Monday, July 20, 2009

Youth Conference, EAGLE PROJECT

This weekend I had the opportunity to go to youth conference. It was alright, i think it could've been better. The best part was when they set up a trail through the forest with different spots for things like the great and spacious building and the mist of darkness form Lehis Dream of the Tree of Life. It was amazing. I have always wondered what it would feel like being one of those people in that dream. We were holding on to literal rods of iron with one of our leaders dressed in a white cloak symbolizing the Holy Ghost. I felt so safe on the rod and that i knew nothing bad was going to happen to me. The tree of life was pretty cool too. It was lit up with Christmas lights and hymns were being played.

After the tree of life we started heading back to camp. We didnt have our rods anymore and the leaders didnt have there lights on anymore. I noticed that I was tripping over lots of rocks and branches. I looked back and remembered that I was tripping over small things while holding on the rod but I still felt very safe. When i didnt have the rod I felt like i would just keep tripping and tripping and soon might actually fall over. These bumps on the road to me were like temptations and sins. I reflected on this the following day and just felt how hard it must be for those who dont have the gospel in their lives and dont know about or how to use the atonement and how we can repent for our sins. It must be very hard for them to not have the spirit guide them and to feel its comfort.

I am holding a Toy Drive for my Eagle Project benefitting Andrea's Closet. Andrea's Closet is a non-profit organization that stocks toys in most Hospitals throughout Arizona allowing children to having something to look forward to before a painful/scary medical procedure by choosing a toy out of a big closet full of new toys. If you would like to visit their site it is andreascloset.org. My little brother went to Andrea's Closet after some procedures they did when he had pneumonia. He picked out a cool little tractor and that made him so happy! So all I am asking for is a simple toy donation. They can be any kind of toy as long as they are new from the store. There will be a large box outside my house on my porch. My address is 6626 E. Preston st. if you have any questions feel free to call me at 480-635-6277 or email me at jonathan_hooper@cox.net. Thanks!!







2 comments:

music lady said...

Your yc report was excellent. I have experienced walks like those you experienced both as one who walked the path or the one along side the path and every one of these events made me appreciate the gospel and the atonement so much more. I am glad you could have this experience and come back with the meaning.
Good luck with your Eagle project.
What if you set up in front of a toy store???? maybe it will not be so hot in a week or two.

Leslie said...

I remember when we did that at youth conference..but I don't remember it being that meaningful...I just remember who was like two people in front of me!!

Anyway, did you want some of to help get the word out on your eagle project or do you want to keep it low keyed?