The doctrines and ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ are the principal anchors of my life. Through them, I feel the magic of Christ’s power in my life, bringing peace and assurance amidst a troubled worldwide landscape. I am also grateful for the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is the “delivery system” through which the power of the gospel can come into my heart. This organization is consistent, through-out all the world. The chapels may vary in size and design- such as this one in Ketchikan, Alaska. But the teachings, down to the specific lesson of a given week, are the same everywhere. Neither does the weekly renewing ordinance of the sacrament vary throughout the world. One can attend anywhere and have the blessing of being refreshed through the Spirit.

I am grateful to spend a few days with Michelle and four of our boys. The sands of time have slowly shifted away from some of life’s elements that used to take on higher priority. A few pillars remain- including our family relationships. I love my family.

New Eddystone Rock is a small island in the Misty Fiords of Alaska, made of basalt, a volcanic rock. It reaches 237 feet into the sky in the middle of the Behm Canal, near Ketchikan. I am grateful to have viewed this magical, majestic scene.

The rich turquoise blue of a glacier is beautiful. I am intrigued by this unusual color that permeates the landscapes of Antarctica and is seen in other areas with glacial ice. The particular makeup of the ice in these settings causes a heavy absorption of light from the red end of the spectrum. I am thankful to be able to experience God’s artistry.