A Wonderful Family Memory

There are occasions in life that make time seem to stand still, and Jared's baptism was one of them. We were blessed to have lots of family over for the occasion and we are really going to miss them after they return home.

Jared - A Wonderful Young Man
We should first acknowledge that Jared is a boy with a great understanding of gospel principles and he has been looking forward to his baptism more than most children I have ever known. This was the boy who had memorized Doctrine & Covenants Section 4 when he was nearly 3 yrs old. As his Primary teacher, I have the chance to interact with him on a spiritual level often, and he not only knows the normal answers, but he understands doctrinal concepts of repentance, covenants, and faith.

Jared reaching for the sky

Jared is also our most tender-hearted child. As our brother-in-law, Steven Hall, recently remarked, Jared always is quick to ask you how you are doing and is truly interested in your reply. He is eager for a hug, stores away pieces of his treats for his siblings, and is apt to hold your hand or lean on your shoulder when you sit near him.

Families are Forever

Becky worked with Jared to plan the music and talks for the baptism and he was quite confident of who and what he wanted. He also made sure to contact other priesthood holders in the ward to participate in the circle at his ordination.

Impacted by the Spirit
At the baptism, Becky was playing the piano, Meile was the chorister, and Topher was asked to give a talk about baptism. As I watched my family play, lead, and speak at the baptism, and looked at the sweet boy at my side dressed in his white baptismal clothes, I was almost overcome with emotion. For one moment, I caught a glimpse of the future, my children as grown adults, strong in the gospel, married to fine people with families of their own. As Topher testified to Jared that he would feel clean after his baptism, I saw my sons as powerful missionaries. I saw my daughters as stalwart women, guiding their own children in faith.

My heart swelled with gratitude at these wonderful people and their love for one another. It is hard to explain, but for just one moment, I think I began to feel a portion of the glory that comes to families as they enter into eternity together as a family unit. I also understood the blessings of a righteous posterity as a testimony of Christ is passed from parent to child.

Family Fun

Quilting with Nana

Daina's Hair Salon

Now, back to reality, no one should begin to think that our kids are perfect. In fact, I think they are just now recovering from another "warm disputation." But, when it really comes down to it, they are often very thoughtful to one another, they defend each other passionately, and spend more time playing nicely than the alternative. They are becoming great friends and that friendship will last a lifetime. A lot like other great families I know...