I have come to the realization that one staff member is using up all of my patience before everyone gets here for the day. it’s no wonder I don’t like anyone after 7a.m.
@seanryanlayton@daniel_sacchi Thank you. I’m not close to falling away (I don’t think) but I know I’m not aligned to where I should be. I know it’s on me to fix it.
Dearest mother —
As I am sure you’ve seen in the newspaper, the great final battle of this campaign resulted in the Ohio State regiment — who disguise themselves as foliage — defeating the Notre Dame regiment — who believe themselves to be magical creatures, donned in green, and obsessed with coinage.
I find myself overwrought.
Now, the battlefield is fresh — and all regiments start anew. Great adventures and glorious battles await my men.
We shall be ready.
Enclosed is my latest service tintype. Please do show the hogs and cows. They’ll be overjoyed. I love you.
— Andrew
Dearest mother —
The battleground has called for my glorious return. I’m thrilled to say, I shall heed that call.
I have reenlisted.
While my sidearm is permanently holstered — I shall help train other young men to be great soldiers. Please send care packages of squirrel oil and skunk cakes to our basecamp at Stanford. I love you.
— Andrew
Although the early years of my life were challenging because of the war and its associated worries, I was tremendously blessed to be part of a family that loved me. I was reminded of these early years when Harriet and I visited the home I lived in when I was born as well as the home I lived in as a young child.
During these early years, my family had not yet been introduced to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It was a very hard time. Yet I still have some happy memories of these locations because of the love of family, friends, and neighbors.
Perhaps some of you parents (or those who will one day be parents) are concerned about the world into which you are bringing your children. Might I suggest that if you focus on raising your children with Christlike love and teaching them to love our Father in Heaven and Savior Jesus Christ, they will be empowered with the ability to navigate through all of life’s challenges. They will be able to feel the joy and peace that comes from living the Savior’s gospel despite difficulties.