I KNOW YOU MEAN WELL

As the New Year celebration approached everyone I talked to would say something like, "I hope the New Year is a lot better than the old one!"  To some I'd just let it go. To others I'd take the time to explain, like all of you.

I don't know how next year could be better than last year.  I have never felt and received so much love from my Heavenly Father through the priesthood blessings and strength given to my soul and body.  I have never felt so close to the Savior and felt and received so much love through His atonement that removed my pain.  Never has He been so involved as an intermediary between Heavenly Father and me taking all of the thousands of prayers to Him and lovingly returning with answers, or directing the activities of angels on behalf of me and my family.  Never have I felt Him personally closer to me.  I have never felt so close to the Holy Ghost and received so much peace and comfort to my soul.  Never has He been so active on my behalf inspiring all of my care providers with light and knowledge when things "were not working with the regular protocols."  Never have I felt so much love from all of those who prayed, fasted, financially supported, did service, visited, brought cookies, sent cards of encouragement and love, made hotel arrangements, and administered blessings and the sacrament, to me.  Never have I felt so much love and gratitude to so many people who were always friends, but now I know are truly family.  Never have I had in my heart the desire to do unto others as has been done unto me.  To share the Savior's love.  It was not a bad year.  It was not a horrible year.  It was a wonderful, blessed, miraculous, loving, peaceful year. 

I now realize that I've had years like that before, just not to the extent of last year.  I just didn't notice.  I didn't appreciate it.  Hopefully, you will look back and look around you and see what I missed all those years.  I wish you all your best New Year ever.  I think I just had mine, but it doesn't mean that 2011 can't be great too.  With much love for you all.  Kevin