Role Models

Sometimes, the inability to capture incredible moments into words and phrases prevents me from writing anything at all, but we had a beautiful moment today. I don't want to lose the feeling of this memory due to something as trivial as writer's block. Here's my attempt to record a few thoughts in the hope that on a later date it will help restore some of the precious feelings I had today.

A week ago Sunday-after seminary graduation for Jessica, we slipped into a side room with Bishop Carter and the Sanft family. Mark ordained Taylor to the office of priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. Bishop Carter, President Sanft and Taylor's friend, Adam Sanft, joined in the circle. Private, beautiful and personal. Going to church today, we anticipated that Taylor would have the chance to bless the Sacrament. I was so happy we didn't have other meetings to attend today so that we could just be there. What a pleasant surprise it was when they approached Mark before the meeting and invited him to join Taylor at the Sacrament Table. Seeing the two of them sitting together changed the entire meeting for me.

As I watched and listened to Mark and then Taylor, in turn, purposefully offering the prayer for the bread and then the water, my heart was full to overflowing with peace and contentment. For the past two years, Taylor has attended the final testimony meetings of departing missionaries. As part of his final instruction and testimony to those missionaries, Mark shares insights about the last days of the Savior's life with an emphasis on the roles and gifts of both the Father and the Savior-expressly talking of the Sacrament. Taylor has had the opportunity to see the power of faith and repentance in the lives of investigators, friends and missionaries. His seen his personal testimony touch the lives of those he's had the opportunity to teach. He's seen people baptized and receive the blessing of confirmation. And now he has the privilege and responsibility to worthily administer the ordinance of the Sacrament to those who are renewing their covenants, their commitment and faith.

I listened with a mother's interest to Taylor's inflection on certain words. I watched as two of the wonderful men in my life stood side by side in a symbolic act of service to others, respect and honor for the Savior. I watched the emblems of the Savior's sacrifice pass from the hands of priesthood bearers to members of the congregation; then from members of the congregation to the people closest to them-their family and friends. That's the way the Savior's very personal gospel reaches our hearts; through the organization of His priesthood, from person to person. One at a time. That's the way Taylor has watched his dad minister and serve others. That's the way our parents before us did it and the way I hope our grandchildren learn it. Grandma and Grandpa Brasher gave him a beautiful box with a Picture of the Sacramento Temple on the cover. Inside are some antique glass Sacrament cups, a glass plate from my Dad's mission in Finland and some antique white handkerchiefs; tools so that he can bring the Sacrament to those that are housebound.

Later in the program, Taylor played a piano solo, Lord, I would Follow Thee. I couldn't keep my tears to myself. Who is this young man? He amazes me. How blessed I am to be his mother. How grateful I am that he has a father to show him who the Savior is and that Taylor has his own desire to follow Him. How could I ask for anything more than a son who understands his relationship and responsibility to the Savior and is willing and earnest to magnify it?

"The perfect role model for use of the holy priesthood is our Savior, Jesus Christ. He ministered with love, compassion, and charity" Elder Richard G. Scott

When I saw this video clip, it brought back so many wonderful memories of when the Sacramento temple was being built, the open house, and the dedication. I can't wait to see it again!

6th of 6

Just for fun, here's the 6th photo from the 6th file on my computer.

Thanks for the chance to wax nostalgic.Letting the birthday boy (or girl) all to themselves with their first birthday cake is one of my favorite family traditions. I'm so glad I have pictures that have survived to remember Jeff's first birthday. I don't have pictures of all the others, but reminiscing Jeff's birthday helped me remember some of those other precious firsts. One of my favorites was when Taylor turned 1. I made a cookie monster cake....it took hours to make and minutes to demolish. It was awesome! We were celebrating at my mom's house on Lemon Street. Instead of taking pictures, we made a video. I haven't been able to find the video, so for posterity's sake: I remember Taylor, true to his personality, took one careful taste of frosting with his finger and then dove in mouth first right into the center of the cake.

It was such a mess. We become wiser with age, and so you can see in these pictures several years after Taylor's day-Jeff's shirt came off before all the frosting went on. It's much easier to clean skin than cotton!

Here are some more great memories from that day-I can't believe how all the kids have changed! And to think, this year my baby (Jeffrey) will be getting baptized and my other baby (Taylor) will be driving! How can two brothers be so much alike and so opposite at the same time?

Now I'm supposed to challenge 6 people to take their own stroll down memory lane. I don't even know if there are 6 of you out there to take up the challenge-but if you are, post a comment so I can 'remember' with you. In other words, if you're out there lurking: Tag. It's your turn...

ps....it's worth the trip