The things that are most important.

Over the past year I have heard over and over again, people explain to me what is most important in life. As I reflect upon some of the answers that have been given I have to pause and think about the advice both solicited and unsolicited, and weigh in on the validity of this advice. In times of plenty material things are fun, but they can only bring so much joy. True, excess or even affluence can make it possible to buy things such as toys, trips, hobbies etc... but does it bring real happiness?
How many of us know people that seem to have everything that money can buy, only to end up miserable and seeking for more?
Health is important, I know this. If any of my family members were ill, I would give up everything in order to make them better. Health is one of the many blessings that is taken for granted until it is gone. There are many that have learned to take there pain, and somehow still maintain a positive attitude.

Out of all the things that exist in this world I have the knowledge that family is the most important. As a father I live to see my children grow in a positive loving environment. So far in this life we have been very blessed. Although we have not always had the most money, or resources, we have been able to watch our kids grow and respond positively to situations placed before them. Kathy and I have been able to see our kids both accomplish goals that they have set, and seen them fall short of a few of others. In their accomplishments there is happiness, but strangely enough there is growth in some of their shortcomings. When Jeff failed to make the Varsity soccer team I was shocked, and upset. Although I fought the urge to go down to the school and tell off the coach, I still felt like he got the short end of the stick. Jeff being as resilient as he is moved on and began playing volleyball. This proved to be one of the most exciting sports that I have gotten into (I am not a big sports fan), and after his last game we discussed how he probably would not have been able to be involved in such a great activity if he had continued with soccer.

Last year Tim sat the bench for half of his freshman season. I had many parents and friends of his that told me what a raw deal he was getting. Tim still showed up for practice every day, and when the season was over, continued to train. Today he is stronger, and faster, and has the mindset that he wants to be a great player. He did not pity his situation, and still kept respect for his coach.
I could go on with examples that all of my kids have taught me, but will stop for now. The thing that I have learned is that even in adversity their is growth. Adversity is not fun, sometimes it is a minor inconvenience, sometimes it is just plain painful. I think that the majority of us are feeling this uncomfortable sense of confusion over what the future holds. But I am grateful that during this time I am fortunate to have a family that I love, and they love me. I have brothers and sisters that I can rely on when I need or they need support. I have watched some of my family members that have struggled and are struggling with things in their life, but feel fortunate that no matter what happens we will always have each other and will never be without.
Today Jeff was ordained an Elder. It was a bittersweet experience. Bitter in the fact that he is not going to stay our very unique little boy forever. Sweet in the fact that he is growing into a man that is capable of facing the future with a positive attitude, and is ready to go into the world to conquer.
As I reflect on what is important, it is obvious that although things are fun to have, family is ultimately more important and brings more satisfaction and happiness than money, or material possessions could ever provide.