And You Thought I Was Going to Save the World

I Blog

2010-09-15T17:36:00.001-04:00

Just not here anymore. I am now:

My Day in the Scriptures

Engagement Pictures

2010-05-09T20:42:00.001-04:00

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Preparing as Youth to Receive Guidance in These Troubled Times:

2009-11-09T17:06:00.004-05:00

At the last Stake General Priesthood Meeting, I was asked to speak/train about the Duty to God program that the young men participate in by setting goals for their personal development. Here are my notes from the presentation:

In 1820, God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to a young boy Joseph Smith in answer to his humble petition. What had Joseph Smith both done and been taught in order to receive such a mighty revelation? What must you and I do in our youth in order to receive our own mighty revelations, in other words, what does Joseph Smith’s experience teach us about our own lives? What established guideposts do we have that will guide us in our lives? In consonance with those thoughts, this evening I would like to discuss a guide post that the young men have in their lives: the Duty to God Program.

In order to illustrate the importance of guideposts in our life’s journey, let me share an experience that I recently had. For work, I was traveling in order to visit with a client of mine and I had printed a map with what I believed to have correct directions to the location of the meeting. When I got to the area where I supposed to end up, I soon recognized that the map and directions that I had printed from the internet had taken me to an incorrect neighborhood and I had no immediate means of knowing which way I needed to go in order to arrive at the agreed upon destination. With the hour of appointment at hand and anxiety mounting in my mind, I called a friend in order to receive guidance, direction and resources that I did not have immediately at hand. My friend was able to get me back on course and assisting me in arriving at the proper destination.

This story illustrates the need for correct guideposts in two ways. First, it is incumbent upon us to know that we have accessed the necessary guideposts to help us arrive and the destination we desire to arrive at. Where is it that we need to arrive at? All of us here know that it is a “better country” that we “desire”, even “an heavenly” (see Hebrews 11:16). Indeed we know that our Father in Heaven has prepared for us Celestial glory. We know the destination and therefore it becomes necessary for you and I to know the necessary guideposts that will point us on the way to that ultimate destination. Guidepost, therefore, serve the purpose of pointing us to that next

"The Duty to God Award will assist young men to meet the future challenges of life and to achieve the purposes of the Aaronic Priesthood. . . .

"If you will fulfill the requirements for these priesthood duties and personal attributes, you will prepare yourselves for the Melchizedek Priesthood responsibilities and future challenges in your life. I promise you that your achievement of the Duty to God Award will provide you with a living testimony that will sustain you throughout your life.

"Where available, Scouting can also help you in this effort. We encourage you to participate in Scouting. Many of the Scouting requirements can fill goals and requirements of the Duty to God certificates.

"Scouting is part of the Aaronic Priesthood activity program. The Duty to God Award is a priesthood award, having requirements that will help you develop spiritually and fulfill your priesthood duties.

"Some of the great blessings of these programs that have been developed are that as the youth of the Church, you will have a clear understanding of who you are, you will be accountable for your actions, you will take responsibility for the conduct of your life, and you will be able to set goals so that you might achieve what you were sent to earth to achieve. Our plea is that you strive to do your very best. . . .

" . . . By fulfilling your duty to God, you will bring blessings not only to your own life but to the lives of others.

"Giving service to others is one of the purposes of the Aaronic Priesthood. As a requirement for the Duty to God Award, at least once each year you will have a service project that will provide an opportunity for significant service to your family, the Church, or the community. As you help and serve others, you will learn that the following scripture is a very essential part of the gospel: 'Inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, ye do it unto me' (D&C 42:38).

"I hope the parents, and the bishops—who are the presidents of the Aaronic Priesthood—will understand that the young men and young women for whom they have responsibility have been prepared to come to earth at this particular time for a sacred and glorious purpose. It is a great blessing to be able to qualify for and then receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. You young men have noble callings to become righteous men, to grow in strength, and to influence others for good. You young men are the future of the Church. . . .

"Brethren of the Aaronic Priesthood, set your goals now and start working toward earning your Duty to God Award and Eagle Scout Award. You will be blessed for your efforts. . . .

" . . . I promise you that you will be blessed for your faithfulness and declare with the prophet Alma, 'I have said these things unto you that I might awaken you to a sense of your duty to God, that ye may walk blameless before him, that ye may walk after the holy order of God' (Alma 7:22)" ("Fulfilling Our Duty to God," Ensign, Nov. 2001, 39–41).

"With the challenges that are bombarding young men today—Satan’s attempts to weaken them and lead them astray—there has never been a greater need for the blessings that come through achieving the Duty to God Award. A young man who is dedicated to reading the scriptures daily, memorizing the Article of Faith, and accomplishing the other requirements will not only be more focused on that which is good and right and true, but he will be more prepared to shun evil" ("Fulfilling Our Duty to God: A Window of Opportunity," Ensign, Sept. 2006, 36).

Power of Education

2009-10-17T11:14:00.005-04:00

I was invited to speak at a fundraiser for a local non-profit, Diamonds in the Rough Sports, Inc. I met the founder of the nonprofit about 8-9 months ago and have tried to help as he gets things launched. The nonprofit focuses on taking kids that were not able to finish high school and help get them off the street, into charter school and then on the college. They use the vehicle of athletic ability in order to help get these kids scholarships and junior colleges. It is a program that has amazing potential to impact kids that really need the support. The event was interesting because they had 5 young men who will be the newest participants. Each of these boys is from Liberty City, which is probably one of the roughest areas in Miami. It was fun to sit and talk to them and see what their interests were and what they were hoping to accomplish. You could tell that these young men had seen a lot and experienced a tough road. I was especially impressed by the comments of the last young man, Zedric. Zedric is about 19 years old and he talked about a picture of his peewee football team that he has in his room. He said of all the boys in that picture, 5 are already dead, 3 have life sentences in prison and 2 are in prison for 7 year terms. Zedric talked about being profiled by the police and other "expected" him to screw up. He then said, "I don't want to be a failure anymore." There are too many kids like that out there... That don't have people concerned enough to make a difference in their lives. I wish that more people could have been at that event. Could have seen what a powerful opportunity for change we have in an incredibly difficult difficult neighborhood here in Miami. The organization really needs help and support so that these kids don't get let down again. Spread the word about Diamonds in the Rough Sport. You all can help. Even if it is in the form or making a small donation or getting people you know to assist. If you want to know more, send me a message and I can put you in contact with Lloyd Price, the founder. Anyways, here is a transcript of my speech and a link to the video. Spread the word and help out!

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=159250546454&ref=nf

“The Power of Education”

To begin, I like to express my gratitude to Lloyd for the vision and foresight to set up Diamonds in the Rough Sports and put together this event this evening. I'm also glad to see all of you here tonight because of the commitment that that demonstrates and the influence that each of you can have in the lives of the young people of our community. This is a great start and I hope that we can take the vision of what we see today and share with our friends and neighbors in order to launch this nonprofit.

I appreciate the opportunity that Lloyd has given me tonight to speak with you a little about the power of education. In order to illustrate the principles of education that I would like to share with you to be this evening, I would like to share a story from my own life. When I was a young man my family lives in the state of Minnesota. In our backyard were two large pine trees that had grown relatively close to one another. I enjoyed taking as many opportunities as I could to go into the backyard and climb the trees. On one such occasion, I had climbed about 10 or 15 feet up in one of the trees and decided that I wanted to be in the other tree. I had two options: I could climb down, walk from the base of the tree that I was on to the base of the other tree and climb that tree. But I fixed my mind on the second option. I decided it would be much faster to walk along the intertwined branches of the two trees to go from one tree to the other. As such, I proceeded to walk along the branch that I was standing on in an attempt to walk along the branches attached to the other tree. I had taken a couple of steps when I was soon taught an important ecological truth. Branches are weaker the further they get from the trunk of the tree. This lesson was taught in dramatic fashion as the branch I was standing on snapped and I fell to the ground landing on my back. Lucky for me the only thing that happened was I knocked the wind out of myself, but the lesson persists to this day.

Now there are several analogies that we can draw from this experience that I had, but I would like to focus on two things. First, safety that exists in education; or standing close to the trunk. Second, the power of education to allow us to do the right thing, or the best thing. Education has played a very important role for me in my life. In fact at this point in time the majority of my life was spent in receiving a formal education. Of course that's not to diminish the education that I've received since then but simply illustrates the impact that education has had on me on a daily basis. Education also plays a critical role in the development of communities and of civilizations. Education has done more across the go to alleviate poverty, sickness, depression, and all sorts of adversities that everyone faces. Education brings everyone safety and opportunity.

In fact, internationally, education has played a critical role in assisting individuals and families to break out of the poverty cycle in the developing world. For example, in the country of Bangladesh Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Peace Prize winner, has worked directly with the poor of Bangladesh in order to offer them opportunities to overcome their situation. A critical element of the work that he is doing has been education. In his own words, “the effects of poverty can be very insidious. Public schools in Bangladesh are available even in the countryside, tuition is not charged, and books are free. But this doesn't mean that money is not a barrier to education. Paper, pens, pencils, and other supplies cost money. So does a school uniform. Even more important, sending a child off to school for several hours a day has a hidden cost in the income generating potential that must be foregone. A small child can help make money for the family in many ways-fetching water from the local stream or well, carting supplies around the farm. When even a few cents makes a meaningful difference in the income of a family, a mother and father must think carefully before making the sacrifice of committing a child to continued education.” By offering a scholarship program to those families that helps to cover those incidental costs, more children are able to participate in continuing education in Bangladesh.

Although the poverty that we deal with in the United States may appear different to the struggles of those families in Bangladesh, we still struggle to help families help their children get the education they need. Families here in the United States deal with similar decisions related to the cost of education and related to the hidden cost of losing an income generator. Children here need the same opportunities to have access to the funds and resources that they need to further their education. In Bangladesh the struggle was getting children of primary school. Here in the United States we struggle getting kids to college. We lose too many kids because they do not have the resources to cover the costs associated with higher education. What is equally as tragic is the fact that many of these potential college students don't further their education because they don't know that they have access to opportunities. That they have resources that will allow them to receive the support and funding that they need to further their education. There is great safety that comes from education.

In my own family, education played an important role in overcoming the poverty that existed in our country during the Great Depression. My grandfather was able to receive a college education and become a teacher following his service in World War II because he was able to access funding through a G.I. Bill. I am also personally grateful that he was able to receive an education because it was where he met my grandmother. It is amazing to see the impact that education continues to have in the lives of my family members. My grandfather went from being a poor boy on a farm in Arizona who didn't have shoes because they couldn't afford them to being a successful school teacher in Oregon. Amazing as that is, the picture becomes more vibrant when you look at the subsequent generations. My father was able to go on and receive a PhD in engineering. His siblings not only went to college but received masters and doctorates in their various fields of studies. And I'm grateful to say that I was able to make it through law school because of their sacrifice and dedication to family. Education has great power and that power increases from generation to generation.

As stated earlier the second analogy that I would like to illustrate is the impact of education in helping us determine the best course for our lives. Former Sec. Gen. of the United Nations, Kofi Annan said, “Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.” and “Education is a human right with immense power to transform. On its foundation rest the cornerstones of freedom, democracy and sustainable human development.” Education offers to each of us the opportunity to not only learn arithmetic, grammar, fact and figures. Education is a great key with which each and every one of us can unlock potentially limitless potential. Therefore it is not just that we learned to read, but it instead becomes the vehicle or the tool with which we read good books. We are able to engage literature or use arithmetic in order to better our own lives as well as the communities in which we live.

Every child in our community should have the opportunity of receiving the education that they desire. Whether it's a scrawny little boy in Minnesota falling out of trees, the son of a single mother that lives down the street or the kid that they thought would never amount to anything. They need to know that they can do it. I need to know how they can do it. Let make sure that the kids in our community are able to keep climbing those trees. What a great opportunity it is for you and for me to support access to education in our community. Thank you.

Developing Patterns of Worship

2009-08-24T09:11:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I was asked to speak in Church, so I thought I would share my talk with y’all… Love ya!

“Developing Patterns of Worship”

The Gospel of Jesus Christ offers to you and to me wonderful opportunities and experiences. These opportunities and experiences are directly tied to the manner in which you and I worship. Because of how important it is to properly worship the Lord, I would like to outline some principles that I've learned in my life that have helped me to better understand how to develop proper patterns of worship. Also, to assist in the illustration of these principles, I will discuss how we apply them in our Sabbath day worship. I pray that we can reflect by the Spirit on how to worship and remember the blessings it brings to our lives.

The Spiritual Geography of Worship:

One of the first things that we learn about worship from the Sabbath day is that our ability to worship is directly impacted by our being in the proper location. In order for our worship to be whole and complete, the Lord expects us to attend church, participate in our meetings, and assist according to the assignments we receive and the dictates of the Spirit. Great protection comes into our life when we are physically located where we need to be spiritually.

In order to illustrate this principle of the importance of physical geography to spiritual worship and let me share a scripture. Following the death of the Savior, there was great physical turmoil here in the Americas. The book of Mormon describes the storms, earthquakes, mountains becoming valleys, significant loss of life and other forms of destruction. Following this turmoil, those that survived heard a voice and received counsel from the Lord. The Savior said, "oh all ye that are spared because ye were more righteous than they, will ye not now return unto me, to repent of your sins, and be converted, then I may heal you? Yea, verily I say unto you, if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, my arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me."[i] Soon after receiving this instruction from the Lord, a large group gathered near the temple in the land of Bountiful. The Savior's instruction to "come unto him" involved two necessary elements. First, the minds and hearts of the people needed to focus on him. Second, those who wanted to follow him needed to be basically in the right location. Those that were gathered at the temple had great blessing of being directly taught by the Lord.

The same holds true for you and I. The Lord extends the same invitation to you and to me. Do we need healing? Do we desire to receive eternal life? We must turn our hearts and minds to the Lord and we must physically locate ourselves where he can personally counsel us. When we attend our church meetings, it should not simply be to see great friends, hear a great sermon, or simply fulfill a duty. Our Sabbath should be an effort for each and every one of us to be right where the Lord needs us to be. I promise that when you and I physically are where we need to be, he will teach us the personal, beautiful messages that we long to hear. Knowing that, let us not forget those around us that need healing, that need these messages, but are currently located in the wrong spiritual geography. Let us bring them home.

How are We to Worship:

Because worship is important to our spiritual development, it is comprised of many elements that should be focused on bringing us to Jesus Christ. The Sabbath, especially our Sunday meetings, allows us to partake in many beautiful aspects of worship. I would like to focus on two things that we can do that will help us to improve our worship: communication and music. I will discuss them within the context of the Sabbath day, but the principles expressed apply to our daily worship as well.

First, communication is a critical element of worship. Our worship is enriched as we discuss the Gospel, share how to apply it, and strengthen and support one another. As you and I, "meet together oft, to fast and pray, and to speak one with another concerning the welfare of [our] souls,"[ii] we will be able to increase our understanding and access to the things of the Lord. It is true that our classes and meetings offer an obvious opportunity to do this, but we minimize our access to the Lord when we limit this element of worship only to what we do in our Sunday meetings. These gospel conversations can and should occur on a daily basis, or is Moroni said, “Oft.” As we do so, we see the completeness of the plan of salvation, the ways in which the Lord has specifically tailored principles to bless us in every aspect of our lives, and we understand who we are and the role we are to play in his kingdom.

But, our communication is incomplete as a form of worship, if we simply communicate amongst ourselves. There are others whose welfare must also be discussed. Those for whom we should also fast and pray. Our friends, neighbors and family members who do not yet have testimonies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ need to know. They need to hear. And we need to tell them. Because the Sabbath day is set apart is his day were our connection to the Savior is closer, as we spend the whole day in worship, they will see and know the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They will know where we are and thereby know him. They need to feel the Spirit through the reverence of our Sabbath worship.

There is another form of communication that is critical to our worship. Prayer. The Savior said a beautiful example both to his disciples as well as to us today, of the importance of communicating with the Father. In an Ensign article, this example is illustrated in a discussion on worship. “During the Savior’s ministry, his nearness to the Father deeply touched the twelve. They seemed to be especially impressed with his prayers. On one occasion they said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray.” (Luke 11:1.) He then gave them a pattern for prayer we refer to as the Lord’s Prayer. Although for centuries this prayer has been used as part of a ritual in public worship, the gospels of Matthew and Mark make it clear that it was given for instruction and not for ceremonial purposes. The prayer begins with a statement of reverence for the name of God. The name of God means the character of God, the kind of God he is. Then it asks that God’s will be obeyed on earth as in heaven. It asks God to sustain us, to forgive us, and to keep us from the evils of this life. The prayer is intensely personal, and should teach us to communicate more clearly with God regarding our personal needs.”[iii] Complete worship must include sincere prayer.

Second, our worship of the Lord is amplified by the music that we participate in while we worship. It is no surprise that in speaking to Emma Smith, the Savior said, "for my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with the blessing upon their heads."[iv] Music allows us access to the Lord in a very unique and beautiful way. Our Sunday meetings are blessed when all participate with joy as we sing the hymns of Zion. But our access and use of spiritually uplifting music should not be limited simply to singing hymns and church. Our homes must be a safe have were all who enter hear and partake in good and uplifting music. We worship the Lord as we listen to the songs that remind us of him and his great sacrifice on our behalf. As we listen to songs that bring joy and peace to the ears of those that hear them. We must not limit our own access to the spirit by limiting our access to the spiritual power of hymns.

The Focus of Our Worship:

Ultimately though, we must always remember whom we worship. Our Savior Jesus Christ. Whether it is our worship in the Temple, our Sunday meetings, or the spirit that we seek to bring into our homes, we must remember him. Alma emphasize this is he taught his son Helaman about the importance of the Scriptures and missionary work. After reviewing his own personal conversion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Alma taught the importance of remembering and doing the small and simple things. In order to illustrate this point, Alma reflected on the experience of their ancestors with the Liahona or director that they had received from the Lord. He taught, "And now, my son, I would that ye should understand that these things are not without a shadow; whereas our fathers were slothful to give the heed to this compass (now these things were temporal) they did not prosper; even so it is with things which are spiritual. For behold, it is easy to give heed to the word of Christ, which will point to you a straight course to eternal bliss, as it was for our fathers to give heed to this compass, which would point out to them a straight course to the promised land. And now I say, is there not a type in this thing? For just as surely as this director did bring our fathers, by following its course, to the promised land shall the words of Christ, if we follow their course, carry us beyond this vale of sorrow into a far better land of promise. O my son, do not let us be slothful because of the easiness of the way; for so was it with our fathers; for so was it prepared for them, that if they would look they might live; even so it is with us, and if we will look we live forever."[v]

There are many times in our lives that we are simply asked to "look and live.” I hope that we don't get distracted by the "easiness of the way." We must not lose sight of where we are to look and who we are looking to. This is illustrated by the example of Peter when he saw the Lord walking on the water. Peter in his great faith desired to be with the Lord and requested that the Lord invite him out on the water. The Lord did so, and Peter miraculously walked on the water. Just a few steps, though, “but when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me."[vi] Lucky for him and an example for you and I. The Lord's response was immediate. And he stretched forth his hand and saved Peter. There may be times in our lives or the lives of those we love where the difficulties of life make worship difficult. When we don't think we have the capacity to accomplish that which the Lord has asked us. Don't forget who we are walking to. We worship the Savior, Jesus Christ. One who is mighty to save. And who will save us immediately. The boisterousness of the waves may not go away immediately. But the Savior will be there. He will reach out to us. And bring us to him. That is why we worship. That is why we follow Him. And that is why it is important for us to build the foundation of worship each Sabbath day that will impact our daily worship of the Savior Jesus Christ. I love you and am grateful for your faith.

[i] 3 Nephi 9:13-14

[ii] Moroni 6:5

[iii] John F. Heidenreich, “Bible Pattern of Worship,” New Era, Mar 1973, 32

[iv] Doctrine and Covenant 25:12

[v] Alma 37:43-46

[vi] Matthew 14:30

Let’s talk…

2009-07-29T16:55:00.001-04:00

Opportunities are interesting things. If I were to tell you that you could do anything that you wanted to… what would you do? I hope that you take advantage of all that great experiences that you have in your life. For example, does your family know that you love them? Do your friends enjoy speaking with you about any topic? Guess what? Did you know that I am talking to you right now? I'm not typing this blog entry at all. This is voice recognition software at work. It's a trip. I think this will be something that will help me become more efficient in the work that I'm doing. In fact I can already tell that I can do this at a much faster rate than I can type. So, from now on you'll get dictated blogs. Lucky you. That's all I have right now. Love you tons.

Love a Local Business

2009-07-21T08:55:00.003-04:00

You have the chance of support my business! Check out the widget on the right... You can select my business on the map and make a note as to why you love it. This will put me in to contention to get some grant money. I would love the support!

I Love the Restored Gospel...

2009-06-29T11:50:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday, dear friends. Love ya.

Becoming and Overcoming

2009-06-24T08:53:00.004-04:00

This morning I had the opportunity to take some time to listen to this talk: Becoming and Overcoming by Carol Wilkinson from a recent BYU Devotional. I was very grateful for her perspective on how to face adversity and the emphasis that she placed on the things that we can do to more properly work with our Father in Heaven as we may be struggling in our lives. One phrase of hers really struck me: "Be willing to spend time with God. Desire it with all your heart." What a beautiful way of describing that process of consecrating our lives. All too often we get caught up in our problems and trying to understand them, that we miss out on opportunities to "spend time with God." These tender moments of prayer and faith are ever more important in our lives, especially in times such as these. But more importantly, they become the sustaining and strengthening balm that we need as we struggle. It also allows us to position ourselves to have more empathy for those around us who are struggling. And in turn help them with their needs.

We are promised by God that we will overcome. What a blessing it is to know that he will sustain us. We can be happy regardless of the things that we are struggling with. Love you all!

I Kinda Hafta Agree...

2009-06-16T08:15:00.002-04:00

My mom sent this to me. From the Chicago Tribune. 1934. Let's please stop spending.

Begin again...

2009-06-15T18:18:00.003-04:00

This last weekend we had Youth Conference here in my stake and I am glad that I was able to participate, prepare and plan. I really enjoy my calling and the opportunities that it gives me to learn from the youth and build my testimony. We had many special experiences and I especially enjoyed being able to teach them a little about why we need the gospel every day of our lives. It was a great experience and an excellent reminder to me of the blessings that I have in my life. Those great tender mercies...

Here is the workshop... albeit without the media files.

Youth Conference Workshop 2009

View more OpenOffice presentations from Robert Rogers.

I have trodden the winepress alone…

2009-06-03T13:01:00.002-04:00

I want to write today. I just don’t know about what. I am at an interesting place in my life personally. I like some of the things that are coming together for me. I am receiving direct and personal answers to my prayers and I am looking forward to some interesting experiences in the coming months. I am also learning a lot about myself. My own strength and my own struggles.

The most interesting/apparent struggle that I have been learning from/dealing with is my struggle with feeling lonely. I find that to be an interesting struggle for me because I have a lot of friends and an incredible family that supports me. I think some times it is a little weird that I feel lonely with all the people that I have around. But I do. It just happens some times. As I have thought about it and why I feel that way, I think I have come up with two reasons: 1) This is another experience that I am having that allows me to understand my need for my Savior more in my life. He went through the Atonement alone. He knows exactly what I am feeling and why I am feeling it. I am reminded of Him each time I feel lonely. 2) I am still very guarded. About myself. My personal feelings. My inner struggles. I guess for all that I do to listen and build others, I still have not learned to open up myself. Some people that know me might be surprised by that. I think that I am a good communicator. I can talk through issues, find solutions and listen much better today than ever. But I have noticed that I do a good (or is it bad) job of deflecting questions about myself and the things that I am dealing with.

Now, I do not feel that my struggles with loneliness are remotely near what the Savior dealt with and hesitate to use the title to this blog, but it is the scripture that made me think of what I was feeling. Luckily, as always, I know that this will pass. I KNOW that I am not alone. I am surrounded by so much warmth and love. I am grateful for that.

Moving Forward

2009-06-01T13:44:00.001-04:00

I am actually using this blog post for two things. One, I am testing the process of posting a blog from Microsoft Word. Second, I am grateful for having been able to receive direct and specific guidance from the Lord in the temple this weekend. I love receiving the inspiration that I need in order to motivate me to improve what I am working and trust in his guidance. I know that we all face adversity in our lives. We have many opportunities to do the things that will bring the greatest joy in our lives. Sometimes we lose sight of that and go a different direction. I am grateful for the focusing influence of the Spirit that allows us to become re-centered. I am moving forward in some areas of my life that were of great concern to me. I know what I am capable of and am grateful for the opportunities I have.

"Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Time"

2009-05-22T18:12:00.002-04:00

It amazes me to know that I have a Father in Heaven that knows me personally and speaks directly to me in the moment I need Him.

Gratitude

2009-05-09T14:51:00.002-04:00

I found out this morning that my Nana Porter is probably going to pass on in the next couple of days. She is a wonderful woman and has been battling Alzheimers' for several years now. It is something that I knew would be coming but it is still a new reality for me. For whatever reason, I have not as of yet, experienced a death in my family and it is a new adjustment for me. I am so grateful for the family that I have and the experiences and teachings that I have had with them. I feel blessed for the experiences that I had as a young boy getting opportunities to interact with Nana and feel of her spirit before she was dealing with Alzheimers'. I remember her beautiful singing voice, warm smile and tenderness. She is a good woman and it is such a great blessing to be in a family filled to overflowing with great women (the guys are ok, too).

One of my favorite examples from Nana (that I should do a much better job of following) is her commitment to journaling. Our family has a great treasure in all the journals that Nana kept that will help us remember the blessings we have received. Each generation from here on will be able to know her because she kept a record. Just as I have been blessed by her love, they too will be able to. I need to make sure that I am documenting the ways that the spirit works with me and builds me. That heritage of faith that I have received must be documented and preserved so that future generations can build on it. I will do a better job of doing that.

I was listening to and searching for the lyrics from the hymn Come Thou Fount. I found some lyrics with some verses that I had not heard before and am grateful for the added verses. They are included below. I find the last verse to be especially poignant. I am grateful for an understanding of the eternities and the blessings of heaven. I love you all.

Come, Thou Fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,
Mount of Thy redeeming love.

Sorrowing I shall be in spirit,
Till released from flesh and sin,
Yet from what I do inherit,
Here Thy praises I’ll begin;
Here I raise my Ebenezer;
Here by Thy great help I’ve come;
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home.

Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood;
How His kindness yet pursues me
Mortal tongue can never tell,
Clothed in flesh, till death shall loose me
I cannot proclaim it well.

O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.

O that day when freed from sinning,
I shall see Thy lovely face;
Clothed then in blood washed linen
How I’ll sing Thy sovereign grace;
Come, my Lord, no longer tarry,
Take my ransomed soul away;
Send thine angels now to carry
Me to realms of endless day.

Happy Birthday, Chris!

2009-04-30T13:16:00.001-04:00

Enjoy the video...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GIEQkvowp0

My first exchange with the media...

2009-04-29T09:35:00.005-04:00

http://www.moneytalksnews.com/2009/04/29/facebook-privacy-concerns-and-social-networking/

I just wish he would have used my awesome analogy of social media being the modern day equivalent of community message boards. Oh well... I think I come out of this relatively unscathed. Another cool experience at the Robert Rogers Law Firm. ;)

O to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!

2009-04-22T10:32:00.006-04:00

I love the hymn, "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing." I need to remember how often I need my Savior's grace. I listened to a devotional by Brother Stephen E. Robinson on believing Christ this morning. Many of the principles he taught can be found in his book by the same name. One thing that stuck out to me is a story that he told about his wife. In his words:

Sometimes the weight of the demand for perfection drives us to despair. Sometimes we fail to believe that most choice portion of the gospel that says he can change us and bring us into his kingdom. Let me share an experience that happened about ten years ago. My wife and I were living in Pennsylvania. Things were going pretty well; I'd been promoted. It was a good year for us, though a trying year for Janet. That year she had our fourth child, graduated from college, passed the CPA exam, and was made Relief Society president. We had temple recommends, we had family home evening. I was in the bishopric. I thought we were headed for "LDS yuppiehood." Then one night the lights went out. Something happened in my wife that I can only describe as "dying spiritually." She wouldn't talk about it; she wouldn't tell me what was wrong. That was the worst part. For a couple of weeks she did not wish to participate in spiritual things. She asked to be released from her callings, and she would not open up and tell me what was wrong.

Finally, after about two weeks, one night I made her mad and it came out. She said, "All right. You want to know what's wrong? I'll tell you what's wrong. I can't do it anymore. I can't lift it. I can't get up at 5:30 in the morning and bake bread and sew clothes and help my kids with their homework and do my own homework and do my Relief Society stuff and get my genealogy done and write the congressman and go to the PTA meetings and write the missionaries . . ." And she just started naming one brick after another that had been laid on her, explaining all the things she could not do. She said, "I don't have the talent that Sister Morrell has. I can't do what Sister Childs does. I try not to yell at the kids, but I lose control, and I do. I'm just not perfect, and I'm not ever going to be perfect. I'm not going to make it to the celestial kingdom, and I've finally admitted that to myself. You and the kids can go, but I can't lift it. I'm not 'Molly Mormon,' and I'm not ever going to be perfect, so I've given up. Why break my back?"

Well, we started to talk, and it was a long night. I asked her, "Janet, do you have a testimony?"

She said, "Of course I do! That's what's so terrible. I know it's true. I just can't do it."

"Have you kept the covenants you made when you were baptized?"

She said, "I've tried and I've tried, but I cannot keep all the commandments all the time."

Then I rejoiced because I knew what was wrong, and I could see the light at the end of the tunnel. It wasn't any of those horrible things I thought it might be. Who would have thought after eight years of marriage, after all the lessons we'd given and heard, and after all we had read and done in the Church, who would have thought that Janet did not know the gospel of Jesus Christ? You see, she was trying to save herself. She knew why Jesus is a coach, a cheerleader, an advisor, a teacher. She knew why he is an example, the head of the Church, the Elder Brother, or even God. She knew all of that, but she did not understand why he is called the Savior.

Janet was trying to save herself with Jesus as an advisor. Brothers and sisters, we can't. No one can. No one is perfect--not even the Brethren.

I was struck by the first sentence of the last paragraph. I do that a lot. I try to "fix myself." Fight things, struggle to overcome, battle myself. And then I "consult" with the Lord when it is too hard. And I question my ability to do "everything." I forget that I don't have to do everything. Because I can't do everything. I just do not have that capacity. And that is ok.

My life has been incredibly different than I would have ever imagined. Some of the things that I am struggling with are my fault. Many are not. Either way, that is not the point. I need to stop fighting and start relying. Stop stopping and start doing... with the Lord. He is not simply an outside consultant in my life brought in to deal with "company restructuring." He is my truest and best partner. Always there to assist and lift and motivate. With the capital available to succeed together in any venture.

As my mom and I have been repeating to each other over the last couple of weeks. Faith, not fear.

Half of My Heart

2009-04-22T08:52:00.001-04:00

Upcoming JM Album Teaser... Yes. About me again:

Half of My Heart

I was born in the arms of imaginary friends
free to roam, made a home out of everywhere I've been
then you come crashing in, like the realest thing
trying my best to understand all that your love can bring

oh half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
half of my heart takes time
half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
that I can't keep loving you
oh, with half of my heart

I was made to believe i'd never love somebody else
I made a plan, stay the man who can only love himself
lonely was the song I sang, 'til the day you came
showing me a better way and all that my love can bring

oh half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
half of my heart takes time
half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
that I can't keep loving you
oh, with half of my heart
with half of my heart

your faith is strong
but I can only fall short for so long
time will hold, later on
you will hate that I never gave more to you than half of my heart
but I can't stop loving you
but I can't stop loving you
but I can't stop loving you with half of my...

half of my heart
half of my heart

half of my heart's got a real good imagination
half of my heart's got you
half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
that half of my heart won't do

half of my heart is a shotgun wedding to a bride with a paper ring
and half of my heart is the part of a man who's never really loved anything

half of my heart
half of my heart
half of my heart
half of my heart
half of my heart
half of my heart

Obtaining a Hope in Christ

2009-04-10T09:40:00.004-04:00

Obtaining a Hope in Christ

Jacob 2:18-19-

“After ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them”

How do we obtain a hope in Christ?-

The Student Manual for the Book of Mormon cross references Jacob 4:4-12-

Steps in the process from these verses:

1) Obedience to the commandments

2) “Search the prophets”

3) Seek and receive revelation

4) Develop an immovable testimony

5) Recognize weakness and see the need we have for the Savior

6) Take counsel from the Lord

7) Be reconciled with the Lord through the Atonement of Christ

8) “Speak of the Atonement” – Share the gospel

Obtaining a hope in Christ means aligning our will with the will of God. By doing what he would have us do in both the general and the personal commandments, we come to know (we receive the necessary witnesses) that His gospel is true and that we are doing the right thing.

Now how does doing these things lead us to riches, if we seek them? I think that it does it in two ways:

Prayer Should Mean Greater Guidance in Our Lives-

First, when we live the gospel we have access to the greater guidance from the Lord. The Lord will lead us in both the spiritual and temporal efforts of our lives. What greater guidance can we receive than from the Lord? But there is a caveat that I am still learning that Jacob outlines: we do not counsel the Lord but instead seek counsel from Him. I can think, even looking over the past 24 hours, of many times when I seek to counsel the Lord. I sit down and tell him what needs to happen and when it needs to happen.

So how can I reform the way I pray to better reflect my desire to take counsel from the Lord? Most importantly, we need to remember that He knows. He is very aware of what we need and what we want. Pray is a unique form of communication in that we are not giving Him new information that He must then analyze and evaluate. Prayer is for us. We are the ones that are seeking information that WE must then analyze and evaluate. Therefore, our personal prayers should tailor themselves more to seeking that understanding and focus less on outlining our needs/wants. Elder Bednar, a living Apostle, describes this communicative process and the connection of our prayers like this:

The patterns used by God in creating the earth are instructive in helping us understand how to make prayer meaningful. In the third chapter of the book of Moses we learn that all things were created spiritually before they were naturally upon the earth.

“And now, behold, I say unto you, that these are the generations of the heaven and of the earth, when they were created, in the day that I, the Lord God, made the heaven and the earth,

“And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew. For I, the Lord God, created all things, of which I have spoken, spiritually, before they were naturally upon the face of the earth” (Moses 3:4–5).

We learn from these verses that the spiritual creation preceded the temporal creation. In a similar way, meaningful morning prayer is an important element in the spiritual creation of each day—and precedes the temporal creation or the actual execution of the day. Just as the temporal creation was linked to and a continuation of the spiritual creation, so meaningful morning and evening prayers are linked to and are a continuation of each other.

Consider this example. There may be things in our character, in our behavior, or concerning our spiritual growth about which we need to counsel with Heavenly Father in morning prayer. After expressing appropriate thanks for blessings received, we plead for understanding, direction, and help to do the things we cannot do in our own strength alone. For example, as we pray, we might:

· • Reflect on those occasions when we have spoken harshly or inappropriately to those we love the most.

· • Recognize that we know better than this, but we do not always act in accordance with what we know.

· • Express remorse for our weaknesses and for not putting off the natural man more earnestly.

· • Determine to pattern our life after the Savior more completely.

· • Plead for greater strength to do and to become better.

Such a prayer is a key part of the spiritual preparation for our day.

During the course of the day, we keep a prayer in our heart for continued assistance and guidance—even as Alma suggested: “Let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord” (Alma 37:36).

We notice during this particular day that there are occasions where normally we would have a tendency to speak harshly, and we do not; or we might be inclined to anger, but we are not. We discern heavenly help and strength and humbly recognize answers to our prayer. Even in that moment of recognition, we offer a silent prayer of gratitude.

At the end of our day, we kneel again and report back to our Father. We review the events of the day and express heartfelt thanks for the blessings and the help we received. We repent and, with the assistance of the Spirit of the Lord, identify ways we can do and become better tomorrow. Thus our evening prayer builds upon and is a continuation of our morning prayer. And our evening prayer also is a preparation for meaningful morning prayer.

Morning and evening prayers—and all of the prayers in between—are not unrelated, discrete events; rather, they are linked together each day and across days, weeks, months, and even years. This is in part how we fulfill the scriptural admonition to “pray always” (Luke 21:36; 3 Nephi 18:15, 18; D&C 31:12). Such meaningful prayers are instrumental in obtaining the highest blessings God holds in store for His faithful children.

(David A. Bednar, “Pray Always,” Liahona, Nov 2008, 41–44)

Having the Fruits of the Spirit Make Us More Productive-

When we are doing all that we can to align our will with the will of God, we have an increased access to the fruits of the Spirit. Some of these are outline in the New Testament: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23). These feelings allow us to overcome fear, doubt and concern which will in turn cause us to be more productive. When we are comfortable with who we are and what we are doing, we feel successful. The Spirit of God has a wonderful ability of accentuating our positive traits and building our weaknesses. Many of us have a tragic ability of accentuating our negative traits and downplaying our strengths. By obtaining a hope in Christ, we overcome the self-defeating elements of the natural man and succeed. Although not the only measure, oftentimes that success will lead to material compensation or “riches.”

When We Have Obtained a Hope in Christ, Our Motivation for Wealth Changes-

After giving the promise that we will be able to gain riches if we have obtained a hope in Christ, Jacob explains how our motivation for wealth will be altered. He states: “and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted” (Jacob 2:19). I had always read this clause of the verse as being one of the conditions the Lord has laid out in order to be able gain “riches” under this promise, but I read it a little differently now. This clause is separate from the conditional clause that precedes it. Jacob appears to be describing our character related to those riches once we have received them instead of describing a condition to their receipt. If we truly have a hope in Christ, we will WANT to use our wealth for good, to bless others’ lives. That has become an essential part of who we are. One who has a hope in Christ is so focused on the Lord’s will, that service is a part of what they are always engaged in. The wealth becomes a means to that end.

In speaking about these verses, President Marion G. Romney said:

Jacob, speaking to the people of Nephi, said:

“Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you.

“But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.

“And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted” (Jacob 2:17–19).

In our own dispensation, when the Church was only 10 months old, the Lord said:

“If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments.

“And behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support” (D&C 42:29–30).

The same month, the Lord referred to this subject again. Evidently the members had been a little remiss. They had not moved fast enough.

“Behold, I say unto you, that ye must visit the poor and the needy and administer to their relief” (D&C 44:6).

It has always seemed somewhat paradoxical to me that we must constantly have the Lord command us to do those things which are for our own good. The Lord has said, “He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it” (Matthew 10:39). We lose our life by serving and lifting others. By so doing we experience the only true and lasting happiness. Service is not something we endure on this earth so we can earn the right to live in the celestial kingdom. Service is the very fiber of which an exalted life in the celestial kingdom is made.

Oh, for the glorious day when these things all come naturally because of the purity of our hearts. In that day there will be no need for a commandment, because we will have experienced for ourselves that we are truly happy only when we are engaged in unselfish service.

(Marion G. Romney, “The Celestial Nature of Self-Reliance,” Ensign, Mar 2009, 61–65)

Given the current economic situation, it is a great time for all of us to remember the great foundation upon which we can stand: the Lord. We all have the capacity within us to obtain a hope in Christ and learn more of both wealth and service. The sooner we decide to commit ourselves completely to the work of the Lord, the sooner we will have access to riches of all types. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ and pray that I can implement these principles in my own life. LOVE YA!

Additional Resources:

(“Questions about Coping Financially: Welfare Services Suggests Some Answers,” Ensign, Jun 1980, 12)

(Marion G. Romney, “Welfare Services,” Ensign, Nov 1975, 124)

(Joe J. Christensen, “Greed, Selfishness, and Overindulgence,” Ensign, May 1999, 9)

(Quinn G. McKay, “All That Glitters Isn’t Celestial,” Ensign, Jun 1987, 20)

(Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers: Temporally and Spiritually,” 2009)

(Allan F. Packer, “Finding Strength in Challenging Times!” 2009)

(Richard C. Edgley, “This Is Your Phone Call,” 2009)

(Henry B. Eyring, “Man Down!” 2009)

"Let No Man Despise Thy Youth"

2009-01-25T00:12:00.004-05:00

So. I love my calling. I have been so impressed with the young men and young women of the stake and am grateful for their faith in the gospel. We were able to do our first mission preparation course for the young men ages 16-19 and I was grateful for the boys that were able to show up. I was grateful for the Spirit and faith that was felt as we discussed the blessings of missionary service. What a blessing that course will be for them. I know that it is inspired of God.

Tonight we were able to have our fireside/dance for all the youth of the stake. The turnout was wonderful. More than I thought would be there, to be honest. And we were able to share the "A Brand New Year" DVD with them. We were also able to give testimony about what it means to us to be examples of the believers. I love these young people! They deal with so much more than I did at their age (and fortunately it was not that long ago). Being with them sure helps as the big 3-0 draws near in a week and a half. I am grateful for their examples.

Here is a copy of my remarks from the evening. I am grateful for the examples of faith that I have in my life:

This year we will have the opportunity to take counsel from Paul regarding the example that we will set for those around us. The theme this year is taken from one of the letters that Paul wrote to Timothy in order to encourage him while he was dealing with some of the difficulties he was experiencing. Timothy was a young man but had already had been given some significant responsibilities in the Church. I can imagine that Timothy had times when, because of his age, he doubted his ability to do what was expected of him and live up to the charge that he had been given. I can imagine that many of you wonder if you can live the gospel in a meaningful and helpful way. Wonder if you have the capacity to make a difference. Paul’s consistent and firm response to Timothy is the same counsel that we lovingly give you this evening. You can!

Paul helps Timothy to see that one of the easiest ways to ensure that we are living the gospel is to consistently reflect on the example that we are setting for other people. Also, Paul outlines to Timothy 6 areas where we should be aware of they type of example that we are setting: word, conversation (which the footnote shows us is conduct), charity, spirit, faith, and purity. I would like to take just a few moments to talk about how one of these will directly bless the lives of the people of South Florida: being an example of faith.

In order to illustrate this, let me share a story with you. In 1837 and 1838, Parley P. Pratt was serving as a missionary in New York City. In his words, “Of all the places in which the English language is spoken, I found New York to be the most difficult to access the minds of the people. From July to January we preached, advertised, printed, published, testified, visited, talked, prayed, and wept in vain. Elijah Fordham and I had baptized six members and organized a little branch who met in a small upper room in Goerck Street. We had retired there with our few members to hold a last prayer meeting as I was about to take leave for New Orleans. We had prayed all around in turn, when on a sudden the room was filled with the Holy Spirit. We began to speak in tongues and prophesy. Many marvelous things were manifested which I cannot write; but the principal burden of the prophesying was concerning our mission in New York. The Lord said He had heard our prayers, beheld our labors, diligence, and long suffering toward that city. We should tarry in the city for the Lord had many people in that city, and He had now come by the power of His Holy Spirit to gather them into His fold. His angels should go before us. His Spirit would give the people visions and dreams concerning us and the work of the Lord: From that very day we should have money to pay our debts with the publishers, and crowds to hear us. There should be more doors open for preaching than we could fill. We should know that the Almighty could open a door and no man could shut it.”

This prophecy was fulfilled in a very short amount of time. While that meeting was occurring, a successful carpenter and chair maker was returning home from his responsibilities in the Methodist congregation. His name was David White Rogers. He overheard the meeting and decided to stop and listen. According to records, “He was impressed with what he heard. At the end of the meeting the speaker asked if anyone present wished to say something. David bore testimony that he knew what they had said was the truth. When he sat down somebody asked, ‘Do you know who these men are?’ David said, ‘no.’ ‘They are Mormons,’ replied the man.”

Although his minister had preached against these missionaries and David had initially forbidden his family to speak with them, the Spirit had touched his heart. His son Ross wrote of what David did at the close of the meeting. He said, “At the close of the meeting one of the speakers announced that they would leave the city the next day as they seemed to be making no headway with their work; whereupon David arose and invited them to come and hold services at his home and announced that he thought there were many in the city who would like to hear their message.”

Because of Parley P. Pratt’s example of faith, David White Rogers and his family, as well as many others, were able to receive the Book of Mormon, read and pray about it. They gained a testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel and were baptized in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Because of that example, I have access to the greatest blessing that I have ever received in my life, the Atonement of Jesus Christ. We can see through the experience of Parley P. Pratt that the Lord will always answer our prayers and will always fulfill his words to us.

The Savior has made many promises to you and I related to the blessings that come when we act in faith on His word. As you live true to the covenants and promise that you have made with the Lord, your friends and family will see. They will learn from your example of faith and desire to improve or learn more about the gospel. I promise that each and every one of us will be blessed because of your example of faith. I thank you for loving the Lord and being willing to do hard things in a situation that does not make them any easier. We love and honor you for that. More than that, I know the Lord loves and honors you for that. That we stay true and remain examples of the believers in faith is my prayer.

A Brand New Year

2009-01-03T18:40:00.003-05:00

I had a great presidency meeting today and I am excited for some of the things that we are going to work on with the youth of our stake, specifically with the Young Men. After our presidency meeting, we took some time to watch some clips from a new DVD that the Church has put together for the youth. I was so grateful for the effort that was put in to that production so that the youth can be motivated to begin this year on the right foot. It was energizing to see all those young people expressing their renewed commitment to serving the Lord.

In conjunction with the DVD, the Church also has a new website for the youth to use. The program is entitled: A Brand New Year. I look forward to using this resource to help bless the youth of the Miami Florida South Stake.

Gospel Study Review: Confidence

2009-01-01T15:46:00.003-05:00

I was reviewing an old gospel study journal of mine from the end of 2007. At that time I had begun a topical study and was reviewing scriptures from the topical guide related to confidence. I have been struggling with that some lately, so I decided to revisit the scriptures that I had studied and the impressions that I felt at that time. I am grateful for the opportunities that we have to WRITE the impressions that we FEEL because it allows us to continue to be inspired. Here are some tidbits that I hope can help you too. And... Happy New Year.

Theme 1: Confidence-
Scripture Review:
- Proverbs 3:26 - "For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken."

Reading this verse in the context of the entire chapter, one can see two connections: 1) confidence and understanding as well as, 2) confidence and adversity. First, it is essential to understand really what the impact is that the Lord can have in our lives. As we seek for this understanding, our confidence will increase as our wisdom grows. Second, adversity is a necessary part of this process for two reason: 1) it forces us to rely on the Lord and 2) it truly allows us to see our capacity with the Lord and thereby gain confidence. When we overcome something that is extremely difficult, we are better able to understand our capacity to achieve greatness.

-2 Corinthians 7:16 - "I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things."

I just had an impression that the Lord feels this way about me. I have been richly blessed in my life, but I also have suffered much heartache. I sometimes feel like whichever direction I go, I get it wrong, but I am reminded every time that I am doing alright and the Lord still trusts me to make the right decision. I need to hold on to that. The Lord has confidence in me, why shouldn't I?

- Hebrews 3:14 - "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end."

This concept of "holding our confidence to the end" is also expressed in verse 6 of the same chapter. What do we rely on? What did we rely on when we converted to the Church? "Our confidence" must be the Savior as His gospel. If we are stedfast to that confidence and hold to what motivates us to start the path of righteousness, then we will be blessed.

- Hebrews 10:35 - "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward."

I love this verse. I love it even more know its context in the chapter. Our confidence is in the Savior. His Atonement is what allows us to do everything. DON'T CAST THAT AWAY!

- 1 John 2:28 - "And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming."

It is interesting that John refers to the Saints as "little children" at the same time as telling them to have confidence. It shows the gospel connection between hulmilty and confidence. We must be confident because of Him and not because of ourselves.

Great Devotional

2008-12-13T16:42:00.002-05:00

I am grateful for the Savior and this season to remember Him. Here is a great devotional about the Redeemer:

Bruce D. Porter, BYU Devotional, December 9, 2008.

Mexico City Temple Re-Dedication

2008-11-17T22:57:00.005-05:00

I was so glad to be able to participate in the re-dedication of the Mexico City Temple last night via satellite. It brought back so many great memories of when I served there and the many people that blessed my life and helped me on the track to becoming the man that I have become and am trying to become. It was wonderful to think of the families that I taught and the Spirit that I felt as I served the wonderful people of Mexico. It was humbling to again hear their testimonies as they expressed gratitude for the temple. It helped me reflect on the blessing that I had the day before to do work at the Orlando temple. What a remarkable and powerful blessing we have in temples throughout the world so that we can increase our worship. There have been many sacrifices made so that we can enjoy so many great blessings.

There was one thing that President Monson said that really impacted me, especially given my calling with the youth. In reflecting on the experience that they had the night before with those wonderful saints, President Monson recognized the great power for good the memory of that great event would have in the lives of the young Mexican saints. He then invited us as members to, "provide memories for our young people." Our young people need to have more experiences that increase faith, inspire hope and encourage joy. They must know of the great power for good that exists in the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we, as leaders, create opportunities for them to increase in testimony... Opportunities that they will remember... The youth will become the leaders for the future that we need in times like today as well as in the days that are coming.

I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the gospel. It is so wonderful and such a great blessing in my life. I pray that I can live up to the great blessings that I have received in my life. I know that with His help, I can.

Happy Birthday, Melissa Au!

2008-11-02T10:52:00.002-05:00

I hope that you have a great birthday. Thank you for everything that you do for me! You are such a wonderful sister and friend. I hope that you party it up with Rob and the kids.

Interesting Stats on Early Voters

2008-10-28T14:42:00.001-04:00

http://elections.gmu.edu/early_vote_2008.html

Doing His will.

2008-10-26T19:11:00.003-04:00

I have always been grateful for the blessings that I gain from my opportunities to serve in the Church, but often feel overwhelmed by the trust the the Lord places in me in the callings that I receive. Ultimately, though, He will always give us a witness as to why he has placed us in the callings that we have received. It is through personal and intimate ways, those tender mercies, that He will show us that we are doing His will. Ways, that will ultimate bring comfort and success because He is with us.

I have had an interesting experience over the past couple of weeks as I was "between callings." Over the past couple of months I have grown increasingly more interested in the situation of the youth in South Florida. It has been a growing concern for their well-being and spiritual development. I have never really worked with the youth and do not normally have those type of strong feelings. It is has been interesting to see that progression and start to include a more active discussion of the needs of the youth of South Florida in my personal prayers.

Last Sunday, the Lord showed me why He has been changing my frame of mind and perspective when I got my new calling. I still feel ill-prepared for the calling, but recognize that the experiences that I have been having have been the Lord's way of patiently leading me. It is going to be a great experience to be a counselor in the stake YM's presidency that will push me and teach me a lot about the gospel and service. I also printed out, Pres. Eyring's last couple of talks from Priesthood Session that address feeling inadequate about callings.

What a blessing it is for each of us to have opportunities to be spiritual led. As we seek to better understand His will for us, we will understand it. He will always draw close to us and support us in our efforts in His kingdom.

Mostly, I am learning a lot recently about how intimately aware the Lord is of us. Regardless of where we are asked to serve, He knows us and knows what we need. We can always trust in that. And He will always be there for us. And, having survived my first youth dance chaperoning experience and branch conference, I am excited to see what the Lord will make of me. So, even if I am no longer "calling twins" with Ian, I am grateful for all my opportunities to serve.

Yeah for me!

2008-10-21T11:48:00.002-04:00

The Fruits of an Improved Study of the Gospel

2008-10-12T15:07:00.002-04:00

In the interest of posting something since I have not in some time, I will share with you the lesson I learned today in the talk that I gave. I hope you can find some things that help you as well. I love you all!

The Fruits of an Improved Study of the Gospel:

One of the great blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is that we all are given the opportunity to “know of the doctrine” (John 7:17). The pace and process of “knowing” is inherently personal but there are general principles that can be applied to our gospel study that will improve how we personally come to “know.” As it is a commandment of God to be engaged in an ever improving study of the doctrines of salvation, I will take a moment to illustrate a couple of those general principles, and would then like to take the balance of my time to emphasize the fruits that we will receive in our lives as we improve our gospel study.

I. Principles to Remember As We Study

As “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16), it is necessary for us to recognize the blessing that having these doctrinal resources is to us. In his infinite wisdom, our Father in Heaven has given us access to the scriptures, both ancient and modern. These have been carefully tailored to address both collective, as well as personal, needs and questions. As Paul taught Timothy, God desires to instruct us in righteousness and as such has given us the scriptures.

When we come to know that we have the scriptures in order to gain an understanding of the things that we can do to improve and correct our lives, we increase both our desire to learn, as well as improve the ways that we access and apply the principles that we learn. Humbly, we begin to see that each book of scripture, each teaching of a modern-day prophet, has been tenderly constructed for our own instruction and learning. As I share the fruits of our gospel study, I want us to remember and see the personal way in which the Lord uses scripture to teach us. We should have that basic understanding that because of His love for us, the Lord desires to teach us.

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles teaches us that, “the scriptures contain the words of Christ and are a reservoir of living water to which we have ready access and from which we can drink deeply and long. You and I must look to and come unto Christ, who is “the fountain of living waters”, by reading, studying, searching, and feasting upon the words of Christ as contained in the Holy Scriptures. By so doing, we can receive both spiritual direction and protection during our mortal journey” (Elder Bednar, “A Reservoir of Living Water”, CES Fireside, February 4, 2007).

Elder Bednar suggests “three basic ways or methods of obtaining living water from the scriptural reservoir: (1) reading the scriptures from beginning to end, (2) studying the scriptures by topic, and (3) searching the scriptures for connections, patterns, and themes. Each of these approaches can help satisfy our spiritual thirst if we invite the companionship and assistance of the Holy Ghost as we read, study, and search.” My Beloved Brothers and Sisters, I promise, that as we take time to “read, study and search” the scriptures, and improve daily in how we do that, we will receive great blessings in our lives. I would like to illustrate three of the fruits that we will receive as a ward when we improve our gospel study.

II. An Improved Study Brings Peace

First, an improved study of the gospel brings peace in our lives. I have personally seen this in my own life and know it to be one of the choicest blessings of this process of gospel education. About a year and a half ago, I was dealing with the impact of some difficult adversity in my life and trying to make righteous decisions regarding my future. I struggled to understand my place in my Father’s plan and what he desired me to do. Mostly, I wanted to know that what I had been doing was alright in His sight and receive comfort to move forward. I also needed to know His purpose for the adversity that I had been facing in my own life. I needed peace.

In order to find the peace that was to be so important to me in moving forward as I sought to overcome the effects of adversity, I turned to the scriptures. I tried to understand dealing with adversity through the eyes of those that had dealt with their own adversity in the past. I focused on the lives of two individuals and the things that they did to overcome. From Job I learned the role of mourning in the gospel. I then received comfort from the conversation that Joseph Smith had with the Lord while in Liberty Jail that we now have in Sections 121 and 122 of the Doctrine and Covenants. I had been crying out just like the Prophet, “O God, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?” (D & C 121:1) I understood in my own way what Joseph Smith was feeling and then the scriptures gave me that carefully prepared and person instruction that we discussed before. “My son, peace be unto they soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; and then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.” (D & C 121:7) The Spirit came. I was comforted. Because I had improved my gospel study, I felt peace.

III. An Improved Study Brings Spiritual Guidance

The second fruit that we will see as we improve our study of the gospel is increased spiritual guidance. A beautiful illustration of this comes from the example of Nephi in the Book of Mormon. Following being taught by his father, Lehi, regarding a vision that we often refer to as the vision of the Tree of Life, Nephi desired to both understand what that vision meant and know of its application in his own life. “For it came to pass after I had desired to know the things that my father had seen, and believing that the Lord was able to make them known unto me, as I sat pondering in mine heart I was caught away in the Spirit of the Lord.” (1 Nephi 11:1) The Spirit of the Lord then proceeded to teach Nephi more about the plan of redemption by illustrating pieces of the vision that his father had seen.

In our own lives we receive great teachings of the gospel frequently. For example, last weekend we were well instructed by prophets and apostles regarding wonderful gospel truths and their application in our lives today. We have the same opportunity that Nephi had to take those teachings that we have received, and through pondering, approach the Lord to know of their application in our own lives. Nephi rightly taught us that, “he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them.” (1 Nephi 10:19). Knowing that promise to be true, I pray that we each can seek. I know that if we do that, we will receive increased spiritual guidance in our own lives.

IV. An Improved Study Strengthens Our Relationship With the Savior

Finally, as we improve our gospel study, our relationship with the Savior will improve and we will see more intimate ways to apply His Atonement to each aspect of our lives. Jesus Christ constantly stands ready to be an active influence for good in our lives. The scriptures offer us a wonderful access to Him both through what He and His prophets have taught as well as illustrating to us how He lived. Indeed, the scriptures do “talk of Christ, rejoice in Christ, preach of Christ, and prophesy of Christ” (2 Nephi 25:26). Why? So that we “may know to what source [we] may look for a remission of [our] sins.” The Savior himself invites us to know Him.

I love this great plan of happiness that our Father in Heaven has prepared for us. I love studying the gospel and pray that I can improve the ways in which I do that. I know that as we apply the principles taught by Elder Bednar, we will see more peace, have greater spiritual guidance and receive a more intimate access to the Atonement. I love my Savior because of his great patience with me as I seek to find my way. I know He will help each of us to succeed as we do that. And I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Rob posted some pictures...

2008-10-01T20:33:00.001-04:00

Check them out here.

Welcome to Benjamin Joseph Au!

2008-10-01T07:45:00.003-04:00

Melissa had her baby last night. They named him Benjamin Joseph Au. He was 8 lbs. 3 oz. and 19.5 inches. I will link to pictures as soon as I get some. Congrats to Melissa, Rob, Robbie and Lauren on the new edition (not to be confused with New Edition... we miss their music). My one regret is that they did not go with my name suggestion... Alejandro Pepe de la Caridad Au. Maybe next year. Not that they are having one next year. I'm just saying.

Yes. I'm hot.

2008-09-12T09:29:00.000-04:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080911/lf_nm_life/miami_dc_1

Living life one John Mayer song at a time...

2008-09-10T09:26:00.003-04:00

It happened again today, there you were right where you were left. I had no idea I would find you because I did not put you there. Not sure I even wanted to find you, but find you I did. Any other day you would have been a great find. I mean, who wouldn't want to find a strategically hidden note of affection dated July 6th while doing your morning study? But it wasn't every other day and I wasn't quite prepared to see what is still some of my favorite handwriting scrawled on the back of a day planner piece of paper. A note of love and faith. But still, in a sad, bittersweet way I am grateful I found you.

My life has many chapters. Mostly beautiful with smatterings of bittersweet reminders of the unique nature of this mortal experience. I realize that I have not done everything as perfectly as I would like, but I have always tried to do and be my best. Regardless, though, I love how and who I have loved as completely as I know how. Each has been a wonderful experience that I will always treasure.

Now all who know me, know that I live for John Mayer music. Why? Because he honestly and literally writes about my life. And interestingly enough, each album comes out at a time when I need it, when my life mirrors what he is communicating. When I went through my awkward bad dater phase (I hope that is in the PAST), we sang about "My Stupid Mouth." When I struggled with confidence but knew deep down that I was a good man that could do great things, we reminded each other that I was, "Bigger Than My Body." And believe me, in 2006, I definitely needed the reminder that "I'm Gonna Find Another You" while remembering that "The Heart of Life" is truly good (and allowing "Bad Robbie" to relate a little too well with "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room"). Indeed, John and I have been through a lot together. Learned a lot about who we are and what we need in this life. So, even though there are plenty of days when I wish that I could truly "Stop This Train" because I still feel like I am "In Repair", I know that it is going to all be wonderful because... Hey... This is my life and I get to choose for it to be wonderful. And that is what I choose.

So, even when I did find a note that I was not prepared to find, JM came to the rescue again. With a song that is on his latest concert album, Where the Light Is. A song that I heard years ago (yes, a clip of a recording is my cell phone ring tone) and never found on an album. "In Your Atmosphere" spoke to me this morning. I may have to steer clear right now, but I always wonder. That is normal when you love. And believe me, if there is something that I do... I love.

As a parting thought, I am doing incredibly well right now. I am very happy with where my life is and have been extremely watched over during the past couple of weeks. I love where things are going with work and I am enjoying all the opportunities that I have socially. I am sometimes surprised by, but am quite grateful for, the resiliency that the Lord has blessed me. I do love my life. A lot. Bittersweet reminders and all.

What is man, that thou art mindful of him?

2008-08-24T18:12:00.002-04:00

For some reason, this phrase from the 8th Psalm has popped into my head a lot recently. I have been pondering some of the things that I can do to improve my relationship with my Father in Heaven and the Savior and I have also considered some of the ways that I seem to stumble and fall short of what I truly know to be my potential. It is amazing to consider that despite all the times and ways that we may feel that we fall short, our Father in Heaven is intimately concerned with our own well-being. He is mindful of all that we are doing, but is also mindful of all that we wish to be doing and ALWAYS stands ready to support and lift us to greater potential.

Today in my Gospel Principles class we discussed developing our talents, and I was touched by the fact that we are given talents to remind us of how often the Lord blesses us. In addition to being new to the gospel, many of the individuals that are in that class have other major struggles that they are dealing with. It often presents unique challenges as we seek to understand the material presented in the lesson, but it has truly expanded my love of the principles of the gospel that are often tenderly referred to as simple. These basic gospel truths have helped each of us in the class gain a greater understanding of the beauty of the Atonement. Of its great power and effect in our lives. It humbles me each week as I teach to see understanding in the eyes of my students. A spark of joy as they realize a gospel principle is true and applies to their life. It is sometimes hard to explain how wonderful it is to see people find something that they needed but did not know was there.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is for every person that we come in contact with. We all need it and can have moments when we can see a simple principle that applies to us. In those moments of realization, we really see that God is mindful of us. He knows us and loves us. Even if we fall short. So, remember that you have someone... a perfect someone... that is mindful of you. Your joys and happiness as well as your pains, sorrows and insecurities. I for one, know that he is mindful of me. What a blessing that is...

Rogers Family Reunion 2008

2008-08-16T14:37:00.004-04:00

I really enjoyed being able to see some of my immediate and extended family in Idaho and Utah over the last couple of weeks and here are some picture of the fun. Highlights include: lots of fishing (including Little Robbie catching his first... So cool!), beautiful mountain sites, and good family fun. Here you go...

Being Robbie Rogers

2008-08-11T14:32:00.001-04:00

I have lived an interesting life that is far different than I would have ever imagined. I think I have covered the spectrum of feelings from deep heartache to great joy more times than I ever thought possible. Right now is an important time of personal reflection and increasing faith and I am so grateful to have an understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ that has always buoyed me up.

We all face adversity and trial that are an inherent part of this probationary existence. It has always been so and will always be. As I reflect, though, I have been blessed to know ALL of the people that have been a part of my life. I may not have treated them perfectly or I may not have been treated perfectly, but each person that I have allowed into my life has helped me to increase my capacity to love. With all of who I am. That is one thing that, albeit quite painful at times, I love about being Robbie Rogers. Something that I plan on never forgetting. It will always increase and improve.

Because of that, if you know me (and you do if you are reading this), know that I love you. All of you. A great deal. We may not talk as often as we should or could, but I still love you a great deal and I want to do everything within my power to bring happiness into your life. It is a wonderful gift I have received from my Father in Heaven and I wouldn't have it any other way.

So, even if I hurt sometimes and have cause to weep, I will never change who I am. I will always love with all of who I am. Because I know someone who loves me even more than my own capacity to love. And it is because of His Atonement that I am able to love anyways. And because of that same Atonement, I know the pain will always subside and that joy and peace will always reign supreme in my life.

So, there you have it. Being Robbie Rogers isn't so bad at all.

A cool way to fight hunger and expand your vocabulary...

2008-07-24T08:48:00.002-04:00

I came across this site in one of the blogs I subscribe to: http://freerice.com/index.php. Enjoy.

I love my friends.

2008-07-23T15:03:00.001-04:00

Thanks. And the blog is fixed. Sorry for the delay.

The Power of His Pure Love

2008-07-23T09:37:00.003-04:00

During my personal study this morning, I felt impressed to revisit a talk given in the 2007 BYU Women's Conference entitled, "The Power of His Pure Love" by David Warner. Unfortunately, I could not find a transcript online, just the audio file. The concept of love, not just any love, but His love, has been on my mind a lot recently. I was moved by the tenderness with which Brother Warner presented what charity, or the pure love of Christ, is and how we can better use it in our relationships. As I listened to the talk again this morning, I was mindful of some wonderful blessings that I have had in my life because of the Atonement and the application of His love in my life. Blessings that I pray I can share with all those around me in a more meaningful and kind way.

I was especially touched by Brother Warner's emphasis on the "great rescue effort" that we are involved in. I grow increasingly more concerned about the many people that we are working with here in my ward and I love that the Lord allows us to assist and bless the lives of others. But sometimes, for whatever reason, it seems easier to see the application of love and principles of "rescuing" with those who we work with at church, but we lose sight of the need for rescuing that we all have, especially within our own families and close relationships. As such I just wanted to discuss a little some of the principles of rescuing that I learned from revisiting the talk and review some of the scriptures and principles that were addressed.

The first quote that struck me was a quote he gave that was made by Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith said, "The righteousness of man is sin because it exacteth over much. The righteousness of God is just because it exacteth nothing at all." Brother Warner proceeded to ask how our standards of righteousness affect the relationships that we are in. What are the potential negative implications of our expectations that we place on those around us? The Savior loves us regardless of who we are and what we do. He loves EVERYONE. His truly is an unconditional love that transcends our actions and behavior.

Brother Warner then proceeded to say, "The Savior made his atoning sacrifice for us before we proved our worthiness to accept it." The Atonement is unconditionally offered to all of us regardless of whatever station we may find ourselves in. This struck me because it taught me a great principle of love. I reflected a lot on many of the expectations that I place on friends and family. We often think that we should wait to doing something kind or generous until they need it or deserve it. We don't just unconditionally do. I know I don't as often as I should. When we truly seek for and obtain charity for someone, we will always DO things to show our love for that individual without condition, pretext or more importantly waiting for them to do something for us. I must seek for more of that type of charity in my life.

Brother Warner then focused the rest of his talk on four phrases that show how we can find that type of love in our lives. They are in the description of charity. That it: 1) beareth all things, 2) believeth all things, 3) hopeth all things, 4) endureth all things. I want to focus on what I learned from his remarks on the third phrase, "hopeth all things." He led into that discussion by saying this, "Whatever situation we are in, the Atonement offers us the opportunity to love in His way, beginning today." Charity is not something that we need to consider afar off. It is something that can, and most truly must, begin today. Again... being sought for with all the energy of our hearts. He further states, "We will begin to see with spiritual eyes how our past and present tribulations provide opportunities for future blessings." I am starting to better understand and see that that is a true principle. Through accessing the Spirit in our lives, we will gain a better vision of both the experiences that we are having as well as the future blessings that our Lord ALWAYS has prepared for us.

That leads me to HOPE. I love hope and wish that I did a better job of applying the beautiful and sacred principle in my life. We are here on earth to accomplish wonderful and great things. Those wonderful and great things may not immediately bear fruit. We may be called to act in faith just as the ancient patriarchs of the Bible who, as Paul describes in Hebrews, "not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them." We too can be persuaded of the promises that the Lord makes to us regarding our families and relationships. Some of the promises may appear "afar off" but they exist nonetheless. We can hope in that as we face the trials that may come our way.

Brother Warner, in describing this principle of hope, shares the experience of a woman who discovered that her husband had been involved, from his youth, in viewing pornography. It talks about how her initial reaction was one of disgust and how she could not be around her husband anymore. She then describes the experience she had while watching the news proceedings surrounds some miners that had been trapped underground. She became immersed in the proceeds and hoped against hope that these men would be rescued. When they came out, she thought they did not look human and she recognized that she might have been repulsed by those men. She saw her husband as one of those trapped miners. She recognized that a combination of mistakes that he had made as a youth and mostly due to a "fierce and prolonged assault of the adversary," her husband too had been trapped and needed to be saved. She realized that the Savior was making every effort to in fact save him. I then found the next thought that she had to be a critical question of hope. She thought, "Was it too late for her to help? Could she run to him? Embrace him? And cradle him in her love?" To me, hope gives us the answer. A resounding, NO! YES! YES! and YES! We all have been hurt or feel deceived just as this woman did, within our own sphere and way. But, we always have the capacity to help, love and support those around us. Especially those of our family and close association. I do feel it important to point out though, as Brother Warner did in an early part of his talk, that in the name of love, we must never indulge the harmful, dangerous and destructive behavior of another.

Our Savior desires for each of us to feel and understand the great power of his pure love. He desires for it to be an active and beautiful part of all that we are seeking to accomplish in our lives. We will all have opportunity "to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." (1 Peter 3:15). They all need to know of the great hope that we have in this gospel. The great joy that we feel in his coming. I know that we all can feel and improve how we apply charity with one another. I love the gospel and how unconditionally the Lord loves each one of us and I pray that I am be better at more unconditionally loving myself.

Under Construction...

2008-07-19T19:46:00.002-04:00

I thought I fixed it, then I re-broke it. I am so cancelled. SO cancelled.

I hate my blog.

2008-07-10T11:04:00.001-04:00

I messed it up.

I will fix it later.

The Shipboat Captain Returneth...

2008-06-21T20:47:00.003-04:00

And with a vengeance. This time Andre and I recruited my dad to come fishing with us. And we decided that we would go out for the Dolphin. It was an interesting trip and we really enjoyed ourselves. There are some great stories and if you want to hear there, you will have to just talk

to one of us on the phone. Here are a couple of pictures...

I may disappear...

2008-06-19T11:33:00.001-04:00

But that's alright.

Hot Girl in Florida

2008-06-11T06:29:00.005-04:00

I am tired. Really tired. I am doing the Miami session of EFY and it has been quite rewarding. The youth in Miami need it. They need to see something different than what they see everyday. Our EFY is probably a lot different than EFYs anywhere else. Most EFYs are generally filled with the kids that are more active in the Church and trying to do what's right. Because of the way this session is structured, we probably have a lot more less actives, kids who never go to church and members of other faiths. It has been amazing to watch some barriers breaking down and hearts being touched. I am glad that I was able to get the week off. My boss is pretty amazing like that. I wish everyone had a boss like mine. Actually... No. Because if everyone worked for my boss, he would have no money. He would have to pay everyone. I like my boss too much to make him do that. I am excited to see how the rest of the week goes. Little miracles.

I love going on dates. I have been on some great ones in my day and done some of the most random things. Needless to say (that's for you Russ, always for you), I had some great dates this weekend. There is nothing quite like going out with a hot girl in Florida. We even had McDonald's sundaes. Went to the beach, the Everglades, a movie, cruised South Beach (Staying away from that beach of course), got designy in the design district and just flat out had a great time. So basically, what I am saying is... Go on dates. Often. And love them. Especially if it is with a hot girl in Florida.

Moral Courage

2008-05-28T21:08:00.003-04:00

I found an old talk and it really helped me tonight. I love that we can always revisit experiences and be blessed by the Spirit.

Moral Courage: Motivation to do the right thing at the right time

I am blessed by the opportunity to share with you today some of the principles that I have learned regarding moral courage. In order to establish the framework for what we are going to discuss today, first I would like to define both courage and moral courage. When we think of someone who is courageous, we think of someone who has the strength of character or bravery to accomplish something, many times at great personal cost. Moral courage is based on morality, or in other words, an understanding of what is right and what is wrong. Therefore, moral courage is having the strength of character to accomplish what is right, many times at great personal cost.

In order to illustrate the distinction between courage and moral courage, I would like to share an experience from my own life. When I was 12 or 13, my family lived in Minnesota and we had a good-sized yard that I enjoyed spending time playing in. At the back end of the property we had two large pine trees that had grown right next to each other. I enjoyed climbing the trees and getting a view of the yard. On one such occasion, I had climbed about 15 or 20 feet up in one of the trees, when I decided that I wanted to be in the other tree. Because of the close proximity of the trees, their branches were intertwined with one another. Due to that fact, I decided that it would be much faster to walk across the adjoining branches to the other tree, instead of climbing down the tree that I was in and then climbing up the other. Soon after embarking on my plan, I gained a strong testimony of the ecological truth that tree branches are weaker the further they are from the tree’s trunk. The branch that I had been walking out on snapped and I fell down through the branches and landed on my back on the ground. Luckily, it only knocked the wind out of me, but the lessons remain to this day.

This story demonstrates some of the distinctions between courage and moral courage and helps to illustrate a basic foundational principle to moral courage. Moral courage is based on understanding the essential truths that help us to distinguish between right and wrong. Although I may have been "courageous" in seeking to walk between trees, my actions were based on an incomplete understanding of right and wrong. Because of the Light of Christ, all people that come to this earth as a part of their mortal probation can exhibit some level of moral courage, but our capacity to be morally courageous is increased as we seek to gain an increased understanding of basic gospel principles. But an understanding of gospel principles is not enough, for each of us to truly have moral courage, we must live according to that which we know to be right. There is no shortcut across the branches.

A great scriptural example of an individual whose capacity for moral courage increased as he gained an understanding of gospel principles and then applied them was the Apostle Peter. From the time that Peter began to follow the Savior in his ministry, he exhibited a great energy for the gospel, and that energy translated into power as Peter learned and applied the principles of the gospel. The Bible Dictionary teaches us, “Peter was one of the greatest of men. It is true that the N.T. recounts some mortal weaknesses, but it also illustrates that he overcame them and was made strong by his faith in Jesus Christ.” Truly, having moral courage means, overcoming our own mortal weaknesses and becoming strong through our faith in Jesus Christ.

Matthew recounts an experience that Peter had when he saw the Lord walking on the water towards the disciples as they were in troubled circumstances. Because of fear and a lack of understanding, the disciples on the ship cried out upon seeing the Savior on the water. Upon hearing the Lord’s response, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid,” Peter called out to the Lord with a desire to come to the Him upon the water. “Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” The Lord responded in his simple but loving way, “Come.” and Peter went out on the water. Having some courage in what he was doing, Peter “walked on the water to go to Jesus.” But as happens all too often, Peter forgot what he had been doing, became caught up in his dangerous circumstances, and began to sink into the sea. As he was sinking, Peter cried out, “Lord, save me.” “And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him.” The Lord’s response illustrates the second foundational principle of moral courage: “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” (See Matt. 14:27-31)

Interestingly enough, a true understanding of moral courage is founded upon the understanding that “Coming to the Lord” is something that we cannot do alone. By gaining an understanding of the role that the Savior can play in our lives through his Atonement, we are more able to follow the gospel and exhibit the requisite moral courage that is required of us. Indeed, the process of developing our moral courage is directly intertwined with the process of developing faith.
An understanding of this connection is gained upon reviewing, among other things, the teachings of Paul to the Hebrews. Near the close of that epistle, Paul discourses to the Hebrews on principles of faith. In order to illustrate to them how to apply faith in their own lives, Paul sets forth a list of those great patriarchs in their history. It is interesting to note that Paul does not just say that people such as Abraham, Sara, Enoch, or Noah believed or trusted in the Lord, but instead illustrates their faith by recounting experiences when they had the strength of character to do what was right, even at great personal cost… When they exhibited moral courage. They acted according to their faith because they had an understanding of the eternal promises made to man. “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly.”
These great patriarchs and matriarchs lived their lives with moral courage because they understood who they were because of their eternal ancestry and what Our Father in Heaven had prepared for their future. We too can live with moral courage when we understand the blessings of eternity and we have the faith and trust in the Lord that we can truly receive them.

A final principle of moral courage that is exhibited by the experience of Peter walking on the water is that moral courage must be sustained and that we must repent, or call to the Lord, “Lord, save me.” Brothers and Sisters, our lives are fraught with peril. The adversary stands ready and eagerly awaits an opportunity to overcome us with the adversities that so constantly beset us. But there is another who stands ready to save. He who immediately saved Peter, will immediately save each of us as we repent. Joseph taught of the understanding and courage that comes in seeking the Lord in our times of adversity. “O God, where are thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place? How long shall thy hand be stayed, and thine eye, yea thy pure eye, behold from the eternal heavens the wrongs of thy people and of thy servants, and thine ear be penetrated with their cries? … let thy pavilion be taken up; let thy hiding place no longer be covered; let thine ear be inclined; let thine heart be softened, and thy bowels moved with compassion toward us. Let thine anger be kindled against our enemies; and, in the fury of thine heart, with thy sword avenge us of our wrongs. Remember thy suffering saints, O our God; and thy servants will rejoice in thy name forever." And listen to the Lord's response, "My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high” Because the Prophet Joseph Smith turned to the Lord in his time of adversity, he was able to receive both comfort in trials as well as an increased understanding of principles of salvation.

Often times we cry out to the Lord in fear just as the disciples did in the storm as they saw Him upon the water. This emotion is illustrated in the 105th hymn, “Master, the Tempest is Raging.” “Master, the tempest is raging! The billows are tossing high! The sky is o’ershadowed with blackness. No shelter or help is nigh. Carest thou not that we perish? How canst thou lie asleep - when each moment so madly is threatening, a grave in the angry deep?… Master with anguish of spirit - I bow in my grief today. The depths of my sad heart are troubled. Oh, waken and save, I pray! Torrents of sin and of anguish - Sweep o’er my sinking soul, And I perish! I perish! Dear Master. Oh hasten and take control! … Master the terror is over. The elements sweetly rest. Earth’s sun in the calm lake is mirrored, And heaven’s within my breast. Linger, O blessed Redeemer! Leave me alone no more, and with joy I shall make the blest harbor, And rest on the blissful shore.” Indeed my dear friends, we are to call out to the Lord in our times of difficulty and He will immediately save. “The winds and the waves, shall obey [His] will” and His words of “Peace be still” will calm the storm and comfort our troubled hearts. I pray that we all can increase in our faith in the Savior so that we too can “sweetly obey His will.” and be blessed. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior. I have stumbled, I have faltered and have sunk into the sea, and each time, my Savior has immediately saved me, when I called out to him. I love this gospel for it is true and right and I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Every good superhero...

2008-05-27T22:37:00.005-04:00

Needs a strong able-bodied sidekick. Little known to many of you... Mine's a rhino. Yeah.. That's right. A full-sized rhino (the proof in the pictures). Recently, we had an adventure involving an enemy jet and delivery cookies to a village of children in Kazakhstan (or was that children in a Kazakhstani village?). Now the enemies have one less jet and there are some really happy kids in Qaraotkel. Any guesses as to what my superhero power is?

No one messes with Rigo

We are intimidating fighter pilots.

Happy 10th Anniversary...

2008-05-27T12:12:00.002-04:00

To me. 10 years ago today, I went into the MTC. I know... Random factoid. But I love it. As you were.

My brother in law is amazing!

2008-05-20T12:01:00.002-04:00

The latest film that Rob has been working on has been the next installment of the Mummy. It looks great from the trailer (I saw it on Friday at Narnia). Check out his blog and a link to the trailer. Congrats Rob! We are proud of all you do!

Thank you.

2008-05-15T22:03:00.001-04:00

I honestly have the greatest people in my life. I have no idea why I am so blessed, but my friends and family are wonderful. That's right... You are amazing.

Meaning.

2008-05-12T22:36:00.002-04:00

I have always wanted to have a life of substance. Of meaning. To feel like my life makes some sort of palpable difference on the lives of others. Not because I am anything special (because I am so acutely aware of my deficiencies to know better), but instead because I have been so richly blessed by the people that the Lord has placed in my life. I have so many dear friends that sacrifice and love so completely. That have such a deep commitment to the gospel and service. I have been blessed with a good family. Really, a GREAT family.

But what am I doing with all those blessings? I visit with people that have next to nothing. Families living in single room apartments who are struggling to have enough to eat. Yes. Even here in the United States we deal with that. What am I doing for them? I visit with people who struggle to understand principles of salvation. Who seek to understand what faith is and how the Atonement can bless them in their lives. Do I have something of faith that I can give them? I know how completely and wonderfully the Atonement can heal in my life, but do they know that I know that?

One of my favorite things about the gospel of Jesus Christ is that I get to live it better, more completely, tomorrow. And I need to. And when I do, then I will understand what the substance and meaning of my own life is.

Oh no she didn't...

2008-05-03T18:19:00.002-04:00

Oh yes she did... E-Mily is no longer a teenager. Now she is old like the rest of her siblings. To cap of the week of birthdays, we rejoice in Emily Nicole Hokulani Rogers. As her "third favorite brother" and "best friend for never," I consider myself somewhat of an expert. It is true that I have known the Beloved pretty much all of her life and therefore have experienced some great times with her. So E-Mily, when ever you want to come cruise Miami again and party it up cubano style... Come on down. My treat. As long as you pay for yourself. ;) Thank you for being such a good sister and a wonderful person. I love you!

Christopher Dallin Ward...

2008-04-30T09:36:00.004-04:00

Welcome to the 29s. That's right.. I did not forget about you. You are the last NSYNCer to join the club (of which my Mother has been a member for years... um ... I mean a day), but we welcome you with open arms. I hope that everything is going great in the NYC. You and Heather still need to come party in South Beach with me. And yes... I believe that I do have a picture of us. Too bad I am not smart enough to get NSYNC stills from the DVD. Those were the glory days. Anyways. I hope that you have a great birthday! Thanks for being such a true friend.

January 2007. You still look good. And don't worry. We all know that you are not gay, Lance. ;)

Happy 29th, Mother!

2008-04-29T10:19:00.003-04:00

I learned from a friend that it is wholly appropriate to post pictures and birthday greetings for loved ones on your blog. As such... Happy Birthday, Mom! Yes. It is slightly awkward to be a couple months older than my mother, but sometimes as a family you need to make some sacrifices. I am. And yes, people... I get it. I am old. Thank you (to my mom and not to you people) for everything that you do and are. You are the best mom I have ever had! And exclamation points make it more meaningful. Love ya. Everyone is welcome to post birthday greetings in the comments so that Mom can see them.

WHAT A BABE!

Super hot. Dad, you shark. Way to pick 'em!

Scars...

2008-04-22T21:24:00.004-04:00

I have tons. I have this great one on my forehead that I got from one of the full-time missionaries that was over at our place in Hawaii for dinner. I was a squirmy kid and there was no way I was losing at hide and go seek. The metal sliding plate for the closet door had other plans for me, though. Opened me right up. Poor Elder. I can only imagine what he had to have felt like.

I also have this cool looking one on my left pointer finger. I can't for the life of me remember where or how I got it. It is almost as if it has always been there. A permanent part of who I am. Another one on my right shin from days on the swim team. Let's just say that I respect what you ladies go through when you shave your legs.

But it's a different scar that has got me thinking recently. I can tell you that it is definitely not cool like all of the other ones. They don't hurt anymore. They don't leave me confused and shell-shocked. And I can guarantee that chicks don't dig this scar. It is my biggest one and maybe that is why it has been the longest one to heal.

What still baffles me about this scar are its random flare-ups. Times when I forget all the growth. Lose sight of all the joy. And let the peace slip away. I try to figure out what sets it off. Be a man and just take it. But there it is all the same. Hurting. Questioning. Demeaning.

Maybe someday I'll understand why I have these gashes. I probably already do. But until then, I will hold fast to the Master Healer. He knows me. The REAL me. The one that loves seeing that smile on your face and can't wait to hear you laugh. The one that can't get enough of the scriptures. The one that is a little too lazy somedays. Checked Facebook 27 times too many to see if he has a new friend. I'll let him help me see a better man in the mirror, instead of one that is badly disfigured. I'll let him because I know that he can. Because I know that he has. And I love him for that.

Notes of a shipboat captain...

2008-03-30T12:52:00.000-04:00

for a day.

Yesterday I took advantage of an invitation from my friend Andre to go fishing down off of Islamorada in the Florida Keys. That means that you get another fishing blog. We met up at his place at 5:30 am and drove down to the keys to meet what I thought would be a boat that we had chartered. But on the way down, I found out we were renting the boat and going out ourselves. I also found out that Andre decided that it would be a good idea to appoint himself and myself as honorary captains of the boat. What?

Let's just say it was a blast. We talked the manager of the rental place to get some guidelines (not actual rules) as to good fishing areas, he went over some safety tips, and they we went out onto the Atlantic. We decided to hit a snapper area first and the go out and catch some dolphin. Not these, but these. I navigated as Andre drove out to the first site. We then chummed, threw some live shrimp on our hooks and began to cast out. It was quiet at first, but then the snapper came. We ended up pulling in about seven (came to about one per person). We also caught a couple grouper and a few pufferfish, but they were too small to keep.

When we had a good run there, we decided to go out to open water to go after the dolphin with none other than yours truly at the helm. Yeah, let's let the guy driving a boat for the first time in his life take us out onto the open sea. Dad would be proud to know that his only son (yes sisters, you have a brother) manned up and did his job well. Unfortunately, we did not have any success finding any dolphin. We tried a couple other spots with little success and then the day was up, so we return to land.

It was beautiful to be out on the ocean fishing and enjoying its beauty. The water was incredible and colorful. When we returned, we found out that dolphin season is not really until June or July, so Andre and I are hoping to go back out then (Dad?). It was a great way to spend my Saturday. Here are some pictures:

The captain and his crew...

The water was so blue. I loved it.

Andre doing his thing.

What are you thinking about oh wise fisherman? When will I shave? Why do birds suddenly appear? What happened to your amazing bracket?

Your captains and the big fish of the day. It was caught by yours truly.

Glen Taylor is an idiot.

2008-03-20T07:46:00.001-04:00

Now, generally I am a pretty nice guy, but more and more, I do not have nice things to say about Glen Taylor. In fact, I am really steamed about this one. Recently he made some completely unacceptable and wrong statements about Kevin Garnett tanking it at the end of last season. No one in the basketball world that has any grasp of anything would question Kevin Garnett's determination and hard work. The guy plays and works harder than about anyone in the league. We are talking about a guy that averaged 22 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists a game last season. He also played an average of 39.5 minutes a game. Even over the last 14 games of the season last year, Garnett averaged 20 points, 14 rebounds and and 3.5 assists. This while averaging 38.5 minutes a game. If coach gives him that extra minute a game and his numbers are identical to what he was doing all season. It is hard to say that he tanked it at the end, when he was performing at the same level he was performing at all season. And rebounds are a great indicator of effort anyways, and that stat is actually higher while averaging a minute less. In fact, last year was one of his more productive seasons of his career. Mr. Taylor's comments have no basis in fact.

What I find even more idiotic is that Glen Taylor's comments (even had they been true) ostracize him from two groups that he desperately needs to succeed in his sports business: the Timberwolves fans and players. Sometimes it shocks me that individuals that run businesses so successfully in other economic sectors make such poor decisions while managing their sports teams. Nearly every Timberwolves fan LOVES KG. By criticizing KG, all Glen Taylor does is tell his customers that he has no connection to them. He does not agree with them. I believe it also tells all the players on the team that he is willing to stab them in the back for his own interests. To justify himself. This is definitely not good for MN basketball. The reason being... It is and always will be a small market team. Small market teams have a lot of difficulty signing the top free agents (let's be honest, who wants to go freeze their tail off in MN... Sorry Mark), so they have to focus on developing young talent. Convince them that they are committed to them and "build" them team by adding role players in free agency. They did a good job doing that in their run to the Western Conference Finals. They built around KG and brought in some good complimentary pieces like Mad Dog, Cassell, and Sprewell. After that season, though, McHale and Taylor went crazy. Because of a little greed (READ AS tons of) from multiple sides. That team has fallen apart. In fact, Mark is the player on the current roster with the longest time with the team. He has not been with the team that long. So by criticizing KG, all Taylor is telling Big Al, Foye, McCants and others is that their contributions do not matter to him. And if he does not right that ship and soon, all they will tell him is, "I am signing a free agent contract with..." And that will probably be through the press.

I am going to illustrate my point with a hypothetical situation. Say you own a business that sells gidgets (and I thought I made up the word). You have a salesman who works harder than any salesman and has a huge passion for gidgets. He is by far one of the most productive gidget salesmen in the league, um, I mean country. The customers love this salesman and he has a great repoire with his co-workers. Unfortunately, there is a decline in productivity in your local gidget business. This top salesmen ends up taking a job with a competitor in Boston and you hire some of the competitors employees. Imagine that most of your customers are really disappointed because they loved the salesman. You have some that are totally hooked on your gidgets, so they keep coming back (Like me, I can't get enough of those gidgets). But you will also have a lot of customers that will wait and see. Some might begin to support the competition because they love the salesman. Others will want to see what relationship they can establish with the new salesman.

Now in this situation, if you as an owner are trying to tell the people to get behind you and let them know that you are still going to give them a gidget that is worth buying, what should you do? You need to focus on helping the new salespeople feel a part of your team, like you are committed to their success. You also need to make sure that the customers know that you are on the same page as them. Glen Taylor apparently does not understand that this applies to owning a basketball team.

Because my rant involved some great business management advice. I will be billing all of you. Expect an invoice in the mail.

Lastly, I miss the below on the T-Wolves and here's to hoping that Mark gets traded in the offseason. PLAY MAD DOG!

A Conservative Take on Barack Obama's Speech

2008-03-18T22:21:00.000-04:00

I find Barack Obama to be a very interesting candidate because of his rhetoric of change, hope and unity. Because of recent comments by the former minister at the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Obama felt it necessary to address questions of race, religion and their political implications. In an attempt to assuage the fears that many voters might have because of his close connection with Rev. Wright as a spiritual advisor to the Obama campaign, he decided to address the issue head on. I personally summarize his speech in four parts: the legacy of slavery, the divisive nature of racist speech, the impact of the first two on the black community, and, last, the need for us as a society to come together and address the issues that we face collective, regardless of our racial background. It is a good read/view and I recommend it to you, at the very least, to get a better understanding of a person that could potentially be the next president.

As he quite frequently does in any speech, I feel Obama addressed the issue of divisive racial rhetoric well. One thing I do like about Obama is that he generally is very no-nonsense when speaking about his perspective. I was impressed with the candid nature with which he evaluated the world view of the black community in the context of history and present day struggles. I agree with the thrust of his closing as he emphasizes the need for the American people to focus on the great things about our country and become more unified to address the major issues and struggles that we all face.

Although on the whole, I enjoyed Obama's speech, I think he devalues the importance of the rhetoric put forth by Wright and his connection to Farrakhan. Their language and belief system is destructive and unacceptable in today's society. Also, given the organizations that Obama was admittedly a part of while in college, I am a bit concerned about Obama's present connection to those people/organizations. To say that people should not judge a man by his associates and advisors, asks for the public to be a little too naive, in my opinion. I recognize that it does not paint the whole picture, but I believe that is a part of what defines a man's character. I think part of our evaluation of Obama's candidacy, or any other candidate's, must include an evaluation of their associations, and more importantly, and evaluation of their mentors.

I am presently reading, Dreams From My Father and have enjoyed learning his perspective on life and the experiences that he has had. Obama has a very unique background, which he addresses in the speech. I have especially enjoyed reading about the work that he did as a community organizer in Chicago. It helped me to expand my understanding of much of the situation that many African Americans face in the United States. As Obama outlined in his speech, this is not something that will go away/be fixed in one election cycle, but it is something that we as a nation need to start facing head on, both black, white and everyone else. It is a tragedy that we, collectively, have been so reluctant to change and move on from the legacy of slavery, whether white or black.

Ultimately, I have always been very impressed with Obama the orator. He knows exactly how to address his audience and presents a very believable and desireable discourse on hope and change. That being said, I do not believe that his policies will be able to achieve the ends that he hopes to achieve. For my explanation, my post on why I am a conservative is forthcoming.

Every uncle...

2008-03-17T21:49:00.000-04:00

Should have a nephew and a niece as wicked awesome as mine.

My nephew rocks...

2008-03-10T22:27:00.001-04:00

I think he deserves a Gold Glove for his great defensive skills.

My life is best defined...

2008-03-09T14:27:00.000-04:00

By great friends. Therefore, in the dictionary, the entry for Robert Michael Rogers might read something like this... "Smart, kind, respectful, witty, ridiculously good looking and [most importantly] righteous." That's you guys, right there. I am especially grateful this weekend for the great friends and people that the Lord has brought in to my life. I was blessed to have one of my best friends/cousin, Russell, living out here in Florida near me. It was such a comfort to me to have lived with him in Orlando at a time when I really needed a close friend. I don't think he knows how necessary it was for me to have him move out here to live with me.

I invited him to move out as kind of an afterthought while I was preparing for the bar in 2006. I wasn't really sure what was going on in my life and he had recently finished up his coursework at BYU. We had been talking about what he had planned for employment. He mentioned that he was preparing to go in to hospital administration, but the position that he was looking at was not going to open for a couple years. Half seriously, I suggested that he move out to live with me while he waited for the position.

Half-seriousness turned in to seriousness (well... As serious as you can get with Russ and I) and he moved out to Orlando that fall. We enjoyed a couple of months at my parents (not sure if they enjoyed it, though) and then we moved into the gorgeous lime green apartments of Tortuga Bay. I am going to be honest. We had a blast. We were the hosts of some great parties and what not, but I most appreciated the fact that we got up and worked out together (occasionally) and then conversed about the gospel over breakfast (much more frequently). I could always count on Russ helping me understand important principles of the gospel as he would point me to scriptures that I needed in my healing process. I don't think I ever expressed my amazement/gratitude for his uncanny ability to bring up the right scriptures at the right time. I really needed him.

His move out to Orlando also blessed his life because he was able to meet his wife, Christina. After hanging out with them this last weekend, I love how in love they are. Even if they fight about who is being nicer to the other at that present time. That is why I am definitely sad that they are moving out to Denver this week. Clearly, the Lord's work for him in Florida is complete and wonderfully for him... His hospital admin job came through. His great testimony and quick wit will sorely be missed in FL (and don't get me started on how much the state is going to miss Christina on her first move away), but I am proud that we are both friends and family.

Like I started, my life is best defined by great friends, both in and out of my family. Enjoy a few pictures of Russ and my adventures in Florida...

Thank you for the bread...

2008-03-04T13:33:00.000-05:00

... Ian. This morning while I was working at the Bishop's Storehouse, we were filling some orders and there it was. The bread that Ian had so expertly sliced. I just thought that you would like to know that we are putting it to good use out here is S. Florida.

Today was my first chance to help out at the Bishop's Storehouse and I really enjoyed it. I pictured a great Church commercial where Ian would slice and package the bread and then pass it off camera. It would immediately cut to a scene of me taking bread and placing it into the cart as I filled someone's order. C-Blakes and Rob, can you make that happen? The final line could be, "Service, from the shadow of the mountains to the shadow of Hard Rock Casino."

It was also fun to help fill an order in Spanish. A great way to refresh your grocery store vocabulary (no, that's not dirty)...

I just wanted to give Ian that shout out (yes, I am a thirteen year old girl). No, I will not regularly be blogging 3 times in 24 hours. I will instead return to my weeks of anonymity. Bye.

Journey into the mind of Robbie...

2008-03-04T07:25:00.000-05:00

This is a rare opportunity and it is by invitation only (either Google Reader, link on another blog, or even the lucky few that come by the good, old-fashioned Google search). You get to hear what I was thinking. Granted, after this experience, you will probably not want to experience it again... But... Without further ado (but possible some adieu):

After opening the lid of my Pomegranate and Mango body wash this morning. Now, mind you, because I was in the shower, this was out loud (see here).

Gay Robbie: "Wow. I love this stuff. It smells amazing!"

Ruggedly Handsome Robbie: "I am so gay."

For the record, I am not.

And you single ladies are more than welcome to find out on any given Friday (or Saturday, or Tuesday for that matter, or even that traditional fireside date on Sunday... Let's just say, I can pencil you in).

My heroes...

2008-03-03T22:15:00.000-05:00

Are people that can write. I can't. I try. I fake it. It never sounds as good as when I just say it. Out loud. With my great tones of voice. Goofy facial expressions. Charming smile. Okay, so that last one is made up. But honestly, how do you people do it? I can read it... Respect and admire it. It just does not happen for me. That is one of the reasons that I love Moroni so much. He felt the same way that I do. Now, he was a prophet of God, so we all know that he spoke a lot better than I do, but he still was insecure about his writing. He thought that we would all mock him for his so-called deficiencies (which I have yet to find, not that I am looking) and we would not be able to understand what he was trying to say. He really wanted us to know how he felt, but did not know how to fully and completely express himself in writing. I know what you mean, Moroni. These kids are smart. They know their stuff and they write the Dickens out of things.

I guess what I am trying to say is... you guys are amazing. I am... like... so impressed. As for me... Just give me a call. 786-220-0779. You won't be disappointed.

14 Reasons Why I Love Being in Love

2008-02-14T07:08:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentines Day! I love today. It reminds me of how important and wonderful it is to be in love. It also gives me license to be as cheesy as I want to be. So in honor of the day (the 14th), I am offering to you a list of 14 reasons why I love being in love. Some I have not done yet, but look forward to doing. Enjoy!

1) Slow dancing in the kitchen while making dinner together.

2) Talking about nothing for hours and wishing that you don't have to stop.

3) Perma-smile. Yeah. I get it.

4) Holding hands. I have to admit, there is nothing quite like going for a walk while holding her hand.

5) Going to Dairy Queen for the new Wild Summer Banana Blizzard. Russ tells me it is wonderful.

6) Lunch dates. Just because.

7) Surprises. Like a random, last-minute weekend trip to a bed and breakfast.... In Scotland. Or Paris. Or Thailand.

8) Commitment. Most guys hate this. I love it.

9) Falling asleep while sitting on the couch watching a movie because we are so comfortable together, we just fit ... because, hey, we weren't there to watch the movie anyways.

10) Song lyrics make sense.

11) Sitting with her in church. This is the best thing in the entire world.

12) Seeing her smile and nod as I go off (and believe me, just ask Russ... I go off) about some sport or athlete and knowing that she does not know what I am talking about, normally would not care, but is interested because I am interested.

13) Being with someone who is as committed to being genuinely happy, regardless of the circumstances, as I am and with whom I can work to get things back on track when we (read I) lose sight of that goal.

14) Starting a family. I am going to be the most awesome, clueless dad. And she will lovingly shake her head a lot. With that signature smile.

Happy Valentines Day, Robbie!

2008-02-11T21:54:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I am truly and madly in love with Alicia Keys. While I do get all flushed when she sings about me at the Grammys, I was shocked at what her early Valentines gift for me was this year. John Mayer. Thank you Alicia!

Because you ladies asked for it...

2008-01-24T18:32:00.000-05:00

A dinner date with me. And did we ever have a lovely evening. I know... It was incredibly kind of me to prepare dinner. Clearly every woman's dream for a provider. Here are the pictures. I hope you enjoyed it!

Welcome to my humble home... Look! I am making tacos tonight. How thoughtful!

That Foreman Grill is seriously getting the job done!

Tortilla warming techniques... Like the mamitas of Mexico! Seriously... you are being spoiled!

What a yummy looking finished product. Almost as great as if it were Finnish.

Yes... His Hotness. Next time... I will take the picture of you. No... that is not my camera on a timer. What are you talking about?

Joy

2008-01-17T22:56:00.000-05:00

The Church of Jesus Christ has been restored. I love that.

Heaven...

2008-01-17T12:03:00.000-05:00

is hearing John Mayer play the guitar.

This might help the Wolves as well...

2008-01-02T22:37:00.000-05:00

Timberwolves 2007 Evaluation

2008-01-01T11:43:00.000-05:00

I know some of you were starting to be concerned about the sentimentality of the last few postings... Well. I understand and am back to sports. You are welcome.

So... We made it through 2007 and the Timberwolves only have four wins. Ouch. It is tough to be a fan, but what is even tougher for me is the fact that they should be winning games. They are not always getting blown out, but the issues seems to be in finishing games. For example... Last night they played the Clippers and had an 11 point lead going in to the fourth. They ended up giving up 32 points and only scoring 12 point to lose 91-82. A good team closes out the game and does not go that cold. Think about it... 12 points in 12 minutes. One basket every two minutes in unacceptable by any standard of evaluation. Unfortunately, finishing games has not been something that the Timberwolves have been able to do throughout the year. So... How do we fix them? Let's look at some of the assets that we have and then determine how to best use them. I will go through who my rotation is and why, evaluating each player's potential contribution.

My Starting Five (while Randy Foye is still out with injury):
PG- Sebastian Telfair
SG- Marko Jaric
SF- Ryan Gomes
PF- Al Jefferson
C- Mark Madsen

Players coming off the bench:
Corey Brewer, Gerald Green, Rashad McCants, Craig Smith, Antoine Walker

Right now, the offense needs to be run through Al Jefferson. I have only been able to watch a couple of Timberwolves games this year, but I believe that he has the potential to be a Kevin Garnett-type player offensively (although I am not sure that he will be able to match what the Ticket does on the defensive side of the floor). The benefit to this line up is that you can bring in some great offense off the bench with McCants, Smith and Walker (when he is on). The reason I have the starting five that I do is because I believe that it is important to establish defensive rythym to start the game and second half. This starting five would be the best defensive five on the floor. I believe that the coaching staff has been starting Doleac because he helps you spread the floor offensively with his three-point shooting (which unfortunately you do not get with Madsen), but I would prefer for the team to establish a stronger defensive identity to get things started. Most of the time it looks like Doleac is just there to take up some space and not really contributing on either side of the floor. A solid defensive presence creates easier offense and gives you great momentum to start the game. I also think that Jaric has the skills to be a lockdown defender like Bruce Bowen. He is long and athletic and having the tandem of Jaric and Telfair in, you have the luxury of two guys that can bring the ball up or run the break. I love the flexibility that it gives the team in transition.

I also love the bench because of the energy that Brewer and Green can bring in to the game. They are both young in the NBA and still figuring some things out. That is why I move Brewer out of the starting five and to the bench. He would be well served by watching the flow of the game a little and then coming in to provide energy. The same thing applies to Green.

This bench also allows for some flexibility to go small or big depending on who you sub out and when.

The biggest thing for me is the fact that the team is lacking leadership on the floor. That is why I start Madsen. He is the veteran and an excellent leader. He also has a great mind for the game. It is like having a coach on the floor with these young players that allows them to learn about positioning and other nuances of the NBA game that they are still picking up and affect you differently in a game than in practice.

My Starting Five (with Randy Foye back):
PG- Randy Foye
SG- Marko Jaric
SF- Ryan Gomes
PF- Al Jefferson
C- Mark Madsen

Players coming off the bench:
Sebastian Telfair, Corey Brewer, Gerald Green, Rashad McCants, Craig Smith, Antoine Walker

Most of the arguments for this lineup are the same, but just some comments on Foye. I love Randy as a player. I believe that he has the potential to become a more offensively-minded Jason Kidd. I love Telfair's quickness (he is one of the quickest guys in the league), but he sometimes seems to lack the creative understanding that is necessary for a point guard. What do I mean by creative understanding? I mean the ability to evaluate what the defense is giving you and create offense either for yourself or for your teammates. I love what Foye provides in that regard. He is great at creating offense. And I believe that he can add some on defense as well. I am looking forward to his return.

Generally, I think the biggest issue with this team is confidence and coaching. I do not believe that the coaches are doing a good job playing the talent that they have and using each player's strength. I do not buy the argument that they are a young team, so they will lose. Just look at this year's Blazers. They just had a 13-game winning streak and that was done being lead by Aldridge and Roy who are both very young players in the league. Young guys can win. It just comes down to confidence, coaching and leadership. The Timberwolves are lacking in all three right now.

That is why, more than anything... We need some of this:

Tender Mercies

2007-12-09T22:49:00.000-05:00

Those who know me, know that I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and that the gospel of Jesus Christ is one of the most important things in my life. One belief of the gospel that has become increasingly more important to me in my life is the belief that I have a Savior that is intimately aware of who I am and knows exactly how and when to bless me. This direct and specific way the Lord blesses us has recently been referred to as His "tender mercies." My favorite thing about tender mercies is that the Lord blesses us in such a way that there is no doubt what has happened comes from Him and is not just circumstantial.

Just tonight I was able to experience a "tender mercy" of the Lord. Now, generally, these blessings are inherently personal and I choose not to share them because it is a intimate part of my relationship with my Savior. But tonight's tender mercy is a very important part of my healing and this discussion of it, I believe, helps me in that regard. Almost two years ago I was hurt very badly by someone that I loved very dearly. A kind of hurt that never really goes away. I have always been someone that tries to "act" a lot stronger than I really am, but I was devastated that day, and, to be honest, have never really gotten over it. Unfortunately, though, I don't really share how it affected me. Since then, I have not been able to feel like I can be loved. As if there is something inherently wrong with me that makes me unloveable and that I never will be. I know, based on logic and the gospel, that that is a fallacy, but I struggle to change how I feel.

Well, today the Lord reminded me of how He feels about me. I was able to go to a Christmas fireside in Miami Beach that focused on the Savior. Near the end of the fireside, they played a song/slideshow that we had seen a couple months ago in institute and I got my tender mercy. The Spirit reminded me that I am loved and loveable.

I want you... the three people that read my blog... to know that I am grateful for my Savior's sacrifice because it not only covers my sins (which are far too many), but it also covers my heartache (for which I can never express enough gratitude). I am not a perfect man; it is enough of a struggle just to be an ok man, but I love that I constantly get another shot. Especially another shot to fall in love. And that the Lord gives me his tender mercies along the way.

Included is the song and slideshow. And there is also a link to a talk by an apostle today that teaches about what tender mercies are. I recommend both to you.

Elder David A. Bednar, "The Tender Mercies of the Lord"

Romantic Comedies...

2007-12-07T11:37:00.000-05:00

Or as some might say, "Chick Flicks." I must confess. I love them. So, why bring them up today you might ask? I was looking for a little motivation and decided to look up some videos on YouTube and I decided to watch some clips from Serendipity. It amazes me that they can squeeze so many amazing life moments into one feature and often times we wonder why our lives do not have that type of "chemistry" or "love" or "excitement." Personally, I am a firm believer that they do. Maybe not a lifetime of events all compacted in to 1-2 hours, but we have those moments when we float or can't breath or simply don't need to say anything, just feel. It is not a fairy tale or a room full of writers that makes it happen (they're striking anyways), but it is instead our own choice. What am I going to to do in my life to seize those moments... Am I being the leading man? I have the looks, but am I saying the right things and more importantly... being the right person?

I for one, need to remember that, watch for it and then be grateful for those moments. I'll be waiting for my glove...

Relationships on Facebook

2007-11-13T21:56:00.000-05:00

On Facebook you can declare to the world that you are in a relationship and even say who you are in a relationship with. It is weird. It would take a serious amount of commitment on my part to put someone else's name on my profile. I mean, that's my profile... Who do you think you are taking some of my thunder? Now my recently added elementary school class president is going to check you out more than reading the important information on where I am at in my life. I mean... I will end up getting wall posts about how sweet she looks or descriptions about how we would have such attractive children to add to the facebook community. Just trout slap me please. I would rather own a tarantula.

Russ got married...

2007-09-16T21:33:00.001-04:00

I am so happy! It is always a beautiful thing to see someone that you truly care about get married, especially in the temple. This weekend I had the blessing of being able to see Russ and Christina get married in the Orlando Florida Temple. Russ is one of my truest friends and it was also wonderful to see some friends from BYU that I had not seen in some time. I will write a summary of the events later, but to excite your tastebuds, here is a video of the loverly bride and wicked awesome groom. ;) Much love to my people.

Boys' weekend

2007-08-12T17:43:00.000-04:00

My dad came down this weekend and we were able to hang out. I always love to hang out with my father. He got in about 10 on Friday, so we went to bed pretty quickly so that we could get rested up for the golfing we were to do in the morning. We decided to go to Don Shula's course because I was feeling bad that I hadn't been up there yet. I knew that he was probably disappointed in me. We got there and went into the clubhouse to pay and get started. The girl that was working the register clearly thought that I was hot, because she told us that it was going to be a free round for us. (Or maybe because the course needed a little tenderness). We had a fun time golfing and then went back to my place.

Because of the heat we decided that it would be nice to go to the beach and check out my lighthouse. In Miami you can do that... just go to the beach. It was really nice to swim and enjoy the beach even though there were way too many people there. We stayed there for a couple hours and then went home to get ready for the big game.

The real reason that my dad came down was so that we could go see John Beck play in his first preseason game as a Dolphin. We had a great time at the game, even if there were some interesting things going on around us. It was especially exciting to see John Beck lead the game winning drive.

Enjoy the pictures!

I really need to work on that swing.

Camilo? Naw... not even close.

Go Dad!!

My Lighthouse.

The beach from the Lighthouse.... Very crowded.

IT'S JOHN BECK!!!!

My Heart Hurts...

2007-08-03T19:39:00.000-04:00

Well, I guess it was sort of inevitable, but I was still holding out that KG would be in a T-Wolves uniform this coming season, and possibly forever. But forever was not to be. It is a really interesting trade because it is essentially seven players for one. And... The Wolves are now really young. I am a little concerned for this coming season, but they could potentially be really good... If the young guys decided to stick around after a couple of years of growing pains. That is all I have to say about that. As we get closer to the season I will do a more in depth analysis of the team and the league.

Book Report: Three Cups of Tea

2007-07-17T19:35:00.000-04:00

Well, I finally finished a book (other than the scriptures, a law textbook or Harry Potter). I know that it pretty sad, but for some reason I have recently have the bad habit of starting several books at once and not being able to get through any of them. Anyways, my Mom told me that she came across this great book about international development and because she knew of my interest in the subject, she told me that I had to buy it and read it. As I try my best to follow the 5th Commandment, I purchased the book and began to read it.

Requisite at this point is a good segue into explaining why I have entitled my blog as "And You Thought I Was Going to Save the World." Basically, the title probably best describes the conversation that I have with myself pretty much everyday. Ever since my mission in Mexico, I have had a strong desire to be involved in international development. My main motivation for going to law school was so that I could put myself into a position to be able to serve the people of Latin America. Because of various trials over the past couple of years, though, I have not been able to do exactly what I had imagined that I would be doing. As such, I love having opportunities to remind myself of the end game. Don't get me wrong, I am presently have opportunities to serve the people of Latin America. I mean just today, I helped a woman restructure her corporation so that her brother in Venezuela could become a shareholder. It is just that I have a great vision of things that I am going to do to help alleviate poverty... and those things are yet to come. So... even though I am not "saving the world" right now, I am quite excited for when my blog will be, "Aren't You Glad That I am Saving the World?"

Back to the book... I loved it. The book is co-written by a journalist and the subject of the story, Greg Mortenson. It tells the story of how Dr. Greg gets lost on a failed attempt to climb K2 and is taken in by the town of Korphe. While recovering there, he notices the town needs a school and promises that he will return to build a school. It outlines the adversity that he went to in order to build that first school and the mission that came after to build many others. It is one of the most powerful stories and the authors do not shy away from the politics that are intimately involved in in the work that Greg Mortenson is doing in Pakistan and Afghanistan. I am not going to say that it is the best piece of writing in the world, because it did leave something to be desired. But, this is a book to read for the story and not for its literary qualities.

I am deeply impressed with Greg Mortenson's willingness to sacrifice in order to improve the lives of others. It was not comfortable or easy for him to help others, but that was not why he did it. What it does show is the power of determination and a passion for service. It brings an interesting perspective to me on the true power of the widow's two mites to help others. I think that is what I love about micro-credit lending. If we were to look at the relatively minimal amount of capital that is needed to make a huge difference in helping people break out of poverty, we see how powerful our own two mites can be in changing the world. It is incredible because it is not just about the sacrifice, but truly the Lord does multiple each mite to deeply impact his children. We should all take advantage of each opportunity we have to help people overcome poverty. In addition to voting on Idol Gives Back, each week we can donate to the Perpetual Education Fund or other humanitarian aid projects. I am excited to be increasing more generous with the wealth that I have been blessed with.

I strongly encourage you to read this book and seek opportunities to improve the world around you, both locally and international. I am so grateful for the good people that I have been able to associate with in my life and pray that we can use our blessing to make the world better. I am so excited to take each day to try to make some difference and make someone's life a little better. Or as was stated in Three Cups of Tea ... "I want to be thoroughly used up when I die."

I think this song is about me...

2007-06-30T01:37:00.001-04:00

John Mayer knows my life... Scary.

Adventure in Coral Gables...

2007-06-27T20:47:00.000-04:00

So tonight, after an appetizing meal of bowtie pasta with an italian sausage sauce, I decided to go get my library card. I know... when I go out, I go out. Needless to say, my local branch is this cool old Spanish style building near the ritzy part of town. To get the full effect I drove by the Porsche/Maserati/Ferrari dealership on my way home. Or I needed to go to the bank to deposit a check. When I got there, though, there were no envelopes and I was a bit concerned, until I saw that the ATM I was at did not use envelopes. Instead it scans your check. You don't have to enter the amount or anything because it reads it off the check. Technology is so cool! It probably then wires it to an offshore account never again to be seen. Anyways, I then got back to may place and what to my enjoyment but there was a Maserati parked out front. I love Coral Gables.

When I am my happiest... in my apron! I am so cool!

My new library card... Isn't it southfloridian? That is a cool new word to describe what I am becoming. Just wait until I break free of my cocoon.

WHAT!?!?!? Who the heck parallel parks their Maserati? Only in Coral Gables!

I struggle in the off season... At least the draft is next week.

2007-06-23T12:40:00.000-04:00

Next Thursday is the 2007 NBA Draft. I am interested to see how things go for my team, the Minnesota Timberwolves, especially with all the rumors of a Kevin Garnett trade. It has been especially interesting to read all the mock drafts on the various sporting sites to see who the experts believe that they will draft. The funniest "expert" pick for the Timberwolves was Mike Conley, Jr. That would be the dumbest decision in the world. That is not to take anything away from Mike Conley's game, but the T-wolves seriously do not need another guard and it would be a waste of the number 7 draft pick on another point guard... especially since they have taken guards with their last two lottery picks. Instead, let's take a look at the players that the Timberwolves currently have on their roster and evaluate what their needs are for this offseason so that they can get back to the playoffs. Unfortunately, they did not make the one move that they should have and fired Kevin McHale, but that is another debate for another day. Now to the T-wolves roster (Player name, remaining contract- according to http://www.hoopshype.com/, positives and negatives).

Mark Blount (C)- (7-8 million/year for three years)
Mark is a decent scorer and rebounder. Had games this last season where he was quite productive. Good touch for a big man, seems more comfortable 8-12 feet from the basket than being a true post player. Can definitely improve defensively.

Ricky Davis (SG/SF)- (6.5 million for one year)
Prototypical slasher. Ricky has been able to put up points throughout his NBA career. Doesn't do much else, though.

Randy Foye (PG/SG)- (2.5-4.7/year for four years, one guaranteed, two team option, one qualifying offer)
Good size for a point guard. Can get to the basket and create for other players. Has the potential to be one of the better point guards in the league if he can cut down on errors due to inexperience. Also needs to improve his defense (both personally as well as understanding team defense concepts)

Kevin Garnett (PF)- (22-24 million/year for two years, second year is player option)
Incredible player. Definitely one of the top players in the league. Actually improved statistically this last year, even though sport writers are saying that his game is declining. My one critique of Kevin is that at times he can be too unselfish and really needs to just take over games... He is good enough to do that. (Which also would be my critique of Lebron's play in the finals) He is getting old (as far as NBA players go), so it will be interesting to see how long his body can keep up. Actually, another negative is that contract... It sure eats up a ton of salary cap space.

Trenton Hassell (SF)- (4.3 million/year for three years, third year is player option)
Is a poor man's Bruce Bowen. Trenton is a decent defender who the team looks to as its lockdown defender. Is a streaky shooter (although, he has never been asked to score) and, in my opinion, not as great of a defender as management seems to think that he is.

Troy Hudson (PG)- (6-6.6 million/year for three years)
Another scoring point guard. Has his own rap album (that is definitely a positive). Injury prone and has not played much over the last few years because of that. Also, turns the ball over a lot. Honestly, played himself into this contract with one good playoff series against the Lakers a few years back. Wish he played like that more often.

Marko Jaric (PG/SG/SF)- (6-7.6 million/year for four years)
Great defender and can score. Because of his size, it has been difficult to fit him into a certain position. He can play the one, two or the three. Big issue is that he has underperformed over the past couple of seasons and has played well under the level of what he is getting paid. I think that we have not seen Marko play to his potential.

Mark Madsen (PF/C)- (2.4-2.8 million/year for three years)
Great hustle player and good defender. Great understanding of how to play team defense. Struggles scoring and from the free throw line, and is therefore considered an offensive liability. Mark has an excellent understanding of positioning and sets one of the best screens in the NBA. The biggest negative is that he is underutilized by the team. I am partial, it is true. But speaking from a basketball point of view, what he does away from the ball is exactly right and for some reason that has been lost on his coaches recently.

Rashad McCants (SG)- (1.7-3.6 million/year for three years, 2nd year is team option, third year qualifying offer)
Looked good his rookie year before his knee injury. He is a scorer and has a decent outside shot. I think he has the potential to be a Richard Hamilton type of scoring two guard. The team did a good thing by bringing him back slowly from surgery, and as such he did not play much last season.

Craig Smith (PF)- (687,456/year for one year)
Good rebounder and can provide some interior scoring. I think that he is a good back up and can develop into a serious contributor. He was a steal in the second round of last years draft, but that was due to concerns about an injury he had during his last year of college. He still has some developing to do, though.

Juwan Howard (PF)- (6.8-7.3 million/year for two years, second year is player option)
Interesting trade. He can score and rebound. He is getting older and his game is not as great as it used to be, but he does provide a good veteran presence in the locker room.

To be completely honest, this is not a bad roster at all. Here is my starting 5:
PG- Randy Foye
SG- Ricky Davis
SF- Marko Jaric
PF- Kevin Garnett
C- Mark Blount

My sixth men-
SG- Rashad McCants
C- Mark Madsen

I think the Juwan Howard trade was interesting because it allowed the Timberwolves to bail out on the Mike James attempt that did not work this last year. Mostly I think that that was an issue of a player not fitting in to the system. My biggest critique of Kevin McHale would be that sometimes he does things just to do things, without really looking at how a player will fit in to the system. This is where I think the Juwan Howard trade creates problems. Mark Blount and Juwan Howard have very similar "games." I think the strength of an NBA team is its ability to have role players that provide a change of pace. That is the most glaring weakness that the Timberwolves have. When you have players at the same position that have essential the same "game" or playing style (like Blount and Howard), you cannot adapt the flow of the game by making a substitution. For example if you look at the Spurs. During the finals they started Finley at the two and then would bring in Ginobli off the bench. You have jump shooter (who can slash, when needed) that is sub-ed out for a true slasher. It changes the flow of the game and creates offensive opportunities because you are constantly forcing the other team to adjust to your game and not the other way around. The Timberwolves are too one dimensional and therefore they cannot control the flow of the game as well as they ought to. The trade might mean that Blount is out the door, though. McHale has hinted that more trades are on the way.

So... who do we draft then? Having the number 7 pick puts the team in a great position to get a quality player. I think the current debate, as occurs in any draft, is ... do we draft the best player available or do we fill the most glaring need on our team. I am a firm believer that you first and foremost focus is to draft to fit your needs and systems, unless the player is a game changer. There are very few game changers in my book (Lebron, Kobe, Garnett, Duncan), so you should focus on your needs when drafting.

What do I think the Timberwolves need? Part of the problem that I am having with this is that I am not really sure what type of system Wittman wants to implement. That being said, I think the T-wolves need to draft a scorer at the SF position or a defensive PF-C. Because of that, I am looking at Joakim Noah, Jeff Green, and Al Thornton. I would love if we could get Al Horford, but it does not look like he will drop that far in the draft (highly likely that he comes off the board at No. 3). Lately, I have been leaning the Joakim Noah route because I like his hustle and defense. He does have the ability to score, but I would love to see his defensive presence next to KG. That is probably who I would draft with the No. 7.

I am excited to watch the draft on Thursday (I will DVR it because I have Institute) and next week I will discuss potential trades (this is where the salary information comes in handy) that could help the T-wolves as the offseason progresses (and for those who know basketball, I will explain why I think that Marko is a great fit at the starting SF).

It took me too long, but like I promised initially, sports will continue to become an increasingly more important part of this blog. Go Wolves!

I guess I need a can opener...

2007-06-19T21:32:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I am reminded that it is probably ok that I am still single. When I got home from work, I decided that I would make dinner and I wanted some chili and rice with some cheese. So I started preparing and when I grabbed to can to open it, I noticed that I did not have a can opener. Needless to say, I was undeterred and I called Lynn to get some advice as to "alternative can opening methods" because I did not have strong enough teeth to bite it open. First, she suggested that I try my screwdriver and a hammer, but the screwdriver did not work well because it is one of those choose your own adventure (or driver head) kind, so I just went after the can with my hammer. It worked... I guess... and the results are displayed below. One of these days I will grow up....

Because Mom's not a blogger... yet

2007-06-01T13:05:00.000-04:00

I really like this idea and thought that I would add it to my blog. Always remember how wonderful mothers are... If any of you have questions about what temples are or who President Hinckley is, feel free to let me know via email.

" As you all know, this June 23rd is Pres. Hinckley's 97th birthday. He has been such a wonderful example for all of us and I think that it is time we pay him back! One thing that he is known and remembered for is the construction of so many temples around the world. I was thinking that it would be a wonderful idea if every member possible attended the temple the week of June 23 as a way of honoring and thanking Pres. Hinckley for all his years of service to the church.

This is NOT a church sponsored activity, but just a personal thing that I'd like to suggest, so, if you're interested in participating and helping this to happen, please forward this email to as many people that you know and let's see what a difference we can make! I figure that between all of us, we can cover a lot of the country and maybe the world.
Thanks for your help!"

- Becky Rogers

Bienvenido a Miami... for real this time!

2007-05-31T10:10:00.000-04:00

Well... I have officially arrived and I am settling in to my new place. I cannot believe that I am down here for real. It has been an interesting week as I have tried to get settled into my new place. I final got the internet set up today, so I thought that I would post a few pictures of my place... It is still a work in progress.

Find something interesting about your name...

2007-05-23T14:53:00.000-04:00

I like to do google searches... especially for my name. I have a puppet company. That is all.

Stability and constancy

2007-05-23T08:31:00.000-04:00

I would like to blog about entropy this morning, but I have not been in a science class for so many years... my physics would probably be bad. :) I am about to start up all over again and this time it is going to be incredibly interesting. As you all know, I am moving down to Miami. I have decided to take a job with a law firm down in the Coral Gables area doing corporate work. I am excited for the opportunities that if offers me for growth and progression in my career. I am also excited because I will be doing a good deal of my work helping hispanic people get their businesses more established. This will definitely be a period of growth and personal development, but I am ready for this next adventure in my life.

A few things that I am interested in seeing how they turn out:

1) I really do not know anyone in Miami: Since I graduated from high school, every place that I moved to, I at least had a couple people that I already knew (except for the mission field) to make the transition a little easier. Luckily, I am only 3-4 hours away from Orlando, so I will still have O-Town as a home base (no jokes about me coming back to Orlando to score, that is where the analogy ends).

2) Limited LDS singles scene in Miami: I am going to be moving into the Homestead stake where they do not have a singles ward ... yet. I will be member of the Flagler ward where there are about 10-15 singles attending (11-16 with me? ;) ) with about 80 in the ward list. I am excited for the opportunity that I will have to share the gospel and hopefully I can help make a difference.

3)It's Miami: I have heard Miami is another country. I am actually really excited to experience the culture and really become a Latino. Pretty soon, my posts will be replete with Spanglish... Que va!

I guess that leads me back to constancy... Through all this inconsistency and unknown, there have been certain constancies that I am incredibly grateful for. I love the constancy of the gospel and the peace that I feel as I am doing what the Lord wants me to do. It truly makes the big decisions makeable. I am also indebted to my friends and family for their constancy. I love you all and know that where ever I decided to embark to, I will have my nationwide network to keep me focused on what is most important and give me the advice and support that I need.

So, the most important question-

How long until I get married? ;)

I am moving to Miami....

2007-05-17T07:35:00.001-04:00

More to follow... Any advice?

So true...

2007-05-09T22:10:00.000-04:00

Your results:
You are Spider-Man

Spider-Man		80%
Green Lantern		65%
The Flash		60%
Superman		55%
Supergirl		55%
Hulk		45%
Wonder Woman		40%
Robin		40%
Iron Man		40%
Batman		30%
Catwoman		20%

You are intelligent, witty,
a bit geeky and have great
power and responsibility.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz

I'm in love... I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!

2007-05-09T10:44:00.000-04:00

Recently, someone has come into my life and I can't stop thinking about her. The kind of woman that I have always dreamed of. She is always there when I need her (and, honestly... I need her) and she always offers me such amazing insights into the world. Recently, she changed her look and is really beautiful in all that she now shares with me. Because of how amazing she has been to me, I have decided to write a poem about her, so that you all can see how wonderful it is to be in love.

My Blissful Love of Google Analytics
Life's fleeting dream and endless change,
My precious, sweet longing.

A hole to fill and time to spend,
To bring you close to me.

And now I've found my one true love,
And spend my days with you.

Your charts and graphs with colors rife,
Bring joy to my small heart.

I need you more and more each day,
Beloved Analytics.

I guess it is true... I am pretty gorgeous

2007-05-08T16:58:00.000-04:00

E-Mily inspired me and I was painted....

Who Should Paint You: Gustav Klimt

Sensual and gorgeous, you would inspire an enchanting portrait..

With just enough classic appeal to be hung in any museum!

What Artist Should Paint Your Portrait?

Let me tell you a story...

2007-05-07T21:17:00.000-04:00

I want to share a story from my childhood from oh so long ago. No, this story does not involve getting Melissa in trouble on purpose (I am so grateful that you have not disowned me as a brother for that one... Granted it is demonstrative of my sheer brilliance in coming up with ways to get siblings in trouble). Nor does it involve the relaxing sounds of a crackling fire on a Christmas morning... Oh the joy that that brings me. I am not even planning on sharing the story of our adventures battling evil in the rain forests behind our house in Hawaii. I want to talk about an experience that I had when I learned about how wonderful it is to pray.

I am blessed to have been raised by good parents that taught me from a young age to pray. When I was a little boy no older than about 5 years old, my family was in California and we were on our way to Disneyland. Needless to say, I was anxious and excited to enjoy all that is Disney. As we travelled toward our destination, we encountered some car problems and we had to pull off to the side of the road. My dad was unable to get the car working (which tells you something about the problem because my dad is seriously amazing at fixing things) and we were all starting to get a little frustrated with the delay (I did have some important things to do). As my parents were discussing what their options were with three young kids growing restless, I chimed in, "Why don't we just say a prayer?" My mother smiled and said, "Ok, then why don't you say it?" Innocently, I did. I prayed that the car would start and that we would be able to get to Disneyland (I did have my priorities). I finished the prayer and then my dad started the car and we went to Disneyland without a problem (except from me probably begging the whole time we were there... Sorry Mom and Dad).

I don't share this because I feel like it makes me some amazing person (because I know that I am not). Instead, I love the lessons that it has taught me about prayer throughout the rest of my life. Since that time, what I have prayed and the depth of my need has changed, but the response has always been the same. I have overcome things that I never would have thought possible in my life because I pray. And I will always continue to do so.

No matter where we want to get in life, we can pray and the Lord will help get there. There are problems in life... There always will be. The Lord won't always "fix it" for us immediately like with the car when I was a kid, but he will always give us the ability to keep going. I have been able to get to some pretty amazing places in my live because I have prayed, "started my car" and gone to where I wanted to be and where the Lord needed me. It definitely has not worked out the way that I had it all planned out... but guess what... that is wonderful. He knows a lot better about what is right than I do.

Oh, and I love my family.

In honor of Rob's next film...

2007-04-30T22:47:00.000-04:00

Because Rob is working on Golden Compass right now and posted his daemon. I decided to link to the website and see what mine is. Also, it is important to start advertising this movie among friends so that we can make sure that we are there opening night to support Rob (and find his name in the credits). Here is mine.

Bienvenido a Miami....

2007-04-30T20:10:00.000-04:00

As well as Coconut Grove, South Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach and Lake Okeechobee. We are back from our foray into South Florida and although we came back slightly pink (ok... Russ got knocked out in the second round by the sun). This blog is turning into more of a photo album than anything... I guess because I am just not getting enough time to write. Let's just say that we had a blast. We got to make a new friend (except for Russ... he was already lucky enough to know Ashley) and we really enjoyed the time away from Central Florida.

On a side note... this is hopefully the last time that pink will be mentioned in my blog. From now on it will be referred to as "salmon." Enjoy the pictures...

Time to enjoy the sea life... that is not in the sea, but instead held captive in tiny tanks...

Here we are enjoying the Boca Raton Symphony with the locals... They were not ready for us....

I have never been surfing in my life, but I think that I make a swell surf board... And that turtle has a really cool visor on.

This was at the amphitheater where we went to hear the symphony. It is one of my new favorite quotes. I am always grateful when I can get that good washing like we did with the symphony.

This is the sunrise Sunday morning. If you think that it is a beautiful picture, then Tiffany took it. If it is average or below, then it is of my doing.

I can feel the temperature rising...

2007-04-22T18:31:00.000-04:00

Well, Russ and I threw our housewarming party this weekend and I believe that it went fairly well. Let's just say that warming a little house is a lot of hard work with the cooking and cleaning. Luckily, I had my trusty apron and was able to get to work at about 10:00 am. Thanks to Adam for a most amazing wings recipe. They were, as always, delicious. We ended up having a good attendance and everyone seemed to be having a good time. Here are some pictures to let you know how much fun it was....

Yes, Russ... You are the hottest guy at the party not taking this picture....

I hope Katie isn't looking at this Ian.... I promise it is healthy...

Great eats....

Apparently it is ok to raid Robbie's closet, take his hats and go in his kitchen... :)

Wait... is that karoake? Wonderful....

Georgia on my mind...

2007-04-15T19:38:00.000-04:00

This weekend, I had the wonderful opportunity to go to northern Georgia to do some camping and fishing with my dad. Just as last time, we stayed at Unicoi State Park (http://gastateparks.org/info/unicoi/ ). We left Thursday night/Friday Morning and drove straight through (trading naps) until we got up there about 11:00 am Friday morning.

We set up camp and then began a few days filled with fly fishing. For those of you like my sister, Emily... fly fishing is like playing a game of fetch. You throw something out, the fish grabs it and then brings it back to you. They love it. We hit two streams while we were up there. We fished Smith Creek and Wildcat Creek. Because of the time of year (the season opened a couple of weeks ago), Wildcat Creek was really crowded. It is a stocked stream (they put fish in it every year- for the layperson), and everybody seemed to want to get a piece of the action.

My dad was able to get a brown trout and a rainbow trout out of Wildcat Creek on Saturday morning (apparently they wanted to come back to camp and play)... which made for a delicious breakfast.

Again for those like Emily, in the natural course of a fish's life, sometimes its head falls off, guts fall out and it falls into batter and then into a frying pan.... Don't worry... they love it.

On the way back we stopped for church at my Dad's new preferred ward, the Dahlonega Ward. As always it was eventful...

All in all it was a beautiful weekend...

Enjoy this exclusive footage of a lefty fly fisherman.

These two could fix the US

2007-04-12T07:26:00.000-04:00

This is Robbie and Lauren, my nephew and niece. If you know anything about me... Know that I love my family. After I had graduated from BYU and was moving home to FL prior to law school. I stopped in Albuquerque to visit with my Grandpa Porter. As we sat and talked, he told me that he had learned that the most important things that we have in life are our faith and our families. Since then I have tried to do a better job of respecting and taking advantage of these great gifts. Truly, the level of our happiness is directly related to the level of our commitment to our faith and our families. I know this to be true.

Well, I had thought that I would start my blogging with some humorous diatribe into politics, but I will have to save that for when I get back from my fishing trip in Georgia. I have just been extremely grateful for my family lately and decided to talk about that.

Memories

2007-04-11T17:02:00.000-04:00

Oh... the days of my first blog. Check it out and see how much I've grown... No fat jokes please.

http://robbiespain.myblog.com/

Welcome me back to blogosphere...

2007-04-11T16:55:00.000-04:00

Well... it's me. It has been a while since my virgin voyage into the blogosphere and now I am ready to come back with a vengence. I hope to be able to have a balance blog of sports, politics, international development and fun personal insights. I love reading all your blogs and I am quite ready to teach you about the comings and goings of a beautiful man in Orlando. I might talk about myself some too. Be ready for the first blog coming in the next couple of day... I think I will talk about how we can fix the US federal government in 5 easy steps.