Latter-Day Point Of View

Jesus has Resigned...

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:01:00 -0600

So, tonight during scripture reading, my daughter was reading away. We were in 1 Nephi 22:26 which reads-

26 And because of the ^arighteousness of his people, ^bSatan has no power; wherefore, he cannot be loosed for the space of ^cmanyyears; for he hath no power over the hearts of the people, for they dwell in righteousness, and the Holy One of Israel ^dreigneth.

As she ended the verse she said, "...and the Holy One of Israel resigneth."

We all stopped and thought about that for a minute. We laughed, but the thought crossed my mind, "What WOULD happen if the Lord just resigned?"

It wasn't a pleasant picture. I sometimes think that with all the struggles I have and do face that sometimes the Lord maybe WANTS to resign, but I am ever grateful for a Savior who is willing to stick with me despite my failures, struggles, and outright sinning.

So, I guess the next time you feel like giving up, remember that our Savior has experienced anything and everything that WE might encounter and he understands. I don't think there will be any resignations anytime soon, either from the Lord...
Or, from me.

Parables and Their Meaning

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 14 Oct 2012 23:45:00 -0600

Today was a great day. As I was sitting in Gospel Doctrine class, I found myself rereading the scripture that was shared over and over. The teacher had everyone turn to Luke 15:4-7. It reads:

4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine ^ain the wilderness, and go after that which is ^blost, until he find it?

5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

7 I say unto you, that likewise ^ajoy shall be in heaven over one^bsinner that ^crepenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

The discussion continued as everyone shared that they thought about various parts of the parable.

However, I kept reading down the page. This is what comes next:

8 ¶Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one^apiece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?

9 And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and herneighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

It hit me like a ton of bricks. The Lord wasn't only talking to the brethren of the church. He was talking to the sisters as well. And, I couldn't help but wonder if these two parables have a deeper meaning.
I wonder if the parable about the shepherd, was in reference to those around us, those that we can reach out to to help- friends, neighbors, strangers...

And I wonder just a little bit, if the second part of that parable was meant to help mothers see just how important their role really IS at home. I pondered about the idea that this second part is about seeking out FAMILY members, those in our home (or who WERE in our home) and helping them return to the fold.

I guess in some ways the ideas overlap, and in some ways they don't. Even if this isn't what the Lord meant, I think it raises a great point- one worth thinking about.

Relying Upon the Lord

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:24:00 -0600

Time has flown by since the last post. When I saw four months on my teaching blog sidebar, I realized that it was time to leave a post, short though it may be.

I feel that I have had a few ups and lots of downs over the past 4 months. Small things like struggling to fulfill my calling to medium things like trying to be a good father and teacher to mega things like losing a close friend to an untimely death.

Most days I feel completely jumbled inside. The workings of the spirit is trying to guide me and it seems that I fight that guidance by letting the day-to-day stresses of life flood my mind. I get so caught up in wanting to be a good father, a good educator for my students at school, and dealing with being a perfectionist that it seems there is little time or energy to focus on the things the Lord requires of me.

"Just focus on what you need too."

This seems to be the advice from family and friends, and if it were only that simple, I think everyone would be completely righteous. No, it seems to me that the harder I try, the less I get accomplished and the farther I feel from my Savior.

I long for that peaceful feeling that comes with giving my life over to the Lord, and I know that a desire to be enveloped in his loving guidance is a huge first step.

Yes, there are many little things that I need to work on, and believe me when I say that I am well aware of that. But, until I can find a place where I can just "Let go, and Let God", I will continue to have these struggles.

However, I also know that I CAN do this, and I continually pray that I will be given strength beyond my own to accomplish it.

Keep the Faith...

Knowing Jesus

noreply@blogger.com (Allisha) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:58:00 -0600

I was a substitute in Nursery today. I took my almost one year old daughter in with me. As the children were having play time, I was sitting in a chair by the wall, holding my daughter. She wanted to stand up, so I let her stand on my lap. She looked at the wall behind me and I saw this look of recognition come over her little face. I turned around to see what she was looking at and there was a picture of Christ on the wall just over my shoulder. I looked back at my daughter and asked her if she knew who that was. I told her it was Jesus. She got a huge grin on her face and leaned toward me. I wasn't sure what she wanted until she let go of my fingers and laid her head on the picture of Christ. She had her arms out like she was giving him a hug. She pulled away from the picture and smiled at me. I said, "Yes, that is Jesus." She leaned toward the picture again and gave it a kiss, and then another. It was a moment I'll never forget. Kind of makes you wonder how thin the veil really is with these little children.

Come Listen to A Prophet's Voice!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 07:27:00 -0600

REMEMBER TO WATCH THIS WEEKEND!

Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me...

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Tue, 6 Mar 2012 19:21:00 -0700

I hear these words and I feel chills to my bone. How terrible the pain must have been for our Savior to cry to his father. Not a physical pain, I think, but the spirit of his father withdrew, to allow the Son to have full honor in glory knowing that he accomplished his mission of his on will and choice and free so the sustaining support of his father for that instant. How amazing was this man from Galilee, who knew from a child what is purpose and calling in life was and set about his father's work without hesitation and complaining. What an inspiration my Savior is. Oh that I could be even a millionth of what he was and is...

Keep the Faith

Kindness

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 20:23:00 -0700

Greetings!

Tonight my oldest daughter wanted to do FHE. She disappeared into her room and came out later with a lesson, story, and activity all ready to go.

She picked a great topic too: KINDNESS. I am thankful that she could see that it is just what our family needed to hear.

It was a sweet lesson with a great story about kindness, a scavenger hunt that had the boys work to show kindness to complete, and then a visual lesson.

Meet Don't Do It Ducky

This little duck tells you DON'T be kind, DON'T be nice.

Our goal for the week is to "make him fly South and stay out of our house".

This is Be Kind Bear:

This is the bear that helps us all show love and kindness to each other. We "want him to stay on our shoulders all the time".

Thanks sis for a creative and uplifting lesson. We love you very much!

Keep the Faith...

Feeling Lost

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 21:54:00 -0700

It has been an interesting last few weeks.

It seems the more I try to make sense of my life, the more muddled it gets.

The harder I try to be a good father and husband the worse I feel I do at it.

I don't know what the solution is.

I do know that I have faith that my Savior will help me as I work less to be in control and more to follow his example.

In a world that pushes, calls, and works to encourage humankind to put themselves first- to focus on the wants and the selfish desires we all posses as part of mortality- I can only continue to do my best.

Keep the Faith...

A Test of Faith

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 01:21:00 -0600

27 days.

Long, stressful days that pushed my mental and emotional limits to their ends. Beyond actually.

It has now been almost three weeks since all of that ended.

So... why do I still find myself having horrible mood swings? One little things sets me off. I don't turn violent. Just angry and easily annoyed. My poor children take the brunt with being yelled at for breathing and such. I know I shouldn't be doing it, but I can't seem to stop it.

Then, as quickly as it comes it leaves.

I wasn't like this before everything happened. At least not to this extent.

I know that I can do better.

I am trying to do better.

I hope this is simply a test of my faith.

And... if it is...

I hope I can pass.

Humility and Kindness

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 30 May 2011 00:07:00 -0600

With the events that have been taking place in my life over the past few weeks, I have come to realize that I have a lot to learn about humility and kindness. These two distinct, yet almost inseparable traits are found where ever there is giving and sharing and love.

Today, my wife was able to take the sacrament for the first time in a month. She has been so ill that she hasn't made it to church, and then ending up at UVRMC in Provo in the ICU made it impossible to go to church as well. Today, Brother and Sister Kendall came around and offered us the sacrament. What a great experience it was. I was also able to help bless and pass. My wife wept as we pressed the bread to her lips and poured a little water into her mouth. She wept with joy at having taken the sacrament again.It was very touching.

Sister Kendall then asked to share a message. She shared three thoughts. One was about Faith, one was Proverbs 3:5-6, and the last one was about praying for the wrong things. All three were very appropriate for where we are right now. I know that as I learn to be accepting of this situation, learn to be accepting of others kindness, and learn to show humility as I allow others to serve me, I know that I will grow ever closer to my Savior, and that things will continue to improve.

Keep the Faith...

Challenges and Rewards

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Thu, 7 Apr 2011 18:03:00 -0600

I have been really pondering on this a lot lately. It is really easy to question our Heavenly Father's reasons for things that happen to us. I have to admit that I have let this attitude really eat away at me for the past few days. I have had a hard time this week feeling like a good person, a person of worth. I know that my wife and children love me (thank goodness) and I know that I have good friends around me (for which I am very thankful), but I still find myself sinking further and further into darkness and depression.

I over heard my students talking about how you could die if you accidentally took too many pills. I chastised them for talking about such things. Inside it brought up a lot or sorrow and pain. You see, I lost a really good friend several years ago to that very thing. He didn't think there was any other way out. He didn't think that anyone cared. Then he was gone. Those feelings have been eating at me too. He tried to call me the night he took his own life, and I wasn't home. I didn't see the caller ID until the next day. Could I have made a difference in the choice that he made? Would he still he around to make me laugh today and see my kids if I had been more aware! I know it isn't my fault, and I know that things happen for a reason, even if we don't know what it is right now.

This week I have been questioning my talents and abilities as a teacher. It seems that I have the same problems year after year. Now, using simple deduction, I am the only constant year after year. So hence, I am led to believe that I am the cause of my own trials and frustrations. Knowing this is true for all people, I shouldn't feel all that bad, after all, if EVERYONE brings it on themselves, then I am like everyone else. But that explanation isn't going to cut it this time. I could easily list my weaknesses here (but won't out of embarrassment for the length would be) and discuss each one. However, that wouldn't prove helpful either. So, let's move to the Rewards part of this post.

So, as I have pondered, stewed, fumed, berated myself, and finally have given up and lost hope, I realized that I am looking at this all wrong. As I thought about all the problems I am currently having, I have learned that I use the word "I" a lot! My wife did an amazing FHE on looking for the good in others. I think it was for me. Each night since, we have taken a few minutes after scriptures and discussed and written down all the good things we have seen other family members do. I need to have one of those notes stapled to my forehead.

It seems that when I step in my job location, all that I know, feel, love, and understand gets turned on its head. It confuses and frustrates me as to why I can't keep things in perspective. Why do I care if the kids talk a little? Why should it matter if the kids don't bring their homework or sit and do nothing? Or...
I am so confused as to why I can't let go and let God. Will I feel like a better teacher? Will I feel like more of a failure? Why? What are the answers?

My reward is this: I know that God loves me. I am his son and he won't give me more than I can handle. Does that make everything all better right now? Unfortunately no. Does it make me feel better at this moment? A little bit. It is still hard to see the goal when the forrest of anger, frustration, and despair spring up to block the way. But I will make it through...I will...

Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 20:08:00 -0700

As I attended my meetings today I found an message of inspiration that I badly needed. The sister that spoke today shared her experience of trying for several weeks to put together a talk that would be uplifting. She shared how her sister had called to ask for some advice and cheering up, but ended up helping her figure out her talk. In the end they had both been uplifted. During the talk she shared how her sister had received a tile with the saying "Abound in Hope", but because the script was so frilly, she thought that it had said, "Abandon Hope". When she figured it out, she had laughed and now when she sees the tile, she laughs about it.

What a powerful statement "We can Abandon Hope or, We Can Abound in Hope!". I know that in the challenges that I have been facing over the past few weeks that there were many times that I felt that I had abandoned hope. Those were low points. But as I look back over the lessons that I learned (and am still learning) I know that I have found a way to work towards "Abounding in Hope".

What a blessing it is to have a family, a good job, a nice home, and all the other blessings that my Savior has allowed me to have. It is my hope that we can all work to Abound in Hope, rather than Abandon Hope.

Keep the Faith...

There's A Right Way To Live And Be Happy...

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 17:15:00 -0700

I have to tell you that I am very proud of my daughter. She made a choice to follow her Savior and be baptized. She has been thinking about this day for many months as she patiently waited for her 8th birthday to roll-around.

I know that as she works to follow the commandments, be a good example, and follow the example of our Savior, she will be an even bigger blessing to those around her. I must say that my wife and I are very lucky to have such a wonderful daughter. I can only hope that the rest of my young family will one day make the same choice to follow their Savior when the time comes.

The Best Season of All

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 00:42:00 -0700

I can not believe that it has been 2 months since I have posted on this blog. I guess life has a way of catching up to you and then running you down. I think I finally got the tire marks off my forehead and can move forward with life.

I know that the Lord works in mysterious ways. I just went through a pretty tough ordeal in my life- applying for a job and not getting it. I am glad that I have the knowledge that I do about our Savior. I know that what happened was what is supposed to happen- just maybe not the why. And, I think that I can even live with that as well. In fact, it was funny. After school was over, and I knew that I did not get the job, my oldest son walked into my classroom (he is in 5th grade) and looked at me. I told them that I didn't get the job. He walked over and put his arms around my waist. I was so touched that he would know what I needed right then (as my wife wasn't available to do it- and I really did need that!). He looked up at me and smiled a little and said, "Dad, I am sorry you didn't get the job...but I am so excited that you will get to be my teacher all day next year." It totally made me laugh and able to face the other meetings that I had to attend with a much lighter outlook. I think it is funny that he was trying so hard to be supportive of my choice to interview, but must have secretly been worried that I wouldn't get to be his teacher next year. I look forward to that now more than ever.

I am so thankful for all my babies. I can't believe that we are adding one last spirit to our home in May. We find out on December 27th if it will be a boy or a girl. I am SO praying for a little girl, but will be happy to just have a healthy- perfect baby. We have been getting a lot of teasing from people about needing a bus, etc. with all the kids. I guess those people don't understand that even though there is a lot of stress with many children (and some days you are VERY THANKFUL FOR BED TIME, nothing is sweeter than having my kids piled around me, or excited to see me walk through the front door. How wonderful!

I love this holiday season so much. I can't believe that it is nearly over AGAIN! Seven... only 7 more days until Christmas day. I have struggled more and more over the years to even feel the holiday spirit. This year seems just as empty, but I can grasp a glimpse every now and then as I watch my children get more and more excited. One thing that does help is that we have a wonderful tradition that we do every year. Each night we read a scripture and add a piece to a nativity set (this was a kit we received from an in-law). Then the kids unwrap one of our holiday pictures books (my wife wraps 24 of them each December- that way the kids don't know what book they are selecting AND they get to open a "gift", they love it!). I read the story and we talk about it. Some are spiritual, some are traditional. If makes for a great time. Then we move the mouse on our little calendar that I have had since I was in high school, and this year we added a new adventure. We bought a Lego's advent calendar. That has been a big hit. The kids rotate "jobs" each night. It has really been a lot of fun.

I am also looking forward to Christmas Eve this year as well. My brother and his wife have invited us over to their house (along with my parents, etc.) for a "Traditional Hughes Family Christmas". We will be making homemade pizza, driving around to look at lights, and opening Christmas Jammies along with other fun traditions and activities. That will be one to remember!

I hope that the reason for the season finds each and everyone of you...and you choose to embrace it!

Keep the Faith...

FHE with my Son

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 20:47:00 -0600

Tonight my oldest son decided he wanted to teach the FHE lesson. I get nervous when my kids want to teach the lesson. Sometimes they don't put much thought in to what they plan to do. The dosen't hold true with my oldest son. He is a true gem, just a little spacey at times (I think that is common with 5th graders!). He taught a lesson about Jonah. He found a story in the Friend and explained what they story represented (that we should listen to the Lord the FIRST time he asks).

We had to run a few errands and then we came home and had our treats and are watching Veggie Tales "Jonah and the Whale". It is a great version.

I am grateful for kids that want to teach me about the gospel.

Keep the Faith...

General Conference-Sunday Morning Session

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 3 Oct 2010 11:58:00 -0600

I am pleased to share with you my thoughts, quotes, and impressions from this past general conference. I have simply opened a new post and have typed all through the conference sessions. I hope you got as much out of conference as I did. What a blessing it is to have a living prophet that leads our church under our Heavenly Father's direction. (Click on the title of this post to visit the LDS conference website to review any of these talks and/or view other sessions and talks).

Boyd K. Packer:
-Marriage is between a husband and a wife
-Pornography will repel the Spirit of the Lord, EVERY-TIME. Repentance is the way back. As parents we need to ensure that this evil never infiltrates our homes.
-"Wickedness never was happiness".
-"We will not be tempted above that which we are able".
-"We can if we will, break the habit and conquer addiction".
-Kitty story and voting to decide if it a boy or a girl.
-Stay on course and hold to the principles and ordinances of the gospel.
-The stance of the church will not change, it will never change, in regards to its definition of marriage.

Jay E. Jensen:
-Testimony
-We must find a quiet place to kneel and ask.
-Our testimony is a seed. As it grows and is feed with revelation and spiritual nourishment, our testimony will grow into a forest.
-The Holy Ghost is one of the greatest gifts to man.
-Sometimes there is no one in the home that can provide the needed support (home teacher or visiting teacher), and thus we must turn to the spirit for comfort and solace.
-The Holy Spirit will provide us with comfort and peace in our times of greatest sorrow.
-The Book of Mormon, First Vision, Restoration of the Priesthood, and our Testimony of the Savior are the four corner stone gifts of this, the Lord's church.
-Events of Lehi and Joseph lives mirror each other. One was praying to save family, one was praying to know which church to join. Both were visited by the Father and the Son. Both shared what they had learned, both had angry mobs after them. Lehi fled with his family, Joseph was martyred.
-Take away the Book of Mormon and Revelations and we have no religion. These two factors assure us that we are being led by a loving Father and his Son.

Sister Mary N. Cook:
-We lived with our Heavenly Father before we came to this earth.
-This life is a time of learning.
-We should not do things we do not wish to see our children do.
-We must be examples.
-We must be believers.
-Actively work to strengthen our testimony.
-Stories of affliction in the Smith family that led to greater belief and faith.
-We must show our children how to strengthen their testimonies.
-Holding Fast can be a challenge as Satan works to tempt us away.
-We must give up activities or attitudes that prevent us from fulfilling our eternal goals.
-

Dallin H. Oaks:
- We should NOT seek to have our priesthood leaders make personal choices for us. We should do the work to receive personal revelation for ourselves.
-This personal line of revelation comes in conjunction with the priesthood.
-It is common to have members that are not living their lives in accordance to the gospel plan to claim that they have received revelation from the Lord that they are excused from the responsibility.
-His church is the way and the priesthood is the power through which we are privileged to participate.
-There are members or former members who encounter a failure to recognize the importance of revelation and the role of the priesthood. They go their own way and rely on the personal line of revelation. Thus leading them.
-The personal line of revelation, like the priesthood line, can not fully function if we are not worthy.

President Monson:
-The influence of all those who have impacted our lives.
-"I knew you would come"- How could I NOT come.
-Tale of the 10 lepers who were cleansed where only one returned to give thanks to the Lord. The Lord told him that his faith had made him whole. (This makes me wonder if the other nine where not permanently healed because of their lack of thanksgiving).
-Story of the loaves and fishes to feed the 5,000.
-Story of Gordon growing up and getting electricity. Then how it took an oil lamp to help the family remember how important the little things are.

The Big Three...

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:16:00 -0600

My wife and I are taking the Temple Prep classes in our ward. The bishop asked us to sit in on the classes. The first lesson was on the plan of salvation. I have known about the plan of salvation for a very long time, but it was refreshing to sit and listen to the plan our Father in Heaven has created for us. It is nice to know that as members we don't have to wonder about the big three: 1) Where did I come from? 2) Why am I here? and 3) Where am I going? I have profound gratitude for a loving savior who was willing to take part in a glorious plan that would allow a way for me and my family to return to our Father in Heaven.

Keep the Faith...

Strong Spirits

noreply@blogger.com (Allisha) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:36:00 -0600

Last Sunday at church I was wandering the halls with our 11 month old who has a hard time sitting still now that he is walking. I ran into a lady in our ward who has a daughter that is 3 days older than our son. We started talking about them and what they are doing at this stage. I mentioned that we had to put locks on our cabinets after 5 children because our baby just wouldn't stay out of them. No amount of discipline works with him. He will go back and do the same thing he got in trouble for again and again. We laughed and she said that her daughter is the same way. Very strong willed and will do what she wants to do when she wants to do it. Sounds familiar. :) She said that she had the thought it was because these stronger willed spirits are waiting until the last days to come so that they can be strong to face the world we live in. I'd never thought about it that way. Something to think about...

Jesus and the 10 "Leopards"

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Fri, 9 Jul 2010 08:14:00 -0600

It was my 5-year olds turn to teach family home evening last night. Talk about a great lesson. Last Sunday in primary, his teacher (also his grandma) did a lesson on gratitude. The kids colored a picture of Jesus and the 10 lepers and made some little game to play.

Due to me being gone for three days, we had FHE last night instead of Monday night like we usually do. We all gathered around and started with the opening song, scripture and prayer. Then my little Z started is lesson. He sat on our piano bench and held up his picture he had colored and told us the story of the ten "sick guys" who went to see Jesus. After they were healed, "The guys all ran away because they were so happy, and one guy talked to Jesus". (My 5-year was doing great. The other kids were actually listening better than they do to my wife and I. I was smiling both inside and out at this little warrior and his amazing memory and teaching). When I pressed a little for more information, he did know the answers: The other were did not show how "thankful" they were for Jesus making them better". Then he really made us laugh. He asked us if we wanted to know the name of the man who had returned and thanked Jesus. My wife and I looked at each other a little shocked and also with smiles. "Sure," I said. "What was the man's name?" After all, maybe he knew something I didn't. He said, "Well. His name is spelled I-V-E-E." We all DIED laughing. "Ivee?" I asked. He got a little embarrassed. Then he tried to get silly. We go the lesson back on track however.

My daughter, in conjunction with my Z-man had setup a great family activity where we did what they did in primary class as well. She had a bowl full of water with a teaspoon in it and a second smaller bowl with a small cup in it. We each took turn saying up to 4 things we were thankful for. With each "thing" we put in a teaspoon of water. By the end the cup was running over (with all the gratitude our family felt). It was fun to hear what each of the kids was thankful for. They said some cute things and I am glad that they all mentioned how thankful they were for each other. My oldest son even said that he was thankful that we were all a family. That made me feel like maybe my wife and I ARE doing okay as parents.

We ended FHE by singing "I am a Child of God" and having family prayer. Oh, and we can't forget that for dessert we had ice cream bars- YUMMY!

I really am grateful for such a great little family. We aren't even close to being perfect, but I think that I am learning to accept the fact that as we strive to draw closer to our Savior and follow his teachings, we will be blessed. I love the FHE program and I know that it will bless the lives of those who will faithfully hold it each week.

Keep the Faith...

They DO Listen...

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 3 Jul 2010 11:23:00 -0600

I think at times we grow so frustrated with our children because we feel they are not listening. I know in our house Family Home Evening seems to disintegrate weekly in to Family Fight Night. I often wonder if I have any parenting skills in my body at all. When the kids are screaming at each other, teasing, fighting, and chasing each other, I have to close my eyes and tell myself over and over that I LOVE MY KIDS! :)

However, every once in a while, something will happen that let's a parent know that his kids DO listen and that maybe, just maybe there is hope for him in the parenting department.

I had been working on my college work (papers, papers, papers, reading, papers, papers, etc.). The kids asked me to look at what they had made. I was engrossed in what I was doing and it took me a minute to pull myself from my train of thought (I think this is partly from being a man). I turned to see that my oldest two children had made a "temple" complete with a golden angel Moroni!

I smiled- both inside and out. It was a testimony to me that regardless of what is going on on the surface with our children, they really DO listen. This means that the next time you are tempted to mutter under your breath remember that they ARE listening! I know that as we seek to enrich and bless the lives of our children we will find blessing and success.

Keep the Faith...

Let's Be Peacemakers

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 21:52:00 -0600

Tonight my sweet little 7 year-old daughter did the lesson for Family Home Evening. She wanted to do it based off what they had learned in church yesterday. She marked the opening and closing songs, assigned jobs, and made a cute little game to play. We drew actions from a hat and decided if they were "good" or "bad" choices. Then she would slide a little game piece up of down. When it was all done, we were closer to the "good" side and we all cheered. Next we listened to her read us a story about being kind and not judging. For the finale we went to the kitchen table and drew picture of ways we could be kind to others. For dessert we had homemade cheesecake (YUMMY!). My mom and dad showed up right after that so we had a little interlude and visited for a few minutes. After they left we sang a closing song and had family prayer.
While the evening was far from perfect with the older boys fighting and a tired 11 month-old screaming through most of it, I can sit back and be thankful for many things.
1) That I HAVE a family
2) That despite the trials and frustrations, I really do have wonderful caring kids
3) That I really lucked out (or rather was TRULY blessed by the Lord) to find such an
amazing wife!
4) I am grateful that we have been commanded to hold Family Home Evening. I know the
kids are listening and getting something even when it feels like a big waste of
time!

What a glorious gospel we are blessed to be a part of in these latter-days! I just hope that I can be worthy of all that the Lord as in store for me! I know that if you will hold FHE regularly with your little (or big) families, you WILL be blessed-

Just Do It...

Because Heavenly Father Designed It That Way...

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:58:00 -0600

Today I was in a science workshop for 4th-6th grade teachers and we were discussing why the seasons happened. We were all being scientific and a middle school teacher, being silly, said, "It's because Heavenly Father made it that way, isn't it?!?". We all laughed and laughed, however, if one is to stop and think about it, that WAS the correct answer. I think we take for granted just how much our Father in Heaven loves us. To create a world that we could live on- and one that is beautiful at that- was no small task. The interaction between all living and non-living things is astounding. Science can try to explain why things are the way they are, and sometimes they get things right. But, how can one view this Earth and not know that there is a god? I am SO thankful for a loving Father who gave me this beautiful world. What a blessing.

The Room (You Decide!)

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 5 Jun 2010 16:26:00 -0600

This story was read in a sacrament meeting not to long ago. There seems to be a lot of controversy around its authorship and the message. However, when I heard it I loved it. You read it and decide if it is of the devil or a great uplifting story. Either way, it will leave you with something to think about and make you want to be a better person!

The Room...

In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room. There were no distinguishing features except for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endless in either direction, had very different headings. As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "Girls I have liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one. And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was.

This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching.

A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I have betrayed." The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird "Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told," "Comfort I have Given," "Jokes I Have Laughed at ." Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I've yelled at my brothers." Others I couldn't laugh at: "Things I Have Done in My Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents." I never ceased to be surprised by the contents.

Often there were many more cards than I expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my years to fill each of these thousands or even millions of cards? But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature.

When I pulled out the file marked "TV Shows I have watched", I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly, and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of shows but more by the vast time I knew that file represented.

When I came to a file marked "Lustful Thoughts," I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content.

I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded. An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind: No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards. But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it.

Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self-pitying sigh.

And then I saw it.. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With." The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand.

And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that they hurt. They started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key. But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him.

No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own.

He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one? Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me.. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me.

Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. "No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His blood. He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards.. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side.

He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished." I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.

Today's World

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 2 May 2010 16:07:00 -0600

It has been interesting that in any church meeting I have attended lately (and I attend many of them being the ward clerk) there had been an increase in the talk about youth, parents, and the family unit. These are second only to the constant discussion on patience. I have had many wonderful thoughts flood my mind and it has been enlightening to ponder the points that have been shared.

One thought that was shared during a sacrament meeting really hit home. The speaker was telling that in her home she has a sign hanging by her television that reads, "If it is not okay for you to do it- then it is not okay for you to watch someone else do it!" Wow! How powerful are those words? In today's world a click on a button will put anything you desire at your fingertips. Were these same things around in my youth? Absolutely. However the ease with which they are accessible is almost frightening. Video games that focus on realistic killing of humans, sex themed games that draw in young men and women, as well as the great waster of time- time that could be used to serve and strengthen. Satan has great hold on the world today. He is working overtime to destroy the family unit. He knows that it is only through this family unit can an eternal family become a reality- and he wants to do away with it.

I am very concerned as I watch my own five children grow. I am always wondering if I am being a good parent, am I teaching them correct ideals and principles. I ponder over how to better serve my children without making them lazy, spoiled, or those who take everything for granted. I know that I am far from a perfect parent and I just continue to hope and pray that the Lord will watch over my babies and help them to be righteous. I guess I can take comfort knowing that my children are lucky to be in good classes at school and that my children tend to not allow peer-pressure to intimidate them. My children are also lucky to have a wonderful stay-at-home mother who works hard for them and with them to teach them the value of work, of doing things right the first time, and a shoulder to lean on.

I have started to come to realize that being a family is much more than simply living in the same house and being together. Being a family is supporting each other, showing love and kindness, and striving to ensure that all members are happy and cared for. My nine-year old son is such a little man. He is so good with the baby. He is always holding him, playing by him, and reading to him. What a great example. I could learn a lot from him if I would simply pay more attention. The other day when I took my nine-year to little league practice, the wind was blowing really hard. I was trying to tell my son not to open the car door. He did before he listened. The wind ripped the door out of his hand and slammed open against the front of the car. I was SO angry. I yelled at him and then drove off trying to hold the door closed. I was able to sort-of fix the door, but it is trashed. It will stay closed and the window still works, but it killed the door frame by the engine. Every time he gets in the car I feel the need to make him feel bad about it. I don't want to do those things, but I get SO frustrated by his lack of ability to listen (or at least my THINKING he isn't listening). My goal is of late to be more patient and open to trying to hear his side of the story. I can't say that I am accomplishing this with flying colors, but I really am trying. I hope to be able to report soon that it is going much better!

I guess the message I want to share with all this rambling is that our youth-our kids, our little ones- are our greatest treasures. We should be doing all we can to teach them, protect them, and help them to grow in righteousness. If we do, we are promised that our children will be ours for eternity.

New Calling Alert!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 22:53:00 -0600

Just wanted to let everyone know that my wife has been released from being the primary chorister. She loved that calling but not the hours and hours of prep work that it took. I know that she will miss being in the primary with our kids, but for the first time in a LONG time we will be able to go to Sunday school together! YEA! She did receive a new calling. Two actually. She is now that the ward program creator (not really the official title) and the Ward Newsletter Coordinator. She will be fantastic in both callings. I am VERY happy for her.

Keep the Faith...