Jeffrey R. Holland

We had a wonderful Stake Conference today which was presided by Jeffrey R. Holland.  Being that this is pretty rare these days, I want the boys to remember it!  So, I'm going to print a few of his words in our blog book in hopes that they'll remember.  I thought it was so great that he talked to the Youth!

• The Quorum of the 12 Apostles and First Presidency are anxious, like all of us are about the youth of the church.  They spend a lot of time worrying about those in this last and greatest dispensation...not necessarily as a whole but as individuals!
• Our Families must be the greatest line of defense, with the church as back up!  And the kids must be as serious about as we are!
• We need to make sure we have are building on a strong foundation early!!
• He asked the youth to give a tithe of their lives!  10 years - particularly the years from 12-22 where so many decisions are made that will affect the rest of your lives and set the course for your future!
• Friendships are SO IMPORTANT!!  You also end up dating your friends - after you are 16 of course! - so be careful!
• Missions are so important as well.  He testified strongly of his mission and the influence it has had on the rest of his life.  Don't ask him whether or not to serve a mission - He made it pretty clear that you should!!
• These ten years will be a blessed and life shaping decade!!

Having a son that just turned twelve, this talk was heaven sent and eye opening to me!  I love my boys so much and have that same anxiety for them.  I hope and pray that we can do all that we can to give them a strong foundation to build on.  I'm grateful for such a wonderful husband who is a great example and teacher to these boys.  I can blah blah as much as I want, but really, they truly listen when he speaks and acts.  I was also very impressed how in tune Elder Holland was with the members of the church.  They have so much on their plates and yet I felt like he knows exactly who we are, our struggles and our desires.  I was very grateful to be in his presence today!  I am grateful to be a member of this church!

 and love these boys!