Cliff and Gina Watson stayed the night with us and came to our meetings! What a meeting! The topic was Gratitude. Bryan spoke first and talked about the importance of feeling gratitude at all times. He told the story of when our house flooded and expressed gratitude to all the friends from church that showed up, waded through mucky water and helped save belongings and then came and helped gut and rebuild our house! He also expressed gratitude to Heavenly Father for watching over us during such a tough time. He quoted Pres. Monson when he encouraged all of us to "Think to Thank". He closed with a strong testimony. What a wonderful young man that is on the path to becoming a fabulous missionary! Alec spoke after Bryan. He gave an incredible talk that brought a strong spirit. He talked about 2 ways we can apply gratitude to our lives, first by feeling gratitude and second by expressing gratitude. He gave us 4 ways to express gratitude. First, by thanking all who assist us in any way. Second by thanking our Heavenly Father for all He has done for us in prayer. Third, through obedience to our parents, teachers, and our Heavenly Father's commandments. Fourth, by serving others (going on his mission helps show the gratitude he has for the gospel by sharing it with others). Alec also quoted Pres. Monson, "This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right, such as teachers who teach, ministers who minister, marriages that make it, parents who sacrifice, and friends who help. We can lift ourselves, and others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues." Alec ended with his testimony of the importance of gratitude. Alec was followed by Kimmee on violin and Ashley Butler on viola accompanied by Sis. Piet playing "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief." They played beautifully... very touching. We then got to hear from Michael Hansen who recently returned from his mission. He gave examples from his mission of how ingratitude cripples your spirit and keeps you from feeling the spirit and how gratitude brings you closer to Heavenly Father. He did a wonderful job and was the perfect "wrap up" to a very uplifting meeting!
Shortly after Cliff and Gina left (for their overly long, bumper to bumper, twice as long as it should've taken, drive back to CA) , Chris, Jennifer, Jake, Cole, and Cash Watson showed up at our door to say hello! What a surprise to see them! Thay said they got out of church and decided to drive down all the way from Utah Valley! We visited for a couple hours and then they headed back on their five hour drive home. Thanks everyone for such a memorable weekend!! We love you all!
