I Don't

Understand why y'all do these kind of things, but you do make me smile. 

This is a great week. Skjelse and Jeff came here (after seeing you just last week in LA) and Kieren arrived today. And to make a complete circle we get to talk to Gavin Friday. The whole family!  I love this season. 

We had a really cool meeting at church today. We had the piano and organ together for two numbers, both Christmas hymns, and it was awesome. I love the sound and the music. 

We then talked about the impact of music in our lives at BYD. Good discussion and ideas from the youth. After it was over it was so fun to hear Kieren, Ty, Lys and others make music jamming around on piano, trumpet, and sound blocks of all kinds. It was just fun lively Christmas music jazzed up. 

I got back from China, and then the next work day had people from China here to do two all day meetings with them. It felt like no break. But still good meetings. Then I had two jam packed days to try and fit in everything in before the long break for Christmas. But I am off work now until the new year. 

This is a wonderful week as well because we get Three birthdays. Kieren tomorrow, Gavin Tuesday (we will celebrate for you :)) and mom on Friday. Paaaaarty!

I am looking forward to a break from the norm this week. A chance to spend more time here with everyone. 

Ty and I on Saturday replaced the muffler on Buzz since it developed a rust hole at the weld joint. I had ordered it a while back and then Ty helped cut the old one off and install the new. We really had to work the old flange as it was badly corroded and we used the grinder to clean it off. But it seems to have done the trick. I love saving hundreds for a short amount of work. 

Remember the purpose of the season we are in. Take time to give a gift to the Savior this week and become better than we are today. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

There's No Place Like Home

No matter where I go, or how exciting the opportunity sounds, in the end there is no place like being at home. It just brings comfort and peace. And with home being where the heart it, we can make our home nearly anywhere. 

As I travelled home from China this week I was just excited to be back where I love to be and am loved there. I had a few more really long days working there and I am pretty sure they are glad I am gone. One day we worked straight from 9AM until 9PM without any stop even for a break or lunch. We just ate while still working. We had so much to get done and so little time. 

But on the way home I had an exciting time of being able to see Skjelse and Jeff!  I realized I would have a few hours layover in LAX and so Skjelse and Jeff were kind enough to take time and come get me and we had a great time. Then they dropped me off back at the airport to leave for home. It was a red eye flight to Atlanta then home. 

We had the Ward Christmas party Saturday and it was nice. Ty was part of a men's group who sang and then he sang again at the adult session of stake conference. It was fun to hear the bass line coming out so strong and he was the only one on that part. 

Stake conference was really nice. I was struck by the repeated messages of inviting others one by one and also on sabbath day observance. We were given the opportunity to reflect on what we could do differently in our lives, what one thing could we change that would help us individually or as a family to improve the sabbath day. 

I am looking forward to a Christmas break from work after this next week. There is a lot to do before then so I will work hard to make it happen. Kieren and Ty have exams this week so good luck and study hard. Listen to grandma smith and work hard, study hard, pray hard. 

Love you all forever,

Dad

The Season

It has begun!  Best season of the year to celebrate. So hence the Christmas ties come out and we enjoy them until after the new year. I don't have too many but I wear them every week now. 

On Saturday the Clark's finished packing up their first load to take west. Thanks much to Ty who went over every day for the past days to help them. Then Saturday I went over in between baptisms to help them push a 1968 Porsche onto the car carrier. See who is driving!  

I think they are sad to leave but at the same time they are ready. They have been here for a long time. 

This week I had a workshop type class for the whole team I work with. I had a facilitation team from Emerson St. Louis come and help to run the workshop. We were trying to get at deep seeded behaviors that were not conducive to getting the results we were looking for. The event went fairly well and we had the expected drama of closed mindedness, accusative acting etc. but in the end the team came out with 4-5 things to do differently that I had identified over a year ago. But it took us four days to get them to work through denial, downplay, and justification so they could get there themselves. Without that journey they would not have ever been willing to change. 

What I learned was amazing as far as human behavior is concerned. I was by design not an active participant. I watched, coached, and questioned. But it was very hard for me to sit back and let the journey unfold. Especially when they were stuck or going down paths I was not feeling would be helpful or productive. But as I watched and waited, slowly they emerged with ideas of their own creation that would lead to change. It was remarkable learning sitting back as a leader and patiently waiting on the results to emerge. A frustrating week with a roller coaster of emotions but good outcomes. 

I could draw tons of gospel parallels of this and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Amidst them how when we seek His help He will provide it, at church, at home, at work. Anywhere in our lives. I needed that this week to get through to reasonable results for our teams. 

Another thing I learned is always work to make things visible and open to all. Secrets just do no good. Holding things back from people does not help, it hurts. So always be open and honest, and make things known to all people. Having broadly known information makes everyone work smarter and better towards a common goal. Some in the event even wanted to make the outcome "tools" private to just a select few but the whole team is affected by them and in fact makes decisions in their work that need to be based on these things. So finally we got them to agree it will be shared and posted for all. And it's not secret at all, just a good list of interdependencies between two major functional groups. I am amazed at people who do not believe in empowering others to grow and do better in their work. 

Mom found some of the baseboard trim ruined from water damage this past week. I figured I would replace it Saturday and I worked on it. But as I pulled it off and was down close I saw water still there. From the dishwasher. Not normal and something was wrong. So I took it apart and found the inlet valve was leaking, from a seal of the valve itself. I pulled it out. It found I have to replace the whole valve and can't get the part until tomorrow. Luckily it is not too expensive. But the water damage could have been much worse if we did not have tile. So I had the joy of doing dishes by hand. That has been a while!  Meaning for all dishes. I do the pots etc most days. But when water leaks it is usually not your friend!

Love you all forever. 

Dad

3 John 1:4

Same Not Equal

So I had an interesting time of gospel study this week. It's intriguing to see what happens when a thought sends you down a path of learning and study. I have been wondering why the same circumstance can be happening to different people but the response is so different. That led to why the Lord's input to me is also so different.  What is right for one is not right for another. Somehow he knows each person so individually that the answer is tailored to help and build each person in a unique way. 

Look at the examples in the scriptures. In Luke 7 the centurion sends for Jesus for a servant who is dear to him. It states that Jesus went with them. No delay or other things. Then when he got close they came out and instead of having to go in his word alone was enough to heal. 

Then in John 11 Jesus hears of Lazarus who is sick. But instead of going right away it is four days before he goes. Then when he comes Lazarus is dead and buried. But in the same way he calls him out of the grave and he is brought back from the dead. Same using his word, but different responses to the need. 

Then look in Mark 5 and he hears of the ruler Jairus and his daughter and goes to heal. Along the way the daughter dies. The rulers servants tell them to bother him no longer and then laugh at Jesus when he says she only sleeps. At that he clears everyone out but Peter, James and John. But there are two others he invites to witness and experience this sacred spiritual experience. The father and mother are invited to gather with them. Whereupon Jesus raises her from the dead. So this time he goes right away, but actually goes in to the house this time, and shows to the apostles and parents the miracle. 

So why the same but why different. 

If you have any insights I am still pondering and learning, so please share. 

I also was touched by the father and mother being invited in. Consider your patriarchal blessings. You were there with a special experience and your father and mother were there to experience it with you. (Thank you!). You should read that again by the way. And think of other special sacred times. Family is invited to participate. At the most sacred and eternally significant times, our parents are there with us. Always loving, supporting, praying and yearning for your best. 

I have appreciated getting that learning this week. 

I had a training class all week at work. It was coordinated by Pres. Ward so I saw him all week. That was a nice thing. I learned much but it made for long days. We got done on average 9 PM. And Thursday was the capstone case study so we were meeting until almost 11. It was a bunch to learn about acquisitions, finance processes, leaderships competencies, innovation processes etc. but very insightful. It is part of my training to help be a better potential leader at Emerson. Ahh, come what may and love it!

Saturday we had a convert baptism and that was neat to be at. Then confirmed today. We also did the fall leaf cleanup outside and it was great to have so many people at the church. We have huge piles out at the street and also filled the dumpster to overflowing with sticks and branches that have blown down. 

Fall has arrived and we have built a few fires in the wood stove. It's so toasty!  I like it when we do that but I am not here enough to to keep feeding it constantly. But it sure is a sign of fall. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Why Does The Lord Do It This Way?

So I have been thinking about your personal email home last week. You mentioned some discouragement at working hard and seeing little progress. I can understand so acutely how you feel. 

First, I sure appreciate that you know that sending out a broader email that focuses on the positive and includes some of your personal gospel learning that week is the right thing to do. I assume you still blind copy a bunch of people?

Second, please don't hesitate to share the challenges as well with mom and I so we can pray more directly as well as ponder with you each week.  You are the purpose we are here to find joy in. I want you to be happy and I have found that way. I know you are discovering it too. 

Third, I recall in Norway having many days and weeks when I really struggled. I would work for hours and hours and get not even a nibble. I honestly believe I truly taught less that a dozen or two real lessons my entire mission. We tried, we shared quick thoughts, but there was really no interest. I had to fight through that and discovered as I focused on my personal study and faith, the work became easier. I found more joy even when rejected. I just felt closer to the Lord and found His joy. 

Fourth, I continue to empathize in a new way as bishop. I get so discouraged when people try to move forward in the Lord but just don't. I try to teach, to encourage, to motivate but for many it just goes nowhere or so very slow. And the worst is when someone doesn't even want to move forward. They have lost so much of their faith that they have no desire to come unto the Lord. They choose their worldly lifestyle and their sin more than they choose Him and eternal life. I feel the pains of the Savior as I yearn for them to get the desire, and I see what God wants for them, but they can't see beyond the daily indulgence and self service. When we really find joy we get outside ourselves and recognize that joy comes in others. 

Fifth, recall the scripture of bringing souls unto Him. I had to cling to that my whole mission as I realized that very likely (and it came true) I was the one soul I would bring to Him. I would serve, I would work, I would try to improve, but in the end that one soul that was being converted was me. I am eternally grateful He would be patient enough with me to work on me as I served that I might prepare myself for a lifetime of service. And it has been worth it every day since. And I look forward to many more. 

I honestly hope that you are finding that same eternal faith deep in your heart that will remain forever. That brings the joy in 3 John 1:4. 

Grandma Smith had it right. Work hard, study hard, pray hard and the rest the Lord will add unto you. Never give up in doing what's right. I am so pleased with your testimony growth and your love for others you have found. That love, or charity, will last you a lifetime. 

So why does the Lord work this way?  I am unclear but I have seen it over and over. As we serve those around us we get a love so deep that it hurts when they reject what treasure we have found and want to give. 

Dad

A Delight?

So we should all realize the focus on the Sabbath from Pres. Nelsons talk 2 conferences ago. And there has been a lot of training and discussions on how we can improve our Sabbath day worship. But a few have wondered in his talk "is the Sabbath really a delight?"

They may have long days, meetings, church, giving a lesson, visiting people, going to a fireside and such. With it so busy is it a delight?  Well you can count on your dad to be one who declares unequivocally YES, it is a delight. How can that be?  I just got done with a 16 hour day. Started at 5:30 in the morning. But it was invigorating and a delight. A pleasure to be involved with so many who are trying to find the path in life that leads us back to our heavenly home. 

Ask Gavin if his day is not a delight when he works hard, and then has that moment of teaching where the spirit testifies and he knows it. Or ask Kieren when she discovers how much God knows how to direct our loves that "it's embarrassing really!"  Sometimes the hardest things when we give them a chance turn out to be the most foundational to our understanding. Ask Ty as he gets a spiritual insight that just blows mom and I away as we try to follow his thoughts as he explains. Ask Alysia when she serves others beyond the veil and smiles the whole time she is there working that will benefit people she will never meet.  This is all a remarkable work and I for one am pleased to be counted one who can be trusted to carry it forward in a small way. 

So this week I have really struggled to put into words I can share with others, and graphically to try and take them through my words, the vision the lord has given me about the Centerville Ward and what we can accomplish. It has been a tough. It wonderful journey to try and figure out how to put in words the spiritual understand I have been given. When it is all boiled down I realize that "in the work of salvation, all roads lead THE ONE to the temple."  We can all help one person take the one next step to the temple which will bring us to Christ. That step may be a first visit to the temple to do baptisms. But it may be as simple as inviting them to come to our home for dinner, or to pray for the first time. Anyone, member or not, active or not, has a next step to take. (For Gavin and Kieren think of the progress record)

I had a busy work week. There is a lot going on now, and many major events coming up this month. I have seminars this week, a full week of leadership training next week, seminars for 4 days the following week that I am in charge of, and then yea, vacation the week of Thanksgiving. So November is about shot and it has hardly started. One of my peers that I respect and turn to a lot for help was assigned another role and is leaving the group I work with. I am pleased for him, it's good for the business, but I am NOT happy. I like having him around. So due to that I have the opportunity its to take on a large chunk of his role and learn new aspects of the business that will help me long term. It's actually a blessing for putting the Lord first in my life. I don't know if it will be a title change or just a role shift, but it comes at a time when I feel blessed because I have enough people reporting to me that I can shift other responsibilities to them to open up my time. It also is an opportunity for them to grow and learn more. It's important to realize who is really in change and ensure I am willing to let Him lead my life. 

I love your mom, she is fantastic. I hope you realize that. 

Enjoy the pic of Dan Waldron getting his Eagle Scout award. I am pleased he finished it. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Family History

We started an amazing effort to help the youth find names and do family history. We had 26 youth voluntarily come and we indexed and started to do family history searches. 6 youth started the work to search names and in just the first hour, with most of it being teaching about family search, we found 5 names. And Ty found 3 of those. Norwegian ancestors at that!  Heia Norge. 

It was fun to see so many doing the work and having fun together. We will be doing this each week as we take on the #templechallenge. 

It was a good day at church. Good messages on teaching in the home and in the church. And just good learning for teaching in general. We started the effort to plan and set goals for the coming year in Ward council. It sure is interesting how so many different perspectives can come out in just one Ward council. But I feel strongly what the Lord wants the wad to accomplish, so taking what He has provided, and listening to the Ward council, I will come up with a vision for the Ward, and then we will work goals to support that vision.  I know it leads us to the temple but still working on the rest. 

It has been a long week at work as there has been much to do. I am trying to do the regular and work with many different groups across the globe, but also I am undertaking a major effort to gather learning from our latest product launch so we can improve our efforts next time. I spent nearly 20 hours last week alone on that. And this week will be similar. Then I have to make sense of it all and develop action plans to make a difference. I also am preparing for a major 4 day seminar to help us map out the future condition we want to be in, and find the gaps compared to today. It is all taking a lot of time but we can't wait too long or the experiences of everyone get stale. 

I spent a chunk of Saturday putting together a table Ty is making for JP. He had all the cuts, and I put it together while he was spelunking in Kentucky.  The Priests quorum went down there Friday and Saturday. The table has to be just the right height to fit under her bar, and above the stools she bought. So we had to custom make the base. We will paint it black and then there is a black top to put on it. But we will just screw it down to the base so we just have to paint and then affix the top. 

You can see also that Ty is doing the same class as Gavin. Gavin did a catapult, Ty is doing the trebuchet. He is now looking for heavier weights. Gavin, he is even using e same base you did!

Mom is preparing for an amazing YW in excellence coming soon. She has done tons of work and it will be a phenom. She always does amazing things. 

Mom and I went on a date to see a home show house that was nearby. It was fun to see the trends and styles of what they are doing recently. We still really like what we have done here. 

Join Ty and Lys and search your ancestors so you can take names to the temple. I know Kieren also has lots of names she is working through. It's great to have us all working to unite family. 

Love you forever. 

Dad

3 John 1:4

Fantastic Sabbath

This week I turned my world upside down. Or more likely backwards. I worked from home on Wednesday Thursday Friday only because on Tuesday night Wednesday night and Thursday night I worked third shift so that I could be on meetings with Asia.
I would be either on the phone from nine until one or so or I would get up at 12 or one and be on until four or five in the morning to be able to participate in meetings and get good information. It was quite crazy and kind of confused my body but not as much as if I traveled over there.  Each morning I would pretty much go back to bed after family scriptures and prayers and Ty and Lysi were off to school.  Mom would walk or do other things and I would sleep for a few hours and then I would get up but I'd be able to have a great and fantastic day all to myself was my best friend, mom.
Sunday was a pretty awesome day this week. We got to have President Porter of the Cincinnati Ohio Michigan come and he and his wife talked at sacrament meeting, then I met with him and the ward mission leader during the second hour and then he did a group lesson and discussion during the third hour with all the adults and youth. It was amazing how he could take the doctrine of Christ and be able to wrap it in for such a long discussion but kept everybody engaged and beautiful to have everybody learning new things.  I really like how he made a connection of the letter C going from keeping commitments to keeping the Commandments to entering and living covenants to taking upon us the character of Christ. It was a great progression as you think about how you go on the path from where we are now back to perfection and eternal life.
After that wonderful day I only had a few interviews and then I was able to come home and work on a bunch of follow-up things to be able to keep some new initiatives in the ward going. Working really hard on family history, the temple and missionary work. Everyone of them has really good people doing great things as well as reaching out to less active and teaching in the ward and the homes. It's really awesome to be a part of the work of salvation.
For bishops youth discussion we had a conference review but I had given handouts to all the youth to read a conference talk to be prepared to share some specific learning especially a quote that they would put on a poster and if they were going to make a conference poster.  They all did a really remarkable job and many of them shared some great insights and learning that they had had with the others. We probably shared about 15 different talks that came from Conference and amazingly enough none of them were repeated.  I got that idea from somebody I know that is in our family that happens to be serving in Hermosillo Mexico. Thank you Gavin for your great idea and it worked out really really wonderful.  I think it was a great experience for all of us that were there.
Recently I have also learned more directly the power of fasting and prayer. I was amazed as I had a specific topic that I was considering as I went in earnest prayer and started my fast and carried that into the Sabbath day how much I learned from that as I went through today. But the biggest miracle was how fast my request for help through prayer and fasting came to be as I received answers that very day. I don't think it's usually supposed to work that way but I felt very blessed and it was so amazing to be able to have answer so quickly and in such a strong way.
Whenever you need that extra help and support to be able to take care of a challenging problem or concern that you have, please remember that prayer and fasting are remarkable tools that you can employ at any time in your life.  You don't even have to wait for a fast Sunday.
Love you forever,
Dad
3 John 1:4

A Week Of Firsts

Wow, a week of firsts I have never done before. Not things I really want to have experience with but nonetheless I now have these behind me. So end of last week Cindy Johnston in our Ward passed away unexpectedly. I found out while attending a baptism and went directly over after. First time to comfort and meet with a family after a death. First time to be there before the coroner had done their work and carried away the body. First time to meet with and plan services for a member when all of the remaining family is not a member of the church. First time to coordinate with a funeral home, first time to arrange the dressing of the body. First time to conduct a funeral service, first time to give a plan of salvation talk at a funeral, again to mostly non members. First time to dedicate a grave. Many firsts but not so exciting!

Now it was also a first today when Kerry's brought over a treat for "clergy appreciation day" which I have never heard of but turns out to be a national day. That was fun!  

It actually was a good experience to ponder so much about the gospel and how it really influences lives. She was a member since she was 20 when she discovers the full truth of the gospel. She was very involved, serving in the stake primary presidency. And she was a temple worker and loved to be there. It was neat to witness of the eternal covenants made in temples and the way they fit into the plan to bind families together after this life. 

On Friday, the day of the funeral and burial, mom was so nice and came with me all day. But it started great as we went to seminary that morning and went to Lys class. Great day where I recognized new types of Christ in the Joseph of Egypt story. There were tons of them. We then had the comparative religions classes at CHS and we had the sister missionaries present. They did fantastic at summarizing our beliefs in a brief way and then fielding all sorts of questions from every angle. But the students were very respectful, inquisitive, and at the end of the day more that 30 took up the invitation to take a Book of Mormon on their way out if they would like one. And it was fun to help answer some of the questions. 

The work week was one with not a moment to spare. I really had meetings and commitments from 7 AM to 5 or after everyday last week. Good things. It just not a moment to catch my breath. And with the funeral, viewing, mutual, etc. I had no evenings either. Crazy!

Saturday was a day of rest. I slept in, yes I really did!  I did odd jobs with everyone or with myself during the day except for an hour for a PPI with president Valencia. Gavin, I rode the motorcycle up, it was too nice a day not to!  He is a great one. Always helpful to me. 

We cut up all the wood that had fallen in the forest from storms etc. all of us worked together and in less than an hour had it all cut up, broken up, and stacked ready for use. It will be nice to have the fire for the winter. We mowed, fixed, checked etc. rear defroster that had one line bad, a chair seat that had broken through, hoses put away, broken chairs etc put in garbage and just a good day of lots of little jobs to be done. 

Today was another amazing day. I had to get up to church a bit early to make copies etc because my executive secretary is out this week. (Skjelse, it's brother Crouch, they still miss you!). So I was up there at 5:45 to be ready for bishopric meeting, then PEC, then Ward council. I will say it again, councils are phenomenal. They bring out so many perspectives that help to create a better end result. I am so appreciative for them and all those who serve. 

I had one interview set when the day started but by the time I went home, I had 6 that "created" themselves out of nowhere. But they were very positive and lead to great results with improved lives. The minute we decide to want a change from something we have done wrong, that is the instant the Atonement has claim upon us to move us forward. 

I would send you my funeral talk but this is already long. I want the best for each of you. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Best Weekend Of The Year

I love conference weekend. Always a great chance to relax, focus on what is most important, and to spend extra time with everyone. We missed Gavin at the priesthood session but thought lots of you while there. I have cherished the times to be together. Ty seemed to have a stubborn streak with me and I think we both won. Neither wanted to choose where to sit!  So in the end we both made partial decisions. I while aisle, Ty which row, then I did the side. He made me laugh as we were trying to choose as time was winding down to the start. I love being with all of you. I find it fun and best use of time. 

I had a crazy week at work, a major review for two of the big programs to get ready and present the material to ban agreement to move on. But in the end it went well and we are progressing on. There is always more to do than can ever be done. But I just try to go after the more important and work down from there. And communicate when something can't be done or will be later so everyone knows. 

On Saturday we went to Tabitha Whites baptism and that was really nice. I enjoyed seeing the spirit affect those there. While waiting for them to dry and change clothes, I got pulled out and a sister in the Ward had passed away. She is the only member in her family. So right after it ended mom and I went to visit with the family. It was very unexpected and she is the first to die in their family even thought they are all older. But not real old so a surprise to them. The funeral will be late this week. 

We also get to do the comparative religions class at CHS this week. The elders and sisters will be leading that and we will be there for support and questions. 

I really enjoyed Elder Hollands talk on mothers and women. I hope you all listened to that. Mom is the best example. I feel like I need to simplify and center my life from the talks given. 

Here are two quotes I really liked:

1. If you want to be more than you are now, reach up not over. Elder Hales

2. The future of your faith is determined by choose, not by chance. Elder Anderson

Since we got sisters back in the Ward I have been trying to make sure we get them into the workings of the Ward as soon as we can. They have gone out with some sisters already and been here twice for meetings and dinner. It is nice to be trusted with two sets of missionaries again. We need to put them to work. We have plenty we can do. 

It was really nice to be with Ty at the recognition assembly for national merit semi finalists and commended scholars. 

Saturday was also the traditional pumpkin giveaway. We went early and it was fun to watch Lys wander and wander the whole patch to find the one calling out to her. Then we had to go back around the building so she could get a donut. She is fun to race and goof with. 

Work hard at doing what is not good, or even better, but what is best this coming week. 

Love you,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Stop The Train

I want to get off this runaway train!  What a fantastically crazy weekend. I took the day off Friday since CHS was out of school. So what do I do??  Don't everyone respond at once. I get up and go crazy on things to accomplish. I worked on the car and removed the radiator fan, heat shield, and coolant hoses so I could finally get at the air fuel sensor to break it loose. After the oil change place could not get it loose I had to take all that out so I could get the special tool on it so well I could break it loose. But I did get it, cleaned it in a last ditch effort before I replace it, and put it back in. This time I put anti seize on the threads so if I have to pull it out to replace it it will be much easier. Mom moved a bunch of furniture and of course I helped where muscle was required. We moved the old stuff out and put the new in. We had gone and picked up the new Thursday night. 

Saturday I mowed the lawn, saw the riding mower break again, and did the rest by the walking mower. Then I got bit by the "once a year whether it needs it or not" car cleaning bug. Lys helped get the insides clean and I spent all my muscles scrubbing the wheels clean on Buzz and Max. Buzz was so bad I was worn after. I spent a couple hours on the wheels trying to remove years of build up. Then since it was once a year I washed them both, dried them and then waxed both. I am a karate kid awesome!  Wax in, wax off!  And make my arms like jello. 

Sunday was fantastic and exhausting. I started at 5:30 since we had missed some interviews last week. The coordination of councils was uplifting yet again and we got good actions to offer to others to help them if they will accept it. We had the primary program today and after it ended early (that has to be a record) I ended up speaking for a few minutes and no planning. But all is well, He gives me so much help just when I need it. 

I had some frustrating interviews after church with some who are not interested in change for the better. I respect what they want but it is disheartening to see them give up on so much that they could have. So much joy that could be in place now and for eternity. 

In the afternoon we had our first youth teacher coordination meeting following the "come follow me" curriculum.  Sunday school, YM and YW, seminary and other leaders joined together to determine what strengths the individuals have and where we can better combine efforts to support them. It was a very good discussion and many chances to receive revelation to help individuals. I again got a chance to talk without warning and mom said it was wonderful. I trust her. 

Finally in the evening we had a family history consultant meeting to prepare for our new youth family history Sunday meetings. They are voluntary but we hope many youth will want to be involved in searching out our ancestors. There are so many treasures to find. I know it will be a fantastic change and blessing for the Ward. 

Do all you can to focus your life on drawing close to the Savior. He is the central part of joy in this life and eternal life to come. The more we will engage in activities that draw us close to Him the more miracles we will recognize in our lives. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Centerville Ward Awesomeness

I just wanted to share some wonderful news from our Ward. And realize you can help this happen where you are serving as you work hand in hand with the Ward leadership and use the whole Ward council. It really is an inspired way to go. 

We had a part member family, where the father is inactive and a priest in the Aaronic priesthood. We had tried to reach out and the missionaries had taught the wife for over two years. So normally this is a situation like so many others that everyone gives up. But they didn't. The missionaries and the Ward kept going, inviting, reaching out whether they responded or not. 

Fast forward to now. The father has been working to prepare to receive the Melchizedek priesthood, the wife finally decided to get baptized and yesterday she did. Guess who did the baptism?  Yep, the husband. It was sooooo cool. He even gave a remarkably great talk about the holy ghost in the baptism program. It was so neat. Today she was confirmed by her father in law who came out for this event. After she was confirmed we even had extended a calling so she is now a Sunday school teacher and is totally stoked to do it. She can't wait. 

A turning point came when they attended the Indianapolis temple open house. After that the dominos began to fall. And now she is meeting with the family history consultant to prepare names so they can go to the temple to do baptism for the dead. This is just too good. In reality we know who is the author of this goodness we get to observe!  

So keep working, reaching out and don't give up. Realize He is the one in control and its on His timetable. So just keep working hard and praying hard. 

Thank you all for your work and service that blesses so many lives, including ours here in Centerville. 

Bishop Smith

Sabbath Day Observance

We have had a bunch of discussions recently on how to heighten our worship on the sabbath day. It has been most instructive and enlightening to participate in them. We have done this at the stake, Ward, Ward council, bishopric, and tonight with the youth. It has been fun to see all the different inputs, large and small, that can lead to action. We have been putting some of them to work. We made small adjustments to how we get ready for sacrament meeting and what we do the last 15 mins leading up to the start. And today was a massive difference in the reverent attitude prior to sacrament starting. It was neat to see. 

We had the youth at our house for BYD tonight. We had 51 of them and some adults so over 60 in the house. Whew. But we broke into smaller groups and had them discuss ideas on how to improve the sabbath day for the Ward, then next level for the home and family, and then next level for them personally. I had 5 youth lead the discussion, and I had adults taking notes but not allowed to participate in the discussion. So I could get the real feedback from the youth and we got 6 pages of notes to find ideas and try to make changes to improve. It was a great night. We also answered more questions they had submitted and we had some good ones again. "Why are there so many chapters on wars in the Book of Mormon when they could have included better things?"  Or "I don't understand heaven, like who was Heavenly Fathers dad?"  Really good questions. 

Saturday was a special day it was the day I got ready for Sunday. (Did you hear the primary music in your head?). I got up earlier than the others (duh) and I went to get gas for the mowers and trimmers. Then I trimmer, edged, blew, and mowed all the lawn but the main portion Ty did on Thursday night. I had to finish before we went to Kirstie's baptism and it was supposed to rain right after that. Which it did, so I was glad I got it done. I also took the pole saw and cut down two large branches that had died and we're hanging out over the lawn. All before 9. Good work dad!  I replaced the steering wheel controls this week so the maxima now looks like it should instead of a gaping hole in the steering wheel controls. Ty and I reset some of the pavers on the patio that had been made askew from the freeze and thaw cycles. We found one area where drainage had eroded a hole beneath it so we found a big rock and then poured concrete around it to firm it up. It look much better. I cleaned all the front wheels that get so black on each car. So fresh and clean!  The Buzz had a frozen caliper on the rear so I broke it free with some serious work and then Replaced the guide pins. With those cleaned, and greased, it make such a difference and now slides easily for better breaking power and even wear. So instead of paying someone $300, or even buying a $80 part, I spent $5 and one hour and poof. So fun for me. 

Look what Alysia tried again last week and she is amazing. Really a natural. So consistent and on the mark. 

I love you forever, nothing stops that, it is always there. 

Get ready for conference. We get two new apostles this time. General women's meeting is this Saturday!  

Dad

3 John 1:4

Gas to Go

You know how there are times in your life when you are just embarrassed?  You do something that when you look back it was just pretty mindless?  Well, I am living proof you don't have to have it happen too often and still be able to not learn from it. 

#1. We got the motorcycle back from the shop, running not perfect but decent enough for an old bike and pretty good overall. Then it starts having problems again. Wouldn't you know it's on the way home from church after a long day as bishop. I got stuck on bigger and had to push it most of the rest of the way home. I work on all the connections, check out the carbs, verify and adjust the choke, and basically touch everything we had been having issues with. In the end it was the simplest issue anyone can fix. It was out of gas. 

So I am a slow learner and don't let that sink in much. 

#2. The riding mower Ty resurrected from someone's spring clean up is about to roam the lawn again. Ty was nice and was starting to mow the lawn. Then he comes back to me as I am working in the garage and the mower is dripping gas in almost a solid stream. We try to get it off the lawn and I am sad. A free mower is wonderful, as long as it works. I am worried each time something comes up with that. At some point it will die. I do some research (thank you Internet) and the web again turns out to be right and I find the issue inside the carburetor   We had to remove the bowl, take out the float and needle, clean out the needle seat and reassemble. While at it we use gasket compound on some other joints where it was leaking. Wallah. Fixed. It starts up and all is well, except it won't stay running. It only goes for a few seconds and stops. What else could it be?  In the mean time Mom has mowed the whole lawn with the walk behind. So we put it in the garage and I plan to come back to it later. I think and think about it but leave it be since I have no new ideas. Roll ahead to this week. Mom is at the church at a relief society event and I se we need to mow and it is not raining. I am too lazy to do it by hand, so I pull out the rider and start taking it apart again. I have the covers off and try to start it while trying all the adjustments I know of. I get just a glimpse of a start up but nothing that catches. I try all sorts of things. Nothing. Finally I pull off the gas cap and suddenly, duh, thee is nothing there. I take what gas we have, put it in, fills it halfway or so. I try it again and.....vroom. It runs. And after I adjust the carb back to normal it runs like a champ. I mow the whole lawn without an issue. 

So I am just dumb and embarrassed. I really need to figure out how to check the gas sooner and not try to fix everything that could be wrong. The simplest solutions often are the best. Check the gas dummy!

I also had a great day as bishop today. Wonderful people who are working hard to improve their lives go for the better. One I should share. There is a young father who is a priest, his wife is not a member but has been taking the lessons and has gained a testimony. So finally she makes the decision for herself to be baptized. We are all excited. Her husband even wants to do the baptism. They made this decision as they went through the open house at the Indianapolis temple. As I talk to them today I extend a call to her to serve as a SS teacher after she is confirmed. She got very excited and is so looking forward to serving. She is so on top of the world. And the best part, her husband after she says she would love to do that just can't wipe the grin off his face. He just could not stop smiling. He was so pleased and happy. I can't wait for them to be an eternal family. I talked to him and he wants to receive the Melchizedek priesthood so he can prepare to go to the temple. What a fantastic day to be part of the work. 

Many other wonderful things as bishop today also but that one was just a dream. It really is all worth it. The challenges we have to go through are just part of the path to lasting joy. 

Today I also rode the motorcycle to church, down to a members home by Pres. Wards house, and then back home. It was a marvelous day, perfect weather and so fun to ride. 

Love you forever. 

Dad

3 John 1:4

Building Upon The Rock

What a fantastic start to a wonderful month. I have the distinct privilege to teach priests quorum today, combined Melchizedek priesthood next week, and give a sacrament meeting talk the next week. In all of these focusing on Christ has been a common theme. Regardless of the troubles in our lives when we remember remember that it is upon the rock of our redeemer that we must build our foundation then we can weather the storms that swirl around all of us. 

In priests quorum they were wonderful as we discussed together ways we can build a defense and in the end the best is to build our lives around the study of the savior. They had many great ideas and I liked when Ty chimed in with "strengthening our sword of the spirit" with prayer and scripture study.  It is remarkably simple yet more effective than any other tools we can employ. 

Later that day in thinking of building our defenses I was counseling and was led to discuss the war chapters of the Book of Mormon. Think of captain Moroni and how so many times, again and again, he always stayed one step ahead of the Lamanites. Armor, then walls, then banks of earth etc. in all this we can do the same to remain one step ahead of Satan and his continued attacks on our lives. Consider what C.S. Lewis said about this (courtesy of Austin Z)

"No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good. A silly idea is current that good people do not know what temptation means. This is an obvious lie. Only those who try to resist temptation know how strong it is. After all, you find out the strength of the German army by fighting against it, not by giving in. You find out the strength of a wind by trying to walk against it, not by lying down. A man who gives in to temptation after five minutes simply does not know what it would have been like an hour later. That is why bad people, in one sense, know very little about badness — they have lived a sheltered life by always giving in. We never find out the strength of the evil impulse inside us until we try to fight it: and Christ, because He was the only man who never yielded to temptation, is also the only man who knows to the full what temptation means — the only complete realist."

C.S. Lewis

I especially love the last bit, Christ really does show the perfect example and perfectly understands. He is there to help us through every step we need to take. Regardless of the size of the path forward or its obstacles. 

I am pleased to be home from work tomorrow. Labor Day. It will be a nice break. I am so appreciative of the job I have. Good company, good people, challenging work, and supportive leadership. But I work to be able to be home, not the other way around. I haven't decided what to do but you can be sure I will try to accomplish something. 

Yesterday I got a bunch done with help from everyone. Especially Ty. We worked on the motorcycle and fixed a non working indicator light. We also have the cover of the control panel drying with an epoxy so it will seal the crack. (You should love our high tech clamping mechanism!)  

We took apart the dash on the maxima and corrected a sticking fuel indicator, and found a loose brake shim on the rear brakes that I think was causing a squeak. The riding mower is a pain again and was leaking gas like there was no stop at all. We fixed that by working on the float needle and seat in the carb but now it won't stay running for more than a few minutes. I may try to tackle that again tomorrow. Mom was a,along and mowed the whole lawn with the walk mower while we were trying to get it to stop leaking so bad. 

Friday was fun, we had a "FHE with the bishop" and had a FHE opening and lesson, then watched Meet the Mormons movie. We did that Friday night and had popcorn and snow cones. About 50 people came. It was low key and only if people wanted to come. But one investigator, Ray, commented to the missionaries how much he appreciated it and how he felt, especially about the discussion before and after the movie. 

Counsel often, it is amazing how solutions to your problems come as you counsel. I am seeing that big and bold in my life. Home, family, church, work. Everywhere. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Discovery

What a week of discovery this has been. It started with the fun time watching Ty learn about programs at BYU and trying to see him figure out what he would like to study, and where he would like to go to school. I found it intriguing to see when he was no hum, and when his wry smile would come out at things he found intriguing to his mind. I found a number of them very interesting also and used the time to try and discover areas where Emerson and BYU could work closer together. Like co-op placements and MBA internships. 

Then I discovered that I am pathetically inept in aerobic activity as I tried to hike the Y. Made it just fine but was sucking wind after not too far. At least I felt better when so many others had to break also. Strength was fine, just out of wind fast. But it was the first time I had been up to it so it was nice to do. And fun with Ty and Kieren. 

I then discovered that it is very discomforting to stay up until 2 AM, and then try to sleep on a plane. Which was not good for me. I got maybe 30 mins. So when I got home around 11 I was tired, hungry (mom took such good care of me as always), and sick. I did not get feeling better until Saturday. 

Today I discovered that daily, personal, meaningful prayer and gospel study is a remarkable guard in life. Add that to following given counsel and being true to covenants and you will see that lasting joy is around every corner. Even as we travel through tough times. The Lord is so pleased when we make steps towards Him. He really is intent upon our personal growth and development. Days like today are both invigorating and exhausting. Contradicting I know, but they are such lifting days but I am worn out mentally, physically, and spiritually. I yearn to help others make the changes they so desire in their lives. The atonement really is an enabling way to become better than we are now.  To be the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. 

I had vivid memories today of Norway and the people there. I reflected back on being able to talk to my mission president on Monday. While Ty and Kieren took the general tour, I sat down with him. What a flood of memories that we shared about Trondheim and serving there. The branch president really wanted a youth program to help out the branch, but had no one that could do it.  He asked President Peterson for missionaries to help. "You got it, what else" was the reply. "Well, I need someone to teach Sunday School to those youth". Same reply. "We need to have Sunday firesides to give them another opportunity to learn the gospel". Again, same reply. So my companion and I started working with the youth. At first it was just a few. But each time President Peterson would come into the area ere would be many more. From 10 to 20 to 30 and more. All in a small branch. And I discovered that this small start was the beginning of a season that continues where youth have grown, joined the church, served missions, and are the leadership in that area now. I remember the activity nights when we started and having fun along with a spiritual lesson.  And the firesides in the missionaries large apartment (6 of us living there, nicest place by far my whole mission) where we had interactive discussions, taught the gospel, and followed a pattern that is much like the come follow me curriculum of today. It was a most fulfilling time as we could see real progress.  

Serving others really does an amazing thing as you leave yourself and help others, your joy fills up and you are happier than when you try to be happy by serving only yourself. This is the same concept in marriage. As you do all you can to serve your spouse, you become happier. Even if you don't "get" what you originally thought was needed, wanted, desired etc. 

You all make me so happy, please make choices hat bring you closer to Christ every day. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Discovery

What a week of discovery this has been. It started with the fun time watching Ty learn about programs at BYU and trying to see him figure out what he would like to study, and where he would like to go to school. I found it intriguing to see when he was no hum, and when his wry smile would come out at things he found intriguing to his mind. I found a number of them very interesting also and used the time to try and discover areas where Emerson and BYU could work closer together. Like co-op placements and MBA internships. 

Then I discovered that I am pathetically inept in aerobic activity as I tried to hike the Y. Made it just fine but was sucking wind after not too far. At least I felt better when so many others had to break also. Strength was fine, just out of wind fast. But it was the first time I had been up to it so it was nice to do. And fun with Ty and Kieren. 

I then discovered that it is very discomforting to stay up until 2 AM, and then try to sleep on a plane. Which was not good for me. I got maybe 30 mins. So when I got home around 11 I was tired, hungry (mom took such good care of me as always), and sick. I did not get feeling better until Saturday. 

Today I discovered that daily, personal, meaningful prayer and gospel study is a remarkable guard in life. Add that to following given counsel and being true to covenants and you will see that lasting joy is around every corner. Even as we travel through tough times. The Lord is so pleased when we make steps towards Him. He really is intent upon our personal growth and development. Days like today are both invigorating and exhausting. Contradicting I know, but they are such lifting days but I am worn out mentally, physically, and spiritually. I yearn to help others make the changes they so desire in their lives. The atonement really is an enabling way to become better than we are now.  To be the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. 

I had vivid memories today of Norway and the people there. I reflected back on being able to talk to my mission president on Monday. While Ty and Kieren took the general tour, I sat down with him. What a flood of memories that we shared about Trondheim and serving there. The branch president really wanted a youth program to help out the branch, but had no one that could do it.  He asked President Peterson for missionaries to help. "You got it, what else" was the reply. "Well, I need someone to teach Sunday School to those youth". Same reply. "We need to have Sunday firesides to give them another opportunity to learn the gospel". Again, same reply. So my companion and I started working with the youth. At first it was just a few. But each time President Peterson would come into the area ere would be many more. From 10 to 20 to 30 and more. All in a small branch. And I discovered that this small start was the beginning of a season that continues where youth have grown, joined the church, served missions, and are the leadership in that area now. I remember the activity nights when we started and having fun along with a spiritual lesson.  And the firesides in the missionaries large apartment (6 of us living there, nicest place by far my whole mission) where we had interactive discussions, taught the gospel, and followed a pattern that is much like the come follow me curriculum of today. It was a most fulfilling time as we could see real progress.  

Serving others really does an amazing thing as you leave yourself and help others, your joy fills up and you are happier than when you try to be happy by serving only yourself. This is the same concept in marriage. As you do all you can to serve your spouse, you become happier. Even if you don't "get" what you originally thought was needed, wanted, desired etc. 

You all make me so happy, please make choices hat bring you closer to Christ every day. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Pleasing

I had the distinct pleasure today to experience what Alma experienced as he described it in Alma 17:2. Read it and see. 

We went to church at the Heatheridge 2nd ward. It was nice to see so many families that we knew and grew up with as you all were young. We actually heard the pre-mission talk of Isaac Mefford. Wow, didn't realize he would be going on his mission now. 

We saw so many families and what amazed me is that I could envision in my mind the YM that I served with in that ward so many years ago. And so many remembered us and asked about all of you. Ty and Kieren didn't really know too many, Kieren remembered some things, but Ty really nothing. 

We saw the sister who did music junction. Remember that Skjelse?  I pointed her out to Kieren.  And I showed Kieren the primary room where Gavin would do somersaults and then bolt for the door. What memories. We drove Ty around the ward, all 3 1/2 streets!  Ty got to have the priests lesson from JB Bartholomew who got called today as YM president. 

On the way out to Utah we stopped at Cinnamon Ridge farms, where Kieren's friend Kara lives. She gave us a great tour including the robots who milk the cows. I think Ty and I enjoyed that. 

Then we drove for 19 hours to get to Utah at 12:30AM. Long day but fun to ride with Kieren and Ty. But I miss mom and Lys too. 

We got together with the whole smith family clan tonight. Skjelse you would be proud of our sociality. Most were there and it was fun to catch up with them. The worst part for me, but Kieren loved it was the updated snake tour. I am just not a fan. Makes me queasy. 

Tomorrow Ty will tour BYU and one of the colleges for more info. I am going to visit with my mission president for a bit while they are on the general tour. Then we get the Uncle Ole tour in the afternoon. That will be fun. 

I also reflected this morning with Uncle Dave about how we both were pre-warned before we were called as bishop. We both knew ahead by personal revelation before we were called into the stake presidents office. It was interesting to discuss the similarities. 

I hope you all had a great week. It is a pleasure being dad. 

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

The Sabbath Day

This week I had a bishopric training and then our ward council on improving Sabbath day observance.  We had some great discussions and then some specific ideas on how we can improve that in our ward.  We had some video clips of the training the general authorities received just before last conference.

As you think of either our ward specific, or the Sabbath in general what ideas do you have that I could use?  What things should/could change, and how, to improve the Sabbath day?  There is a great focus to develop greater faith in Christ through improved Sabbath day observance.  This will go on for the next few years so I am looking for lots of ideas that we can use over time.  They can be grand or just small.  But all leads to improving the Sabbath.

I am realizing that the family not being in school is a bad influence on me.  We stayed up until 12 last night, and I had to be up at 5 to get ready for early meetings.  Not a smart way to live!  But I will keep blaming it on everyone else staying up to have fun.  Not that this excuse holds much water as most of the days last week Ty and Alysia got up around 5 to get ready, and Kieren still gets up with me at 6 for work.  

This week starts school and seminary so we will be up at 5:25 at the latest.  But I am still going to try and console myself by blaming the rest of the family for my staying up late. :)

At the end of this week we are driving Kieren out to BYU and taking Ty so he can have a BYU tour.  I don't know that I am looking forward to 24 hrs driving, but it will be fun to be with Kieren and Ty.  We are stopping at Kieren's friend's house on the way, so our second day will be an 18 hr deal.  I hope I like car travel!

I pondered today the way the Savior loves regardless of the individual.  It is easy for us to love those like us, and to feel compassion for those that follow our same patterns.  But when we have true Christlike love for those very different, or with different behaviors, or with diverse backgrounds that make then in a very different "world" that us, that is when we are truly working the way the Savior works.  Helping and loving them just because we want to see them lifted to a higher level.

I hope you all take the chance to reach out to others around you.  Follow the promptings you receive, large and small, and follow through.  Simple acts can make a big difference in peoples lives.

Love you forever,

Dad

3 John 1:4

Sleep Deprivation

I know all of you practice this regularly and function just fine.  I, however, am NOT practiced at this and don't function well when it happens.  And I performed this activity to a new extreme for me this week.  I got up early on Wednesday in China and had long meetings at the factory of Ruking.  After 6 hrs of meetings I traveled to the airport to fly home.  I began to work on the flight and spent most of that time on working on pressing items for work.  It did not do well for resting.  I tried, I really did, but at best I had short of two hours.  It was an uneventful flight but I was really tired.  I got home around 11:30 and got to bed around 12:30.  Up for work the next day at 6.  So another short night for me.  Then after a long day at work (but needed since I left again the next day for youth conference) I did stuff at home and we went to bed around 10:30.  Seems great, except I woke up at 2:30 and could not go back to sleep.  I tried and tried but finally got up and worked on some church stuff, then mapped out how to get to youth conference.  I drive for many hours, stayed up until lights out, did my personal study, and at 11:30 went to sleep.  A fitful night due tot he heat and noise next door and back up at 5:30 and another day at youth conference.  By the time we got home it was 10 PM and I was plastered.  Up at 6 for bishopric meeting and I was grateful this week we didn't start at 6.  A great day at church, BYD, and now I am ready to CRASH.

How do you do this????????????

We had a great day at church, sacrament was all about the music of the gospel.  I had a missionary from the ward suggest that it was an important topic and after counseling with the ward council, we used it for sacrament meeting and will have a lesson day on it also.  Thanks Gavin!

Tonight's BYD was answering more of the youth questions and they helped to answer them.  They sure are smarter than I am.  It was an uplifting night of goodness.

Youth conference was wonderful.  We went to Kirtland and toured there plus had other activities.  I really liked the school of the prophets and the spirit there.  I did think of Kieren because the last time I was there, we met Kieren on her school tour and her group.

I love you all, so does He.

Dad

3 John 1:4