Everyone is getting married!

I'm packing up my belongings, but I feel like I'm packing up my life. I'm leaving Provo for about 2 and a half years (with a strong possibility for a short return for "schooling" in about 6 months). I am by no means disappointed with my choice to embark on this journey, but I'm somewhat anxious to see what the world will be like when I return. What feats of goodness will my friends and family accomplish in my absence? How will they fare on their own paths? Of course there are many times reliable means of communication, but they are not as effective as a personal witness of another's life made by one's self. But I suppose that is part of the sacrifice I will make.

Today I am particularly grateful for my friends and family. I cannot thank God enough for putting these people in my life. Their examples are priceless, and in many ways I envy their resolve to live the way they do. They are a constant reminder to me that there is good in this world.

I think we all get caught up and in the trials and obstacles that seem to form an endless line, one behind another, waiting for a chance to get in a cheap-shot. We look around and see all the terrible things that happen daily. But I feel we too often overlook the good that is present our lives.

I believe that there is opposition in all things. For every good entity, there is an opposite force present. The same is true across the face of the Earth. The world isn't all evil or all good. Instead, both sides have a presence and influence. There is a very real battle between light and dark. There are many bad things in this world, but there are just as many good things. It's up to us to find them and pass them on others. It's up to us to choose a side.

I feel that we can make our own islands of good, if we choose to incorporate more of it in our lives. In this way, we can ensure for ourselves a life full of happiness and peace. I hope you'll take some time to find and remember the good things in your life. I'm thinking about my friends and family right now. That's an excellent foundation to build upon.