Change the world

Perhaps the title of this post is not what you would expect during the holidays. Nonetheless, that is our commission.

Changing the world begins with changing your world. Perhaps start with the following:

• get up 10 minutes earlier to do something extra (read scriptures, play the piano, or develop another talent)
• recognize and show appreciation for people in your life
• improve yourself
• mend a relationship
• leave things better than you find them

Give thanks for your blessings. Make the world a better place...and then enjoy it.

My sincere appreciation to all of you who bring so much joy into my life. I can't help but think of my dad when I hear the Halleluja Chorus. He appreciated good music so and loved the message it portrays. When this song was performed, it was not uncommon to look over and see tears streaming down his cheeks. I love that about him.

The Gift of the Messiah (This article is great. It contains a video I just love.)

You will notice that when the choir begins singing in the link above, the audience stands up. This has been a tradition long before my time, yet it continues to flood my emotions each time I see it. Upon hearing the "Halleluja Chorus" movement of the Messiah, King George II of England was reputedly so overcome with emotion that he spontaneously rose to his feet. When the king stands, everyone stands, so the audience immediately rose also. The tradition of standing for the chorus is still observed today in most live performances of "Messiah". I like to think, however, that we stand out of respect and adoration for the Savior. That seems more agreeable to me.

Whence come thou again

Did I ever share with you the story of when I got lost at Knott's Berry Farm? My family was there on vacation, and we were watching a fantastic dance right in the middle of the walkway. When I looked up, the family was gone. That was disconcerting to say the least. It must have shown on my face, because a kind woman asked me if I was lost, and at that question, I think I probably burst into tears.

She assured me I would be fine, and she told me that she would take me to the office so they could make an announcement and get me back with my family. Those were sweet words, and she did exactly as promised. Someday, I hope to have an opportunity to thank her for coming to my aid.

Well, at the Knott's Berry Farm office, I was greeted by the nicest, sweetest young ladies you can imagine--Snow White herself couldn't have been any more giggly, kind, or beautiful--remember, I was a 5-year-old boy. While I was waiting, they consoled and entertained me with stories, treats, and attention like any young boy loves. Nevertheless, when my parents walked through the door to recover me, I was delighted.

It was relatively harmless back in those days, and I actually remember it with a sort of fondness and nostalgia. But I imagine it was anything but nostalgic and pleasant for the apostles when they learned about the events leading to the end of the world and Christ's imminent departure. I have said before that I imagine the apostles were pleading when they asked "Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming?" 

The whole chapter Matt 24 is great and very informative. Read it. Many of the prophecies contained therein have been fulfilled.

And though we are told "Of that day and hour knoweth no man," (Matt 24:36) we are also told that we can know when it is near by watching for the fulfillment of events foretold. (Mark 13:28)

So what does all this have to do with getting separated from my parents as a boy while on vacation? Actually, it is remarkably similar. 

• The separation was brief 
• Was it scary? Yes, but it was kind of fun too 
• It turned out fine, even though parts were worrisome at the time
• As I look back now, the outcome was sure
• The joy of being reunited was great 

These same characteristics are true in life with the freedoms we enjoy as we prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. 

• Our separation from Heavenly Father is relative short compared to eternity
• Even amid hardship, life is scattered with joyous occasions
  Men are, that they might have joy (2 Nephi 2:25) and all of our afflictions are swallowed up in the joy of Christ (Alma 31:38)
• Everything will turn out ok in the end; if it's not ok, it's not the end
• The following statement of Elder Cook emphasizes our perspective:
  ...it’s a wonderful time to be a member of the Church ... We know what the ultimate outcome is, we know who Jesus Christ is, and we have the opportunity of having a loving Father in Heaven bless us.
• The righteous eagerly await the return of the Savior Jesus Christ

The question really is will we be ready when He comes again.

Will YOU be ready?

Home is where the heart is

There are so many different perspectives and varying opinions on the real definition of what it means to be successful.

Sometimes the world evaluates success by the number of dollars made or the impact on society or the great discoveries realized or perhaps the titles or educational rank achieved.

I'm not saying those things aren't important or good, but it can be discouraging if you base your success and value on those accomplishments alone, especially when outside factors limit your ability to achieve them.

Getting little notes from my children, who are upright, generous, and kind. Going out to lunch with family or having a confidential, trusted talk when needed. Or perhaps, a compassionate, faithful, loving wife. To me...successful or not...that's real wealth.

 19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

  Matt 6:19, 20. 21

How do you measure success?

Pray Always

When I was a boy, I used to mimic a Dial soap commercial. It went something like "Aren't you glad you use Dial? Don’t you wish everybody did?" I thought I was so funny. I was just a little kid. But there are many, many more ad slogans and some really memorable ones like Please don’t squeeze the Charmin, Got Milk? or the American Express classic "Don’t leave home without it."

I imagine that many of you don't know what an idiom is without looking up the definition, but unaware you use them all of the time. So sometimes without even realizing it, we try something without really knowing why. Regardless of whether you are aware of idioms or not at all, they are available for your use and benefit. That makes me wonder how many other things are ready to assist us, which we may not be utilizing to their fullest capacity.

The cool thing about this post is that we are going to talk about perhaps the most important idiom of all. But don't be surprised if you have never recognized it as such. That's why we are going to discuss it now. You have all heard the best defense is a good offense...and yes that is an idiom, but not the foremost expression I am talking about, but an idiom nonetheless.

Maybe it's because I'm a guy, but I have always loved the analogy of the Armor of God found in Ephesians 6. The weapons and protection described there are inspiring and comforting, but more than that, they are an asset for us to overcome the battles that we face in our lives. The whole chapter is great, but I want to focus on verses 11-18. Read them in the link above.

So we have a number of defensive measures available to us. These verses talk about a helmet, breastplate, shield, and other armor and relate these to truth, righteousness, preparation, and peace. Paul continues with increased emphasis to utilize faith, salvation, and perseverance. And in the midst of these verses, an offensive weapon is revealed--the Sword of the Spirit. Then we receive the exhortation "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit."

Actually, if I am honest about it, this concept used to trouble me, "How can one really pray always?" Well, I thought about the times when I was raising my voice to heaven and even as I was closing my prayer, I realized I failed to thank Him for something in particular or forgot to ask His help regarding this matter or that. Funny thing is that it seems to happen more the older I get. Then, I remembered how I handled the matter in college when I was taking a big test or making a life-changing decision like choosing or changing my major. When I faced a challenge that was beyond my ability alone to manage, I found myself constantly thinking and seeking and listening for guidance. I would frequently call Grandpa to run my thoughts by him and hope his direction would lead me in the way I should go. And as I pondered his counsel and considered the advice, it helped light the path before me. Then very clearly it came to me. If I did this very thing with my earthly father, then why not with my Heavenly Father through prayer and the manifestation and direction of the Spirit. We can always be seeking His guidance and thanking him for direction.

Our most valuable defense against the adversary, confusion, doubt, and fear is the whole armor of God. And with it you will have the protection you want and the answers that you seek, the faith that you need, and the courage required to tackle the obstacles of our day–armed with the Sword of the Spirit. If I could provide any tool to help you through life, this is the one I would give you...and He did. John 14:27

I know that one day we will live in His presence and feel always of the Lord's Spirit, and I look forward to that day with anticipation. 

Until then, don't leave home without it.

I Love

There are so many things I love about our family. Now I'm not talking about the way that we show affection with hugs and kisses or the way we tell one another frequently that we love each other. No. I'm not talking about the family traditions that we have like lining up by age in ascending order to go into the living room on Christmas morning or celebrating early morning birthdays with a happy birthday to you song at the bedside. Those traditions are great, too, but today what I really love is the little things about each one of you that make our family what it is. Like a beautiful stained glass window is made up of many small, significant colors and shapes, our family is composed of the total of all your individual characteristics.

• Nick - I have always loved Nick. He adds so much to our family. One of the most poignant moments I remember about Nick was when he called me to ask for my permission and blessing to marry Camilla. Sounds like a small thing, perhaps, but my admiration and appreciation for Nick grew enormously that day. And ever since, we have had many occasions to develop bonds. Always, my fly-fishing mentor.
• Camilla tries new things and leads the way--working hard to achieve her goals--one summer in Alaska and another at Lake Powell; teaching English in Korea and travelling the orient, things I have never done. She is perfect for Nick and Tosh. I think Camilla's namesake is one of the finest people that I have ever met. But considering Camilla's qualities, it's no wonder she shares that forename.
• Steven's calling card is that he includes everyone, is fun to be with, and understanding of others. It's tough going to school--college is hard work--you all know that, but I love remembering the frequent times that I would call Steven, and he would be coming from or going to the temple. I would think "I want to be more like that." And his music...wow...Steven is easy to love.
• Amy - her little laugh, dedication to a cause, and determination are characteristics that I admire about Amy. No one really understands how hard she had to work when she was employed by Jeff and Tanya. Often she changed her plans because she was called into work last moment or asked to stay longer than scheduled. But day-in-and-day-out she willingly surrendered her own plans for the greater good. And as far as Tripp and Liv--Amy will always be a favorite. For me, Amy epitomizes integrity.
• Alyssa - everybody loves Alyssa. Her style, her smile, her loyalty to family and friends. I love that she is honest with me and shares the desires of her heart, even when she is afraid or unsure. It takes a lot of courage to bear your soul when you risk rejection, humiliation, or indifference. But that won't stop Alyssa. She does what is dead-on because it is right.
• Melanie - beauty and affability are qualities often not found together, but it just so happens that in Melanie's case, they exist in spades. People say that beauty is more than skin deep. Melanie is kind to others and glows inside and out, and that's what makes her so attractive because she is simply charming.
• Emily is friendly, obedient, loving, and kind. Those words describe her well. I love that Emily is a companion to all and scatters sunshine everywhere she goes. She has so many friends from all parts of the ward and neighborhood and is a favorite both in and out of the family. Everybody loves Emily.

And Linda, she is the girl of my dreams. I would be so much less without her. There are so many things I love about your mother: appreciation for BYU football, the challenges during her youth from which she ascended so beautifully, and her dedication to home and family. You know, your mother is your greatest advocate-- I love that about her.

Though there is much more to say, I can only mention the briefest summation of your qualities. 

Of course I love all of you. How could I not?

And the best is yet to come.

That Day

Man I have a beautiful family! This year we spent Thanksgiving with Gregg, Terri, and their children; privileged to have Elaine come along with us. Steven, Race, Amy and Kari joined in on Thanksgiving day. Delicious food. Incredible pies. Fun and games. Tradition of amusing, family-friendly YouTube videos and games around the table...a moment to capture our thoughts of gratitude together; a life time to demonstrate our appreciation for the bounty we all enjoy.

Black Friday...whether you like the tradition or not...manifests the abundance available to us in this era and particularly in our country even in the midst of the nation's challenges.

During the holiday, Saren shared with all of us something that really touched me. And now I want to share it with you.  (check out the script below; you can reference the quotes from the video)

Enjoy! 

UNLEASHING THE DORMANT SPIRIT

F. Enzio Busche

I want to share with you a vehicle, an instrument, which I have developed some time ago for myself and for my family. It can assist us to reach our focus as we read the suggested vision of true discipleship as a Latter-day Saint.

It helps when we from time-to-time ponder and seek identification with the following thoughts:

* Embrace this day with an enthusiastic welcome, no matter how it looks. The covenant with God to which you are true enables you to become enlightened by him, and nothing is impossible for you.

* When you are physically sick, tired, or in despair, steer your thoughts away from yourself and direct them in gratitude and love toward God.

* In your life there have to be challenges. They will either bring you closer to God and therefore make you stronger or they can destroy you. But you make the decision of which road you take.

* First and foremost, you are a spirit child of God. If you neglect to feed your spirit, you will reap unhappiness. Don’t permit anything to detract you from this awareness.

* You cannot communicate with God unless you have first sacrificed your self-oriented natural man and have brought yourself into the lower levels of meekness, to become acceptable for the Light of Christ.

* Put all frustrations, hurt feelings, and grumblings into the perspective of your eternal hope. Light will flow into your soul.

* Pause to ponder the suffering Christ felt in the Garden of Gethsemane. In the awareness of the depth of gratitude for him, you appreciate every opportunity to show your love for him by diligently serving in his Church.

* God knows that you are not perfect. As you suffer about your imperfections, he will give you comfort and suggestions where to improve.

* God knows better than you what you need. He always attempts to speak to you. Listen, and follow the uncomfortable suggestions that he makes to us–-and everything will fall into its place.

* Avoid any fear like your worst enemy, but magnify your fear about the consequences of sin.

* When you cannot love someone, look into that person’s eyes long enough to find the hidden rudiments of the child of God in him.

* Never judge anyone. When you accept this, you will be freed. In the case of your own children or subordinates, where you have the responsibility to judge, help them to become their own judges.

* If someone hurts you so much that your feelings seem to choke you, forgive and you will be free again.

* Avoid at all cost any pessimistic, negative, or criticizing thoughts. If you cannot cut them out, they will do you harm. On the road toward salvation, let questions arise but never doubts. If something is wrong, God will give you clarity but never doubts.

* Avoid rush and haste and uncontrolled words. Divine light develops in places of peace and quiet. Be aware of that as you enter places of worship.

* Be not so much concerned about what you do, but do what you do with all your heart, might, and strength. In thoroughness is satisfaction.

* You want to be good and to do good. That is commendable. But the greatest achievement that can be reached in our lives is to be under the complete influence of the Holy Ghost. Then he will teach us what is really good and necessary to do.

* The pain of sacrifice lasts only one moment. It is the fear of the pain of sacrifice that makes you hesitate to do it.

* Be grateful for every opportunity to serve. It helps you more than those you serve.

* And finally, when you are compelled to give up something or when things that are dear to you are withdrawn from you, know that this is your lesson to be learned right now. But know also that, as you are learning this lesson, God wants to give you something better.

Thus, we prepare all the days of our lives, and as we grow, death loses its sting, hell loses its power, and we look forward to that day with anticipation and joy when he will come in his glory.

Christmas Joy

Carols are ringing through the house. Holiday lights have been lit. The Christmas tree is decorated. Holly adorns our stairway. Goodies spill out of the kitchen. Nativity reminds us of our joy. And a wreath hangs at the door.

So what is different about Christmas this year? My daughters instigated all the decorating this time around. I helped, at least I think I did.
First, we put the lights up. Emily did the ones I couldn't reach.
Rearranging the room to accommodate the tree seemed like too much work - they did.
The tree boxes are way too big without getting some help; we can't move them - they did.
I said that we would never be able to raise the tree by ourselves - they did.
Try as I might, I couldn't get the tree lights connected properly - they did.
But we will never get the top on the tree "There is no way you can do that" - they did.

You are probably beginning to see a pattern here...

Below is a beautiful 4-minute Christmas music video from the College of Fine Arts and Communications at BYU.  My good friend wrote the music and alumni, students and staff designed and produced the music and accompanying video.



We benefit in so many ways from others who can help and bless and lift us by contributing in some how to our lives. For me, that helps remind me that we cannot emerge from this life without the assistance of others, particularly the Savior Jesus Christ:

And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. 2 Nephi 31:21

And behold, I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world. 3 Nephi 11:11

Try as we might, we cannot make it through life alone, and gratefully we don't have to. Though our efforts are well meaning, they are futile except for the grace of the Savior Jesus Christ. Even after all we can do, it's not enough without him. 2 Nephi 25:23

At Christmastime and always, Jesus Christ is the Light of the World for all who seek him. For more Christmas videos, visit http://christmas.lds.org.