Attached is a wonderful message from our Sunday School Presidency.  Please take a moment to read it and share it with your family. 

The Stake Bishop’s Council continues to review the Covid-19 statistics along with reports from the Area Presidency.  The stake will still hold off returning to church.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.

I have been very impressed with the way the members in our ward have managed the confusion and added stress introduced into our lives due to the Covid-19 virus. It appears from external observation, most are doing OK but how is everyone really doing? Physical health challenges are being addressed, but how is your mental health? Most are still working, but has your feelings of job security changed? What else in our lives has this pandemic affected?

I ask because I’m concerned about each of you, your family, your kids, and your spiritual well-being.

I was listening to a Ted Talk the other day titled: “Increase your self-awareness with one simple fix!” by Tasha Eurich. This talk sparked some thoughts which I want to share.

Increasing our self-awareness can help each of us identify things in our lives where improvements might be considered. Recognizing our strengths and shortcomings can positively impact us as we strive to better ourselves and improve our relationships with others. Please be careful to not get stuck over-analyzing yourself.

The classic introspection question is Why? Asking yourself why something is happening? or why something is happening to you? These questions are not necessarily wrong, but how helpful is it if you don’t move on to the next question? To the “what” question?

This pandemic has changed our definition of normal. I admit that my health has been effected. I question why is this happening? I find myself stuck from time to time.

This week Heather and I realized that last year on the 4th of July is the day we told our kids that I was being forced out of my job. I spent the next two months working hard to prepare the company for my departure. This was a blessing. The company I built doesn’t define who I am. In fact, when we completed each building, we dedicated the building to the Lord’s purpose. My partner’s father dedicated the first building and my father dedicated the second. My work within the confines of that company is done. I knew it then and know it now.

Who would imagine that a year later I would still be looking for a way to provide for my family. I know we will be ok but it is hard especially on those days when I’m stuck, the days where I find myself asking why? I question why with the pain of shingles. I ask why when surgery is delayed. I ask why when the convergence of time, events, and the cliff lingers closer and closer.

But, when I turn and ask him what should I do?

6 Be strong and of a good ^acourage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the ^bLord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not ^cfail thee, nor ^dforsake thee.

Deuteronomy 31:6

Christ has atoned for all our shortcomings, fears, and transgressions. Our Savior, Jesus Christ experienced all so to lift and elevate all. His arms remain always open reaching to each of us. He knows us and is intimately involved in our lives. Look for Him, recognize his influence, and express gratitude for your blessings.

My family and I are blessed to live in this great country even with the turmoil that exists. We hear about all the evil in the world. We see it on the corner, creeping closer and closer.

But, look for what is not seen by all, not shown by the media. Look for the goodness that is so evident if you look. See what happens in the days that follow. See the goodness in the world come alive in support of truth and right. Watch the day after when thousand show to cleanup, support, and repair. There is expanding evil in the world but there is ever-expanding good to counterbalance than in his time prevail. “…fear not, nor be afraid…). Seek him, “Hear Him.”

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/inspiration/hear-him-the-creators-voice?lang=eng

I testify that as we serve others, the spirit proceeds our efforts. He sends his spirit to teach, edify, comfort, and bless lives.

We love you all,

• Bishop Anderson
• “Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org