"I have decided to keep a journal because I believe that my life is important not only to myself but also to others. Perhaps I can stimulate others in my family to do likewise so that the family may be strengthened through deeper communication. Only that material which keynote the central themes of my life and its experiences will be recorded. Certainly it will not always be serious because I enjoy a sense of humor and do not take myself serious enough to think that everything that happens to me is earth-shattering. In fact, I enjoy a good laugh with others when my antics and habits are in review. It would be more than I could ever hope for, if my wonderful and choice family – those now living and those yet to embrace life here upon this earth – would read my thoughts and come to understand me as I desire to understand them. Then a love would develop in all our hearts for our God; for one another; for life; and for the quest for eternal life together. And so whenever a record is being made I pray that the Spirit might be with me that it will be felt by those who read these words in the spirit of truth. Only the decisions that pertain to our relationships with our Father in Heaven and the Savior are important. All other decisions will be of little consequence."

Saturday, September 21, 1974

September 21, 1974



When in Chicago giving the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons examinations two weeks ago, I took the Airline Transport Rating written test. It was hard and much of it was a “word game” based on a question being answered correctly dependent on an “and/or”. I just don’t fare very well in these types of exams. I studied hard, not having any previous knowledge whatsoever on performance charts, weights and balances, etc. of large civilian transport planes (Boeing 727). I’ve undertaken this because it means a period of strict discipline and concentration in my part to rise above the level of mediocrity as a pilot.
            I just received my grade – 82. I passed!!! I should be grateful because many professional pilots have to repeat this test more than once but my old affliction of perfectionism plagues me and I find myself dissatisfied. How marvelous it will be when we can accept ourselves as we really are – with our imperfections and find peace in our hearts. At any rate, I’ve now got to refine my flying technique so that my skill will reach the highest level of proficiency it has ever been. Then and only then will I have a chance of passing the flight part of the test.
            I hope in the Lord’s eyes I am not spending my time foolishly. It’s the same thing as one climbing Mt. Everest. I really believe as a outlined in D&C – Sec 122 that the Lord wants us to have experiences that will expand our capabilities which will be required for the tasks ahead.

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