Husband and Father

Husband and Father
July 15, 1958 ~ August 25, 2008

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Brandon's Homecoming

Brandon returned home from his mission to Poland on Friday night. His mom, Jen, is Steve's sister. Today was Brandon's Homecoming. He gave a great talk. He has grown so much in the gospel. He has such a genuine love for the Polish people. He learned to love people unconditionally no matter what their circumstances were. He learned acceptance and tolerance. Church in Poland consisted of about 8 people. I can't imagine the things that we take for granted. Brandon got great experience speaking in church, teaching in church, and performing other duties. He told many stories of his love for the gospel, teaching the gospel, and of course the difficulties in seeking out those ready for the gospel. It seemed like the most memorable experiences he had and his greatest growth came when he was serving in the most difficult places. It's wonderful to see boys go on mission and come back as young men.

Its amazing howmuch life changes in two years. I remember Brandon's Farewell, Steve and I and all the kids went. No one would have thought that Steve wouldn't be attending Brandon's Homecoming.

It was difficult to sit in church with all my kids surrounded by Steve' s sibling's, parents, and extended family. You could feel something missing, you could sense the sadness. I wish Steve could have physically been there with us. I am sure he is watching and is so proud of Brandon. Brandon has such a fun sense of humor like Steve. I think that is one of the many reasons that Steve loved him so much. It has taught me not to take things for granted in life.

I loved President Monson's address in this past conference. He said the following, ..."Throughout our lives, we must deal with change. Some changes are welcome; some are not. There are changes in our lives which are sudden, such as the unexpected passing of a loved one, an unforeseen illness, the loss of a possession we treasure. But most of the changes take place subtly and slowly....

...."Day by day, minute by minute, second by second we went from where we were to where we are now. The lives of all of us, of course, go through similar alterations and changes. The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in yours is only in the details. Time never stands still; it must steadily march on, and with the marching come the changes.
This is our one and only chance at mortal life—here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey—now..."
"You pile up enough tomorrows, and you’ll find you’ve collected a lot of empty yesterdays.”1

It is difficult when life is altered and unwanted changes come. I guess I need to learn to sojourn through life finding the joy in the new path my life has taken. It's hard to want to journey down this sad, unfamiliar, uncomfortable path. A path that I am not familiar with, and not one I'd choose. I miss Steve every day. I love the remarkable memories we have of him. I need to learn to enjoy the simple things in life, and teach my children to remember what is important in life and to enjoy the new journey.

4 comments:

Becky said...

I was reading all the posts--you are a party girl! Going from one adventure to the next. I know Steve would have been proud of the Rebels. I wonder if he hangs around the games as much as he hangs around anywhere else. I know you will find happiness on your new path someday. Thanks for being a great example to me.

Jodi said...

Another lesson learned! Thank you! I always appreciate your amazing insights to life. I also loved this talk from Pres. Monson. Definitely one to read often. I am always so amazed and proud of your ability to see the eternal perspective. I know that is what is helping you get through this all. I love you. Thanks for reminding us all what is really important.

Jen Brown said...

I was missing Steve also on Sunday. I kept thinking about him during Brandon's talk. I could see how much a mission had helped Brandon grow and I was thinking how important Steve though missions were. Thanks for you support, I can't imagine how hard it is for you. You are very inspiring.

Marianne Peck said...

I loved spending time reading through your whole blog. I feel like I've caught up a little on your busy, fun life. I loved the talk by President Monson also. Life does happen and trial and I guess, how we come out of them and learn from them is what we are made from! Love you tons!