BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN DEREK'S LIFE

DEREK MATTHEW HIRZ

HAPPY 12TH BIRTHDAY...A BIG ONE!!!!!!!

Turning twelve is a huge moment in the life of a young man in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

And for this young man, Derek has been looking forward to this moment for a long time.

What does it mean in turning 12 for Derek.

Well for one, it means the beginning of something new in his life that will change him, magnify him, make him feel even more responsible and an opportunity for him to serve our Father in Heaven.

This next Sunday..the 19th of September of 2010, Derek will receive the Aaronic Priesthood and start his wonderful, sacred journey of having the authority to perform his responsibilities for the rest of his life.

Also this next Sunday, Derek will graduate from Primary...the children's organization that he has been in since he was 3 years old. Then Derek will be ordained into the priesthood as a deacon. He will have the responsibility of passing the Sacrament every Sunday and going into people's homes and collecting their fast offerings for those who are in a position of need.

Derek will also now start going to the Young Men's organization on Wednesday nights and participating in their activities of fun, learning and service.

I have told you a few things about Derek's changes, but one thing will never change. Derek is a sweetheart. He is the most gentle, kind, loving young man. He loves life. He is a good student and is respectful of his teachers. He loves sports..especially basketball. He is good to animals. He is the son of Craig and Tina Hirz and has sisters Amber, Ashley and Heidi. Last but not least Derek is very loving and helpful. We honor this young man who brings so much joy into our lives, especially mine. Everyone needs a "Derek" in their lives. One day I will tell you a story about his name......finally I got my Derek. Happy 12th Birthday to a sweetheart...a gem of a young man who reminds me daily of God's gifts. As I close this, Derek and his parents and his cousin Landon are on their way to a Mariner's Baseball game. Have a great time Derek...don't forget the "rally fries!" And the hot dogs! And the popcorn! Tell Ichiro hi for me! Have a blast!!!

Mimi's Thought for the Day: Are you planning on a heavenly "hereafter"????

Let it be known that it will be determined by what you are going after here!!