Who I Am

First, as the name of this blog indicates, I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's also known as the Mormon Church. I have been a member all of my life (all of 35 years), and it has been a remarkably positive influence in my life as long as I can remember, though I didn't always appreciate it at the time. Interestingly, I feel its influence even more powerfully now than I ever have. It's not something that has become old hat, rather, it has been a developing, crescendo-ing exploration as it brings me closer and closer to my Savior and Redeemer, the Lord Jesus Christ. This aspect of religion has caught me somewhat by surprise - after all, wouldn't you think that reading the same books (the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, the Holy Bible) and discussing the same principles week in and week out would get old? It hasn't for me, which strengthens my conviction that this is pure truth.

I'm currently a student, taking classes in preparation for a finance PhD. I've always been studious, loved reading, and really gotten a kick out of school. I don't think I ever foresaw how much education I would end up receiving, but in my opinion, it's a great way to spend a life, so long as I'm able to provide for myself.

I'm single - never married. This is not by design. I've been hoping and praying for marriage for many years. One day it will come.

Like many young Latter-day Saints, I served a mission for the Church shortly after graduating from high school. My mission was in the Southwest United States, including southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and El Paso, Texas. I taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Spanish. Most missionaries report that it was the best two years of their lives, and that was my experience. At least, it was the best two years up to that point. Now I view my mission as a wonderful experience, and the foundation for what my life has become since then. All the good that I have experienced since my mission flows in one way or another from my mission experience - specifically, from the way the Lord was able to change me during that time of sacrifice and growth.

Well, I could go on. But I'll leave the rest for another day.