A journey of friendship

 I have always been a strong advocate for those in abusive relationships. I have had many friends and even family members who have suffered the effects of physical, mental, and emotional abuse. Before I share my words for this week, please, if you have ever felt the effects of abuse, seek out professional help. I am here for you if you ever need me. I love all of you and know that you do not have to live a life of fear, you are meant to live a life of hope and joy. Music is powerful. The lyrics that some artists create are often only listened to with shallow ears. When you look at the words, do you understand that many of them have a story attached to them? That perhaps these artists are trying to share something other than a catchy beat?  For example, here are two songs that touch on domestic violence. One of them was rather common, the other is one I stumbled across once.  "Third Degree" by Coral Bones You cup your love in your hands, Letting none go to waste His sweetn...

I wrote a poem, and I hope you all will enjoy these words. The context is that I had gone to church alone because Frances was extremely tired. I wrote this poem as I reflected upon the day and week during the sacrament. Here it is: A missing piece As I sit here on this pew. I'm missing something, that's true. All I feel is empty. Like a shell without its yolk. But why, what is missing? Isn't it obvious? It's you, it's always you. Without you, what is there for me. Loneliness, a despondent feeling. Heaven would be hell if I could not be by your side. Oh how I am encompassed about such a forlorn thought! To be without you, I would rather be naught. You're my missing piece. Without you I am simply not complete. I love you, I need you, you bring me full circle. My lover, my soulmate, my one day. You complete me, what more can I say. Unapologetic and feeling open to sharing. I believe this is one of the more heartfelt poems I have ever written. I hope we all cherish ...

Did you know that for the longest time, repentance and forgiveness were just regarded as religious ideas? That non-religious folk and the educational field did not regard this topic as a needed one. However, in recent decades since the 1990s, "repentance and forgiveness have become increasingly prominent in the professional literature. Mental health experts acknowledge that it is impossible to address emotional and physical well-being without considering the relevance of repentance and forgiveness". Interesting. Very interesting. Mental health has always been a prominent part of my own marriage. My wife deals with diagnosed anxiety and depression. Dealing with these things is crucial to a successful and happy marriage and family. In generations past, mental health was to be swept under the rug, cultural factors pressured affected individuals into suppressing detrimental mental health. For me, I have my own mental health problems. They cause more issues to our marriage than he...

This topic makes me emotional. Forgive me.  A dinner table is a place of gathering. A place of laughter, conversation, guidance, and discussion. For years I have sat with my family, in-laws, friends, and my spouse at this gathering spot. These are cherished memories. Memories that I hope encapsulate the eternities.  God in His mercy and love, provided us the opportunity to become like him. For life to exist, for life to persist beyond the grave. What does this mean? That my family can be together forever. The power behind that phrase is real. I can always be with my loved ones. We can have our seats at the dinner table forever.  But we must be faithful. We must keep our covenants and honor them. We must be 100% responsible. There is an empty seat at the table. It is reserved for a gentle person. One that never raises their voice, one that sacrifices their time selflessly, one that is thoughtful and considerate.  But they cannot come to this table. They have lost thei...