"After the Manner of Happiness"

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Christmas Letter

2009-01-06T20:06:00.001-07:00

Oops! I thought I posted this a while back, but apparently I just saved it. I guess this is a good lesson for me to blog more so things like this don't get posted so ridiculously late.

Hey all! Here is my Christmas Letter, a little late. So Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Kyle, Scott, and Spencer Day

2008-09-01T00:24:00.031-06:00

[Note: This entry was primarily written back in September 2008, but I wanted to finish the slide show before I posted it. Sorry for the lateness. I am working to catch up, and then blog smaller posts more frequently.]

Who are my heroes? Who do I look up to? I have many. One of the most influential of them is Scott Smith. I met Scott on February 9, 2009, two days after returning home from my mission in New England. By "met" I mean I saw him for the first time, as he, along with a large number of my brother's friends, came over to my house to visit. The only thing I remember about him from that instance, was that another guy was doing his hair in all sorts of random styles.

(Scott Smith, 9 Apr 2003, Richards Ave, San Jose, CA)

Scott was a good friend of my brother Olin (and still is). Often Olin would leave and hang out with Scott. I, however, only had one, or maybe two, brief conversations with Scott before that fateful Sunday evening of April 13, 2003. Scott sang in ZION, a youth choir made up of high school juniors and seniors from the greater San Jose area. My brother was the accompanist for the choir, and I would often go their firesides and other performances. On this night, I attended their fireside, which conveyed ideas about developing a personal hall of fame, filled with heroes from the scriptures, and from the lives of those around us who emulate the Savior. Little did I know that the guy who played the trumpet for one of the songs would soon become of of those heroes for me.

After the fireside, on this particular night, I was talking to a few of my friends (who also sang in the choir) about where they would be living that coming fall at BYU. I had not yet figured out where I would be living, nor did I have anyone in mind to be roommates with. At that moment, Scott came up and asked what we were talking about. We told him we were talking about housing at BYU. He said that he would be living in Helaman Halls. At that moment, I turned to him and said: "Do you have a roommate?" He said no. I then asked if I could be his roommate. I surprised myself. I barely even knew this guy. I hadn't even thought through this; the thought had popped into my head and I immediately opened my mouth. Scott said "Sure!" I felt good about this, even though I didn't know Scott too well. We exchanged contact information, called BYU housing, and got set up to be roommates in Budge Hall that coming fall semester. After that I think I only had two or three more conversations with Scott before our first night as roommates on August 28, 2003. That night we studied the scriptures and had roommate prayer. I remember thinking as I fell asleep, how grateful I was to have Scott as my roommate. Yet even then, I wasn't able to foresee what a huge impact he would have on the rest of my life.

Four days later, on September 1, 2003 (five years ago today) Scott and I met another of the most influential people in my life: Kyle Hair. It was a beautiful day (that's for you Scott) and that evening the BYU 96th Ward, of which Scott and I were a part, had an opening social/Ward Family Home Evening. We mingled, and had to find individuals who fit certain criteria. After it was all over, Scott and I were about to head back to our dorm room. That's when Scott turned and looked at one of the tables by the Helaman Halls Pavilion. There, were three people from our ward sitting there. Two of them I had met that night, Brock and Cody. Scott pointed to the third individual, a boy with a well-worn BYU hat, and said: "I want to meet him. Let's go over and talk to them." That individual was a recently returned missionary (by about 5 days) named Kyle. I don't remember what the five of us talked about, but I remember being glad to meet these people—especially the shy, quiet, but happy Kyle.

Four days later, on September 4th, my journal reads, in part: "I returned home and Scott and I ate lunch. As we ate we talked with a guy in the ward—Kyle. He invited us to attend the temple a little while later with him and Brock." Though that is all I recorded in my journal about Kyle specifically, I remember vividly as Scott and I walked into the cafeteria, Scott stuck out his arm and said: "Hey, there's Kyle. Let's go eat with him." I still had no idea what a huge influence either of these fine young men would be in my life. Yet such was the beginning of some of the closest friendships I have ever had.

(Kyle Hair, Scott Smith, and Spencer Fields, 14 Oct 2003, Carabas, Provo, UT)

Over the next couple months, Scott, Kyle, and I continued to grow together. From the adventures we created around homecoming, cutting hair, carving pumpkins, singing songs, watching movies, helping with homework, and so many other random things which, in and of themselves, may be insignificant, but which, cumulatively, laid the foundation of solid friendship. The three of us became good, solid, and true friends.

(Scott Smith, Kyle Hair, and Spencer Fields, 27 Jan 2004, UPC, Provo, UT)

The next few years brought many changes. Scott left on a two-year mission to Colorado while Kyle and I became Resident Assistants, and worked together--building our friendship along the way. We kept in touch with Scott sporadically via letters, but once Scott returned, the three of us were as close as ever.

(Spencer Fields, Scott Smith, and Kyle Hair, Three Years of Friendship, 1 Sep 2006, Kiwanis Park, Provo, UT)

The three of us are very different. We have our own quirks, and often see things from different perspectives. Our personalities are unique and we go about things in very different ways. But under-girding and overarching all of this, we care for one another, we trust one another, and we love one another. From random activities such as bowling, hiking, and making paper boats, to more planned activities such as orchestrating group dates and get-togethers or joining with some friends in singing Christmas carols or love songs, we have continued to grow in our friendship. I know that I can always count on Scott and Kyle to be there for me during my happy-times and my heartbreaks. They understand who I am, and while it would be easy for them to judge me, instead they listen, they support, they love, and help me to move forward, in all that I do.

Times have changed. We have all grown so much since that day five years ago. I am a very different person now than I was then. So are Scott and Kyle. As I think of my experience at BYU, and as I contemplate those things that made it such a positive experience for me, I feel that I will be forever in debt to these two individuals. They have touched my life for good and helped me become the person I am today. I love them, and I'm grateful to celebrate "Kyle, Scott, and Spencer Day" commemorating five of the best years of my life. I now present (to all who want to watch the whole thing) "Five Years of Friendship: Thanks for the Memories."

(Note: There are known issues in watching the slide show in some versions of Internet Explorer. I will post a special link for Internet Explorer users shortly. If you have any issues, or questions, please contact me. )

The Wedding: Emmer and Jim

2008-08-05T22:08:00.022-06:00

On Saturday August 2, 2008 my sister, Emmer Jenay Fields, was married for time and all eternity in the Oakland California Temple to James Walter MacKillop.

(Jim and Emmer MacKillop, 2 Aug 2008, Oakland Temple, Oakland, CA)

I took a number of pictures that can be viewed on my website.

(Jim and Emmer MacKillop, 2 Aug 2008, Oakland Temple, Oakland, CA)

I am so happy. Growing up I have always been very close to my sister. Emmer has always been an inspiration to me. I have looked up to my little sister in so many ways, from as far back as I can remember. Emmer has always inspired me to be the best person I could be. So many times I have wished that I could be more like her.

Only 13 months younger than me, we have always been very close.

(Spencer and Emmer Fields, date unknown, Brace Ave. Apt. San Jose, CA)

When we were little she was my very best friend ever. We would play together.

(Emmer and Spencer Fields, Feb 1988, Richards Ave, San Jose, CA)

When in middle school Emmer and I grew even closer. We would walk to and from the bus stop every day. We would talk about important things in life. I always valued her advice.

She was always patient with me, even when I was having trouble learning how to dance.
(Note: Actually the way it really worked was this, Emmer would dance through the house, and I would make an honest effort to emulate her . . . or was it me trying to imitate her? I can't seem to remember. :o) But as frustrating as it must have been for her to have an untalented "shadow" she still loved me—even if I couldn't dance. And that makes me feel special.)

(Emmer and Spencer Fields, date unknown, "Dancing" through the house, Richards Ave, San Jose, CA)

Speaking of dance, there was the time, prior to the previous picture, when we were in a multi-stake Dance Festival. Not only was she patient with my slow learning, but when I got very sick on the day of the performance, she taught me, again, the power of fasting, prayer, and faith. I danced that night, and I think I did well. But very little of it had to do with me. Most of it was the great faith of my amazing sister.

(Emmer and Spencer Fields, 22 Nov 1997, Regional Dance Festival, Civic Auditorium, San Jose, CA)

Emmer wrote me every week for two years while I was serving a mission on the East Coast. She inspired me and kept me going. Whenever I was frustratedfdsk or down, I could depend on a letter from Emmer to arrive and say just the right thing I needed. She had a major impact on me while we were thousands of miles apart. She didn't miss a single week—not one.

(Elder Spencer Fields, 13 Jun 2001, Yarmo Home, Hudson, NH)

Emmer traveled to Russia, despite her anxieties over it, and spent a number of months teaching English. She set such a good example for me of someone who does what she feels she should do, even if it is something that is not easy to do.

She later served a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and was able to bless the lives of many. My already spiritually attuned sister came home with a greater light in her countenance than she had before.

(Sister Emmer Fields, Spring 2005, MI)

Emmer came home and continued to pursue her education, bless my life, and move forward spiritually.

(Emmer and Spencer Fields, 31 Jul 2008, Richards Ave, San Jose, CA)

Emmer dated for a while before finally meeting Jim. After dating for a number of months they were engaged.

(Jim MacKillop and Emmer Fields, Spring 2008, Rexburg, ID)

I met Jim at Christmastime. He is great. I love my sister, and she deserves the very best. She deserves someone who will treat her like the queen that she is. She deserves someone who will love her and lift her and bless her. She deserves a righteous young man who is devoted to God and to her. She deserves someone who will make her feel special and happy every day. Jim is that someone. For Emmer, he is the very best. I love him. I have never seen Emmer so happy, and she is a happy person. I am happy. I'm excited to have a new brother.

(Jim MacKillop and Spencer Fields, 2 Aug 2008, Oakland, CA)

As I contemplated the wedding, I was impressed with the thought that this just adds one more thing that Emmer has done right. She waited for someone who was good for her—someone who completes her, and makes her more whole than she is on her own. Emmer and Jim are truly living "after the manner of happiness." Emmer is still my hero and example.

(Spencer Fields and Emmer MacKillop, 2 Aug 2008, Oakland, CA)

This was a very sacred and special opportunity to go to the Temple of my God, and there to act as a witness of such a sacred event. There are a lot of things that bring joy in this life. There are many things that make me happy. There is much to be glad about. However, these special moments in the little sealing room, with my family and close friends around, was one of the happiest, most sacred, and special moments of my life. I love my family. I love the gospel which binds us together.

(Olin, Lisa, and Spencer Fields, Emmer and Jim MacKillop, 2 Aug 2008, Oakland, CA)

May God bless you Emmer and Jim as you begin the rest of eternity together. :o)

(Jim and Emmer MacKillop, 2 Aug 2008, Oakland Temple, Oakland, CA)

I love Sundays!

2008-07-27T19:22:00.002-06:00

I love Sundays! They rejuvenate me. I love waking up early in the morning and taking time to study my scriptures. I love arriving at church early and greeting so many smiling faces of people--just like me--who are imperfect, but who are trying to live the gospel to the best of their ability. I love listening to, and singing, the hymns. They help to rekindle the light of the gospel in my life. I love watching my fellow-laborers as they bless and pass the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper--amazed that because of these individual's personal righteousness (imperfect though they may be) I am able to renew the covenants I have made with my God, and be cleansed, purified, and receive the confirming assurance that the Holy Spirit will be my constant companion through the coming week. I love being edified by the speakers, and the Spirit that attends their words. I love attending Sunday school where we can gather together and discuss the gospel of Jesus Christ, and how to apply it into our daily lives, and to again be instructed and edified by the Spirit--whether I'm a "teacher" or "student" the experience is the same. I love attending Elder's Quorum where we, as brothers, can learn what it means to hold the sacred priesthood of God, and how to better live in such a way that we can be instruments in God's hands, and help to bring forth His marvelous latter-day work. I love singing in the choir and sharing my testimony with my friends, and feeling of their special spirits. I love talking about, in casual conversation, the things of eternity. I love taking the time to ponder and pray and gain direction and inspiration for the things I need to do in my life. I love that it is a day of rest from the cares and pressures of the world, so that, although busy, I feel refreshed and reenergized, and ready to do better, and be better in the coming week. I love being able to call and talk to my family, and to visit with friends, and feel the joy that comes loving people and being loved by them. I love that I have a Heavenly Father who cares about me enough to command that I keep the Sabbath day holy, and by so doing, I may "call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord" and that I may "delight [my]self in the Lord" (see Isaiah 58:12-13). I sure do love Sundays! :o)

Opps!

2008-07-20T14:31:00.003-06:00

So I have been doing an internship at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City for the last few weeks. During our orientation were were told that there are stairs in three corners of the building. The two stairwells on the west side of the building are emergency stairwells--that is to say that an alarm will go off if you go through them. However, in our orientation we were told that we could use our security cards to access those stairwells. Now I haven't had a need to use these other stairwells, except for once when I was asked to take something to the back by the freight elevator. However, yesterday, I was coming out of the lunch room (which is by the north-west stairwell) and I was going to head up to the second floor. I figured that I was right there, so I swiped my card to get access to the stairwell without setting off the alarm and headed up. Upon reaching the second floor I didn't see the little green button that is often on the secured side of the doors to deactivate the alarms, so I assumed (without checking) that this door was motion activated like some of the other doors. Well I was wrong. I opened the door and an annoying alarm began to buzz. I thought to myself: "No big deal--I'll just swipe my card on the other side and that will fix the problem. Right?" Wrong! I swiped my card and the alarm went off, only to go back on again a few seconds later. So I stood there for a minute and kept trying my card. It wasn't working. Some people working around me told me to just go get security. So I walked to the reference desk. They had already called security, but they couldn't fix the problem either. Finally after about ten minutes of the alarm going off, someone got it fixed. Anyway, needless to say, I was quite embarrassed, and I felt bad that all the people on the floor had to listen to the annoying tweet of the alarm while they worked. No one was mad at me or anything, but I think that the next time I want to go upstairs, I'll just go the way I have always gone, without announcing that I have arrived for work. :o)

Tender Mercies

2008-07-13T14:50:00.005-06:00

My friend Lori has been blessed with a gift in expressing, through her words, many thoughts and feelings that I think we all experience and cherish. Her last post filled my heart with gratitude toward so many people, for than many, many things they do for me. It truly is "magic." Anyway, her post inspired me to share the words to a song I put together, which expresses some similar thoughts, but in a different way. The fact that you are reading this most likely means that you have touched my life in a special way, and for that I sincerely thank you. Every line comes from my own experiences, and I have found that many of these lines are oft repeated in my life. So thank you, to all who daily bless my life, and special thanks to my God who sends His tender mercies to me. Letting me know that he knows my name, and that he loves me. It is my hope that by sharing this you too will be able to see some of the tender mercies of God in your life, and that you too may feel the deep and personal love He has for you.

The initial inspiration for this song came from the words of Elder Bednar when he testified:

"The tender mercies of the Lord are real and . . . they do not occur randomly or merely by coincidence. Often, the Lord's timing of His tender mercies helps us to both discern and acknowledge them.
". . . the Lord's tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ."

(Elder David A. Bednar, "The Tender Mercies of the Lord," Ensign, May 2005, 99)

Tender Mercies
by Spencer Fields

A simple smile, a thoughtful deed.
Encour'ging words in a time of need.
A golden sunrise. Birds in a tree—
Singing their sweet songs, just for me.

An act of kindness. A crust of bread.
Knowing for me a prayer's been said.
Stars in the night sky. Waves on the sand.
A timely phone call. An outreached hand.

They are tender mercies, from God above.
They fill my soul with Heaven's love.
God knows my name; Knows my heart too.
His Spirit whispers: "My child, I love you."

Meeting a friend after years apart.
Seeing God's peace bind a broken heart.
Shoulders to cry on when life seems dim.
Finding joy and gladness, when I trust Him.

Some added strength, assurance too.
Protection, guidance in all I do.
Some selfless service a passing thought.
By the Holy Spirit my soul is taught.

They are tender mercies, from God above.
They fill my soul with Heaven's love.
God knows my name, knows my heart too.
His Spirit whispers: "My child, I love you."

They are not random, they come with care,
That I may know that God is there.
It's in God's timing that helps me see
His tender mercies are meant for me.

Tender Mercies, every day I've found
His tender mercies in my life abound.
God's tender mercies bless me, bless you.
His Spirit whispers: "My child, I love you."

Tender Mercies

Thoughts on a Temple Marriage

2008-07-12T10:47:00.007-06:00

Yesterday I had the privilege of taking wedding pictures for my friends Matt & Chelsea in the Jordan River Temple.

It was a sweet experience for me. I reflected on the many other temple weddings I have been to. My thoughts went to many family members and friends, and what a special thing it is to marry in the temple. Sacred experiences came to my my mind and heart, which I will cherish always. My mind then projected forward to the thought of my cousin Kelsey who will be getting married this coming weekend, and I thought of my sister, Emmer, who will be getting married in 3 weeks. It is simply wonderful. It is beautiful. There is a special peace and ultimate joy which prevails in the House of the Lord, especially at such sacred moments when a man and woman covenant with one another, and with God, to become one. I know that He smiles, tenderly, upon each of us as we prepare ourselves to make, and then keep, such sacred covenants as a temple marriage. I also know that even for those who are denied such blessings, that if they are faithful, they will receive every blessing that our Father in Heaven has in store for those who love him—including a Celestial marriage.

As I was waiting for Matt & Chelsea to come out of the temple I was reading my scriptures and was filled with an even deeper desire to live my life in such a way, that, someday, I may take a beautiful daughter of God into the House of our Lord, and there give myself to her, and receive her unto myself in the way that God has intended. Then I want to, by living the covenants I have made, and will yet make, create from my temple marriage a Celestial one. It is done in the day-to-day things, in being faithful, in keeping the commandments of God, and by loving, and sacrificing, and serving my future wife and family. I know that it will be difficult. It will require something from the very depths of my soul. Frankly, I want it that way. For that which is obtained too easily is valued too cheaply, and salvation is not a cheap experience. Neither is dating, neither is marriage, neither is raising a family. (thanks Elder Holland for teaching me that). I want to be able to serve and sacrifice, and struggle, and, like King David of old, I don't want my sacrifices to be "that which doth cost me nothing." (2 Sam 24:24) As hard as it is to come to grips with sometimes, I know that this applies to my dating life now, just as much as it does to my future family life. I do know that it will be worth every sacrifice and every tear that's shed in the long process that leads to such an eternally important goal. It is worth sacrificing for, working hard toward, and living for. (Even if, sometimes I just want to give up. I know that I won't, because it's too important—it's too vital to who I want to become.)

As these thoughts came to me, I was touched by the Spirit in such a way that really motivates me to be more active. It makes me want to live a better life today—to be more kind, to be more patient, to be more thoughtful toward everyone around me. It makes me want to work harder in school and work, and to magnify my church callings. It makes me want to live closer to the Spirit, that I may be guided in all that do. I need that guidance. I know that on my own, I wouldn't make the type of husband and father that I want to be—but I do trust that God is with me, and will help me. He can do all things, and I, through Him, can be the world's best husband, and the world's best father, even with the many mistakes that I know I will make. I want to so live, today, and always, that when that special day comes for me, I will be the type of person I need to be for my God, and for my queen. For now, I need to be patient, keep the commandments, and keep living my life as righteously as I can, repenting as I go, so that the special someone who will one day complete me, will want to be with me for time, and for all eternity—sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, in the House of the Lord.

Family, Friends, Freedom, and Fireworks

2008-07-05T10:32:00.010-06:00

Throughout this last week, I found that I was feeling very alone. I'm not sure why, but I was just kind of feeling a little down. As Independence Day approached I began thinking of all that I have to be grateful for. I thought of my family, and of how wonderful they are. I thought of the good friends I have. I thought of 4th of July celebrations in the past, and had some great memories. It is amazing what good memories can do to fill you with gratitude, and to lift your spirits.

Memories such as going to a park as a family and spending all day there, then watching the fireworks on top of the car—and being afraid that they would fall on me.

Memories like the many times we, as a family, would go sit on the roof of the house to watch the fireworks in the distance, or if not the roof, we'd stand in the stairway and watch them from the window. I remember learning one year, while standing on the stairs, that light travels faster than sound. :o)

Memories like going down to Morgan Hill with all the extended family and having a pot luck at Uncle Dwain's and Aunt Shannon's, and then watching the fireworks down there.

Memories like working with Uncle Calvin for hours on the 3rd of July one year—just to get the flag pole up in the front yard so we could do a flag ceremony the next day. Doing those flag ceremonies with Olin or Brandon playing the bugle. :o)

Memories like the San Jose Stake 4th of July Breakfasts, where I was able to dress up in my scout uniform and help with the flag ceremonies for a few years.

Memories like these from July 4, 2004, a Sunday afternoon where we had a nice, quiet evening as extended family came and visited, when we were surprised to find our neighbor and friend Julio bringing his horse over for the kids to see. (Plus the excitement of "The Great Tie Race" which consisted of three separate races. (And if I remember correctly, each of us won a round). This video (below) captures some of that:

And these memories from July 4, 2005.

Then there was July 4, 2006, where I was at school, and because my dorm building was in the fall-out-zone I got a free ticket to the "Stadium of Fire." Gratefully my friend Kyle was able to join me, and we had a grand time:

Last year was a good year. I spent the morning and afternoon with friends, and then watched the fireworks from various locations around BYU campus.

As these memories filled my mind and heart, I found that I wasn't so lonely. I began to think of the many people who have so much less than I do. I began to appreciate the many things that I enjoy, and I realized that a large part of why I enjoy them has to do with the freedoms that I have, as a citizen of this great nation.

I became very grateful for my forefathers, both my direct ancestors, and all those of their neighbors and friends who paid a price, some of them paying the ultimate price, so that I could live and be free. So that I could have the ability to gain an education, worship as I please, and make something of my life. I became grateful toward my Heavenly Father who has given me his laws, that, when followed, will grant me more freedom, and make me happy.

As this happier attitude began to fill my thoughts, about mid-week, I got excited for this year's Fourth of July Celebration, though I didn't have any set plans at the time. As it turned out, I ended up spending the 3rd of July with some amazing people: Kyle, Steph, Kaven, and Kim. We headed down to Provo Center Street and walked around the "Freedom Festival."

After a little bit, we headed back to Kyle's and Steph's apartment for smoothies, games, and our own little "fireworks" show. (The fireworks show, being something I had never done, as they are illegal in California). More pictures and video clips will be forthcoming. It was a great evening.

I spend most of the fourth of July with Kyle, Steph, and Kaven. While the night before we had some fun with our own little show, we descided to let the professionals handle it this time. We found a nice spot, laid out some blankets, sat back, relaxed, and enjoyed the show—followed by games (while we waited for everyone else to vacate the area, so that we could then vacate in peace.) As Kyle put it, in essence, "It's amazing how much better a mood some good fireworks can put you in." I couldn't agree more. They are like big booms of sparkling happiness. Again, more pictures will be forthcoming.

Anyway, this is really long for a blog post, so if any of you are still reading, thanks for taking the time to see how I'm doing. Thanks for letting me indulge in my "walk down memory lane". Wow, I'll try to keep these shorter in the future. Anyway, I'm doing well, I'm happy, and grateful for all that I have. I don't feel lonely anymore, as, instead, I feel that my life must be one of the most blessed lives. I'm surrounded by so many loving people (even the ones that are far away). I have basic freedoms which allow me to choose my destiny. I have the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am happy. I am humbled to be an American. I am humbled to have the friends that I have. I am humbled to have such a wonderful family. So here is to family, friends, freedom, and fireworks—which help keep me going, keep me smiling, and keep me happy.

:o)

Walking on Summer Evenings

2008-06-29T19:36:00.007-06:00

I went for a walk last night.

I love summer evenings.
The heat of the day begins to melt away . . .
A mild breeze blows, but I'm not cold . . .
Colors are more vivid in the light of the setting sun . . .
The smells of grass being cut, of fresh cut wood, of sprinkler water on the sidewalks . . .
The sounds of children playing, as their mothers call them in, or of people playing tennis in the distance . . .
Friends riding bikes together . . .
Passing people as they walk their dogs, and exchanging a smile and a "Good Evening" . . .
Appreciating the beauty of houses and yards, and recognizing the hard work that it is to make them, and keep them, so beautiful . . .
The quiet time to think, ponder, and pray . . .
Singing quietly to myself . . .
The fun of getting wet as I run through sprinkler after sprinkler, but drying off within minutes, laughing as I do so, and not caring who may be watching me . . .

Yes, I love walking on summer evenings. It reminds me of home, of family, of friends, of childhood memories.
I love walking on summer evenings. I can dream and plan my future.
I love walking on summer evenings. Though I walk alone, the beauty, the sights, the smells, the sounds, and the very feeling in the air, remind me that I'm not alone. There is a God in Heaven who lives, and who loves me. He even knows my name.
I love walking on summer evenings.

After the Manner of Happiness

2008-06-29T15:35:00.007-06:00

So I finally did it. I decided to start a blog. :o) I've had my website for a number of years now, and I plan to continue to use it and develop it—making improvements as I go. But sometimes I feel like sharing some thoughts, but my website is designed as a place for pictures. SO, I decided to start a complimentary blog. I'll post whenever I upload pictures to the other site.

It took me a while to come up with a title, or name, for this blog. At first I was going to use "helaman81" since that is my online screen name for just about everything—but I decided that I wanted something a little more descriptive of me. So after much thought I chose "After the Manner of Happiness."

This line comes from the 2nd Book of Nephi, in the Book of Mormon, where Nephi is describing the way he and his people lived. Just previous to this, Nephi's beloved father, Lehi, had passed away, and his brothers had risen up in rebellion against Nephi, seeking his life. Nevertheless, the Lord was good to Nephi, and to all those "who believed in the warnings and the revelations of God" (See 2 Nephi 5:1-6). So they journeyed into the wilderness, and though life was hard for them they "did observe to keep the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things." They sowed seeds, and reaped the harvest, they studied their scriptures, they began to "build buildings, and to work in all manner of wood, and of iron, and of copper, and of brass, and of steel, and of gold, and of silver, and of precious ores." They built a temple, according to the commandments of God, and organized themselves according to the order of the Holy Priesthood. They worked hard, kept the commandments of God, and, in short they "lived after the manner of happiness."

I really belive that. I belive that by working hard and keeping the commandments of God, that we can be happy in this life and in the life to come. Now, I'm not anywhere near perfect, and I have so many weaknesses and shortcomings, but I try very hard to "live after the manner of happiness." And I have found, from my own experience, that the words of the Psalmist are true: "Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God" (Psalm 148:5). I am happy. Life is good. Yes it is hard. Yes I have struggles, and fears, and anxieties about the future, but I know in whom I have trusted. "I will trust, and not be afraid" (see 2 Nephi 22:2 or Isaiah 12:2). For the Lord, my God is with me. Because of the goodness of His heart, He walks with me. He talks with me. He pours out His tender mercies upon me. "I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things;" (see Alma 26:12). God has never failed me in the past, and I know that He never will in the future. His Holy Spirit has borne witness to me of that.

I hope to record here my hopes and fears and joys. I hope to share here, on this blog, both the simple, and the complex things which make up my life. Hopefully, some posts will make you laugh, and some posts will make you think. Some posts may make you cry, but it is my desire that this becomes a reflection of who I am, and a reflection of the goodness of God toward me, and to all around me. My desire is that all who stumble across this little corner of cyberspace, may leave it feeling a little bit better, with a little more hope, and a little more joy in their lives. For God has shown us the way to live, and His way, truly is "after the manner of happniess."