Apology

Tonight was Stake General Priesthood Meeting. I previously shared how I was asked to give the opening prayer at the Priesthood Leadership meeting in Stake Conference. Yes, that is the one that I was on time for and couldn't figure out where everyone was. I thought for certain that I had the time wrong but it turned out I had the location wrong. Well, I wanted to apologies to President Schmutz for not fulfilling the assignment but I have not seen him or been in a position to talk to him since that time. I waited after the meeting tonight in order to meet with him quickly. I know it was a silly thing and people miss little assignments here or there but it was important to me. I thanked him for the opportunity and he assured me that all was well and they would be sure to call me again in the future. I don't know how to describe how I felt other then to say that I knew that President Schmutz cared about me and I felt his love. It was a simple and quick exchange that was filled with nonverbal communication.

I have had occasion to visit with Stake Presidents in the past. I will forever treasure the time I served with President Sweeney. He had a tremendous amount of love for the members of the Stake. I had some very significant moments with him driving to assignments or visiting in his office or at his home. He helped me through some very difficult and challenging times in my life and I knew that in him I had a friend. Many members of the Lakeland Stake were likewise touched by his great love and his service.

When I got in the car after the meeting tonight I was a little choked up as I thought about some of these great leaders in the Church. Stake Presidents, Bishops, Quorum Presidents - these are special men and I appreciate them. I appreciate the time that they give in the service of the Lord. I appreciate the time they take to minister to their respective flocks. I would add to this list my appreciation for good Home Teachers. My home teachers at the moments have been the most consistent in my adult life and I am grateful for their love and concern for our family. Mike Leavitt and Glen Adams are good men.

I want to live my life in such a way that others feel better for knowing me. I certainly do my best to make others feel better about themselves in playing card games, golf and most definitely basketball. I only mention this quickly because we played Hearts at the folks tonight and I was terrible and lost big time. I actually lose on purpose so that others can feel better about themselves. I am only kidding of course. Anyway, grateful myself for good people and positive influences in my life.