotten, but in the morning when the sea had calmed and we could get out into the fresh air and the beautiful sunshine it seemed to me almost like a resurrection from the dead.

While going across England to Liverpool it was quite interesting to see herds of cattle and sheep and quite large herds of swine now and then.

Our company was told to buy some cooking kettles and coffee cans to use on the ship. This we did, after which we were all hurried down into the sailing ship. After the ship started the people got their food, such as potatoes, beans, and peas, apportioned to them raw. In the ship there was a kitchen with a large stove and negro cooks, to whom they could bring the cooking kettles with the raw food to cook. I remember one time when the father got his kettle on the stove and came back to be with us, when he thought the food had plenty of time to be well cooked he found that his kettle had been taken off the stove without being cooked at all. Afterwards he thought it better to stay and see that it would not be set to one side as there seemed to be far too many passengers for the room on the cooking stove when they would like to get their food cooked.

We never had bread to eat, but some awfully hard “tack” that we could not eat without soaking in hot coffee for a long while first. I remember well one time when we were all very hungry after father had gone nearly all the forenoon trying to get our food cooked. At last he came back with it uncooked. He said that the kitchen was so crowded with people all the time that the negroes got mad and drove the people out with sticks of wood. So we had to go hungry lots of the time during the two months and three days (if I remember right) it took to cross the ocean as the winds were against us a good part of the time and drove the ship backwards, sometimes for a few days. It seemed like there was no end to being on the water. We sure felt to rejoice when we got to see land again.

______________________

THE HANDCART JOURNEY

As father was not able to talk or understand a bit of English (traveling partly by land and partly on rivers), we could not always get what we needed so we were hungry again a good part of the time. At last we arrived at a place called Florence form where we were to start on our journey across the plains. There we learned that we had to cross the plains with the Martin Handcart Company* in 1860. So, instead of better times ahead of us, our hardships increased as my parents had three small children to haul in the handcart. There was no room for much else except a very little clothing and bedding and, as there were no team and wagon outfits except to haul about half enough provisions for the large handcart company. We were told that they could not take those large boxes that my parents had filled with their good clothing and bedding. They could not be put in the small handcart with three little children in it, so father went to see if he could find someone who could speak German as he wished to find someone that could interpret for him and then try to sell those boxes filled with good clothing for a little something. He could not find anyone to interpret and we had to leave them there without getting a cent for them. Later on, we needed the contents of the boxes in the worst way for when we got to Salt Lake City, we were almost without clothing and bedding. If we could have brought them with us we would have been well supplied with clothing and bedding for a few years.

There were only four wagons with oxen to pull them to haul provisions for about fifty families (if I remember right.) Soon after we started, we were told we could only have half rations, that is, just half as much as is considered what an average person needs to live on. So, we had to do our traveling on just half enough to eat. My dear mother had a little baby to nurse and, only having half enough to eat and having to pull the handcart all day long, day after day, she soon got so weak and worn out that she could not help father anymore. Nor was she able to keep up with the company till evening without pulling on the handcart. Sometimes, when we camped she was so far behind the company we could not see anything of her for quite a while so that I was afraid she might not be able to get to the camp. Father let mother have a bigger part of the half ration. This shortage of food, together with having the three children with everything else we had in the handcart, made it too heavy for him to pull alone. In this hungry and also nearly worn out condition, I have never forgotten how when I, a nine-year-old boy, would be so tired that I would wish I could sit down for just a few minutes (how much good it would do to me), but instead of that my dear, nearly worn out father would ask me if I could not push a little more on the handcart.

I will never forget how hungry I was all the time. One of the teamsters, seeing two buffaloes near the oxen, shot one of them and the meat was divided among the whole handcart company. My parents also got a small piece which my father put in the back end of the handcart. That was in the forepart of the week. He said that we would save it for our dinner next Sunday. I was so very hungry all the time and the meat smelled so good to me while pushing at the handcart and, having a little pocketknife, I could not resist, but had to cut off a piece or two each half day. Although I was afraid of getting a severe whipping after cutting a little the first few times, I could not resist taking a little each half day. I would chew it so long it got perfectly tasteless. When Father went to get the meat on Sunday noon, he asked me if I had been cutting off some of the meat. I said, “Yes,” and that I was so hungry that I could not let it alone. Then, instead of giving me the severe scolding and whipping, he did not say a word but started to wipe the tears from his eyes. As we had so little to eat, I wondered why they did not shoot more buffaloes when there were herds of many thousands traveling the opposite direction from which were traveling. I afterwards learned that it was awfully dangerous to shoot into a big herd as they were easily stampeded and, when stampeded, they would run over emigrants or anything in their way.

MY GIVEN NAME
I am just beginning to understand and appreciate the explanation of the meaning and history of my name, as well as the significance of my name in the family (named for grandparents, relatives, etc.) These feelings are frankly hard to describe, but I feel a connection when I learn more about why my parents felt passionate about my name. Catherine Hopewell (Granny’s paternal grandmother), Emily Towell Will Bagley South Pass: Gateway to a Continent, Emily (industrious, hardworking)

Poems that reflect who I am:

a.      THE WIND BENEATH MY WINGS

It must have been cold there in my shadow,

To never have sunlight on your face.

You were content to let me shine, that's your way,

You always walked a step behind.

So I was the one with all the glory,

While you were the one with all the strength.

A beautiful face without a name -- for so long,

A beautiful smile to hide the pain.

CHORUS:

Did you ever know that you're my hero,

And ev'rything I would like to be?

I can fly higher than an eagle,

'Cause you are the wind beneath my wings.

It might have appeared to go unnoticed,

But I've got it all here in my heart.

I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it,

I would be nothing without you.

Fly, fly, fly away,

You let me fly so high.

Oh, fly, fly,

So high against the sky, so high I almost touch the sky.

Thank you, thank you, thank God for you,

The wind beneath my wings.

b.     MY HEAVENLY FATHER LOVES ME

Whenever I hear the song of a bird

Or look at the blue, blue sky,

Whenever I feel the rain on my face

Or the wind as it rushes by,

Whenever I touch a velvet rose

Or walk by our lilac tree,

I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world

Heav'nly Father created for me.

He gave me my eyes that I might see

The color of butterfly wings.

He gave me my ears that I might hear

The magical sound of things.

He gave me my life, my mind, my heart:

I thank him rev'rently

For all his creations, of which I'm a part.

Yes, I know Heav'nly Father loves me.

c.      BUILDER OR WRECKER

As I watched them tear a building down

A gang of men in a busy town

With a ho-heave-ho, and a lusty yell

They swung a beam and the side wall fell

I asked the foreman, "Are these men skilled,

And the men you'd hire if you wanted to build?"

He gave a laugh and said, "No, indeed,

Just common labor is all I need."

"I can easily wreck in a day or two,

What builders have taken years to do."

And I thought to myself, as I went my way

Which of these roles have I tried to play?

Am I a builder who works with care,

Measuring life by rule and square?

Am I shaping my work to a well-made plan

Patiently doing the best I can?

Or am I a wrecker who walks to town

Content with the labor of tearing down?

"O Lord let my life and my labors be

That which will build for eternity!"

d.     THE TOUCH OF THE MASTERS HAND

Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer

thought it scarcely worth his while
to waste much time on the old violin,

but held it up with a smile;
"What am I bidden, good folks," he cried,

"Who'll start the bidding for me?"
"A dollar, a dollar"; then two!"
"Only two? Two dollars, and who'll make it three?
Three dollars, once; three dollars twice; going for three..."
But no, from the room, far back, a gray-haired man
came forward and picked up the bow
Then, wiping the dust from the old violin, and tightening the loose strings,
He played a melody pure and sweet as a caroling angel sings.

The music ceased, and the auctioneer, with a voice that was quiet and low,

said; "What am I bid for the old violin?" And he held it up with the bow.

A thousand dollars, and who'll make it two? Two thousand! And who'll make

it three? Three thousand, once, three thousand, twice, and going and gone," said he.
The people cheered, but some of them cried, "We do not quite understand
what changed its worth." Swift came the reply: The touch of a master's hand.

And many a man with life out of tune, and battered and scarred with sin,

Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd, much like the old violin,
A mess of pottage, a glass of wine; a game - and he travels on.
He is going once, and going twice, He's going and almost gone.
But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd never can quite understand
the worth of a soul and the change that's wrought by the touch of the Master's hand.

Where I live and play…

Bucket list

To accomplish one of your “bucket list” items is a noteworthy event. To do three in one week on the same trip is a bit of a miracle. That happened to me this week.

Kanarraville Falls

Kanarra Creek Trail – commonly referred to as Kanarraville Falls – is a very rewarding hike that takes you up a canyon just east of the town of Kanarraville, UT. This is a water hike and cannot be completed without getting wet. The trail crosses Kanarra Creek many times and eventually enters a slot canyon where you have no choice but to enter the 3-8 inches of water so you can see the falls. The trail is lush with trees, plants, reeds – lots of green. Not really suitable for small children unless you plan to carry them a lot of the way. And there were plenty of people who did just that. Beautiful hike – definitely a great place to get out of the St George heat in the summer time!

Toquerville Falls

We attempted this previously, but the vehicle we were driving was not prepared for the exciting little climb. Experienced 4x4 drivers would laugh at that report, but for our rear-wheel-drive van, the courage needed to finish this challenge was more than it could muster.

This time around, we were better prepared. Toquerville Falls is an oasis in the desert that is best found by truck, SUV, or ATV. The road is rough, but well worth the trip.  The views are spectacular on the drive, and the waterfalls are beautiful and great to play in. The area is clean and great for families. There is no hike required. You can drive right to the falls, but the road is ‘extremely rough’ (words from our brochure). Because of the popularity of the location, a good number of people make the necessary arrangements. It took us two attempts over the course of a couple years.

You won’t be sorry you made the trip!

Angels Landing

I’m not sure I was mentally prepared for this hike. Though Angels Landing doesn’t make the cut for the TOP 5 OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING TRAILS IN UTAH, it is one of the most majestic treks of my life. The hike is a mere 5 miles round trip, but the rating is “Strenuous; steep with exposure to long drop-offs.” And that’s no lie.

There's no view more dramatic than what you see from 1,400-feet up, while hanging onto a chain bolted into a cliff.

Angels Landing is one of the world's most renowned hikes and is an unforgettable short adventure hike worthy of all bucket lists. The views of Zion Canyon's 270 million-year-old rock layers will time travel you back to the Triassic period when this section of the Colorado Plateau was a flat basin at sea level. The literature reports that anyone in an average physical condition can make this heavenward trek, but it’s a good workout and can be mentally challenging as well with its steep switchbacks and sheer drop-offs. Endurance is key. Thankfully, there are chains bolted into the cliff to provide secure handholds. People who have a severe fear of heights should not attempt the final stretch but can enjoy the trail all the way to Scout Lookout.

Now this is a five-mile round trip with an elevation change of 1,488 feet, so the trail is steep…at times very steep. Part way up, we met a man descending the trail in a wheelchair. His friends had made the necessary arrangements to make this possible, and he had the guts to do it. Amazing. For a first timer, I thought we were almost there, but the most challenging feat was yet to come during the final ascent. I was grateful for Emily’s help and patience. She walked ahead of us and waited periodically for us to catch up. On the Hogsback, she made sure I was safe and didn’t fall. It was much better with her help.

The trail begins across the river from the Grotto Picnic Area. It travels over pretty level terrain until you hit the switchbacks that take you up to Refrigerator Canyon.

Refrigerator Canyon is always shady and cool, with a comfortable breeze that can enchant hikers in the sweltering heat of daytime.

Walter's Wiggles is a series of 21 switchbacks that quickly rises to the top of the ridge at Scout Lookout. From here you can preview the last half mile of the hike and is a common turn around point for those who consider it too difficult.

From Scout Lookout, you cross the Saddle and then climb the ridiculously steep and narrow Hogsback, using the chains that are bolted into the stone to keep from sliding over the edge of the cliff.

Once you've conquered the Hogsback, you are ready to mount the Angels Landing Summit. Hardy trees have made their homes clinging to the steep slopes of the Landing, offering shelter to birds, foraging chipmunks, and exhausted hikers.

As I climbed, I thought how much this experience is like life. We all journey along trying to follow the path as we proceed. At times, you think it is too much to handle. Exhaustion, fear, endurance, and grit are all part of the experience. I was glad I didn’t do it alone. Encouragement, help, and patience were valuable and welcome guests. I tried to remember how helpful these gestures were and reciprocate in kind when my turn was at hand. But when the going got really rough, the chain was my focus and the companion that I needed in that moment. As long as I held fast to the chain, I was safe.

Especially with drop-offs of more than a thousand feet on both sides of me, holding fast to the chain was comforting, wise, and safe. I couldn’t help but think of Lehi’s dream and the similarities between this experience and his description of our trek through life. I was living it. And so are you.

We are encouraged to hold fast to the iron rod, keep on the straight and narrow, and push forward amid dangerous and difficult circumstances. Continually holding fast to the rod of iron and enduring to the end is our security amid the dangers and difficulties of life.

Nevertheless, Lehi forewarns us that even some who made it to the tree and partook of the fruit failed to continue holding fast to the word of God. He explains it this way:

28 And after they had tasted of the fruit they were ashamed, because of those that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost.

The 8^th chapter of 1 Nephi tells us much more about the circumstances surrounding Lehi’s dream and the events that happened then. But we also see the fulfillment of his dream in our day and in our lives. He talks about those who did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree and remained faithful.

“And he did exhort them then with all the feeling of a tender parent that they would hearken to his words.”

Who of us haven’t felt these very same sentiments for our children? We all have. Amid tough times and difficult circumstances, we hold fast to our faith in Jesus Christ, because we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Yet with that said, some of my life’s choicest opportunities came in the form of great challenges.

A strenuous hike and a chain fastened to the stone taught me that lesson even more clearly.

The Miracle

I wouldn’t really call myself a handyman. Sure, I change the furnace filter and fix the occasional plumbing problems around the house, but my know-how and expertise in the area of home repairs is somewhat limited. Yet, on occasion there comes along a job that has to be done. Such was the case recently.

The faucet in our upstairs bathroom was dripping. My wife brought this to my attention, and I went to work. Somewhat surprisingly, I found the necessary items and fixed it in no time, or so I thought. It turns out, however, that the leak continued. It was now down in the cupboard with more serious side effects. I didn’t know what to do, so I sought the help from a local plumbing supply store. They knew the questions to ask and were experienced with my situation. So the advice they gave was direct and simple, including one cartridge and a couple springs with caps. In just a few minutes miraculously the problem was solved, and the stress and anxiety I was feeling because I was unable to complete this job dissipated. So I learned again how much help a little knowledge from someone who really knows can be.

Farm life was like that. We were new at ranching and caring for farm animals. We encountered problems regularly that were beyond our ability to resolve, but we learned the people we could depend on for good answers—mentors if you will—and that made all the difference.

And so it is in life. We encounter situations for which we are unprepared and possibly overwhelmed. Do you ever feel that way? We need to defer to someone who knows the answers and will give us the guidance and direction that we need.

I felt a lot like that as a new father. It was not uncommon to face things I never imagined and for which I was totally unprepared. And I know those feelings are not necessarily unique to me.

How does one deal with a wayward child, or an untimely death in the family, or a tragic circumstance or overwhelming obstacle? Good questions and very important answers indeed, because navigating the hardships of life can be challenging. Though we don’t know all the answers, we all know Someone who does.

And I am not just trying to make it through life by the skin-of-my-teeth. My goal for both me and my loved ones is Exaltation. I want the very best for my family in this life and the next. So I have for my mentor the Savior Jesus Christ. With his help and the gospel he restored, overwhelming obstacles and hazardous hardships are manageable. Ecstasy and happiness are assured. My goal is attainable and not only possible but certain if I am faithful. All things become new as we are reconciled unto God.

That is the miracle of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

My wife came to me the other day and asked me a question as part of her preparation for a lesson she taught. She asked “Can you give me an example of how you implement the atonement in your everyday life?”

Perhaps the obvious answer is that I repent every day, because I am fallible and weak. But she was looking for a different answer. She wanted to know how the atonement influences my life daily. So to answer that question, I referred to a metaphor. How do you hold on to the rod of iron every day? Holding fast to the iron rod, as taught by Nephi, means that we learn, commit to live and obey the commandments. When we apply the Atonement of Jesus Christ in our lives, it affects every decision we make and everything we do. And we are able to think about and ponder and utilize and apply the power of the atonement in every choice and with every obstacle that we face.

My father explained it this way:

We are not achieving our most important goal until we have established in the hearts of our children and the saints, an even greater love and appreciation for Jesus Christ.

“Friends may betray us, spouses may leave us, health may fail, and our possessions burn up. But, Christ, His promises, understanding, and love will never fail us. With some trials and most tragedies, only this can get us through.

“When we can take a thankless, demanding calling; give up something we wanted greatly so that we can pay our tithing; or help out someone who has badly hurt us and say, ‘I wouldn’t do this for anyone else, but I will do it for Christ!’ then the power for good he can have in our lives is becoming a reality. He must be the foundation of our lives.”

Many have asked the question about how to apply the atonement in our lives every day. With the renewed emphasis on the Atonement of Jesus Christ in recent years, I think we can all appreciate the need to apply this great blessing in our lives daily. As part of my study for this article, I deferred to someone much wiser than myself to whom I could receive direction and clarification. In this particular case, it was Neal A Maxwell to whom I gave way. His witness of greater spiritual refinement through the Atonement of Jesus Christ is orchestrated into a beautiful symphony of testimony—not  with notes but with words; not with stanzas but with commitment; and finally, not with a choir of voices but with a pledge and a promise. This excerpt is striking.

The hope we have in Jesus Christ gives us strength and sustenance in the face of the challenges of our day. Elder J. Devn Cornish has testified “If you will really try and will not rationalize or rebel—repenting often and pleading for grace—you positively are going to be ‘good enough.’”

These words from October conference last year are still encouraging and comforting me today. His whole talk is edifying and inspiring. I provide a further excerpt below:

Let me be direct and clear. The answers to the questions “Am I good enough?” and “Will I make it?” are “Yes! You are going to be good enough” and “Yes, you are going to make it as long as you keep repenting and do not rationalize or rebel.” The God of heaven is not a heartless referee looking for any excuse to throw us out of the game. He is our perfectly loving Father, who yearns more than anything else to have all of His children come back home and live with Him as families forever. He truly gave His Only Begotten Son that we might not perish but have everlasting life! Please believe, and please take hope and comfort from this eternal truth. Our Heavenly Father intends for us to make it! That is His work and His glory.

This message of hope is not beyond our ability to achieve, no matter what our present circumstances may be. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said:

“However many chances you think you have missed, however many mistakes you feel you have made … , I testify that you have not traveled beyond the reach of divine love. It is not possible for you to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ’s Atonement shines.”

President Uchtdorf speaks of the application of the Atonement of Jesus Christ through the lessons we can learn from Alma and Amulek.

There is no situation that we encounter for which our Mentor is unprepared. He understands when we feel overwhelmed. Because of him, your success and happiness is assured, if you accept his gift and follow him.

Yes. The miracle of the Atonement of Jesus Christ blesses us every single day of our lives.

The Grand Architect

My wife loves to go house hunting.

Parade of homes, she’s there. New homes being built in our neighborhood; she has been through all of them. DYI network is probably includes some of her favorite shows, and with good reason. She has done a remarkable job both on our home and with my family. The other day, she asked me to go with her to look at a couple homes under construction. One she liked; the other, not so much.

Elements of one, she preferred a lot, and perhaps the other has some less desirable features. It occurred to me while we were looking that despite the various structures—walkout basements, porches, windows, theater, utility rooms, kitchens, and master suites—the workers put hammer to nail and saw to blade, and they all end up with the architect’s goal in mind, because they followed a plan.

I have a friend in the construction industry who has worked on many church buildings. He is a contractor, and his team built the temple in Nigeria. They are currently working on the business sector near the Philadelphia temple. The structure they are completing now is a 32-story tower and will feature 258 apartments, 13 townhouses, and street-level retail.

This noble work produces much good for many who depend on these skills for housing and business accommodations, and towering structures and bridges whose immensity and complexity boggle the mind. The differences in all these structures are many, but they are similar in that they all follow a plan. And the outcome is assured as long as the plan is followed. Whether you are building a skyscraper or a playhouse, whatever the objective is, they all have a plan. And so do we.

14 For the body is not one member, but many.

15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?

18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

These principles not only apply to constructing buildings, the same principles apply to our lives. If we follow the plan, we end up with result envisioned by the architect. We too have a plan. It is the Great Plan of Happiness. And because it was designed by the Architect of this universe, all we have to do is follow the plan, and we too will achieve the goal that is meant just for us.

Let’s talk about the plan, because once we know and understand it, we really already know the ultimate outcome, and in this case our destiny. I would like to begin by sharing with you a true story.

My father was a self-taught carpenter. He and my mother have a love for the classic, and we would often find them rummaging around warehouses of antiques or restoring furniture to its former brilliance. It was hard work, but I think they felt a measure of joy taking something lost and largely forgotten and restoring it to its optimum beauty. This also included ancient, old houses that were restored to their finest. We bought a small home on 33rd East in Salt Lake City, Utah. I remember helping to demolish and clean elements of the structure. There must have been six or seven layers of flooring including carpet, linoleum, and tile before we discovered the hardwood floor base.  I remember that in our minds that was a great find and happy surprise. But even then the floor had to be cleaned and stripped and polished before it again showed its brilliant luster.

What I remember about this building is that with a lot of work, what started out as a forgotten lot and musty old structure soon became a beautiful, warm, inviting home that was really intended as an antique shop. But I never felt like I was in a store. It felt more like a comfortable residence. Country curtains, braided rugs, classic treasures, and well-tended gardens made visitors feel like they were in the countryside. In addition to the ornate decorations and hometown feel, my father took the old furniture, trunks, desks, tables, lamp posts, and hall trees and restored them to their original beauty, maybe even better than their original form. Each room sang with notes of history, renewal, a symphony of appreciation, and swell of emotion. Their adoration for the classic was revealed in every piece they lovingly adopted. I know it was hard for them to see their work eventually sell, because they had sacrificed more than time and effort. This was another extension of their family, a manifestation of their wonderful lives and contribution to society. Is that too high of praise? I think not.

So what does this all mean and why is it of any significance to you and me and our families and loved ones? Because the Grand Architect of our eternal lives has a blueprint for you and for me, if we will but choose to follow him, the plan is the ultimate restoration and climactic ascent of our existence. As long as we are willing to show humility and have faith to obey him and accept the gift he has already won for us, we too will be restored and exalted to our ultimate potential with God.

23 The soul shall be restored to the body, and the body to the soul; yea, and every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a hair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their proper and perfect frame.                                                  Alma 40:23

So what is that potential?

President Uchtdorf gives us a glimpse in the following account:

The things we hope for are often future events. If only we could look beyond the horizon of mortality into what awaits us beyond this life. Is it possible to imagine a more glorious future than the one prepared for us by our Heavenly Father? Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we need not fear, for we will live forever, never to taste of death again. Because of His infinite Atonement, we can be cleansed of sin and stand pure and holy before the judgment bar. The Savior is the Author of our Salvation.

And what kind of existence can we hope for? Those who come unto Christ, repent of their sins, and live in faith will reside forever in peace. Think of the worth of this eternal gift. Surrounded by those we love, we will know the meaning of ultimate joy as we progress in knowledge and in happiness. No matter how bleak the chapter of our lives may look today, because of the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we may hope and be assured that the ending of the book of our lives will exceed our grandest expectations.

“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”

And to all who suffer—to all who feel discouraged, worried, or lonely—I say with love and deep concern for you, never give in.

Never surrender.

Never allow despair to overcome your spirit.

Embrace and rely upon the Hope of Israel, for the love of the Son of God pierces all darkness, softens all sorrow, and gladdens every heart.