Stake Conference March 2011

This week-end was our Stake Conference (instead of "regular" church meetings, we meet in Nanaimo with several other wards/branches (congregations)) to hear from the leadership that presides over our Stake (district).

Last night was the adult session, so after an up and down shift at work, I picked up a few other folks and Adam & we all headed south to Nanaimo. It was a really good meeting and here are a few tidbits I picked up this time. . .

• We build our testimonies of the Truthfulness of the Gospel much in the same way maple sap fills a bucket; slowly, one drop at a time, over time.
• Comparing ourselves to others is one of Lucifer's greatest tools; he can use it to destroy us.
• "We must improve ourselves before we cannot."

Today's session was for everyone, so the whole family dragged themselves out the door an hour earlier than usual. Our ward's choir performed a beautiful hymn, beautifully during the meeting (our kids are all choir members). Then we heard two wonderful conversion stories; one, a brand new member in his early 20's, the other a woman who fell away early in her twenties and who has now come back into the fold in her 50's (?).

A few of the little nuggets that I picked up today were. . .

• The Celestial Kingdom is the only place forever families exist.
• Even the economy of the region in which we live can be affected by our righteousness.
• "Busy-ness" is a mental trick and a flimsy excuse for Spiritual laziness.
• Obedience to God is the key to freedom.
• "Stick to the church until it sticks to you"- This one was directed at the youth.

It has been a blustery couple of days with the weather, but very uplifting Spiritually speaking. I have the warmest feelings for our stake leadership and feel so privileged to be under their care and guidance.

Many of the locals are complaining about the late start to spring this year and wondering when we will be able to get our gardens started. I am just grateful not to be in Japan at this point. I have several trays of seeds in various stages of growth that will go into the ground whenever spring does decide to make an appearance.

Elizabeth has two different concert performances this week, I hope to get a few pictures, but we'll see what happens.

Everyone heads back to the routine in the am, and this is the last week of school before the kids have spring break.