1 AM with Grandpa, Grandma, Uncle Tim and Mom

November 16, 2018,

Dear Benjamin,

Today was one of those days where life seems so random and cruel  yet reminds you of the pure love of Christ’s atonement.

This morning we got the terrible news that Brother Allen, Steven’s dad, passed away from a heart attack while he was out on his morning run. We’re all in shock. I can’t believe it. He was so fit and full of energy. I have recent texts from him regarding your talk, I spoke with him after your talk and he said how well you did. I know how much Steven relied on him every day. Sister Allen adored him. I can only relate to the shock and pain they are feeling because of my experience when my brother had his accident. It was then that I understood the mercy of the atonement. To this day I knew I’d see him again. That’s the only comfort there is in a situation that traumatic.

You have the opportunity to share that comfort with the world. Most don’t understand what comfort the simple truths of who we are, where we come from, and what we can become. Sometimes that’s the only comfort there is.

It’s 12:52 am as I write this. Tonight was Mark’s wedding dinner. After dinner, on the way to uncle Steven’s car, Grandpa fell on his face crossing the street. He split his head and hurt his neck a little. We’re in the ER with Grandma and Uncle Tim. Grandpa should be fine, grandma is a little stressed. It’s not all bad though, we went to JCW’s in Provo. We’ll hopefully be home by 2 or 3.

On the way to meet grandma, we drove past the MTC. Going north on 900 East mom thought she saw you. I humored her then turned around to go south. She told me where to look, and though I know that chances are low, it could plausibly have been you. 

I’m pretty tired, and I’m not sure how much sense this is making, so I’ll send it. 

I really love you Ben,

Dad

P.S. Reason #4 to be glad you’re not here: 6 hours in Provo...oh wait, never mind,