19 Mar 2023, Sunday

19 Mar 2023, Sunday

Prioritized Daily Task

Michael McAlpin 47th Birthday

10:00 AM - Stake Conference, President Jason Needles, presiding 

Debbie and I slept in, had prayer, showered, and shaved.  I texted Michael a happy birthday wish on a thread to all the family.  We got ready and went to church early to get a seat in the chapel.   The meeting was very special with music and speakers.  The choir was accompanied by sisters playing the harp, flute, piano, organ, etc.   The concluding speaker President Jason Needles told some incredible stories and quoted a poem by Edgar A. Guest, Sermons We See.                                                                                           * Note  "I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day; 

I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way. 

The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear, 

Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear; 

And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds, 

For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done; 

I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run. 

And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true, 

But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do; 

For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give, 

But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind. 

When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind 

Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me 

To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be. 

And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today 

Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold; 

One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told. 

Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear, 

For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear. 

Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say, 

I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day."

We came home and about 12:30 PM we had brunch.   I tried call all the children but had to leave messages.  Matthew and Beth were at Michael for his 47th birthday party.  This evening Debbie took the K-1 from income that came from the farm over to George and Laura's for the children.  Debbie and I studied scriptures, had prayer, and went to bed.