What a month! I interviewed October 3...was offered a position on October 14...traveled to Las Vegas late October with my wife for the CPCU conferment...and went house-hunting in Illinois with my wife this past week. Our closing is set. Our home is being shown tomorrow and we're praying for the best.
Just over a month ago, life was normal. Everyone was in a set routine. Now, it's everything but normal. There has not been a routine in weeks.
And we couldn't be more happy.
My wife and I are quite the house-hunting team. We began by randomly looking online separately. Then we talked about it to narrow our focus. We determined a price range. We determined needs vs. wants. And then we identified about a dozen homes and sent them to our realtor to prepare for the trip.
We each had our #1 home picked out. Karen's (sad to say) was a complete flop as soon as we drove up the driveway. My #1 lasted 36 hours longer...but was off our list by the end of day 2.
The home we chose was one that we walked through the first day. But we didn't know it would be "the one."
We walked through over 30 homes in two days. They blurred together. We narrowed them down to 4 by Saturday night...and down to 2 by the time we went to bed. And then we took a break on Sunday.
Before the trip, I was feeling anxious. And it was more than the typical anxiety one might feel prior to a house-hunting trip. It seemed to me that this would be a big deal. Not sure why...still don't know why. But choosing this particular home was going to be important.
My wife and I had settled on two homes by the time we went to bed Saturday night. They were both "perfect" and we had no idea how we would settle the task before us. It was Fast Sunday (and I was so glad it was). An obvious part of our fast was to pray over the choice of homes.
Sunday morning, we attended the Normal Ward at 9AM (it's the only normal ward in the church). After Sacrament meeting, we decided to drive past the two homes. After we had driven past both, my mom called and told me she and my dad were on their way up for a surprise visit. And it was such a welcomed visit!
We attended the Bloomington Ward at 1PM. The spirit was incredibly strong during the testimonies. One woman in particular...a convert of barely a year and just sealed in the temple to a good friend of mine was prompted to stand up after a moving testimony by another brother. The topic of families and the sealing power of the priesthood was shared. It was moving. And then my friend's daughter bore her sweet and sincere testimony. It was powerful. Everyone was edified and lifted and taught by the Spirit.
This was the ward I wanted to be in. But we weren't going to let the ward boundaries determine the house we chose. Boundaries change. Families move in and out. And that was that.
My wife and I talked about all the pros and cons...to my parents...to her parents...to anyone who would listen. The con of one was the pro of the other and vice versa.
Oh, and the result of our fast - both choices were good. We would be happy in either one. The Lord wasn't going to tell us which one...He wanted us to choose. That was the answer both my wife and I received. Separately and independently. But we both received the same answer.
We drove past both homes again. And that night we were no closer to a decision than we were the day before.
So as we woke up Monday morning, a decision was made and we agreed that we would make an offer on Garlington (that's the name of the street one of the homes was on). It had a "wow" factor and met all of our "needs" category minus a couple of "wants." We would walk through both one more time...but afterwards we would make an offer on Garlington.
After walking through both (and enjoying homemade blueberry muffins at Garlington), we were no closer to a decision than we were when we arrived four days previously. We asked our agent if she would mind if we took a break for lunch so we could discuss our options yet again and then come back to her that afternoon to work up an offer.
Again, the answer both my wife and I received was that either home was good. And that we would have to make the decision.
We went to a local pizza parlor and enjoyed some lunch. We talked. We kept an open mind. And during our conversation it became more and more clear that we should make an offer on the other home...for sound reasons even though our hearts were wanting the other home. And like a flood of knowledge pouring over me, I wanted to cry for joy. It was the right decision. And there was no doubt. It wasn't an easy decision. We worked extremely hard for the solution. But in the end, it was clear that we had just made the right decision. It was as if light had illuminated all the reasons we should choose this house. And all of the things our hearts wanted in the Garlington house began to melt away and became less and less significant.
Doctrine and Covenants 9:7-9 reads:
Behold, you have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.
But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.
But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought...
It was an amazing experience for both of us. There may be no significant reason we chose the house we did other than to have the experience we had in going through the process. But it will stay with me for a long time (and even longer now that I have recorded the experience).
My wife mentioned that this may have been a crossroad for us. And I believe she's right. We could have chosen the other home...and our life may have taken a completely different path. But we chose this home. And the Spirit has confirmed this decision.
The Lord is mindful of us. And I am truly grateful for all that a loving Heavenly Father does for each of his children.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
We All Yearn For More
I believe there is a drive in all of us that yearns for more - we want to do more, see more, feel more, etc. For me, that is yet another evidence of our eternal nature. Our intelligence has always been...and it will always be. What's even better, is that it's not only our intelligence now, but our spiritual and physical bodies that we get to keep for all eternity. What an incredible gift!
During our Gospel Doctrine discussion yesterday, "the next greatest thing" was brought up. You know, the next greatest smart phone or movie or car or invention or innovative idea in the workplace - "the next greatest thing." We're all curious about it. When you break it down, that's what consumes a lot of our conversations. On Mars' Hill we read, "For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing." Acts 17:21
It's an insatiable hunger for humans of all ages to know more than we currently do. And when our energy pushes or pulls us in the wrong direction, we humans fill in the blanks erroneously, as they did on Mars' Hill. For example, if we want to feel more, we may become dramatically emotional (i.e.: watch any reality TV show episode) or we may become subject to physical or emotional addictions. On the other hand, we could learn to feel more by growing closer to the Spirit.
This yearning for more can lead us one direction or another. And there's not always a clear demarcation between the "healthy" more and "self-destructive" more.
I recently changed my habits to be more physically and spiritually fit. And I'm happy that I made those changes. I'm reading the scriptures daily and praying often. I more appropriately view food as fuel for my body and exercise regularly. Spiritually, I feel more confident. Physically, I've lost over 30 pounds. But I still yearn for more. There's something missing and I can't put my finger on it.
I've resigned to the fact that my choice of employment will never really satisfy the hunger that is within. In the eternities, what I do to bring home a paycheck and support my family will be inconsequential. The fact that I am supporting my family, however, will be anything but inconsequential. I'm surprised at how often I find myself thinking how insignificant and meaningless these business conversations are when one considers the eternal nature of our existence. It almost makes me ashamed for not being engaged in more "worthy" conversations.
So how do I scratch this current itch? Do I read more (I read nothing but the scriptures currently)? Do I find a more meaningful job? Do I serve more? Do I learn how to meditate more effectively? I want to do more. But what does that "more" look like? Is it just more of the good things I'm doing and less of the bad? Maybe the "more" I'm looking for is a refining process... (This is me thinking out loud, so I'll excuse myself now.) < grin >
During our Gospel Doctrine discussion yesterday, "the next greatest thing" was brought up. You know, the next greatest smart phone or movie or car or invention or innovative idea in the workplace - "the next greatest thing." We're all curious about it. When you break it down, that's what consumes a lot of our conversations. On Mars' Hill we read, "For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing." Acts 17:21
It's an insatiable hunger for humans of all ages to know more than we currently do. And when our energy pushes or pulls us in the wrong direction, we humans fill in the blanks erroneously, as they did on Mars' Hill. For example, if we want to feel more, we may become dramatically emotional (i.e.: watch any reality TV show episode) or we may become subject to physical or emotional addictions. On the other hand, we could learn to feel more by growing closer to the Spirit.
This yearning for more can lead us one direction or another. And there's not always a clear demarcation between the "healthy" more and "self-destructive" more.
I recently changed my habits to be more physically and spiritually fit. And I'm happy that I made those changes. I'm reading the scriptures daily and praying often. I more appropriately view food as fuel for my body and exercise regularly. Spiritually, I feel more confident. Physically, I've lost over 30 pounds. But I still yearn for more. There's something missing and I can't put my finger on it.
I've resigned to the fact that my choice of employment will never really satisfy the hunger that is within. In the eternities, what I do to bring home a paycheck and support my family will be inconsequential. The fact that I am supporting my family, however, will be anything but inconsequential. I'm surprised at how often I find myself thinking how insignificant and meaningless these business conversations are when one considers the eternal nature of our existence. It almost makes me ashamed for not being engaged in more "worthy" conversations.
So how do I scratch this current itch? Do I read more (I read nothing but the scriptures currently)? Do I find a more meaningful job? Do I serve more? Do I learn how to meditate more effectively? I want to do more. But what does that "more" look like? Is it just more of the good things I'm doing and less of the bad? Maybe the "more" I'm looking for is a refining process... (This is me thinking out loud, so I'll excuse myself now.) < grin >
Saturday, June 18, 2011
10 Miles Around the Lake
We live in a community with a 350-acre lake. And we live on the main road that circles around the lake. If you pull out of our driveway and remain on the same road, you will eventually circle back to our home - 10 miles later (follow the blue line).
I felt light-headed, knew I would faint at any moment, and was queasy. I circled around the interior of our home several times, ate an apple and a cheese stick, and drank some Gatorade and lots of water. I stretched and did some jumping jacks and felt really good within 30 minutes. But why people do this for "fun" I'll never know. I had a goal...reached the goal...and will move on.
4-6 miles a day is perfect for me. It's an ideal workout for me and I enjoy that distance.
But, I did learn something doing the 10 miles this morning. What happened to me afterwards caused me to reflect on my spiritual health the past few years.
For years, I have served and given without replenishing my own oil. That was especially evident while I was serving in the bishopric. I read the scriptures because I was preparing a talk, or a lesson, or a spiritual thought. But I didn't study them for myself. I prayed all the time (quite literally)...but it wasn't until recently that I began having regular personal prayers again. It was as if I was using all of my reserves...draining my spiritual strength and never restoring what I was happy to provide for others.
When I got back from the 10-mile expedition, I did more stretching than I had done before I left. I consumed a ton of carbs and a little protein because I knew my body needed that to restore its strength.
My spiritual life over the past several years could be compared to me jogging 10 miles without doing the stretching afterwards and not eating what my physical body so desperately needed when I returned. The Gatorade I drank during my jog could be compared to the blessings received when providing service to others. Those blessings sustained me and kept me going to finish the assignment. But those blessings don't replenish the "nutrients" expended over time.
Daily personal scripture study, multiple personal daily prayers, and renewing our covenants at church and at the temple are the "nutrients" and "stretching" our spirits need on a regular basis. But it's so easy to neglect the scriptures and prayer...for me, at least.
Before serving in any capacity, we certainly need to "stretch" adequately to perform the task. That stretching may be physical preparation, prayerful preparation, studying multiple scripture references and various manuals, etc. But I believe the "stretching" we do afterward is more important. We cannot continuously and effectively serve others without nourishing our own spirits. We may for a season. But it's not possible long-term.
The continuous "stretching" afterwards replenishes our spirits and conditions us to do even more for the Lord in the future. Part of my resolution to a more healthy lifestyle is to ensure that the oil in my lamp is always full.
After completing a huge milestone in my professional career 6 weeks ago, I made the resolution to create a more healthy lifestyle for me. That meant altering my diet (which I have actually thoroughly enjoyed) and being more active. One of my goals was to walk/jog the 10 miles around the lake on July 4. I've been doing 4-6 miles the past few weeks. The beauty of going 3 miles one way is that you have to go another 3 miles to get back home. It would be too easy for me to quit if I were on a treadmill.
This Saturday I was going to do increase my distance to 8 miles. But in my mind, if I'm already going 4 miles one way...and the half-way point is 5 miles...why not just keep going straight rather than turn around? (Plus, the hills during the first 2 miles are KILLER and I really didn't want to do them again.)
So I put this on (which was absolutely perfect, by the way):
And I placed my MP3 player in the pocket as well as my cell phone (to track my time...and also call Karen if I couldn't pull it off) and set off at 7AM this morning.
Two hours and 13 minutes later I staggered up the driveway. It was crazy...SO not fun...and I don't think I'll ever do it again! Now, I did enjoy the scenery. I did enjoy the feeling of accomplishing a difficult task. But long distance is just not for me.
Two hours and 13 minutes later I staggered up the driveway. It was crazy...SO not fun...and I don't think I'll ever do it again! Now, I did enjoy the scenery. I did enjoy the feeling of accomplishing a difficult task. But long distance is just not for me.
4-6 miles a day is perfect for me. It's an ideal workout for me and I enjoy that distance.
But, I did learn something doing the 10 miles this morning. What happened to me afterwards caused me to reflect on my spiritual health the past few years.
For years, I have served and given without replenishing my own oil. That was especially evident while I was serving in the bishopric. I read the scriptures because I was preparing a talk, or a lesson, or a spiritual thought. But I didn't study them for myself. I prayed all the time (quite literally)...but it wasn't until recently that I began having regular personal prayers again. It was as if I was using all of my reserves...draining my spiritual strength and never restoring what I was happy to provide for others.
When I got back from the 10-mile expedition, I did more stretching than I had done before I left. I consumed a ton of carbs and a little protein because I knew my body needed that to restore its strength.
My spiritual life over the past several years could be compared to me jogging 10 miles without doing the stretching afterwards and not eating what my physical body so desperately needed when I returned. The Gatorade I drank during my jog could be compared to the blessings received when providing service to others. Those blessings sustained me and kept me going to finish the assignment. But those blessings don't replenish the "nutrients" expended over time.
Daily personal scripture study, multiple personal daily prayers, and renewing our covenants at church and at the temple are the "nutrients" and "stretching" our spirits need on a regular basis. But it's so easy to neglect the scriptures and prayer...for me, at least.
Before serving in any capacity, we certainly need to "stretch" adequately to perform the task. That stretching may be physical preparation, prayerful preparation, studying multiple scripture references and various manuals, etc. But I believe the "stretching" we do afterward is more important. We cannot continuously and effectively serve others without nourishing our own spirits. We may for a season. But it's not possible long-term.
The continuous "stretching" afterwards replenishes our spirits and conditions us to do even more for the Lord in the future. Part of my resolution to a more healthy lifestyle is to ensure that the oil in my lamp is always full.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Is It Greater to Give or Receive?
Those who know me well know how prideful I can be. And if you think it's bad, you have no idea how bad it gets in my head. :) At least I have the self-awareness to admit it. And I know it's something I need to continually work on.
I'm a perfectionist, too. And that can get in the way of being led by the Spirit. It can get in the way of repenting. It can get in the way of understanding a lot about the Gospel. But the perfectionist in me also deep-dives into an idea and concept until I more fully understand it. That's what prompted this posting.
Following the Last Supper of the Savior with the Twelve, we read in John 13 that Jesus "riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded."
"Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith unto him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean..."
The Savior goes on to teach the importance of service. And during our Sunday school lesson today, the teacher asked me to comment on a section of scriptures we had read. The perfectionist in me did not like my poorly constructed response. That's one reason I'm grateful for blogs. I rarely think quickly on my feet. So this is what I wanted to say:
Serving others is a commandment. Serve as we have seen Christ serve. Love as we have seen the Savior love. Take care of the needy. Visit the sick. Pray for those who hate you. The list goes on and on. Serving others requires a certain level of humility. Ironically, the selfish part of me enjoys giving service. It feels good. I hope it washes away a few of my many sins. Regardless of what the desired outcome may be, giving service is a commandment.
Receiving service, although not a commandment, is equally critical for our eternal salvation. It can't be a commandment because that would deny our agency. God can't say, "Accept me as your God." He can't say, "Be grateful for everything I have done for you." He can't say, "You must let me do this for you." Receiving service may require even more humility than giving service. Because it's something for which we cannot do for ourselves. And we have to accept that. And not let our pride get in the way.
The King of Kings washed the feet of the Twelve - those who were closest to him in this mortal life...even though he knew one of them would soon betray him. It was an act of deepest humility. And it represented the Atonement which He would soon complete.
The Atonement is an act for which we cannot do ourselves. And it is complete and sufficient. Our greatest challenge is to accept that Atonement...to receive it. We cannot set the conditions; we cannot alter the gift. And in order to do that, we must humble ourselves. With more humility than I have ever imagined. And a level of humility I have yet to achieve.
Perhaps that is why giving service is so important...it's a stepping stone to receiving service.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Hurricane Season Likened Unto the Second Coming
It really is true: All things testify of Christ...even insurance.
The concept of property insurance has been around for thousands of years dating back to the Babylonians and Chinese. Health and life insurance concepts began with the Greeks and Romans. I work for a Fortune 500 insurance company (#34...but who's counting). I recently completed my professional underwriting designation. I eat, breath, and bleed insurance for a good portion of my life each day. And yet, sometimes, I question the need/value of insurance. I fully understand the economic and social values of insurance. I understand its history and purpose. But life insurance for a child? Or laws mandating the purchase of insurance (not just the new health care reform...but auto as well)? Sometimes I question the moral aspects of insurance. (But I'm getting off topic.)
Underwriting departments do their best to avoid adverse selection. The premise is that those who need insurance most are the ones with the greatest demand. Because of this, insurers do their best to provide the lowest risk customers with the best premium and the highest risk customers with a higher premium. If your book deteriorates and you begin charging clean drivers, for example, with higher premiums, they'll leave. To remain solvent in that scenario, actuaries may increase premiums...causing the remaining best customers to leave. It can easily become a death spiral resulting in the worst case scenario that a company is left with the highest risk customers but is unable to charge a high enough premium for the risk. I'll tie this concept into my analogy in a little bit.
Personal insurance may seem like a burden. You may never need it. Despite the peace of mind insurance provides, it could be perceived as a financial loss if you never experience a significant claim (which most of us don't).
But if you work in a claims department, you clearly see the value of insurance each and every day. You follow through on the promise made when the policy was written. You help people recover and get back on their feet. You indemnify them (return them to the condition they were in prior to the loss).
Hurricane season officially began June 1st. If you live on the coast, home insurance is expensive. So expensive that some people choose not to purchase it (if there is no mortgage on the property). Flood insurance is even more expensive. And few people buy it. Then, when a hurricane hits, the non-insured and under-insured find a "good" lawyer (and premiums go up for everyone...again, getting off topic).
As we do the beginning of every June, our Company sent out a memo to all associates and agents regarding binding authority restrictions during hurricane season. If a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning is announced, new home insurance cannot be written, deductibles cannot change, coverage cannot be added. Once a watch or warning is issued, insurance can no longer be purchased. The time to prepare is over.
As with most analogies, not all details/comparisons apply. But here are a few for consideration:
1) Like purchasing insurance, preparation for the Second Coming may seem like a burden.
2) Unlike insurance, you WILL eventually need that preparation.
3) In contrast to insurer's goals to avoid adverse selection, the Savior welcomes adverse selection and provides us all an equal "price."
4) There is a 100% chance of a "claim" to be filed.
5) There will never be a "financial loss" for time spent practicing the Gospel and preparing ourselves and our families.
6) The "watch" and "warning" has already been announced, however...
7) Until the Second Coming actually occurs, there is still time to practice and prepare.
8) But there will come a point when our preparatory state is over. And we will account for how we have spent our time and our talents.
9) When that "hurricane" reaches shore, our homes and our lives must be secured and on firm foundation.
10) I'm glad I have Jesus as my "claims adjuster." Because even with the best preparation, my home (aka family) and my life will need more ___ (fill in the blank) than I am able to do on my own. And He will do much more than simply indemnify us.
Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. (Matthew 25:1-10)
Be prepared this hurricane season.
The concept of property insurance has been around for thousands of years dating back to the Babylonians and Chinese. Health and life insurance concepts began with the Greeks and Romans. I work for a Fortune 500 insurance company (#34...but who's counting). I recently completed my professional underwriting designation. I eat, breath, and bleed insurance for a good portion of my life each day. And yet, sometimes, I question the need/value of insurance. I fully understand the economic and social values of insurance. I understand its history and purpose. But life insurance for a child? Or laws mandating the purchase of insurance (not just the new health care reform...but auto as well)? Sometimes I question the moral aspects of insurance. (But I'm getting off topic.)
Underwriting departments do their best to avoid adverse selection. The premise is that those who need insurance most are the ones with the greatest demand. Because of this, insurers do their best to provide the lowest risk customers with the best premium and the highest risk customers with a higher premium. If your book deteriorates and you begin charging clean drivers, for example, with higher premiums, they'll leave. To remain solvent in that scenario, actuaries may increase premiums...causing the remaining best customers to leave. It can easily become a death spiral resulting in the worst case scenario that a company is left with the highest risk customers but is unable to charge a high enough premium for the risk. I'll tie this concept into my analogy in a little bit.
Personal insurance may seem like a burden. You may never need it. Despite the peace of mind insurance provides, it could be perceived as a financial loss if you never experience a significant claim (which most of us don't).
But if you work in a claims department, you clearly see the value of insurance each and every day. You follow through on the promise made when the policy was written. You help people recover and get back on their feet. You indemnify them (return them to the condition they were in prior to the loss).
Hurricane season officially began June 1st. If you live on the coast, home insurance is expensive. So expensive that some people choose not to purchase it (if there is no mortgage on the property). Flood insurance is even more expensive. And few people buy it. Then, when a hurricane hits, the non-insured and under-insured find a "good" lawyer (and premiums go up for everyone...again, getting off topic).
As we do the beginning of every June, our Company sent out a memo to all associates and agents regarding binding authority restrictions during hurricane season. If a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning is announced, new home insurance cannot be written, deductibles cannot change, coverage cannot be added. Once a watch or warning is issued, insurance can no longer be purchased. The time to prepare is over.
As with most analogies, not all details/comparisons apply. But here are a few for consideration:
1) Like purchasing insurance, preparation for the Second Coming may seem like a burden.
2) Unlike insurance, you WILL eventually need that preparation.
3) In contrast to insurer's goals to avoid adverse selection, the Savior welcomes adverse selection and provides us all an equal "price."
4) There is a 100% chance of a "claim" to be filed.
5) There will never be a "financial loss" for time spent practicing the Gospel and preparing ourselves and our families.
6) The "watch" and "warning" has already been announced, however...
7) Until the Second Coming actually occurs, there is still time to practice and prepare.
8) But there will come a point when our preparatory state is over. And we will account for how we have spent our time and our talents.
9) When that "hurricane" reaches shore, our homes and our lives must be secured and on firm foundation.
10) I'm glad I have Jesus as my "claims adjuster." Because even with the best preparation, my home (aka family) and my life will need more ___ (fill in the blank) than I am able to do on my own. And He will do much more than simply indemnify us.
Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. (Matthew 25:1-10)
Be prepared this hurricane season.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Bad Things Happen...
It's an age-old question: Why do bad things happen to good people?
I love how easy that question is to answer when one becomes familiar with The Book of Mormon. That question is answered in so many different ways. And I have felt impressed to emphasize the various reasons to my children as often as the scriptures allow.
Our family is reading in the book of Alma currently. And our 10-year old son made a profound point the other morning. His heart and mind were enlightened as he commented that bad things happen to good people, at times, because God wants more of his children to come back to Him.
It was an inspired observation. Let me provide a little context.
There was a group of people (the Lamanites), deceived and hardened by the wicked traditions of their fathers, that had an unfounded and blinded hatred for another group (the Nephites). Through love and service, a portion of the Lamanites came to the knowledge of God and His plan for His children. They repented of their sins and were converted to the Lord. And the scriptures teach us that "they buried their weapons of war, for peace."
That portion of the Lamanites (which included the king) changed their ways, changed their hearts, and even changed their names. The remaining Lamanites wanted nothing to do with this new life and did not want the king to remain in leadership. So they came out in open rebellion and civil war. And this is what we learn:
Now when the people saw that they were coming against them they went out to meet them, and prostrated themselves before them to the earth, and began to call upon the name of the Lord; and thus they were in this attitude when the Lamanites began to fall upon them, and began to slay them with the sword. And thus without meeting any resistance, they did slay a thousand and five of them; and we know that they are blessed, for they have gone to dwell with their God. Now when the Lamanites saw that their brethren would not flee from the sword, neither would they turn aside to the right or to the left, but that they would lie down and perish, and praised God even in the very act of perishing by the sword -- Now when the Lamanites saw this they did forbear from slaying them; and there were many whose hearts had swollen in them for those of their brethren who had fallen under the sword, for they repented of the things which they had done.
And it came to pass that they threw down their weapons of war, and they would not take them again, for they were stung for the murders which they had committed; and they came down even as their brethren, relying upon the mercies of those whose arms were lifted to slay them. And it came to pass that the people of God were joined that day by more than the number who had been slain; and those who had been slain were righteous people, therefore we have no reason to doubt but what they were saved. And there was not a wicked man slain among them; but there were more than a thousand brought to the knowledge of the truth; thus we see that the Lord worketh in many ways to the salvation of his people. (Alma 24:21-27)
It's true. Sometimes, bad things happen to good people because God loves all his children...and wants as many as possible to come back to Him.
I love how easy that question is to answer when one becomes familiar with The Book of Mormon. That question is answered in so many different ways. And I have felt impressed to emphasize the various reasons to my children as often as the scriptures allow.
Our family is reading in the book of Alma currently. And our 10-year old son made a profound point the other morning. His heart and mind were enlightened as he commented that bad things happen to good people, at times, because God wants more of his children to come back to Him.
It was an inspired observation. Let me provide a little context.
There was a group of people (the Lamanites), deceived and hardened by the wicked traditions of their fathers, that had an unfounded and blinded hatred for another group (the Nephites). Through love and service, a portion of the Lamanites came to the knowledge of God and His plan for His children. They repented of their sins and were converted to the Lord. And the scriptures teach us that "they buried their weapons of war, for peace."
That portion of the Lamanites (which included the king) changed their ways, changed their hearts, and even changed their names. The remaining Lamanites wanted nothing to do with this new life and did not want the king to remain in leadership. So they came out in open rebellion and civil war. And this is what we learn:
Now when the people saw that they were coming against them they went out to meet them, and prostrated themselves before them to the earth, and began to call upon the name of the Lord; and thus they were in this attitude when the Lamanites began to fall upon them, and began to slay them with the sword. And thus without meeting any resistance, they did slay a thousand and five of them; and we know that they are blessed, for they have gone to dwell with their God. Now when the Lamanites saw that their brethren would not flee from the sword, neither would they turn aside to the right or to the left, but that they would lie down and perish, and praised God even in the very act of perishing by the sword -- Now when the Lamanites saw this they did forbear from slaying them; and there were many whose hearts had swollen in them for those of their brethren who had fallen under the sword, for they repented of the things which they had done.
And it came to pass that they threw down their weapons of war, and they would not take them again, for they were stung for the murders which they had committed; and they came down even as their brethren, relying upon the mercies of those whose arms were lifted to slay them. And it came to pass that the people of God were joined that day by more than the number who had been slain; and those who had been slain were righteous people, therefore we have no reason to doubt but what they were saved. And there was not a wicked man slain among them; but there were more than a thousand brought to the knowledge of the truth; thus we see that the Lord worketh in many ways to the salvation of his people. (Alma 24:21-27)
It's true. Sometimes, bad things happen to good people because God loves all his children...and wants as many as possible to come back to Him.
Monday, May 9, 2011
My Top 10 List
A brief interruption to the political, philosophical, and religious commentary that usually makes its way to this blog.
I completed my Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation last week. It was about 3 years in the making. Every ounce of free time that I've had over the past 3 years has been devoted to studying and stressing over the next exam. But it's done and I have earned back a significant amount of time.
With this new-found freedom, I have recommitted to personal growth and health. And I created a "Top 10 List" of sorts regarding my renewed healthy lifestyle. Here it is (in order):
1) Pray regularly and read scriptures (meditate/reduce stress).
2) Walk/jog 6 days a week for 30-60 minutes (no formal exercise on Sunday).
3) Smile - be happy!
4) Drink lots of water.
5) Eat less but eat 5 times a day - always a protein and a carb.
6) Minimal sugar and no greasy foods for 6 days each week (generally, Saturday will be my "day off").
7) Try yoga?!?
8) Two walks around the office and park as far away as possible.
9) When in doubt, eat salmon and salad!
10) Fiber, sunlight, and vitamin C.
There you have it. This list is not quite as thought-provoking as Benjamin Franklin's 13 virtues...but it will help me focus on a more healthy lifestyle. Consider it yet, another perspective.
I completed my Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation last week. It was about 3 years in the making. Every ounce of free time that I've had over the past 3 years has been devoted to studying and stressing over the next exam. But it's done and I have earned back a significant amount of time.
With this new-found freedom, I have recommitted to personal growth and health. And I created a "Top 10 List" of sorts regarding my renewed healthy lifestyle. Here it is (in order):
1) Pray regularly and read scriptures (meditate/reduce stress).
2) Walk/jog 6 days a week for 30-60 minutes (no formal exercise on Sunday).
3) Smile - be happy!
4) Drink lots of water.
5) Eat less but eat 5 times a day - always a protein and a carb.
6) Minimal sugar and no greasy foods for 6 days each week (generally, Saturday will be my "day off").
7) Try yoga?!?
8) Two walks around the office and park as far away as possible.
9) When in doubt, eat salmon and salad!
10) Fiber, sunlight, and vitamin C.
There you have it. This list is not quite as thought-provoking as Benjamin Franklin's 13 virtues...but it will help me focus on a more healthy lifestyle. Consider it yet, another perspective.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
The Vulnerability of Youth
I've been meaning to blog...really I have. Since Christmas, all of my free time has been spent studying for various professional exams. I have one left out of the eight required to earn my Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation. The exam is scheduled for May 5...but I decided to take a few minutes to blog.
Since Christmas, all of the topics I've wanted to blog about have been centered around political events. I wanted to publicly promote my support for Governor Scott Walker. I wanted to share some insight regarding refinancing our mortgage (from our conversation with the lender, it was clear that Obama promotes death, disability, and divorce). We give too much charitable contributions to refinance under his plan without experiencing one of those 3 "D" words.
There have been so many other topics as well. Our involvement with Libya and the budget debate...yep, I wanted to talk about those, too. But I'm finally taking time to share my thoughts on another political topic. I want to briefly discuss President Obama's recent 2012 campaign speech via facebook. I want to start by sharing a few scriptures that came to mind:
O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise... (2 Nephi 9:28) I'm not saying Obama is the devil. But I am saying Obama is employing those same tactics that Satan uses. I have an example to illustrate:
I was recently reading in the Book of Mormon when Alma and Amulek were preaching to the people of Ammonihah. There was a lawyer who came forward and questioned Amulek's testimony. "Now Zeezrom was a man who was expert in the devices of the devil, that he might destroy that which was good." Zeezrom asked several questions of Amulek. In reference to the Son of God, Zeezrom asked, "Shall he save his people in their sins?" Amulek responded no because for the Savior to save us in our sins would deny the truth that no unclean thing can stand in the presence of God. But the Savior will save us from our sins if we choose him over the world and repent.
Then Zeezrom turned to the people and said, "See that ye remember these things; for he said there is but one God; yet he saith that the Son of God shall come, but he shall not save his people - as though he had authority to command God."
Zeezrom was deceitful and ommited a key phrase in his response to the people. Amulek never said that Christ would not save his people...he said Christ would not save his people in their sins.
O that cunning plan of the evil one!
Now read what President Obama said regarding Conservatives:
"Their basic view is that no matter how successful I am, no matter how much I've taken from this country... I wasn't born wealthy. I was raised by a single mom and my grandparents. I went to college on scholarships. There was a time when my mom was trying to get her Ph.D. where, for a short time, she had to take food stamps. My grandparents relied on Medicare and Social Security to supplement their income when they got older. Their notion is: Despite the fact that I've benefited from all these investments, somehow I now have no obligation to people who are less fortunate than me."
His statement is completely illogical and deceitful. It is full of anger and resentment. It begins with an unfounded premise, adds a little truth, and then distorts the truth by adding key words. And finally ends with a lie.
Rather than show appreciation for the blessings he was given to achieve his current status in this mortal life, he's ungrateful and even angry that he wasn't born wealthy. His mom had to take food stamps. He never mentioned that in either of his two autobiographies. And he was attending an expensive prep school at the time his mom would have been on food stamps. His grandparents relied on Medicare and Social Security. Never mind that his grandparents were wealthy beyond their means. His grandmother was a VP of a bank and his dad was an executive of an oil company.
If so many of the rich want to pay more in taxes (according to Obama all we had to do was ask), then why aren't the liberals paying their legal obligations NOW? Like Senator Kerry who legally docked his yacht in a different state to avoid higher property taxes...or the President himself who paid only 27% in taxes as opposed to his legal obligation of 35% because his accountants found loopholes.
At the 16-minute mark of the town hall, he actually said that increasing our tax rates would help reduce government spending. What?
Instead of helping Americans look for a brighter day when they can pull themselves out of unemployment and not rely on the government, the President of the United States is applauding welfare as the path to success. He's destroying the concept of work.
He's demonizing his own citizens. He's taking away private sector jobs (i.e.: allows Brazil to drill in the Gulf but still has a moratorium for his own country) and increasing the public work force...which is essentially buying more votes. He's doing his best to make a case for welfare and dependency - not the freedom, liberty and independence that made this country what it is.
And to whom is President Obama speaking?
The youth - the college aged facebook generation. Those who are still "taking" and don't value the freedoms of being an adult because they haven't experienced it yet. Who else appealed to the youth of their generation? Hitler comes to mind first. And I'm not comparing our President to Hitler. I'm comparing his approach and philosophy to that of Hitler, Chavez, Fidel Castro, Mao, and all communist leaders in modern history.
I've often wondered how Lucifer convinced one third of Heavenly Father's children to rebel and deny themselves eternal blessings? This speech that Obama gave on facebook made me consider something I never had before. I imagine that Lucifer addressed the younger spirits of Heavenly Father - those who lacked experience. As well as those prideful, angry, self-centered spirits who were learned and thought that was synonymous with being wise. Youth have an excuse...adults do not.
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