because nice matters.

my dad, my hero passed away on sunday, july 25th.

he was very sick. very tired. but even still, he kept his humor. he has always been positive. but i have been so amazed by the way he has dealt with the awful trial of cancer these past 4 years.

i have been overwhelmed with the kindness of people in the past 2 weeks. people have come out of every direction to give my family their love and support.

a few years back my mom found some signs at the dollar store and bought one for each of us. the sign said

- because nice matters-

it does.

and i have seen how much it matters. the theme of my dad's funeral (in my eyes) centered around this saying.

my dad spent his life serving others. whether he was serving the youth at highland on the basketball court, in the class room, on the football field or on the softball field he was giving his time and his talents to better the lives of those around him.

i have heard numerous stories of the kids he bought basketball shoes for, waived camp fees, or bought lunch for.

my dad served hundreds of young adults while serving in the university stake for around 10 years of his life. helping each one in a very vital time of their lives.

but the most important people he served were us-his family. i know without any doubt that my dad loved me. he told me frequently. and he showed me. he wanted what was best for us. he gave us all he could and he worked hard for everything we have.

im very sad. this has been such a hard time for me. but i know he is happy. he is healthy and he is doing a great work.

families are forever.

i wish i could express how i feel. but it is impossible.

im thankful that i can look to my dad and understand what it means to live a good life.

because nice matters. i have been given a renewed sense of the worth of others. my dads viewing, funeral and the many cards, prayers and thoughts on my families behalf have shown me how important it is to be kind to others. nice really does matter.

i could say that in a world of cynics, nice matters more than ever. but ive seen so much good in people that i almost dont believe that cynics exist anymore.

for this i am thankful. i am thankful that my Heavenly Father is helping me learn. he is teaching me in trials to have faith and believe that life is still good. even when i feel so uncertain.

the program at the funeral had the words, 'well done good and faithful servant.'

i dont think anything could describe the man my father was any better.

i really miss you dad. i will always look to you for guidance in my life.

i love you forever. eternity.