A true disciple

My mom and dad have five sons and three daughters. They have always taught us to love and serve other people, to have integrity, to work hard, and to make God and Jesus Christ our top priority. I have watched them live these ideals my whole life. Sometimes their choices or priorities were not popular, but my parents have always been "steadfast and immovable"--they know what is most important--the ultimate goal of this mortal experience--to live with God again, together as a family. That example is a great blessing to me.

My dad left his career behind for "the greater good"--he was called by the Lord to preside over 200+ missionaries in the Chile Santiago North Mission. He was there for three years, teaching and loving people so that his fellow man could come to know the Savior. He was in heaven, and when our family's time in Chile came to an end, we were all sad. Ten years later, he was called to Chile once again, this time to preside over the Missionary Training Center. I will never forget his exuberance as he was leaving. Squeak asked why he was going on the airplane and he said with excitement, "I'm going on a mission!" He is in heaven once again. My parents spend from sunup to sundown training new missionaries about life and the gospel. They have a half-day off every three weeks--just enough time for a long nap to catch up on lost sleep. No holidays, no vacations--the work must go on. This is true commitment.

Next week my family will gather to attend my brother's marriage. My dad can't come--the President cannot leave his mission. My heart aches to think of him missing this happy event--it won't be the first time either. He missed my other brother's wedding during his first time as President. My dad is a true disciple of Jesus Christ--he has put aside his personal desires to show the Lord his commitment. We will miss you, Dad! Thank you for showing all of us how to follow Christ.

My dad with baby Squeak 2006