Meg Wilson and my cousin, Kelly Dumont, do a regular podcast called MacReach in which they explore and discuss the role of Apple tools in the setting of formal education. I was struck today by a truth shared by Meg as the podcast group discussed a healthy approach to “failure.” We can be so afraid to fail that we don’t take any risks. If we want to be proficient before we are willing to act, we will miss many learning opportunities. I am grateful for the following words from Meg which resonated with me today. 

“The idea of failing is so negative to many people…..but it’s an opportunity to succeed in the future. It’s an opportunity to learn and to move forward…..Celebrate failure and just know you are going to learn from it and move on.”

Where were you on September 11, 2001? This beautiful memorial has one flag for each of the 3,000 Americans whose lives were taken that day. I am grateful for the freedom represented by these flags and for all those who have sacrificed their lives on behalf of that freedom. 

This morning I was reading from the scriptures and was reminded that many of the blessings God has in store for us come through the natural course of life’s events. Even the difficult and negative experiences of life may well be God’s platform to ultimately bring us those things we really need, rather than the things we think we need. I also realized this morning that these same truths were couched in an email last night from my dear sister, Vicky. In so many words, she described how God had been mindful of her and how that blessing had come through the natural course of the events and associations of her life. I am thankful for the wisdom of God in how he cares for our deepest needs. 

In my work, I have the privilege of coming to know many beautiful individuals and families. Their stories and accomplishments can be inspiring. Angelo is an amazing 92 year old who is currently working on his 6th CD. He brought me a copy of his 4th and 5th the other day. I have enjoyed his gentle and soft creations as a talented keyboard musician. I am grateful for the energetic example of this special man in his 10th decade. 

Howard W Hunter had the shortest tenure as president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served for 9 months before he passed away March 3, 1995. It is interesting to me that I can still clearly remember his two points of emphasis for members of the Church. One might think that his message during such a short time as our Prophet might be forgotten. I was thankful to see this brief quote by President Hunter on the wall the other day. It brought to mind his charge to all members of the Church to become worthy to enter the temple. He also emphasized the need for each of us to become more like Jesus Christ.