Life is full of an awful lot of “shoulds,” and they can form a suffocating tsunami as the days race by. But today I must give in to one despite the late hour, and write this brief note. No, there is no momentous event to record. Simply a wonderful evening, filled with visits from some very dear, old friends, much laughter, a beautiful sunset, and chasing children. After our friends had gone our smiles still lingered, and as the night sky darkened, fireworks filled the air over the North Salt Lake hills we see from our back yard.
There I sat on a grassy hill behind our home, Alden on my lap, Kate in my other arm, and my sweetheart by my side (Keegan was long asleep), watching the show. Kate squeezed me; Alden kissed my arm repeatedly, without saying anything, and there we sat quietly, perhaps for the first time in months, thinking about life and multi-colored flame. These are the moments one "should" always remember—quiet holding, fond thoughts, a complete and serene spirit of joy in simply touching someone you love.
I am more content now than I have ever been at any time in my life. I deeply love my wife and children; I live close to the father I idolize and my giving, thoughtful mom. The father-in-law whose spirit I so enjoy and who never ceases to amaze me is just down the road with his sweet wife. I am part of two great families, with brothers, sisters and in-laws that I feel, to a person, are best friends. My work is, for perhaps the first time ever, verging on the border of fun. My home is beautiful and built with great care. My life has been filled with wonderful people. I have seen much of the beauty God created in this world, and I live in the freest, most open and miraculous country on the planet.
No, things are not perfect. Yes, I worry often about many very important things, not the least of which is what kind of future will bear down on my children. Mortality bores into my bones a little more each day (and some days more than others). Yet I cannot deny that of all of God’s children, I perhaps have the least room for complaint. Who knows what tomorrow brings, but at this time, on this day, I am very, very happy.
8 comments:
Brett,
What an awesome, inspiring post. Most days I feel that way here (since our family is here -- well, almost all our family), but lately, our little ward seems to be shrinking and it makes me feel less "settled." I hope to be more grateful for the things I do have.
(we still miss you guys, but are so thrilled that the move was so great for your family.)
Thanks for the perspective...
It is refreshing and a great reminder that I fear sometimes I give God way too little credit!
What a sweet entry of gratitude...and it's not even Thanksgiving. Glad to hear you guys are so happy in your new place. Take care!
to my dearest Bishop and friend...
How are you? This is Brian, commenting from Hillary's blog. Yes, you caught me, i'm checking out blogs..., please don't tell a soul...my reputation is on the line here. it's only taken me a year to finally say at least hi to you and your family...Hillary updates me every time she reads your blog, so you I haven't completely ignored you, i promise. In reviewing your blog posts, it seems that life is well for you and your family. Your children look much older, and i'm sure sometimes you feel they're already teens (because that's how i feel about emery and she's only 18 mths). we're in for it, that's for sure. Anyways, I wanted to get in re-touch with you. Although this is way late and overdue, I just wanted to let you and your family know that you are truly special people in my eyes. I can say that I have been blessed to have crossed paths with you. I hope to keep in touch, and somehow stay a part of your life and list of friends. I hope all is well for you and your family. With respect,
The Scorpion Hunter (aka, Brian Goodman )
I'm so glad everything is going so great for you guys. I think that's absolutely wonderful. Now I think you should post about why you are pro Obama because I'm awfully curious. . .
Hey guys!! First off, Bishop, you definitely have mad writing skills! So inspiring and beautiful use of words! Dan and I are doing great here in Southern California.. well, actually, Dan is in Rhode Island for 2 more weeks of Officer's Training, and then he will be back here with me for good! We are in the process of house-shopping in Temecula (he will be working in Oceanside which is San Diego county) and will be here for a few years and who knows, we may end up here for good! How are your family doing? I bet Kate is like almost engaged already haha She is so grown up. And the boys are looking so mature! Don't let them grow up so fast! Tell Kathleen hello for us. Talk to you soon!
Your post brought a little lump to my throat. Life is sometimes so full of stuff, we forget the "shoulds." By the way, the sunset view from my house (over the Columbia river) rivals yours. But we get the sunrise too!!!!
Hey, we're sure glad to have you guys around. I can relate to sitting on the grass gazing at fireworks... what a view!
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