Tuesday, May 3, 2011

When I was younger...

When I was younger let's say about 10, I used to believe that the world was going to end soon. I never thought I would be here at the age of 55. I did not know that anyone alive then would still be around. I should qualify that by saying those who weren't of a certain religion, would not be around. I was not baptized into that religion yet so I did not count myself among the survivors of a world destruction. I took care of that when I turned 11 by getting baptized into that religion. It sure was a lot for a kid of 10 years of age to worry about, but I was taught to believe and accept such things.

I did learn many good things which protected me from harm, but I also lived a very sheltered and scary childhood. I was guilty of raising my children in a similar way. I was not however, as strict as my father was. My oldest two got the toughest part of it. I did allow them to have friends and to have fun. I tried not to scare them into getting baptized. My oldest daughter did see the need to get baptized before entering High School. My oldest son did not get baptized and that is fine. My younger two got it much easier since my thinking was changeing with every year that went by. I still wanted my children to have a solid foundation but, I did not believe that only by being a member of a certain religion could this be achieved. And I was right! My four children are great adults who have good principles and beliefs. They do believe in a God, but in their own way, not one dictated by me or other men. I am very proud of my children and I thank God for giving me the wisdom to do a good job, along with their mom, to raise pretty sound adults.

Well, the world is still here and so am I 45 years later. I hope to be around much longer! I love being alive and I love people. I love people of all colors and backgrounds and beliefs. I believe in a God who loves all people and views us all as his children. I have reached a part in my life which I hope will stay with me forever. I am at peace with myself. I am not perfect and I have made mistakes and sinned many times. But as a father I also believe my Heavenly Father loves me and will forgive me and help me to extend a hand to someone in need or provide a smile to brighten someones day. I only ask that I am blessed as I have been for the rest of my life....

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