A Great Honor

Many are familiar with the man, Newel K. Whitney, but are we all familiar with some of his attributes and characteristics as a person? For many of us, probably not--this includes me. I was interested to find out more about him when I received news that Ethan was nominated and chosen to receive the "Newel K. Whitney Distinguished Award".

Ethan, along with the other students shown above, was given this award for a very special reason. These are some of the sharpest kids to come out of the business department in BYU-Idaho for the Graduating class of 2011. Here is the description of the award as listed on the program:

"The Newel K. Whitney Award is in memory of the early church member who used his gifts, talents, and means to build the kingdom of God. Whitney was innovative, frugal, and honest--a true entrepreneur. Additionally, Whitney was able to improve his business yet remain loyal to the Church despite hard times. 'He was a successful businessman, a presiding bishop of the Church, a prominent civic official, and a notable member of his community.'"

"This award is given to students who have displayed similar traits that Newel K. Whitney possessed. Specifically, students are honored for their character, diligence, and desire to build the kingdom of God. Selected students are those whom the faculty feel would represent the Church, University, and Department as an exemplary employable quality graduate."

As I watched this very moment shown above, tears started slipping down my cheeks. I was so proud of him. It made me proud to be his wife as well. To marry a man that exemplifies the kind of qualities that Newel K. Whitney possessed is far more valuable than marrying someone who is filthy rich or extremely popular.

We don't always get publicly recognized or even thoughtfully praised for the acts of service and work we perform for others, and we don't always need to be. Our motivation for doing good things should never be to receive praise. But every once in a while, when we receive a little recognition for the things we do (besides just hearing it from a spouse or Mother) it sure helps solidify the purpose behind all the good deeds performed. I couldn't agree more with the attributes that Ethan possesses in relation to Newel K. Whitney.

Ethan has always been one who looks out for other people. He is always searching for ways he can help somebody. He does not search to be the center of attention because he knows that's not important in life. Ethan has never been anything but honest with his dealings with other people, especially with his businesses. Ethan wants to be remembered in this life as someone who did great things for other people. He wants to be remembered for his character and what he did for others. Ethan has been given many unique gifts in this life and he uses these on a daily basis to help those around him and to help build the kingdom of God. Ethan served as a faithful counselor in the bishopric for our ward and proved to be an influential student at BYU-Idaho for those he associated with.

Ethan, you should feel proud of who you are as a person and who you are becoming in this life. Keep it up sweetheart-- I love you.
As always, thank you Mom, Dad, and Tanner, for supporting Ethan and coming to his award ceremony. We appreciate all other family members who sent wishes and comments our way and we want you to know that your constant support means so much to us. Thank you.