On being 34...

Today in 1975 I was born in Murray, Utah to Ken and Mary Lue Kieffer. Being the oldest has always had its ups and downs but predominately its ups. I have enjoyed so much having the 3 younger siblings that I have and I couldn't imagine life without any of them.

34 doesn't feel all that different from 24 or 25 or even 26. I don't feel like I'm in my 30's and yet I'm always shocked to discover that people I thought were older than me, aren't. Maybe its because they have a spouse and kids but its always surprising when they are younger than me.

Even though I don't feel different at 34 doesn't mean that I am not different, because I am. I've learned quite a few lessons during my brief time on this earth and hopefully gained wisdom from my many mistakes.

I've learned that family is the most important thing in this world. I love living near my family and having them around me. I wish we all lived in one big house but you can't go backwards..just forwards so I love my family when we can get together.

I've learned that your health is something you can never take for granted. I've lived with health problems most of my life and I enjoy the times when I feel good. So, enjoy those times when you feel good.

I've learned that friends will stand by you no matter what. I have some very dear friends who I know I could call at a moment's notice and ask for anything. I wish all of us could also live in a big house and be together.

I've learned more about the gospel of Jesus Christ and about the Atonement. Especially this year teaching the New Testament in Seminary I've grown a lot in my knowledge of Christ's life and more importantly what he did for us.

I've learned to learn from my mistakes and make sure I don't repeat them even though I do sometimes. I've learned to be forgiving and love people.

I've tried to cultivate patience and I fear that I will be working on that for eternity. Patience isn't one of my strong suits but I am trying.

I am sure I have learned many more things but I think you get the picture. Life is a process and we are learning every day. The point is to keep learning and keep doing.