A Lifetime of Conversion

An honest portrayal of my journey through life, during a struggle to establish my own beliefs. As my life seemed totally out of my control, I was unsure if even Jesus Christ could save me from the darkness I had plunged to. Discover the lessons I learned, as God's light returned and taught me of the marvelous power of the Atonement provided through Jesus Christ's perfect sacrifice.

Casual observations of the world around, clearly testify that the prophesied Last Days are happening before our very eyes. A world that is thriving on contention has wrapped its arms around even the elite, pulling them into a battle, where there is no representation from the Holy Spirit of peace. And in all this dramatic deviation from long term practices and beliefs, there is hardly a prayer offered. Instead, the ballooning pride of man offers suggestions and remedies that are far from what a humbled heart would find, when seeking divine guidance through prayer.

I hope the understanding I have gained will aid others in avoiding deception, such as the master of deceit inflicted upon me; successfully stalling my spiritual growth, through pride and a fear of praying.

Growing up in a small neighborhood in Pocatello, Idaho, Richard experienced a simple childhood with dedicated friends while living a rural lifestyle. The church, less than a block away, was the source of many of his early cherished childhood memories. Living a block from the municipal park and swimming pool; many in town had familiarity with the area he called home. However, just peddling his bike two blocks to the east or south, with his 22 rifle in his hand, he could be on a dirt road and on the hunt for rabbits. He and his good friend inflicted a reign of terror on the neighborhood with creative pranks. As they got their drivers licenses, their scope spread beyond the neighborhood boundaries.
Their first trip to the Pacific coast on motorcycles was after their sophomore year. When asked years later why his mother let him do such a thing at that age, she told him she was just tired of always saying no. For a number of years, the choices made by he and his friends often brought less than desirable situations upon themselves. His own path took him a substantial distance from the church that had been just up the street.
Meeting his wife while in high school, their courtship began. It was an on and off relationship until they eventually married. When expecting their first child, Richard's life purpose was finally realized and his path dramatically changed. They were blessed with three wonderful daughters. Although two were born in Idaho and one in Oregon, they have primarily considered Salt Lake City, Utah as their home for most of their lives. Richard and Sara currently live near all three daughters and their families, enabling them to thoroughly enjoy being grandparents.
Currently, he enjoys building and painting custom cars and motorcycles, writing and doing whatever else provides an opportunity to learn and be creative.