Table of Contents

Blog                                                                              Page Number

Evaluative Conclusion                                                           1

Boy Scouts of America: 121 Merit Badges                            2

World Travel                                                                        3

Why we need more Charity                                                   4

Camping among the Bears                                                     5

New Orleans Mardi Gras                                                      6

The Divine Potential                                                              7

The Influence of the True Church                                          8

John Lasseter and Steven Spielberg are at BYU                    9

Thanksgiving with the Family                                                10

The Motivation of a Successful Workout                               11

The Power of a Super Hero                                                  12

Believing “Pass” the Fear                                                       13

Two Years of Opportunities and Memories                            14

Enduring to the End: Teaching Brooke                                   15

The Changes to expect as a Return Missionary                       16

Climbing to New Heights: A Personal Narrative about Overcoming  17

Research Topic Blog                                                                18

Boyd K. Packer: Wisdom of an Old Crow                               19

The Longest Yard of my Life                                                   20

Response to Elder Eyring’s “A Child of God”                         21

Evaluative Conclusion

Page 1

I have finally completed my 20 entries for my blog. I’ve never kept a blog or for that matter a very stable journal. Yet, this has been kind of a rewarding experience because I get to write about anything and people get to view my thoughts and stories. I’m glad I can officially say I’ve blogged about something.

The hardest part of doing these blogs was meeting the deadlines, which was mainly due to procrastination. However, it was also difficult to come up with something to write about. I’d always feel the need to blog about something, but it never effectively came together. I was surprised to find myself writing about certain topics that I hadn’t considered, such as the Mardi Gras blog and the boy scout blog.

The best part of blogging was just writing what I wanted to have heard by others. It was also fun reflecting back on several experiences, which made me laugh most the time. It was also fun to comment on other blogs from other students because I could agree or disagree with what they had to say.

Overall, it helped me appreciate the process of writing that I’ve neglected over the years. Keeping a blog allows the writer an opportunity to put their thoughts and feelings down. With a blog it invokes an unlimited opportunity to be heard.

Boy Scouts of America: 121 Merit Badges

Page 2

                                                                

There are a 121 merit badges in the Boy Scout of America program. How do I know that? Cause I managed to get every single one of them. Getting all the merit badges is a feat that by any stretch is physically and mentally demanding.

It started when I moved to Texas, as I joined with a new scout troop. My scout master was eager to work on merit badges and disperse all the knowledge he had about camping. His enthusiasm ignited a similar excitement that led me to pursue the educational opportunities each badge presented. It wasn’t long before I took advantage of every scout camp and clinic that offered the badges. Pretty soon I was at seventy-five merit badges and I hinted to my dad that I was finished. He then simply advised me, “Your already at seventy-five, why not get all of them?” It was an easy statement, but once again it reiterated what I had accomplished and what I could accomplish.

I finished the last merit badge, water skiing 3 months before my eighteenth birthday (the cut off line). Overall, I’ve white water rafted the freezing Colorado rivers, sailed a boat on the calm Kansas lakes, biked over fifty miles in one sitting, hiked over a couple hundred miles, rock climbed, slept in a man-made shelter, shot bows and guns, dug at a professional archeology site, wielded, etc. Another great thing is the professional intake from the people I met, such as a drafter, a Houston police officer, an orthodontist, a photographer, a lawyer, etc.

My younger brother also managed to get them all, but he went on to earn 127 because they added more after my departure from the program. My older brother was able to climb to 56 badges (which was fine with him), but it was mainly due to the fact that he struggled to get the necessary help. Regardless, you only need 21 for your eagle and 56 far surpasses that. It wouldn’t of been possible to get this far and to get my eagle without the help of loving parents, a wonderful scout leader, and an older brother who led by example. It was truly an adventure and one that I hope to work towards again with my kids if they so choose. 

World Travel

Page 3

I echo the words of the famous Johnny Cash lyrics “I’ve been everywhere, man.” Travel has ironically always been something that intrigued my dad since it was limited to him in his youth. He set out to see as much as the United States as he could and in response we always got hauled as a family. I’ve managed to set foot in forty-nine of the fifty states. The only state that has seemed to evade my footprints is far out of reach for me, Alaska. This is frustrating because it seems that it is most likely going to detract me from my flawless record of fifty for some time since I have no intentions of going there anytime soon.  

I’ve lived in six states throughout my life. I’ve visited countless cities that include places like Honolulu, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Miami, New York, Washington D.C, and much, much more. Most the places are a vague memory, since I had very little interest in Gettysburg or Plymouth Rock at such a young age. Still it is neat to think that I’ve been there, but I definitely feel obligated to replicate my steps and explore these places again some point in my life.  

I’ve managed to travel to Mexico multiple times since I live so close to the border. Other foreign places I’ve been include the Bahamas, Canada, and as far as France and the Netherlands. I love travel because when you’re in front of something you’ve seen so many countless times in pictures, textbooks, and movies, it is fascinating! I plan to continue on this tradition my dad has started in this family and go see the rest of the world. My goal presently is visit every livable continent and the various places of interest within each. A lifelong pursuit I hope to take with my family.  

Why we need more Charity

Page 4

Charity is a widely discussed topic within the scriptures as well as heavily reviewed within the church. It is a pursuit that all people should strive to incorporate more entirely into their lives. We are taught that “if you have not faith, hope and charity, you can do nothing” (Doctrine and Covenants 18:19). Yet “above all things have fervent Charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8).

 Charity can be anything from simply opening a door for someone to organizing a food drive. It places others in front of you which tears down pride. One of my favorite parables is of the loving kindness exhibited with perfection by the Good Samaritan as he happened upon a wounded, mugged, stranger.  “A certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he [stranger] was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him” (Luke 10:33-34).

Charity is one of my favorite gospel principles because it is not about you, but about others. Charity is truly the purest love we can display in our hearts. May we follow the counsel of our beloved prophet Thomas S. Monson when as counsels “Charity never faileth.” May this long-enduring Relief Society motto, this timeless truth, guide you in everything you do. May it permeate your very souls and find expression in all your thoughts and actions” (General Conference report October 2010). May we always remember to have this pure love of Christ in our hearts and souls. 

Camping among the Bears

Page 5

It had been ten restless days of brutal hiking with overweight backpacks to slow us down. I didn’t want to think about the distance we overcame, but Brother James (our leader) was boasting loudly over dinner, “We’ve gone over a hundred miles.” Quite an accomplishment, especially since the majority of it was up. Still, I just wanted to finish my food and finally reward myself to a comfortable, nights rest rather than dwell on all the pain I had accumulated over the course of our hike.

We filed in a single line as we marched unified back to camp. Suddenly the guy in front of me stopped instantly and I slammed into the back of him. I was going to give him a mouthful since I was far from a mood of playing games, but he chirped softly “There’s a bear in the bush in front of us”. I could tell by his frightened tone that he wasn’t trying to throw a trick over my head. Oddly enough I felt nervous, as well as the other people huddled about us. We had heard horrific rumors of nasty bear attacks from random campers and were severely warned to watch out for them. Yet we failed to see a bear anywhere until this last evening.

“What should we do”? One of the younger guys uttered as he pointed towards the bush.

I thought quickly back to what we were told in case we encountered one these monstrous creatures and said the first thing that came to mind, “Quick throw rocks at it!”

The bushes rustled violently as torpedoes of rocks flew randomly into the abyss of leaves. Suddenly I heard a “thud” sound from a rock and a pathetic whimper.

“We got him” I cheered! With that there was a sigh of relief that was felt by our group. We went back to our tents and I finally got a peaceful, worry free, nights rest. In the morning, to our disgust all our food had been torn open and eaten. Brother James was laughing at the sight “Who got who?”

New Orleans Mardi Gras

Page 6

A lot of people tend to be intimated by New Orleans annual festive celebration, Mardi Gras. Crowds without limits, over the top costumes, and outrageous parades that destroy the streets with littered goodies thrown by masked individuals on the floats, can be quite startling for someone’s first experience. However, it is an event like none other and one I would carefully recommend in good spirit to all to attend.

New Orleans is known for their food and “king cake” is a special treat that comes with the festive activities of this time of year. It is a giant cinnamon roll with purple, green, and yellow (Mardi Gras colors) sugar spread across the top. It is a simple, but an incredible, indescribable treat. However, be careful not to accidentally swallow the plastic baby hidden inside the cake. Tradition says whoever gets the baby has to buy the next king cake. 

The parades are intense to say the least. Huge elaborate floats with vivid colors and designs come one after another down the roads tossing all manners of goodies into the air. Thousands of people line the streets and throw their hands up yelling for the attention of those willfully tossing out the beads, toys, and candy. Sometimes one has to be cautious because you never know if a full bag of beads will slap you across the face.

These parades can sometimes go all day long, but nothing compares to Mardi Gras Day (the last day of the festival). Instead of standard floats, huge semi-trucks pull massive trailers filled with eager throwers who would want nothing more than to spoil the crowd with their surplus of goodies. It is trucks after trucks which come non-stop for almost four hours throwing everything imaginable into the frantic, wild crowd. It almost gets repetitive, but it is so wild and different from anything you’ll ever do that it never gets old.

Mardi Gras is wild, unpredictable, and something that everyone should try at least once. There are things I would strongly recommend avoiding, but the majority of the events are family friendly. It is like nothing else, just come prepared to throw your hands up and scream eagerly. 

The Divine Potential

Page 7

    Every single person who has taken on mortality by being born in this world has the incredible, indescribable, blessing of being a child of a loving God. There is no one more who loves and cares for each of us more than he does. He wants and expects the best we can be because he knows more clearly than we do, the potential each of us possesses. Each one of his children has a divine potential that far exceeds anything we can imagine, but we must be able to handle what has already been  given to each of us in order to receive more blessings.
    God is the ultimate authoritative person exemplifying with perfectness the worth of ethos. He is flawless  and more importantly he cares with passionate love for every single child of his on this Earth. Doctrine and Covenants 18:10 is a familiar scripture that describes this love "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God." Someone who loves us so much wants us to progress and become better. As we live worthy of what we have been given he will continue to bless us unceasingly.

    I personally believe that every person has a divine potential that they can reach here in mortality and in the life to come. Everyone sets goals and works towards something in order to obtain it. With the Lords help we can not only reach a given potential or goal, but far surpass what we expected of ourselves. We will be blessed beyond our comprehensions. It is truly"with God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1: 37).

The Influence of the True Church

Page 8

     As a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, one thing that I found particularly interesting while teaching people was how they knew what they were doing was wrong, but they still were doing it. As soon as we would teach them a principle with an invitation to stop (smoking, swearing, etc.) or too start (reading scriptures, church, etc.), the most common response was "I know I need too". In almost all cases people knew right from wrong, so us teaching them was nothing they hadn't realized before, we were just bringing it to light. Many of these people come from diverse backgrounds of all religions and ethnic groups. Many of them were taught these good morals from parents, teachers, and religion leaders, but why are they continuing to ignore righteous pursuits? Reflecting on comparison from my youth, why did I not go out and do drugs with my friends who were good strong members of another faith? There are perhaps many lurking variables to answer this question, but without question the truthfulness of the church played a critical decision in my conviction to avoid drugs. Why is it that the influence of the Church of Jesus Christ has such an impact to actually makes people want to live the principles of a righteous life and change for the best?

      I think the simplest way to answer this question is the fact that when an individual realizes the truthfulness of the church, it really does change them. As someone begins to build their testimony they come to realize that this is not just another church that they should give a tithe too and spend the rest of their week in vain. Elder Boyd K. Packer has said that "The study of doctrine and the teaching of doctrine will change behavior more than the study of behavior will change behavior". When one comes to know that this is the true church they want to change!

      Perhaps the biggest reason we follow the commandments is because our Heavenly Father wants us too. Most people can agree that one of the hardest things to hear from a parent is "I'm disappointed in you". How much more do we feel disappointed in ourselves when we disappoint our God through disobedience?

We all know right from wrong and no matter how difficult it may be to get back on the right side we can do it with the Lords help. He has showed mercy in allowing us to repent as quoted, “He that repents and does the commandments of the Lord shall be forgiven” (D&C 1:32).  What a blessing it is to have such a loving God who doesn’t want us to err, but gives us the opportunity to correct our mistakes and grow. 

John Lasseter and Steven Spielberg are at BYU

Page 9

Before I ever even learned to loop it or swoop it, or simply put to tie my shoes, I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. The library offered countless books of cartoon images to practice from which I set out to draw from every single one of. My mom would be frustrated because she’d be expecting me to learn the alphabet (which was neatly pasted on my wall), but my attention would be absorbed by my tireless efforts to mimic the drawings from these books. I drew so much that I confidently proclaimed to my second grade teacher that I would go work as an animator for Disney someday.

A few years later, after seeing hundreds of movies, I borrowed my dad’s brick shaped camcorder and discovered a whole new passion. It didn’t matter what pointless images were being filmed, just as long as the camera was always on. Slowly as I grew more experienced I began to arrange short stories to create some meaning to what was being filmed. The longest film I’ve produced thus far is an hour long and the shorter ones range to only a few minutes.

Throughout high school I took advanced drawing courses which consumed most my time, but the portion left over was dedicated to creating movies. Now that I’m at BYU, more than ever am I driven to find my place among the greatest directors and animators who have ever lived. I told my second grade teacher what I wanted to be and now I’m closer than ever. It starts with my journey through the Harris Fine Arts Center, but someday it will end with my success as a Disney animator and my road as a live action film director with his own production studio. 

Thanksgiving with the Family

Page 10

This was the first Thanksgiving that my entire immediate family was together. This was mainly due to the past previous years that I was on my mission and the collected obligations of my other siblings who were unable to come home from school. It was pleasant to say the least, but it didn’t take long for us all to start contending across the table at one another (a family tradition it seems). I’d be frustratingly correcting my two brother’s disrespectful behavior to wait for a prayer of thanks, as well as the rest of the family to sit down before eating. This resulted in blank stares in my direction followed by mockery. It seems no matter how much I remind them, it is too no effect. My sister barely touched any of the temptations that lined the table due to her persistent rebuking of my brother to get a more attractive vehicle than the caved in can that he was so infatuated with. My dad kept silent, not wanting to risk any attention in his direction, but I did catch him softly say, “It’s good to have all the kids here.”

After dinner we tend to traditionally go see a movie. However, my mom was so exhausted from preparing the food and the brief war that took place that she opted out. My sister had vanished somewhere in the house, probably talking to her boyfriend, to which all of us knew to avoid her at all cost. Needless to say, it was just my dad and us three brothers.

When we got to the movie theatre, all three of us brothers walked in to get concessions leaving my dad to select a movie. He came in shortly behind us. I curiously asked, “what are we seeing, Immortals, Jack and Jill, Tower Heist?” However, I was horror stricken as my dad began to make his way into “The Muppets.” I got more of a blank stare from both my brothers than I did at dinner and I could instantly tell they were upset. Throughout the movie my younger brother ate his popcorn distastefully, while my older brother took a nap, and I just kept thinking at least it’s not twilight. Regardless, it was another memorable Thanksgiving with the family. 

The Motivation of a Successful Workout

          Page 11

     The weight room can be an agonizing place where occasionally you can hear the painful scream of someone lifting far more than their body weight. It can also be repetitive, lifting up and down, up and down. For such an uncomfortable place, why does it always seemed packed wall to wall with people? What could possibly motivate people to purposely put a lot of pressure on their bodies? Over the years since I've been lifting I have found my reasons that drive me day after day to get a good workout. The motivation of going to the gym (torture chamber) starts with a purpose,the influence of others, and the results you'll see .
          Everyone's goal in life has a purpose behind it that makes people strive after it. To get in  a consistent pattern at the gym you need to have a purpose! Most individuals probably go time after time to meet a desired physical appearance. Some may go due to recommendations from a physician. Other may just want to push themselves to say they can run a mile in 5 minutes or lift 200 pounds. Whatever the purpose, it needs to be there for one to be actively working-out.
          Lastly, is the influence of others. It is important to tell people what you intend to accomplish because that only makes you commit harder to not let them down or yourself. People may be influenced to workout to attract the opposite sex. Even while in the gym, seeing someone who is benching twice what you can may influence you to work harder.
        Once your fully committed to your purpose, you'll begin to see results in time. Once you see a stronger physical stature or a faster mile time, it only further motivates you. The results is what makes the purpose worth fighting for.
       Working out in the gym can be rough, but with the right purpose and influence from others, anyone can see results. It takes commitment and dedication. How bad are you willing to dig to see the results? Working out is hard, but it is worth every minute you put into it.

The Power of A Super Hero

page 12

     After two hours of explosions mixed with impossible odds, I came out of the theater wondering what made the super hero great in the movie. Was it the cool costume? Maybe it was possibly the epic villain they managed to defeat? Regardless, heroes have existed throughout history. Real figures in time such as Alexander the Great to fictitious heroes like Hercules. Even today firefighters, police officers, teachers, or parents can be considered a hero in someones eyes. How do they obtain glory to the point of persuasion and what value of influence can a hero have?
     I believe all heroes start out with a glories action that sets them apart. In the film I watched, the hero storm a Nazi prison camp liberating hundreds of soldiers. However, this action can be as simple as the enduring love a parent can give a child. It can go as far as the soldiers that fight in Iraq to the men and women who shuttle off to space. This glorious acts make such a profound impact to the intended audience that a very powerful ethos is developed for this hero shortly after.
     What value of influence do these people have over others? Whenever I hear on the news about some young kid or church that organized a fundraiser that helped 500 homeless people enjoy a Christmas meal, it not only brightens my day, but it helps me realize that I can do better to serve. The impact of heroes draws on the logos of all. Who doesn't want a better, peaceful, world without war and hate? When I see news reports like that I always find myself thinking logically, "If they can do their part, why can't I"?
     Heroes are all around us, they are shaping our world through their acts of bravery and kindness which sets an example for the rest of us. They are set apart by their actions and have true influence over others. A hero doesn't need to swing from buildings to stop a bank robbery, or dress in an elaborate costume to conflict evil, but someone who works to help and change someones life for the better is a true hero.

Believing "Pass" the Fear

Page 13

I stared up at the towering giant who was assigned to guard any pass that would be thrown in my direction. My legs quaked at such a demanding responsibly of out running him for my catch. I barely heard the words “hike” being shouted because I was too concentrated on the fear that they would come at any moment. All chaos resumed with the play as everyone on the field scattered for a pass. The ball regretfully was thrown towards my position. It hovered in the air briefly and descended perfectly into the arms of the other team with ease. Once again with little effort or sweat on their part they ran it in for another touchdown.

At this point our small, inadequate team was depressed. Even though our numbers doubled them, we still hadn’t scored a touchdown. This was mainly because the teenagers that oppressed us were far more matured in the sport and every single one of them doubled the height of our tallest player. We all huddled up pathetically together to listen to my older brother who assumed the position captain since he was the only one that really understood the sport. He must have been frustrated because the best plan he had for our next play was “everyone get open for a pass.” This had primarily been our strategy the entire game which was obviously not working. Even though he said “everyone”, it normally excluded me due to the numerous turnovers on my behalf and my small, inadequate, stature compared to the other kids.

Before we separated from the huddle I chirped up quickly, “Throw it to me, I’ll score”. Everyone looked surprised and my brother rolled his eyes.

“You’re not going to catch it,” my brother faithlessly doubted.

“Throw it to me,” I reiterated boldly against his response.  

He shook his head hesitantly and carelessly agreed to my demands by saying “whatever”.

We all found a place on the line. I met the same towering guard who expected to make another easy take from me. This time I cleared my thoughts of fear and doubt. The game resumed with the words “hike”. I cut sharp for a short pass and the ball was thrown effortlessly into the air for a sloppy catch by me. My guard was only a few feet away when he noticed he failed to relieve me of my catch.

My feet pounded against the grass and my heart beat so fast it almost exploded out of my chest. I had the entire field to run which gave my pursuer time to catch me. I could hear him breathing down my neck, practically running on my heels. Ignoring it I just focused on the end zone. Faster, faster, faster, I ran.

Then I stopped when I heard the guard groan in disbelief because he knew he failed to stop me. I had done it; I had ran the entire field into the end zone, scoring the only point for our team. My older brother and my teammates came running down the field cheering. My brother laughed by complimenting me “I knew you could do it”.

           I smiled in response, “I knew I could”.

Two Years of Opportunity and Memories

Page 14

     The decision to serve a mission was entirely my choice with little pressure from my parents because my older brother felt no prior obligation to go. I contemplated it deeply due to the overwhelming commitment expected. Sometimes I felt angry at the thought of being expected to go away for two years and work tirelessly on my feet. However, my dad sat me down and said, "I am not disappointed in your brother for not going, but I am deeply upset at the opportunity he has chosen to miss". I didn't understand what he meant at the time, but I committed at that moment with all my heart to go and serve.

My first few months away I could not understand what my dad meant by “opportunity” due to the incredibly difficult companions I had been assigned too. I fought to keep my head above water, because every day I was around these individuals I felt like I was better off drowning. As I progressed forward and saw the days turn into weeks and the weeks turn into months, I looked back at my experience. It was incredible, the memories that I had accumulated. The memories of the long hot days riding my bike repetitively up and down the road chasing down complete strangers. It was the memories of church members who kindly welcomed two fatigued elders to have dinner with them. Most of all it was the memories of the lives that had been touched by the spirit.

My dad spoke of “opportunity” and the memories that I built was only a portion of that opportunity from my mission. The other portion came from growth mentally, physically, and spiritually. A portion came from the enduring friendships that I made that will last forever and much, much, more. Regardless, there were really bad days that required a lot of strength to get through, but the really good days came together to build some of the most memorable days of my life. 

Enduring to the End: Teaching Brooke

Page 15

The first half of my mission I was blessed to be able to teach and invite many people to be baptized. However, the second portion of my mission experience was a night and day contrast to my previous success from my first year. A Door slamming in my face was becoming a common melody. Dogs tearing into my pants were a constant threat. Awkward confrontations disrupted the peaceful spirit we so desperately needed.   I was towards the end of my mission and the end of my wits. As I approached the final three months before I went home, I began questioning why I stayed this extra year on my mission only to meet endless trials and sorrows.

There was an unfortunate event that required the quick departure of a recent elder and my obligation as a replacement for him. It was a new area that would involve me learning the ward and investigators swiftly in order to do my part before my demise. Time was not my ally at this point.

We began teaching Brooke the lessons after she called us to come over. She interestingly enough had moved to this area at the exact same time I did. Nothing we taught was anything she hadn’t heard before because she had been attending church and meeting with missionaries for over fourteen years. It was because of her deep analytical way of thinking that made it difficult to wrap her head around many of the principles of the gospel. Regardless, she made it very clear that she felt ready to be baptized. With less than five weeks until I would go back home, Brooke wanted to be baptized within the next two weeks. My companion and I were ecstatic about this, but it was short lived.

I sat quietly on her couch, disheartened as she admitted that, “I don’t understand where Christ fits in”. All the members in the room erupted in attempts to explain the atonement, but it failed to register in the least with Brooke. I simply sat forward and finally spoke softly, “Your about to join a church with his name in it. It is the church of Jesus Christ”. She nodded in response to this, but then confessed “I’m not ready to be baptized”. I rested back quietly in my seat feeling my heart sink into the same feeling of sorrow that had plagued my life for the last year. Everyone in the room went on trying to explain it as clearly as they could, but to not effect.

The morning that followed felt pointless. My companion spoke little to me and I just wanted to engulf myself into the scriptures to bypass the grief. The phone suddenly rang, which I answered abruptly. Brooke’s voice spoke gently into my ear, “Something was said last night that really made me understand the role of Christ”. My throat instantly dried up, I could not speak or breathe. After no response from me she quickly continued, “I want to be baptized and I would like you to do it”. My companion practically had to catch me as I fainted.

It was perhaps one of the longest years of my life, filled with countless hours of knocking doors and teaching endless lessons that never seemed to go anywhere. I wondered why I had stayed this extra year to suffer so much, but it was because I needed to be there to teach Brooke at the end. The Lord knew that if I would endure to the end that I could help change one more life before I left. It was a powerful lesson, not a fun one, but an effective lesson. No matter how hard it gets, don’t stop! There is always light at the end of the tunnel.

The Changes to Expect as a Return Missionary

Page 16

The start of this year I was just finishing up the final months of my mission in Oregon. I was torn to leave, but excited to be with my family again and resume my normal life. However, life was far from normal when I returned home. I now know that the movie “The RM” is a true story because it seemed as if I was re-watching it, but only through the eyes of my life.

I insisted that my parents use my room in my absence, but they practically took an oath to defend it from any intruders (Siblings). I was rather pleased to hear of their dedication in protecting my things although I refused to let on that I cared. However, when I arrived home my room had been confiscated by my older sister who had moved back home briefly. All my stuff was removed from my room and cluttered recklessly about in the attic. The worst part was my welcome home confinement to the living room floor. I could not but help to shed a pathetic tear of frustration the first night I was home.

I quickly got use to the floor, but I could never get use to the sleepless nights. The blame was placed entirely on the new addition to the family, three baby puppies that yapped all night. They occupied the room next to mine and they made their presence known. I’d normally go to bed around 1 am which is when they would normally wake up and want to play. Needless to say, we got to know each other really well.

I couldn’t completely understand why we had the three adorable, far from innocent, additional dogs in our family. When I left we had two dogs, but when I returned our house was bombarded by a total of seven dogs, most of which came with my sister’s return. Before I left my brother’s two iguanas could comfortably sit in the palm of your hand, but when I returned they measured close to five feet in length. My brother also brought home a tarantula that my parents still try relentlessly and discretely to kill. Although my dad had grown use to the multiple pets that found their way to our home, he referred to our house as a barn.

Lastly, where were all my previous high school friends? I had been abandoned by all my friends due to their own obligations and future outlook from their own college pursuits. Only my best friend remained to welcome me home on the first day of my arrival. However, after that he seemed to be preoccupied elsewhere because I rarely saw him. It was an odd transition from meeting with strangers and friends daily in the mission field to only hanging out with family.

Overall, a lot can change in two years and coming back to it can be just as startling, but exciting. Indeed I lost my room, indeed I lost my friends, and most importantly I lost desired sleep. Yet, my experience from my mission and the eventful return are forever locked into my memory and I would not trade it for the world. 

Climbing to New Heights: A Personal Narrative about Overcoming

Page 17

It was perhaps the worst idea I have ever had. I was just looking for the next challenging thing to do, just to say it didn’t conquer me. So I recommended to several of my friends to come climb the South Sister Mountain with me, which practically hovered above the earth’s atmosphere. I was thoroughly warned by those familiar with the climb that it isn’t something to attempt in a day, which we were obligated to do regardless. I should have listened because it became one of the longest days of my life.

We started off before the sun was ready to meet us. Chirping, rustling, growling was all about us, but it was impossible to see what was making these noises due to the thick forest that caved in over us. Five of us followed round about the narrow trails in an ordered line. I kept my eyes intently on the person in front of me because I feared what lied but a stretch away in the murky forest. The mosquitos were viciously taking advantage of our already weary team.

Nothing could have pleased us more than to be welcomed by the sunshine’s beautiful smile as we rushed restlessly out of the miserable forest and away from our attackers. My friend Jimmy turned with a confident smile and stated sarcastically, “That was easy, especially the killer swarm of mosquitos.”

I could tell the rest of our group members appeared rather pale as they were itching from the bites. To which I mumbled, hoping no one would hear, “Let’s never go through there again”. The thought was nice, but the reality was the forested path of disaster was the only way to return after we reach the top.

It seemed like the walk required to the base of the mountain was pleasant and easy from there on out because the sun wasn’t hidden behind thick forested trees like previously. When we reached the base of South Sister, we all hopelessly glanced up to the ever increasing mountain that waited to taunt our efforts to scale it. Vance our current leader and only person to have beforehand hiked the mountain offered words of encouragement “Don’t fall off an edge and die”. Simple, logical, advice I believe we could all agree on.

It felt as if the mountain knew we were coming and tried to adjust its slopes in order to push us back with ridiculous angles. Our poor hands were torn by the jagged rocks because we kept slipping from the small rock fragments that delightfully teased us as they slid out from under our feet. Perhaps the only thing that kept us going was the naive thought that it would only be a couple more steps. However, if I dared to look up I knew this was a hopeless, horrible, lie.

“I can’t go on much more,” Vance admitted, almost in tears.

“Are you sure? It’s just a little higher,” I comfortingly counseled.

He slowly sat down on a rock and looked down shamefully defeated, “I’ll wait for you to finish”.

It was ironic that the only one of us who had successfully climbed the mountain before had given up just short of the top. I felt compelled to join him because I was utterly exhausted, not to mention out of water. However, I heard a familiar hymn being sung from Jimmy, accompanied by the other two who were a stones toss ahead. They vibrantly sang with enthusiasm “High on a mountain top, a banner is unveiled…” My feet began to willing dance their way up the mountain, even though my brain insisted that I stop. Yet, my heart would not let me quit.

When I finally reached the peak of the mountain I was almost too tired to even celebrate.. I began munching on the snow that littered the entire top, hoping to get water anyway possible way. I felt like I was hallucinating when I saw the breath taking view because of dehydration from lack of water. Regardless, the view was unimaginably beautiful with endless forest and wilderness stretching out in every direction from the mountain. It was completely worth it. Even though I was hurt and completely drained, I thought to myself, I just climbed and overcame this mountain, I did not quit.

Jimmy came up from behind me and spoiled the refreshing moment as he pointed out the obvious truth, “We have to go all the back now.”

Down the slippery slope we ran, with pebbles making their unwelcoming home in our shoes. Across the sunny plain we marched anticipating the forested trail it led into. Through the forest we managed to avoid the predators and finally find the car that brought us to this eventful day.

I wobbled as I approached the car, because of the 14 mile hike up the most ruthless mountain I have ever climbed.  I had been warned not to do it in one day, but it was the fact that I ran out of water that made the hike so treacherous. Never in my life have I felt so much relief as when I sat down comfortably in my car seat. I didn't want to think about what I had just went through because thinking at that moment hurt, as well as the rest of my body. The only thing that kept going through my head was I did it.

Research Topic Blog

Page  18

       Writing a research paper can be quite a daunting task. Not only are you required to write, but you are required to find and study. Thus far I have managed to develop my topic of interest to research as well as various sources to refer too. This journey for me in writing a successful paper developed foremost as the topic of my choosing, followed by gathering resources, and developing an annotated bibliography.
      Although I love the freedom of choice, finding a topic of interest to research in dept has probably been the most difficult thing thus far. What am I interested in enough to explore more readily? I contemplated several issues, but nothing seemed to excite me enough to report a 8 to 10 page paper over it. I finally called random friends and family asking them for potential topic ideals. While talking with my brother who is an avid video game player, I finally wanted to research the billion dollar industry of gaming. I have taken a similar approach before by studying their violent influences, but never have I ever thought to study them in a positive light. Finding a topic of interest is critical or your journey might just take longer.
     Finding credible resources is critical when writing a research paper. Without the proper sources your paper can not be considered reliable which in turn can make it a useless work of fiction. Our class had the opportunity to take advantage of the librarian aid in finding evidences to support our papers. My topic of video games is heavily debated and studied which made it easy to find various sites while in the library. My experience in the library was enjoyable because it took me away from the normal routine of a classroom and made researching easier.
     The annotated bibliography is a new experience for me, but a simple process that involves taking sources and summarizing their intentional use within the paper. I don't find this to be difficult other than making sure that the sources are cited properly in their MLA form. Summarizing these evidences are also helping me sort out my sources, which helps me stay focused and organized. Making an annotated bibliography is a new tool that I am learning to use and plan to use in future endeavors.
     Writing this research paper is a process that involves picking a topic of interest that will be enjoyable to research and effectively using the tools to write a successful paper. I've managed to get my footing down by gathering the necessary material and compiling it, but now it is time to start really running with it by writing. It's a long journey that can be intimidating, but at least i got my base down and now it is time to build a successful paper.

Boyd K. Packer: Wisdom of an Old Crow

Page 19

     The 2011 October General Conference from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was filled with authoritative messages of faith, hope, and love. All stood out as inspirational, but one talk in particular given by Elder Packer, seemed to be most applicable to me. His position as a leader in the church gives him the necessary ethos to appeal to the youth, the ongoing dangers they should avoid, and how to become better.
     Immediately, as he begins his talk he compliments the youth by referring to them as "precious beyond measure". This establishes almost immediate trust from the youth as they feel the warming comfort of his words.  He also appeals to the youth through a humorous poem that not only draws on the emotion of the audience, but also uses logic when he informs us that he is old and experienced with wisdom to impart. In this the youth are called out and drawn into attention. 

     Elder Packer refers to the dangers of the current situation of the world as "enemy territory". This can be a startling way to view things which emotionally can upset many, but it is an inevitable truth that many can logically see. He talks of immodestly and refers to the power of procreation as something not to be abused. He also refers to some of our associations that we can do without. He boldly forewarns which is not always pleasant, but clearly the youth can follow his words because of his age and influence as an apostle.  

     His talk concerns how to be better as we become more aware of our errors as quoted "You will not make a major mistake without first being warned by the spirit".  This is comforting, that the spirit will first warn. He also counsels that all hold a key that can unlock that door that can help us be washed clean through the atonement. This gives the youth a sense of hope, that calls upon pathos. 
    The youth and all can relate to Elder Packer due to his experience and ethos as an apostle as he teaches the youth concerning the danger of the world and how to over come it. He draws a lot of pathos as he expresses the loving opportunity to become better that God has given us. With strong concluding words he advises all to "Hold fast to your life". 

The Longest Yard of My Life

Page 20

      Sleep was impossible that night. Over and over again my memories played out the horrific scenes that I had recently experienced. It was the taunting fans who bore the red "U" with their unmerciful team of football players that decimated my blue colored team early that evening. These thoughts flooded my head and sleep was not an option for me that night.
      Football is perhaps the only sport that can fully grab my attention without interruption. My anticipation for my first college game that I would attend that evening was overwhelming. I made it to the stadium far earlier than necessary, making sure that not a minute would pass of the game without me.
      The game started with a quick fumble and score by the rivals. I should of saw it early, but  I hoped for the best because this play foreshadowed the rest of the game. It became increasingly difficult to cheer as the red colored team showed no compassion on the football field. The fans tried earnestly to praise their broken blue team, but found a safer option by exiting the stadium before the end of the massacre that was currently taking place. I compared the crowds flight out of the stadium to that exodus experienced by the children of Israel fleeing Egypt, certainly relief came to them and us as we fled.
      It was the longest walk of my life home. What happened? Why? How could they? Grief, that was the simplest way to put it for me. The thoughts would not remove from my mind that entire night. Play by play came and went with review in my head, with the same questions being asked, but never expected to be answered. However, one questions I finally understood! The reason why the jerseys of the Utah players were a lot brighter red than normal that evening.

Response to Elder Eyring's "A Child of God"

            Page 21

      Elder Eyring spoke of a strong learner and the attributes that encompass such an individual. He helps all identify these habits of a great learner and put them in our own lives. However, he emphasizes humility as a foundation to really growing as a learner and pride as hurdle that can hinder ones ability to becoming a hallmark of a learner.

              Elder Eyring spoke of the pursuit towards educational excellence and it's dependence on humility. I was baffled as I read across this because I never associated humility as a focus my schooling. I questioned the power that humility has over the unlearned and what contributions it can provide to one's growth. The answer seems simple, the Lord wants us to be humble so he can teach us. Who doesn't want the Lord on their side? Is he not the greatest ally, friend, teacher we have? I think most people can agree an education at BYU is not your leisure Sunday stroll through the park experience; to this Elder Eyring counsels "work hard"! With a humble heart we "rise up to the privileges God wants to grant us". Without a humble heart we rely on on our own strengths, but with God assistance  "nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:39). Not even that calculus class will hold you back!

             Elder Eyring brings up important characteristics of a strong learner, all of which contrast the prideful individual. He tells us foremost to "welcome correction". It's not the easiest to have someone point out your faults, but it is impossible to recognize them when one is full of pride. We are counseled not only to welcome correction it but to desire because none of us our perfect. It helps to know where you went wrong so you can improve! His second characteristic listed was that great learners keep commitments. He tells us "what all disciplines have in common is a search for rules and a commitment to them. No doubt the pride that one may have can destroy his commitments to rules or regulations. If one can't commit to rules of education, then what makes one think they can commit to the Lord? The last two characteristics of a great learner is that they work hard and expect resistance and eventually overcome it. I believe it is important for everyone to do their part with a humble heart and allow  Heavenly Father help you overcome the resistance.