Repentance

We got talking about repentance today in response to President Monson's call to those who have strayed away from the Church. I testified that it comes to all. Most importantly, forgiving those who have wronged us is more important. Not forgiving leaves us with a cancer within us that eats away at the soul. I remember when trying to come to terms with my divorce that seeking forgiveness for myself and for Sheila was an ordeal that lasted several days. I spent time on my knees racked in torment for my part in destroying our marriage. Part of this was anger at her for failing to forgive and part was anger at myself for my personal shortcomings, but the end result was the same. A spiritual pain that tormented me to the point of not being able to function at all. I cried, I hurt, and I prayed to my Savior, Jesus Christ, until he whispered to me that my sins were forgiven. In a heartbeat I went from pure pain to exquisit Joy. It is truly an indescrible feeling that has to be experienced. Now everytime I read about Alma's struggle in the Book of Mormon, I understand. The ultimate Sacrifice Jesus Christ gave for us is real and if we will but turn to him, he can lift our burden. I pray that all may come to know this pleasure. Those of us who have experienced this change of heart understand. For the rest, I hope you never need to repent, but if you do, I testify that Jesus Christ is your Savior also and he stands ready to forgive you when you turn to him and lay your sins at his feet. Though you sins be black as coal, you garments can be made white through the blood of he who was crucified for us all.

President Monson

Today during Priesthood meeting, we discussed the recent succession of President Hinkley with President Monson. It was wonderful to discuss how this great man was prepared for the mantle of leadership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was a Bishop at 22 and a General Authority for 46 years until the mantle of President was placed on his head. What better preparation by the Lord could a man have. Add to that the orderly manner in which the succession happened and how could one doubt the Divine hand in guiding his life. The Spirit truly testifies that Jesus is the head of his Church and leads his Prophet to fulfill his will.

Going to the Temple

I went to the Temple this week. I love the feeling of peace I get when I go. Often I leave right after, but this week I waited a few minutes because I had noticed an old friend of mine in the session. Waiting in the Celestial room was so peacefull. I remember when I was single that it was the single most important part of my week. I am glad I had the time to go. We are often to busy in our lives so the Temple puts it into perspective.

Antelope Island

My bike ride at Antelope Island was good, but I did feel a bit lonely. James did not go because his allergies made him to tired to get in shape.
For my part, the first part of the ride was easy. 11.3 miles in 52 minutes. For an old man that is OK. For me it was fun. The ride back took 1hour and 15 minutes because it was into a 10 to 15 mph headwind. Add that to the hill toward the end and it was a bit tiring. I was able to make the entire distance. I did have fun. That's what its all about.

New to blogging

This may drive me nuts, but I will give it a try. I am off for the summer and bored to tears. This is the second summer in my 25 year teaching career that I have had little to do. Teachers do not get summers off until later in their careers unless they have money coming from somewhere else. I would rather keep working. I have been making a shelf and a magizine rack in my spare time. I also play x-box with my son when he is not working. Friday I will take the Twilight ride at Antelope Island. My son was going to go, but he is working so much he did not have time to get in shape so I will go by myself. Well a couple thousand others will be there too.