Memories of Wilson

My parents and older siblings moved to Utah from Iowa before I was born.  We did not belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but I felt well accepted.  I wasn't raised in any church, but my parents taught me to have a strong moral compass.  It is unusual, I know, that the 4th of July celebrations would make me think of that.

Actually, I posted a video on facebook of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing the Battle Hymn of the Republic.  The version that they sing is my favorite.  I was blessed in my years growing up to have a neighbor named Ray Myers.  Ray was an amazing talent.  He was called to put together a youth choir to travel to different wards and sing patriotic music.  He wrote a stirring program and introduced this version of the Battle Hymn to me.

Ray will always be special in my life.  He always got more out of me than I realized I had in me.  He told me I was needed.  He encouraged me to stretch.  He challenged my fears and encouraged my interests.  Even though I was not a member of the LDS Church, he had me narrate the sacrament meeting program.  He had me perform as one of the main characters in our roadshow.  He encouraged me to become active in student government at Weber State.  He was there as an advisor and with his vision, we did some wonderful things.  Those things undoubtedly helped me be able to go to law school, work for over 30 years for the State as an attorney and ultimately retire and serve a mission.

So, today, in addition to being thankful for my family, my faith and my freedoms in this land, I am thankful for Ray.