A Powerful Day

Today has been powerful for many reasons.  I have been comforted by the Lord in ways I hadn't felt for a while, and I have been reminded of just how much that comfort can mean for me.  It is always comforting to feel that the Lord needs me, and even more so to feel that He is proud of me.  I have really needed everything the Lord has given me today, so I am feeling very grateful.

But one of the biggest reasons today was so powerful was that it was the official homecoming of (former) Elder Keith Eberhard, one of my dearest friends.

This is Keith.

In his homecoming talk today, he spoke with such deliberance (is that a word?) and surety.  I know he has a very strong testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, and of His Gospel here on the earth today.

We must decide to choose the path of happiness, or not-so-happiness.

This is the truth.

We are imperfect.  But God gives us imperfections to help us grow.  I know we will grow from our trials, because I have grown from mine.

Our spirits are blessed with gifts.  These are part of our personality, and also things we learn to develop.

That's how we make decisions. By following the Spirit.

Through God, all things are possible.  Through God, we can become the people He wants us to become.

I know the Book of Mormon is true, and I declare it amidst much opposition.  I know, through the Spirit, that this is His Gospel.

He's pretty cool.

It was so good to see him today and to hear his testimony, which has been strengthening my own from the time he gave his farewell talk, to the very first letter I received from him while he was in Washington, until now.  I know it will only continue to do so.  I'd like to thank this astounding young man for his faith and strength.  You've done great things for the lives you've touched,

and I know you will never stop.

Good to have you back, bud.