Nov 30, 1973

On Nov 29, Chris Anderson gave birth to a 7lb 8 oz baby girl – It was a beautiful experience for Chris and Eric. Chris gave birth by natural childbirth and Eric was there to help Chris and witness the birth of his and her daughter. Everybody in the family is excited and happy. The birth took place at 2:13 PM.

I have been terribly busy at work as of late – all of my patients in the hospital are either total hip or knee replacements and [hard to discern – back pain/problems of some kind]. I have been most fortunate that my medical practice has been so controlled that I rarely get called out for emergency calls anymore. It certainly was not like that in the early years of my practice. It is wonderful to be engaged in a profession or vocation where there is a great variation in the work. It is the association with people that I enjoy most and where I can ease someone’s suffering through understanding, charity, and the application of good medical judgment. I find great satisfaction in the following letter from someone who had come to see me from Twin Falls, ID depicts what I mean: [A letter attached on p. 20 from an Elder Eddy Elorrieta expressing gratitude for Kirk’s medical work with him].

I am now at a time in my life and medical practice (25 years) that I can see the results of trying to always do good work and to build a good name. The latter is one of the most precious things I can leave for my family. I have noted that as long as one tries to be honest and fair in his dealings with others he will build an amiable (or enviable) reputation of good repute; but to destroy it, all that is required is to do one dishonest things or even questionable action – in spite of the fact that many years have been spent in living an honest life.

I found that I could be free this afternoon from my professional labors and so I spent the afternoon in the Seattle Branch Geneological Library. How grateful I am that the Lord has called me to be a High Priest Group Leader of so many choice brethren in the 8th Ward. I have come to understand what Priesthood geneology work is and am converted to it. There is a difference between having a testimony and being converted of any given principle in the Gospel. I believe we only have 4-people in our outstanding 8th ward who are converted to the work. I can see one reason why Leland has come to Seattle to be with us. We need him!! – Together and with the Spirit of the Lord we will turn this ward in to the great work of geneology.

I feel so very close to my forebearers. I love them, cherish them, and am grateful for my marvelous heritage. I desire to know them as I desire to come to know Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, the ancient prophets and patriarchs, and know the Lord, Jesus Christ, through their messages and the scriptures.

It is gratifying that I have been chosen to give the Christmas message at the University Ward. I pray that we can join together to gain greater understanding of the Saviors birth and mission.