Happy Birthday to Charles!

Yesterday was Charles' 38th birthday. It was actually a really great day. We did not have time to do anything exciting like a party, we were mostly at the church, but we have never made a really big deal about birthdays anyway. 

It was a special day though. It was also 21 years ago that Charles was baptized. I stood and shared my testimony at church, because I knew that is what he would have done, and I knew it is what he wanted me to do. I love sharing my testimony of the gospel. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. I wish more people would be brave and share their convictions of truth. I love to hear what the gospel means to others.

I am getting to the point where I can celebrate Charles' life, rather than mourn his death. What I mean is, I try to think less about him dying and being gone, and more about the future, and what is in store for our family. I cannot undo anything that has been done in the past, all I can do is change the future. I do feel like I am getting to a pretty good place. I feel this great hope and anticipation for things to come. I feel excited about life. As I should. 

We have such a short time here on earth, my friends. We are born, we live a few short years, and then we die. I think it a good thing that we enjoy the journey we have been granted. Each day is precious -- even the hard days. Even the really, really, hard days. Make the most of your time here on earth. Try and smile more. Make an effort to think positively. Sometimes we create our own little black rain clouds, but we also have the power to push them away. Look for the light, and you will find it. 

Heavenly Father found Charles when he was 17, and in a really dark place. God told him that he was, "Here to be happy." And for the first time in his life, he found the happiness he was seeking, in the gospel of Jesus Christ. It changed his whole world. His life went from night to day. Charles went from barely graduating high school to becoming an attorney -- because of having that light and joy in his life. It is powerful. The gospel of Jesus Christ is so very powerful. 

It is a pleasure to be a part of Charles' journey, and a part of his joy. I love him so much. I would say that I miss him, but I am finding him always near, so I don't have to miss him. It is amazing, and a miracle. 

Because Heavenly Father rescued Charles 21 years ago, there are some pretty amazing people on this earth... and they sure love their daddy. 

I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for allowing Charles to be ours, forever. 

Henry was real happy about sitting still... 

We love you, Charles! 

Happy Birthday!