Thanksgiving

As many of you may know, I am a former United States Marine. We Marines have a popular adage, “Semper Fidelis.” This intimate and personal saying is Latin for “Always Faithful,” describing our personal relationship with God, Family, Country, and Corps. In the spirit of the coming holiday I wanted to take a few moments and express my gratitude toward those things we are “always faithful” for.

God

                Unfortunately I have not had much of a relationship with whom I would call my Heavenly Father until recently. Over the past year I have had the privilege to learn and grow in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and understand truth. I’m so very thankful for the restored truths, and love that have been shown by so many during this awesome journey our family has taken. How grateful I am for personal revelation and a loving God that not only listens but teaches us in all his great wisdom. My wounds have been healed through the great Atonement of Jesus Christ who suffered for us all with unimaginable acts of love. I am so very grateful for the allowance of not just the power of choice, but progression. I’d like to say thanks to all you out there that have been at our side with your kindness and example. I personal feel the power and love of our Heavenly Father through your humble actions.

Family

                Words can’t express my gratitude and love toward my family adequately enough. My parents and grandparents, despite my obvious flaws, your constant and continual guidance sustains me every day. My sister who struggles onward and fights through the midst of darkness despite the many setbacks, I always wish her the best. I love her even through our silence. My dear friends throughout the country, how grateful I am for your love and your jabs, from time to time. You have made me who I am.  I’m so thankful for my wonderful dear wife. I don’t know how I was lucky enough to be blessed with her in my life, but I kneel in prayer simply to thank God daily for her. She gives new meaning to the phrase “better half,” with her daily example and strength. Zack, my son, has brought such joy and happiness to our life, I’m grateful to be given the sacred responsibility of being his father.

Country

                I know these are some troubled times in our Country’s history. Many are unsure exactly where we are headed and how we are getting there. Allow me just to say that there is no doubt in my mind this country was established on the ideal of Divine Providence. I’m grateful for men that so boldly stood up to an unjust Monarchy and risked everything for the idea of something better. Those founders established a system that allows for more freedom and more expression than anywhere else on Earth. I’m thankful for this beautiful and great Country for which I live, and all those out there that honestly try to protect its virtue. We may not always agree, but we can all be thankful to live in a place where that’s ok.

Corps

                  To those who defend this land and risk everything for it, fight on brother. You may not always agree or understand why you’re doing what it is you are doing, but know your sacrifice hits home with me. To those in the military, of every branch, I am thankful for all you do. Those that have come before and died defending this land, we honor you with our memory and our actions every day. Never forget the sacrifice that has been wrought in every war from the revolutionary to those of today, and allow their memory to live on with our sacred honor. Personally, David and Scott, thank you for laying down your life for us. I miss you both and think of you often, know that I’m doing my best to honor you with my life. To Scott – sorry for annoying you in S.O.I., but thanks for all your help and always being so kind. To David – You were the best and most honorable man I’ve ever met, I can’t wait to see you again my brother. I know you were there at my wedding, and I feel your presence from time to time. I still miss you.

                  

                  Thank you for allowing me a moment to express my gratitude and love toward all of what I am so grateful for. I know it may be cliché, and words need not be spoken, but let us all reflect and remember how fortunate we are during not only this time of year, but for the rest of our lives.