A few reasons I go to church...

This note is for my brother Eric, whom I love very much.

• I feel happy when I hear stories of Jesus.
• I like teaching Primary and encouraging 7 year old children to pray to their Heavenly Father when they are scared, happy, grateful or sorry for something they did.
• I like to know that while I am not perfect, neither is anyone else. This life is a journey, not a destination.
• I love my neighbors and fellow ward members. When my family has had a particularly hard day/week/month, they are always there with encouraging words (and a casserole :)
• I believe that this life is a dress rehearsal for eternity. I am glad to have so many years to try to become a better person.
• I like to be encouraged to give: Give to your neighbor, give to those in Japan after the earthquake, give to the homeless shelter, give to those in Haiti, give to those following Katrina. If you have something to give to your fellow man, give it. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ.
• I believe that mankind is basically good. This is reaffirmed when I walk through the doors of my church.
• I like to sing hymns that uplift my spirit.
• I like to be encouraged to read my scriptures, because I don't know if I would without constant reminders.
• I like teaching my children that they should be good not only because it is "ethical" or "moral" but because God said so. "Moral" and "ethical" seem to change from generation to generation. The bible is a constant.
• I like to socialize with people who share my same values: family, kindness, forgiveness and tolerance.
• I like the stories of Mormon Pioneers who persevered to find a place to practice religion the way that they wanted while allowing others to practice in their own way.
• I like to hear encouraging words

"If Life Gets Too Hard To Stand, Kneel."

— Gordon B. Hinckley

"You have not failed until you quit trying."

— Gordon B. Hinckley

"Generally speaking, the most miserable people I know are those who are obsessed with themselves; the happiest people I know are those who lose themselves in the service of others...By and large, I have come to see that if we complain about life, it is because we are thinking only of ourselves."

— Gordon B. Hinckley

Stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight."

— Gordon B. Hinckley

• I just like it. I believe it to be true.