We've had a week of training in Salt Lake, and it was so fun to walk around Temple Square and see the gorgeous flower beds, reflecting pools, and new brides having their pictures taken. It was perfect weather to be a spectator, when we weren't being students trained in computer programs. We left Salt Lake and Shelly, Tyler, and Bodie Scharman were kind enough to have us stay for 3 days at their beautiful house in Peoa (outside Park City); the view from their front windows is like a magnet; we can't get enough. Staying at their house always feels like Christmas Eve to me -it smells of pine and seasonings and it is warm and cozy. Thanks, Scharmans!
We had a day with our long-time best friends Jeff and LeighAnn Bills in Provo, and met them in the canyon with their student ward (BYU 49th). The kids had hiked to Bridal Veil Falls, then came back to Nunn's Park for lunch and to hear a guest speaker...Jimmy Osmond. He couldn't have been better! He told stories about meeting the Queen of England when he was 9 or so, and told of his mother walking forward to give the Queen a gift. She was immediately surrounded by Scotland Yard, only to be given permission by the Queen to step forward. At this, Mrs. Osmond presented her with her "most prized possession:" a Book of Mormon. The Queen graciously accepted and years later commented to Jimmy, "I remember your mother and the book she gave me."
He further related how Elvis was drawn to his mother and would sit and talk with her whenever time allowed. Elvis had wanted originally to be a preacher and was interested in reading about scriptures. Mrs. Osmond also gave him a Book of Mormon, and when Elvis died, the book was returned to the family. It was touching to note that in one of the margins he wrote, "My daughter needs this..."
His last story was about how he was in the employ of Michael Jackson during Jackson's Bad Tour. They had been childhood friends, and he told how the Osmonds would watch the Jackson's performances and vice-versa. Michael liked to talk about religion and would often walk back to where Jimmy was sitting and ask him questions about his beliefs. Fun stories and we were all riveted.
His final comment to the kids was, be true to your values. People are drawn to high standards and will applaud those who maintain their ideals.
Jeff brought everything to a close relating how the Osmonds had come to La Jolla at his request, to perform a benefit concert for the Neo-natal unit at Scripps Memorial. Their concert had raised over $350,000 for the hospital and before leaving they said to waive their fee -- asking Jeff to "contribute it to the fund." For him, it was an awesome experience to see such generosity. And, because initially he had no idea if the Osmonds would even be available, it was an opportunity for him "to under promise, and over deliver" something that was under his stewardship. What an awesome philosophy for any situation.
We had a day with our long-time best friends Jeff and LeighAnn Bills in Provo, and met them in the canyon with their student ward (BYU 49th). The kids had hiked to Bridal Veil Falls, then came back to Nunn's Park for lunch and to hear a guest speaker...Jimmy Osmond. He couldn't have been better! He told stories about meeting the Queen of England when he was 9 or so, and told of his mother walking forward to give the Queen a gift. She was immediately surrounded by Scotland Yard, only to be given permission by the Queen to step forward. At this, Mrs. Osmond presented her with her "most prized possession:" a Book of Mormon. The Queen graciously accepted and years later commented to Jimmy, "I remember your mother and the book she gave me."
He further related how Elvis was drawn to his mother and would sit and talk with her whenever time allowed. Elvis had wanted originally to be a preacher and was interested in reading about scriptures. Mrs. Osmond also gave him a Book of Mormon, and when Elvis died, the book was returned to the family. It was touching to note that in one of the margins he wrote, "My daughter needs this..."
His last story was about how he was in the employ of Michael Jackson during Jackson's Bad Tour. They had been childhood friends, and he told how the Osmonds would watch the Jackson's performances and vice-versa. Michael liked to talk about religion and would often walk back to where Jimmy was sitting and ask him questions about his beliefs. Fun stories and we were all riveted.
His final comment to the kids was, be true to your values. People are drawn to high standards and will applaud those who maintain their ideals.
Jeff brought everything to a close relating how the Osmonds had come to La Jolla at his request, to perform a benefit concert for the Neo-natal unit at Scripps Memorial. Their concert had raised over $350,000 for the hospital and before leaving they said to waive their fee -- asking Jeff to "contribute it to the fund." For him, it was an awesome experience to see such generosity. And, because initially he had no idea if the Osmonds would even be available, it was an opportunity for him "to under promise, and over deliver" something that was under his stewardship. What an awesome philosophy for any situation.
Awesome experience. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThat was a great experience. Thanks for sharing it with us all. I wish I had been there to listen to it. I know you are on your way today. God Speed and we will always read your blog.
ReplyDeleteKathy