Uncertainty, Certainty

Two experiences this week have given me great cause for thought.

UNCERTAINTY: Early Thursday morning, I was returning from the gym when I received a phone call from a bishop about a member of our stake who had passed away. I was close to the neighborhood, and seeing the police cars, stopped to talk with the family. This wonderful brother was 56 years old and lived with his parents. He had a number of physical challenges, and had never married; but was wonderful and faithful in every way. Earlier this spring, he was one of a few brethren the stake presidency recommended be ordained high priests, and he was sustained just last month in our Stake Priesthood meeting. He served as a temple worker, contributed in various stake and ward callings, and was a kind and gentle man. He apparently passed away last evening while mowing the lawn. Since no one else was home until later in the evening, they didn't discover his body until early this morning. His mother was pretty stunned when she went out to the back yard at 6:30 and found him. But they are wonderful, faithful Saints and have great hope and confidence in the Great Plan of Happiness. They know that all is well; they mourn his loss, but they know he has "fought the good fight" and they will learn to move on.

I was reminded how uncertain this life is; no one of us knows if today is our day. No matter our age, no matter our physical condition — we hope to live to a "ripe old age" but there are no guarantees. Today might be the day for any one of us to move on!

CERTAINTY: Then on Friday, we learned the stunning news that a brother who has taught many of our youth in the Orem High seminary had been arrested and was being charged with having a several-month, ongoing sexual relationship with one of the 16-year-old girls at the school where he is now teaching. He had been a dynamic and much-loved teacher at our school before transferring; no one can imagine him behaving like this. Many of the youth are in shock over the situation, and heartbroken about the consequences. It's been hard for some of them to understand and accept, but they've done well in supporting each other. I watched conversations like this on Facebook:

I don't know what to think about it. I still love and respect him.

Always will. He changed many of our lives.

I'm saddened by recent news, not sure what to believe or think. I can only pray for all those involved.

I considered him a spiritual giant. He touched so many people's lives. He was always there to counsel and help those who needed it most. We all loved him then and we all need to love him now, more than ever. Satan works hardest on those that strive the hardest to be good.

Pray for Brother Xxxxx and his family! And for the girl and her family!

While our youth were stunned, they have reacted with compassion and forgiveness. And they've felt the stern reminder of the need to "cling" to the rod.

I was reminded how certain it is that we will all be tempted, that the adversary is strong and subtle and persuasive, and that the battle will continue to rage! No one is exempt; no one is safe. We all need to be vigilant and all need to fortify ourselves spiritually in every way we can.