Home

Today I will the opportunity go to church with my parents. As I have thought about it, I realized some important things.

For the first 19 years of my life I lived in the same ward. I attended the same church building. It was the same building that my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents attended. In fact, my great-great-grandfather helped build it after crossing the plains by handcart. In my hometown it is known as the Rock Church. Whenever I see it, I think of home.

For the last 19 years of my life I have called 10 different wards and branches home.  We have lived in 11 different houses in three states. With every move, I have known that I was home no matter where I was. I was where the Lord wanted me at the time.

Home is an interesting thing. The structure doesn't matter. What really matters is that the Spirit of the Lord is felt there. It is where the gospel is taught. I want my home to be a place of refuge for my family. A safe place to go where they are not teased or hurt. Most importantly, a place where they can feel loved. A place of peace and happiness.

In reality, that doesn't always happen, but at least it is a goal and something we are willing to work towards. Over the years I have learned that home really can be a heaven on earth when we are willing to put forth the effort to make it that way.