Separating the Men from the Boys

It amazes me how guys with college degrees and careers can be so immature. They are so self-focused that they completely miss so many good experiences and friendships. They clam up and avoid people instead of just communicating and dealing with simple conflict. They run from anything remotely resembling commitment, throw their own little pity parties, and make excuses. In their late twenties, early thirties, or even forties and fifties, they are just boys.

However, I have also been so impressed by the men who are pursuing personal goals and working hard, while also taking time to recognize and address the needs of others. They realize that there is more to life than their own perspective and they see the value in serving, strengthening, and lifting others. These are men, and they are of all ages. In fact, I was blown away by the maturity, kindness, and diligence of a young man I met recently, and he is only 18!

It is fascinating to me how wonderful I feel in the presence of some guys, and how frustrated and even insignificant I feel with others. So much is said about the true character of a man by the way he interacts with other people. The difference between a boy and a man is rarely in his age, but in his maturity, demonstrated by the faith, respect, self-lessness, courage, consideration, and love shown in his daily conduct.

For example:



Wow.... the wisdom of a 13-year-old.

Age is relative. I of all people know this well. I just wish more boys would step out of their own heads long enough to recognize the value they can add to the world around them by choosing to become the great men they have every potential to be - regardless of their age.

It's a sign...

Pretty sure my orchid died.

Go figure.


(Don't worry; I'm laughing, not crying.)

"If ever you are tempted to become discouraged or to lose faith, remember those faithful Saints who remained true in Kirtland. Hold on a little longer. You can do this! You are part of a special generation. You were prepared and preserved to live at this important time in the existence of our beautiful planet earth. You have a celestial pedigree and therefore have all the necessary talents to make your life an eternal success story."

--Dieter F. Uchtdorf