Com-mission

     Com-mission.  Commit and mission.  In church, sports, the classroom, and work, you often hear that to succeed you need to have a passion or to have a vision.  A vision of success.  A vision to help you push through the adversities and nay-sayers.  I've wanted to write a book on this, but this blog will do for now.  There are three main things that I want to cover:
1. What is the word com-mission.
2. Why commit and have have a mission/vision.
3. America then and now and network marketing applied to each of us.

     Recently, while in sales and network marketing, I get to "the close".  It fascinates me what happens next.  The responses given seems so true, believable, and even reasonable. They say they don't have time.  I'm not interested.  I am busy. I'm already marketing my business.  They are all natural responses to get you away.  Even if they do actually have a need of the product.  Most will be closed minded, but at the same time it's natural and you can't give up.  Be persistent and consistent and don't give up if they initially say no or give you an excuse.  Have you ever been persuaded or sold on something by someone where you were close minded or gave an excuse but later accepted or bought the product later on?
   
      Just by mentioning the word sales people will probably click on the X in the top right corner because it's virtually a bad word to most the population.  People do sales whether they know it or not.  It doesn't have to always be with money.  It could be time, action, or to believe something.  Examples: 1.   Parent selling their kids to come home early to avoid danger. 2.  A friend demanding you to join their fantasy team.  3.  A boss or coach encouraging you to work more to reach goals 4.  A nay-sayer telling you that you can't make it in whatever you dream in life because they have no dreams themselves, and last but not least 5. you selling/persuading yourself not to take action.

     Now on this small rant and back to earlier on what I was saying about the nonsense I hear after seeking to close someone on a product or service.  One of the biggest responses I hear is I can't afford it, I need to get things in order first, and let me think about it.  Now most of these sound very very true and they very very may well be.  The problem here is that there will never be a perfect time to basically do anything.  You will never be able to afford what you want, you will always need to get something "in order", and you will always need to know more about something.

     Why is it so easy for these same people to be so devout in demanding someone to join their fantasy, to enforce their kids to be home at a decent hour, and those who push you to become a better person or a player on the field., but then when they are being pitched something they turn into the biggest victims possible naming virtually every excuse in the books.  They could lay an egg just like my 2 chickens in my backyard.  Most the time there hasn't been anything presented or any prices presented to them at all.  When you walk in the door you get a huge stink-face from them like they just smelt a stanky fart.  Here are some examples: 

.  I remember on the mission people would instantly pick up their phone or walk in the opposite direction before we could approach them.  The same thing when I walk into a business, they will get the gatekeepers or walk away as if I had the ebola virus.

     I don't want this to sound like a rant because at the same time it is a very natural thing to do.  When we walk through the mall and get pitched by every booth to try their nonsense you just wanna blow an air horn in their face and say no!  I learned from summer sales that people will naturally say no or give you an excuse just like the responses to closes mentioned above.  You can't stop there!  You have to keep pushing.  Yes, push.  My favorite motivational guy is Grant Cardone.  He says the finest diamonds are made with lots and lots of pressure.  I'm not saying to force someone to buy or anything, but pressure may just be the thing you need to do.  As a football coach and as a former player we would be pressured to succeed and to produce while being pressured by fans, teammates, and coaches to get the Win!  Is it a bad thing to pressure then?  No of course not.  But it must be done in the right way, and to me the right way is to show that you care and to genuinely get to know the player/the client/ and find solutions to help them succeed and overcome problems or weaknesses they or their business may have.

     Many times I had people tell me they won't get married because they want to have money first.  I can't have a child first until I graduate or have the money.  I can't buy your product (that will help solve my problem) because I have no money.  I won't work harder because the economy sucks and no one wants to buy (I've struggled with this and still kind of do.)  This is all non sense and excuses and lies!  They sound so good.  Many times on my LDS mission, people would tell me what we shared and taught was great, and I want to commit and join your church but I need to get my life in order first.  I even had a Mom of a few kids tell me she won't marry her boyfriend (father of the kids too) because there is no point because he may just divorce me later or cheat on me.  So why commit and get married?

Waiting for the perfect moment and timing is detrimental.  Don't get me wrong preparation and prayer are essential especially in big decisions like having a baby and others, but too often we are thinking in the passive.  I remember being so mad watching or being in football games where kick returners or running backs would hesitate and go very slow until an alley or open gap would open up to run.  What I've noticed from the best kick returners and running backs is that they don't wait they attack and create their own gaps. Some of our greatest fears are overcome by actually doing those things we fear. To be successful you have to take risks even if you get run over or get knocked down.

    Sometimes we are so focused on the avoiding debt. obstacles, and fearful situations that we take zero action.  Yes debt is bad but if we are focused on avoiding spending and debt so much we can over look that maybe the problem isn't avoiding so much but maybe that we aren't PRODUCING enough.  Yes running a kick return into 11 large, massive dudes but if we are focused on avoiding them instead of scoring then you may not like what the outcome may be.  Many times in sports you hear the phrase, "don't play not to lose, but play to win."  We should take that saying into every aspect of our lives.  There are many ways to create, make money, and score touchdowns if we believe and have com-mission (commitment and mission).

     What made this country great?  1 The immigrants commitment and mission (vision).  They had a vision to succeed and to break away from tyrannical powers who took away their freedoms.  I envy the passion of immigrants today.  Most of them are extremely hard workers.  Why?  Because they appreciate freedom.  They work hard, they are determined, and they are committed to do whatever it takes to be successful and provide for themselves and their families.  James Pratt, my companion on my mission, and me taught a guy named Adam from Romania who was homeless.  He left his family in Romania to Italy to find work and do whatever it takes to help his family.  He would play the saxophone on bridges and seek finding a way to make money and to get a job.  I loved this man and I learned a lot from his commitment and mission and passion.

     Did you know that Nigeria is listed as the happiest country in the world.  How is that so when they are filled with poverty, corruption, violence, and disease?  Because they choose to be happy.  They don't let the negative and excuses of not being happy get to them.  I love them.  I met many Nigerians and Africans while in Italy.  They made me want to be happy.  It's contagious how happy and awesome they are.  Here is a picture to prove it:

     America was great because it's believed in God.  America knew that God helps those that help themselves.  We depended on God through our faith and committing.  Can we expect to live with God in heaven if we aren't committed to live heavenly here on the earth?  Can we expect to succeed on the football field and win if we aren't committed to practicing like a championship team on the game field?  Can a business owner expect to succeed without investing time and money to help his business grow.  All of the excuses in the world make perfect sense.  It's natural to be mediocre.  It's natural to take the easy road.  It's actually hard to fail and it's hard to be successful.  If you take the easy road it will come back to bite you in the end even if it "seems" easy at first.  If you take the successful route and put a lot of effort and work into it, it will still be hard but at the same time you will find joy and success eventually.  I'd rather take the hard, successful route.

     Look at the increase of food stamps.  According to the website Source it says, "Enrollment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, as the modern-day food-stamp benefit is known, has soared 70% since 2008 to a record 47.8 million as of December 2012."  Not saying these people don't need them but really do they?  Are they being victims to their excuses like those excuses listed above?  If they were promised a million dollars to find a way to be successful and find a way to provide like my good friend Adam from Romania do you think they could then?  Where is the motivation in the American people today?!?!  If one person demands they have a right to free stuff won't everyone else demand and find something they need as well.  Someone once told me that socialism is good if it is done correctly.  The problem is that it can not be so.  This is because it is man made not God made.  Secondly because you are being forced to help others as opposed to doing so on their own.  Third where is the motivation to work and provide when you have it given to you for free?

     Maybe someone could start a government agency to give free money to businesses because the economy is hard.  Maybe someone could start an athletic agency to give athletes free touchdowns and free soccer goals because the competition is too hard now a days and it's too hard to run faster, be stronger, and get bigger like others.  Maybe someone could start a union or petition to demand cheap hospital costs to have children and perhaps a petition to make sure everyone got a degree and $10k cash so everyone can start their post college life and finally do something because their life is now in order.  Maybe we can start an army of people to demand to God that we go to heaven and live happy peaceful lives because we all have that right and we all deserve it.  What do you think God would think of that?  Didn't he say in the Bible in Matthew 7: 21 "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that DOETH the WILL of my Father which is in heaven." (capitalizaiton added) That sounds pretty clear to me that we do have a right to enter into His kingdom, that is if we are willing to do His will and be like him.  

     Two more scriptures then I will finish off with network marketing. Yes I am going to talk about the 2 main things that everyone says to avoid in any conversation that is: 1. religion and i'm going to add the 2nd thing that is network marketing aka (mlm's).  This scripture is found in The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ in the book of Ether chapter 2 verses 9, 10, and 12. In verse 9 it says,"And now, we can behold the decrees of God concerning this land, that it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall come upon them.  And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity." In verse 10 it says, "And this cometh unto you, O ye Gentiles, that ye may know the decrees of God-that ye may repent, and not continue in your iniquities until the fulness come, that ye may not bring down the fulness of the wrath of God upon you as the inhabitants of the land have hitherto done." In verse 12 it says,"Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which have been written."

Ether 12 scriptural link.

     Last and not least is America now and network marketing.  America is struggling right now.  There is a lot of idol and laziness going on.  A lot of excuses on why no one can succeed.  A lot of excuses why no one can grow their business or grow their family because of how hard things are.  I am telling everyone now that you can be successful and grow if you have com-mission.  Commitment and a mission in life to achieve your goals.  When businesses or people say they have a need to grow their business there are marketing and business solutions.  Will there be risk and could there be money that they may need to spend to get there?  Yes.  Is it a solution?  Yes.  If someone wants to get off food stamps or get a better job and provide for themselves could they?  Yes if they really really try.  They may need help from their church or a family member at first but it doesn't need to be forever.  They can find an online job or work 3 jobs.  There are solutions, we just need to find them and have an open mind.  

     Network marketing is an awesome principle. It basically is marketing to people.  Simple huh?  People always will tell me but I don't want to annoy family and friends.  It is a scam.  It's funny how network marketing actually produces more millionaires than any other job.  People will talk about it and say..."Hey money won't make you happy!"  At the same time though I would say, "Hey, not having money won't make you happy either!"  Grant Cardone (sales enthusiast) tried the not having money part, and so have I.  It sucks!  

     When I think of America and it's beginning times I think of the leaders they must of had.  I think of the leaders they networked to, to motivate them to tell others to motivate the people that they know as well.  To get up and rise up from tyranny and create something.  To overcome the crap and excuses that nay-sayers will give you.  I'm sure they had terrifying and hard experiences leaving England and crossing the waters to seek freedom.  They couldn't do it alone and that's why they networked and were unified.  Does America have much unity today?

   I think of church, religion, and network marketing linked together as a new prospective.  One of the last things Christ told his apostles before He left this Earth was to go and preach the gospel to all the earth.  Surely Christ wants all those who are being taught to go out and teach others after they have been taught and converted as well.  I have had people say don't annoy people or family with religion, politics. or network marketing opportunities.  I believed them for a bit, but I realized that I shouldn't listen to it like all the other excuses and nay-sayers out there.  I believe that if God puts you in a position where you believe strongly in something then He would want us to share it with our family and friends.  Perhaps we never even thought that He gives us these opportunities so that we will share with our friends and families.  Then why is everyone so scared to talk about their religion, politics. or their network marketing business or even their normal business if it can truly help your friends and family?  Because they are scared, filled with crap from the world/media, it's natural not to, and because the don't have com-mission.  A committed mission.

     I ask everyone to go back to God and the principles this county was established with.  Commit yourselves to a mission that will help you, your business, and help your friends and family grow.  It may be hard at first but with anything it can take time.  Like a seed it takes sunlight, water, daily care and nourishment.  So we as well need Light, daily care, and nourishment.  And if we truly believe and are com-missioned with goals and a vision then share it and network with others, and be like a child who isn't afraid of doing whatever it takes to share their passion of getting the things they want and deserve through their persistence and of course consistency.

If You Could Have Any 3 Things..

     In 2005 on the other side of the world in Ravenna, Italy my companion on my LDS mission came up with a good idea.  We were getting rejected left and right and as confident as I thought I was with the Italian language at training in the USA, I really wasn't once I stepped foot in Italy.  It was a rude awakening with all the rejection and doubts with the language.  So my companion, Elder Wilson, decided to come up with something that would be a game changer to help us succeed.

     

     We would do a survey to help us prospect people to teach.  Most would stop when we would ask them if we could do a quick "sondaggio" aka survey.  We would ask them a few random questions such as:  If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?  What's your favorite color?  If you could be any animal which one would you be?  Then the last question would be..."If you could have any 3 things what would they be?"       

     The top 3 answers that people would would say are. 1.Stronger relationship with God. 2. Stronger relationship with family or a family member 3. Better Health.  These answers hit me hard to home. Immediately after people would tell us their 3, we would say, "If we could help you with God, Families, and Health would be open to listen to us?  I would say half would laugh at us after that and still say no, but a large majority, if not half, would actually listen to us.

     One thing that intrigued me was no one ever said I wanted to be famous, or I wanted all the nicest car in the 'hood, or I wanted to hook up with the hottest person (even though this would be a good choice too haha jk), or anything really of substance that doesn't really last.  What I'm going to talk about last are things that are eternal or last forever because 1. God is eternal/forever 2. Families are eternal/forever 3. Health will be eternal/forever thanks to the resurrection of Christ (so we might as well prepare now to live healthy!)

     

     One of my favorite things about serving in Italy was meeting and learning about people all over the world.  Their beliefs in God, families, and health.  I'm glad I chose to be open minded to the various cultures and people about their beliefs in God, traditions with family/culture, and their ways of health and foods they would intake.  I'm glad and grateful to those who were open to listen to what we had to teach and offer as members of the LDS faith.  It's hard to get people to listen to you or even have an open dialogue if there isn't mutual respect and openness to the person you speak with.  I'm not saying you have to be open to every thing that comes your way, but is there really anything to lose?  We can always learn something even if we don't agree, and at the same time you never know how it could help us.

     

     I've always been taught by my parents to read books, and that successful people read books.  I think of successful people and especially athletes.  They are constantly seeking growth and how they can better improve themselves.  Wouldn't being open about growing and learning from others be a humble and great way to grow and become better?

     

     I love the quote by Thomas Edison,"I haven't failed, I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Talk about being open to failure, growth, and constant communication with others and studying to be able to grow and succeed.  Think of Michael Jordan being cut from the high school basketball team. I guarantee he was open to listening to others and find ways to succeed which he ended up doing.

     

     I want to briefly explain my 3 whys and solutions to the 3 common answers we would get about having any 3 things.  First is God.  I've had my doubts and fears about God and religion especially with all the noise in the world.  From my brothers serving missions, they ignited a desire in me to want to learn as much as I could about why they would spend 2 years of their life to serve God and what they believed in.  I researched a ton of religions, studied the Bible and Book of Mormon, and I got answers about God and religion.  I was so excited I got an answer about it that I virtually told everyone about it.  I got a lot of resistance, which scared me at first but it just fueled me to want to learn more.  

     

     Our main objective in helping others better find God was to pray, study, and seek Him.  We didn't want to force anyone to believe in Him but to find out for themselves and then we promised them they would get an answer.  God and Jesus are real.  They are separate and distinct beings with bodies of flesh and bone who love us and want to help us especially when we feel abandoned.  I invite you to be "open" haha and learn more at these two links.

A prophet and 12 apostles living today!

The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ

    Next is families.  We believe that families can be together forever.  In Matthew 16:19 it says..."and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."  Families can be bound together forever.  Instead of..."until death do we part" it can say,"for time and all eternity."  As we taught families about this doctrine they would be amazed and excited.  Death isn't the end and it doesn't have to be.  Many of my motivations in life come from this simple doctrine.  I want to live the best I can and help others know this doctrine because it simply changes lives.  We are all apart of our Heavenly Fathers family and he wants us all to return back to him with our own families.  Here is a proclamation on families from a modern prophet and 12 living apostles.  THE FAMILY: A PROCLAMATION TO THE WORLD

    Last is health.  Why is health so important to people?  Because many want to live without pain and feel good and healthy.  Many want to live a long prosperous life and live to a long age.  Many want to protect themselves from injury and disease.  

  

    My sincere question I sometimes ask is why does the world have such a difficult time with these 3 things that we all want so bad in our lives?  Why are there so many wars because of different views and beliefs about God.  Why are there so many divorces, arguments, and broken families.  Why do so many people want what they know is not good for their body such as smoking, drinking, unhealthy diets, and in-taking things that are almost guaranteed health issues.

     One of the toughest things was to see so many families both on and off my mission deal with depression, guilt, and fear over these 3 things and why they aren't happy.  Whenever we would knock on doors and tell people we had a message about God, families, or say health they would usually reject us for whatever the reason was or give an immediate objection to get us away.  Then I would say something like...well that is just fantastic!  That's what we are here for, and if we were you then I would reject us too probably. But we're here to help you find solutions to the things you seek and want answers to.  And then most people's demeanor would change instantly and they would let us talk and meet with them.

     Well sure enough God has given us instructions on how to live healthy and it is quite simple.  No alcohol, tobacco, coffee,  & tea.  Go to bed early and arise early.  Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; cease to find fault one with another etc.  Things to do are eat fruits, vegetables, herbs, wheat & grains, and meats (sparingly).  

     

     I used to think I needed a ton of meat so I could get all my protein and so I could be huge. Not so.  Comes to find out after eating a lot of meet, fast food, and sodas I had a low of 27 for my ldl (good cholesterol). my blood pressure was out of whack and I started getting panic attacks. I knew I needed to eat better, but I kept telling myself not to worry because i'll be fine since I workout, run, and i'm in decent shape and form.  I knew I should have listened to my nutrition teacher.  She even warned us that we may not see the consequences of unhealthy eating now but it will soon catch up to use in our life and it did for me with a bang.

 
     My aunt Jennifer actually told my wife to watch a video on eating natural and organic foods and to cut back on meat.  I literally was telling my wife to turn it off because I had no interest.  I was "closed" minded.  My wife convinced me to just watch.  I did.  And I was prompted to try it.  I then get a call soon after from my personal trainer back home about an all natural and organic foods and supplement company he was promoting.  I was like this is crazy.  I didn't want to listen to him either! But I seriously needed to do something for my health.  It was literally messing with me both physically and spiritually. I am a stinkin' personal trainer too and i'm not living up to those standards and especially not what I believe in religiously especially with the fruits and veggies.

 
     What my aunt, wife, and trainer Barry did for me completely changed me.  I feel like a new man!  And eating better with the right foods, the right supplements, and avoided things that will be harmful is something I want to share with others and hope they will be somewhat open like I was.  

   
     It's funny I've always been taught no never talk about religion or politics.  But i'm realizing now too that it can be crazy even to talk about health as well especially if it deals with network marketing!!  If it really helps though and changes your life and many of others wouldn't it be wrong of me not to share?  Shoot I've been rejected so much for religion that I think fear is afraid of me now sometimes haha. Here is a link that talks more about being healthier and eating natural foods and supplements.

God's Health Code

Natural Heath Foods and Supplements

     Now that I've spoken about things that basically can offend the masses I really appreciate any feedback and comments about what you all think.  It's can be a huge fear to share your beliefs, but when you have truth on your side there really isn't anything to fear.  I hope you all will have an open mind and think about what I and many other members of our faith try and share for 2 years as missionaries and as normal citizens daily even not as missionaries.  Feel free to comment and share more about your faith in God, families, and ways you find better health.  If all the people, religions, and the world have open minds, communicate respectfully, and want to help others we can help make this world a better place.  Thanks everyone!

-Caleb Caple

      

     

Am I a Failure?!

I'mma Failure! and Proud of it.  Okay don't get me wrong it's not like I, or anyone, seeks to fail or be a failure.  But wow look at all those who have failed at first and then succeeded.  Thomas Edison said, "I have not failed, I've just found 1000 ways that won't work."  Didn't Michael Jordan get cut from his high school basketball team.  A recording company didn't like the music of the Beatles.  Walt Disney was fired from a newspaper company because he lacked imagination.  I really like the movie Invincible where Vince Papale (NFL athlete) was told he would fail because he was too short and not good enough.  

     Just think if these people would have quit!  Would you have quit if you were them?  They didn't see failure as the end, but an opportunity.  One of the best examples of all is Christ.  He virtually went through everything and was ridiculed and even killed.  Just think He was PERFECT and many still thought he was just a man and denied his miracles.  He now has everything!  There was a plan for Him.  He, like us, still have the opportunity to choose thanks to our great gift of free agency.

     Everyone is special and has gifts.  Just think of all the things we have been given and the potential each of us have.  We can accomplish a lot of good if we just believe in ourselves and not focus on the negative or the failures.  

     It's awesome being a father and watching my kids grow up.  My daughter Isabella has fallen many times but as we know kids just get right back up.  I'm teaching my daughter Italian as well.  She is learning great.  She tries so hard to roll her R's and count to 10.  I will help her and correct her and she does a great job.  What is really humbling is that she doesn't cry, get mad, or get offended when I help her or correct her.  This has helped me to quit being a victim when I fail or if someone seeks to help me.

intermission video.... FAIL VIDEO!

There are 3 major things that can help us capitalize on our failures.  And they are:

1.  Enthusiasm-  This comes form the Greek root word of God within.  We have to have faith.  Isn't everything we do based on faith and hoping to get a certain outcome we seek.  Before thinking you will fail before a test or how bad you suck at sales or how nervous you get before a game try, just try thinking positive.  You can even find ways to make things fun.  

My friend Kevin and I one summer did door to door sales.  We had door after door shut on us.  We had an idea we would make up names of the people's homes we knocked out.  Some of the names we came up were Mr. and Mrs. Samsonite, Glasscocks, and more.  We proceeded to do our sales pitch but in the end still failed. But man it was funny and we remember it to this day!

One of my companions and I on my LDS mission would come up with a vocabulary game to open up conversations with people on the buses in Italy.  One of the words I had that we wanted to learn ended up being a cuss word haha.  A pretty bad one too, and she wasn't happy I had asked!  I still remember that do this day and it still makes me laugh.  So lighten up and enjoy the process, because YOLO!!!

2. Fear.  I have been studying an awesome salesperson names Grant Cardone who is from the dirty south.  He was asked how to you avoid fear and overcome fear when you do sales.  He says he doesn't he basically embraces it.  He said if you don't fear then you aren't really doing what your supposed to or you aren't growing.  I agree big time.  Sometimes I do everything I can to avoid fear, but it comes down to what Wayne Gretzky said," You miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take."  I'm sure he feared when massive dudes tried to lay him out on the hockey rink.  You can't live in fear you have to embrace it and after you will see how much you have grown while in the refiner's fire!

3. Failing requires action.- I'm not saying seek to fail or not to prepare, or even to expect failure.  What i'm saying is don't think failure is bad.  When I first met my wife I kept calling her Grace but that was her hometown not her name.  Good thing she is patient!  Of course everyone wishes instant success without any trial or failure.  Yet what kind of gratification is in that?!  It's like getting a food stamp for doing nothing!  And yes I realized everyone needs help along the way but in the end and at the judgment bar it's going to come down to what we did, not what we wanted others to do for us or how things may have gotten in our way.  It's up to US!  It's like expecting to be a doctor or get in the NFL without doing anything or going through a lot before reaching that point!  We are given our free agency to act!  To really choose between acting or being idol. I've noticed that when I want to be lazy I give into excuses and I give myself reasons not to act.   Just think of how many excuses had to have entered Thomas Edison's head after 999 times of attempting to successfully create the light bulb.  It's real.  Faith or Fear?  God wants us to be free and succeed.  And Satan wants us to be a slave and to give up.  

     So in conclusion I just want us to think of what we want said of us at our funeral.  Do we want to remembered for who and what we really are and what we have accomplished in life?  Or do we want to be another average Joe?  To be successful and happy we will fail and come up short sometimes.  We have to be happy during the whole path.  Not even when we may hit our goals or achievements either.  Because happiness and action don't end there we keep going.  If we waited to be happy when we get our degrees, hit our budgets. reach our athletic dreams then we really will be unhappy because you will need to just keep pushing after.  Fans, coaches, and teammates expect Peyton Manning to be a great QB every single year and to get better each year! Not just reach 1 goal.  So he and we must be happy along the way even if we come up short and even if we are asked to give more after we reach our goals.  Here is a great video and link to watch and read about regrets and resolutions!  And remember the words of Winston Churchill during a tough time during war, "Never, never, never, never, never give up!" Love you all!

Of Regrets and Resolutions 

Mothers!

     I recently watched this video called, A Mother's Hope, on YouTube today, and I instantly thought of my Mom and Her strength throughout my life.  I remember in my writing class in college getting docked points for capitalizing the M in Mom.  It frustrated the meow out of me!  For 1. I don't care if they dock me points I will do it anyways 2.  If they knew my Mom then they would understand why it's capitalized.  So now you know why I will capitalize my Mom and all the references to Moms in this blog post.
     This video reminded me of how My Mom and how many of our Moms are there for us.  When we may have doubted ourselves, had fears, struggled in sports or activities, Mothers are there for us.  I remember my Dad giving a talk one day in church and saying think about how many loads of laundry Mothers have done for the family.  If she does at least 2 loads a week for 52 weeks that's 104 x 18 is uhh hang on let me get a calculator... it's 1,872.  And that would be just for one kid!  We had 4 total kids and then there is my Dad too so i'll let y'all do the rest of the math.  Let's not forget all the meals, help with homework, diaper changes, rides to school, and all the ways She teaches and serves us.
     My Mother was a stay at home Mom.  Some in the world today may say that isn't work, I would disagree 100%.  People work for what reason?  Yes money, but more importantly to get something in return or plainly to just give back to others that They deeply care about.  So My Mom would do just that help out her family at all costs.  I remember being the little chicken head I was when I was little and one day I was super sick.  My Mom asked, "what can I get for you"?  I said, "could you get me such and such cereal"?  So She went and brought it back.  Then I asked Her again that night if She could get me another cereal and She did with no hesitation.  Even this small act of kindness still sticks in my mind today and has made huge benefits to me in my life.
     Many times life hit me hardships such as finding friends, getting the starting position in sports, finding the right girlfriend etc.  I loved talking and being with my Mom in these situations because She was always there for me and to assure me that everything WILL work out!  Many times I wouldn't believe Her or wouldn't think that it would work out, but every time She was right.  I remember being scared to death feeling unworthy to go on my LDS mission, worried about leaving family and friends, and leaving sports behind too.  I really was depressed and didn't know what to do or what to say.  I remember vividly my Mom helping out and telling the same thing, "things will work out, and you will be fine!".
     Remember the saying, "Moms know best"?  Well it is true, they do know best.  A lot of times we don't want to listen because we always want what we want in that moment.  Moms just know and can see things we can't see.  I strongly believe that God gave them this gift for a reason.  They have instincts that amaze me.  I remember one time my Dad lost his wallet.  We thought it he may have left it at a college baseball game the day before or perhaps some place else.  My Dad went searching and my Mom and I stayed home stumped trying to find the wallet filled with credit cards etc.  After days and hours of looking She said let's pray!  And amazing thing happened.  We knelt down at the side of my Parent's bed and She said a prayer.  When She said amen the wallet was in her hand.  He hands were on the edge of the bed while She prayed and the wallet was in a nook in cranny on the side of the bed.
     I believe many of you who have read this have had similar things happen too with their Moms.  If you feel like me you want and would do anything to repay and give back to your Mother.  Mothers are definitely Goddesses because, like our brother Jesus,  we have much to give back to our Mothers.  We are here on this earth to be tested, and we are given trials, commandments, and different situations.  In the book of Job in the Bible it says in chapter 38 verse 7 that we all..."shouted for joy"  to be able to come to earth and have this experience.  So when tough times come in your life just remember our Brother and our beautiful Mother!
     So to sum it all up.  Thank you Mothers.  Don't wait a week, month, or year to talk to Them.  Speak to Them everyday or as often as possible.  Help Them and give back to Them in any way you can.  I promise that as you do you will be happy and your life will be more rewarding.
     Also check out this short Happiness Video that could help us be positive like our Mothers have always been and have always taught us.  He did many studies and research shows that his theory about happiness works.  So be happy and love your sweet Mothers!

p.s.  Love you Momma!

Why Religion?

    Before you read this it's best if we start out with a video of religion mingled with Will Ferrell.....

Will Ferrell Mormon Style

     You hear a lot of talk that there are a certain things you just don't bring up with people, religion, politics, or whatever.  But Why!?  It's been around since day one, actually before day one- that will be discussed in a later blog.  It's funny because I'm the kind of guy who doesn't like contention or to bring up huge contentions or discuss things that could make things be awkward. I really don't think religion, or say politics or something of that nature does make things weird or feel awkward in nature.
 
  I feel that people are the ones that create or have the attitude of making things weird.  It's all about your attitude and basically being open to hear many views, instead of being quick to judge and all.   And after serving a 2 year mission for my church and watching topics on social media, etc., religion, is one of those topics people have basically made awkward or made a way where people just don't want to talk about it because its so called touchy, pushy, or whatever excuse- unless your Tim Tebow ha ha jk.

     There are a few things I want to talk about. It seems like there is another rhetorical revolution of ideas today just like the days in ancient Greece with Plato, Socrates, etc.  There are so many religions and so called ideas and philosophies that people seem to be creating their own religions. 1. What is religion. 2.  Why religion. 3.  What are the consequences of religion.

     According to www.dictionary.com it says:

re·li·gion

  [ri-lij-uhn]  Show IPA

noun

1.

a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially whenconsidered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional andritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.

2.

a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects: the Christian religion; the Buddhist religion.

3.

the body of persons adhering to a particular set of beliefs and practices: a world council of religions.

4.

the life or state of a monk, nun, etc.: to enter religion.

5.

the practice of religious beliefs; ritual observance of faith.

It is interesting to me to see the different definitions listed here.  One of them is a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects.  I find this interesting because there are, it seems, thousands upon thousands of different churches made up of persons and sects.  Now the definition also says religion is a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, purpose of the world, etc.  Now if a person, sect, or religion believes in a supreme being that is Omniscient (all-knowing) wouldn't God have religion already set.  Since God is perfect wouldn't his religious teachings and His organization, teachings, and plan be one perfect plan and religion.  In Ephesians 1 verse 5 it says: One Lord, one faith, one baptism.  It also mentions in 1st Corinithians 1 verse 10 ....but that ye be PERFECTLY JOINED TOGETHER in the SAME MIND and in the SAME JUDGMENT.
     So if religion is a set of beliefs and practices regarding God, His purpose, and the universe wouldn't it be safe to say that God would have one set way?  His way? 1st Corinthians 1 verse 13 says For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.  So religion to me is that what God intended it to be.  Pure and perfect just like He is.  Now of course people aren't perfect so that doesn't mean that His word and religion is wrong if someone has done wrong or something of that nature.

    I like to talk about religion because I have been around it my whole life.  I've seen and known many different people and religions over my life.  They all have something good in them.  My purpose in writing this isn't to prove anyone or any religions as wrong or false.  Nor am I demanding people should convert to my beliefs or religion.  Although I would have to say that would be cool and make me happy if someone should convert!  That's the cool thing about religion.  No one is or should be forced to believe or do anything.  God has given everyone free agency to search, pray, and chose for themselves.

     In the Book of Mormon in 2nd Nephi 2 verse 25 it says. Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.  This is a great reason on why to believe in God and religion.  For happiness!  There is nothing to lose in seeking out a religion.  I remember one time on my mission an Atheist told me you Christians just believe in God because you are afraid there may be nothing after this life and you need some sort of hope, some belief, or religion to latch on too.  Even if that is the case I would say that is reason enough to at lease try and see if there was something instead of just thinking there is nothing after we die.

    I feel it's okay to talk about religion openly.  I've learned tons from Catholics, Muslims, Jehovah Witnesses, and others with open dialogues and researching these religions.  I remember doing summer sales a few years ago and seeing a door that said something on the lines of- no salesman and no missionaries- like it was a no soliciting sign.  This is fine but man what are people so afraid of.  Why not keep an open mind.  Even if you don't like something or may not be interested doesn't mean you can't learn, grow, or see why even something that may be differnt or unkown may help you to see a new spectrum of something that could be beneficial.

    In conclusion,  I've had multiple times in my life where I have doubted or have questioned myself over religion in general.  I've feared because of the many voices and opinions in the world.  I'm grateful for prayer, scriptures, family, and good friends which have assisted me in my life.  I am extremely happy because I have overcome a lot of tough times and have had God and religion help me overcome many trials.  Religion has helped me understand that just like football there needs to be a plan and a head coach (God) at the head.  Players, organization, unity, plan (scriptures, prayer, commandments) are things that will help us be successful in this life.  Many people in the world are searching for answers to their difficulties, trials, and questions about where we came from, why we are here, and where we are going.  I have found these answers in my life and they have changed my life and I am grateful for religion and the purpose and knowledge it gives me in my life.


     Thanks to everyone who have taken the time to read this.  Please message me or comment about what you thought and even about you and your religion.  I love learning and growing and knowing more about others and their stories.  If you are interested in wondering why I have such a strong passion for religion and my beliefs I invite you to check out these two things:
1. www.mormon.org
2.Blueprint of Christ's Church