Author: Kenneth Richard Hardman

Where earth reaches to heaven

“…the light of his countenance did shine upon them, and behold they were as white as the countenance… of Jesus…” (3 Nephi 19:25)

As we cross into our final month as service missionaries on Maui, we feel the poignant tug of emotions between leaving the steady aloha and service of Ohana, or new family here, and returning to our missed association with Ohana and friends back home. This Maui pull is not only because of happy, beautiful, and joyful mission experiences, it is also about the emotional and spiritual transformations we regularly witness serving as instruments in the Lords hands. We are now accustomed to new dimensions of heartbreak, kindness, love and light each week. Sitting in sacred rooms of recovery we see first-hand the souls of men and women gently and powerfully transition from lonely hopelessness to light and hopefulness, a noticeable new countenance; a treasured experience on the front-lines of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

I’m not referring to one isolated case. This observation comes regularly. For months now our weekly routine has included two General Addition support meetings, one in-person, and the other by Zoom, and a third weekly meeting to support spouses or family members whose loved ones are or have been ensnared in addiction. In each setting we look into the faces of persons we’ve come to love and pray for. We physically see and hear, and we spiritually feel with our own senses and spirit a profound change of heart and light when our friends have experienced a distinguishable step upward through faith, repentance and the power of the Lord. We see change of heart accompanied by a change in demeanor, bearing, expression and appearance. For one it may be the forgiveness they’ve finally given to someone who hurt them, or forgiveness received from someone they harmed. For another it may be God’s removal of a craving or temptation. Yet for another it may be the refining they’ve experienced through service or more regular tempering in the temple. Last week we saw all of these in one meeting. 

We searched for a scripture that comes close to what we see.

“And it came to pass that when Jesus had thus prayed unto the Father, he came unto his disciples, and behold, they did still continue, without ceasing, to pray unto him; and they did not multiply many words, for it was given unto them what they should pray, and they were filled with desire.

And it came to pass that Jesus blessed them as they did pray unto him; and his countenance did smile upon them, and the light of his countenance did shine upon them, and behold they were as white as the countenance and also the garments of Jesus; and behold the whiteness thereof did exceed all the whiteness, yea, even there could be nothing upon earth so white as the whiteness thereof.” (3 Nephi 19:24-25)

We cherish these divine experiences where earth reaches to heaven, and God touches his children, and children become (and look) more like God. We can’t imagine anything greater than this feeling. It is probably the feeling that motivated Jesus to save us, “…who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross…” (Hebrews 12:2) It is the feeling that motivates us to serve others, and to let God change us each day into something better. I could be a lot more patient and less judgmental. Like our friends in recovery, I too seek Healing through the Savior. To reduce relapses into impatience, I need a more deep and strong change of heart. He has given me clues and help through ancient and modern prophets (patience: Prov. 14:29, 15:21, Luke 21:19, James 1:19, 2 Peter 1:5-7, Alma 7:23, 26:27…)

Our recent service and activities included, teaching youth we love in Sunday School, providing transportation to a poor family to attend their own baptism, attend sacrament meeting and family home evening of our local Spanish speaking branch, providing transportation to a job interview for a homeless man, and visiting with neighbors and tourists along the street… Whenever prompted, we ask where people are visiting Maui from. We tell them about our addiction recovery support service here on Maui. They thoughtfully pause and thank us. Sometimes they tell us of someone they know who needs such support.

We started with the love we feel on Maui. Much of this comes from the ward we live in. We were recently asked to sing a special musical number in Sacrament meeting. We chose Hymn 1020, “Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling.” As we sang and looked down from the pulpit, eyes looked back with love and joy. After the meeting many expressed their love and thanks for the hymn. We realize that their love and kindness to us is founded on and nourished by Jesus’ love and kindness to all of us. It is glorious to feel such love from them and from all, patterned by the ‘countenance’ and bestowed by the love of Jesus who is “Calling for you and for me.”

(Your thoughts and feelings are welcome)

Two Short Stories from Maui

One: The Free and the Friendly, & Two: The Entangled and the Recovered

Story One – The Free to the Friendly

On Saturday, June 27th Sister Hardman and I set out to rest our souls and exercise our bodies with a walk on the beach. Among other walkers that morning we heard a voice directed at us. “Hi, can you tell us where the nearest grocery store is?” A middle-age couple, also dressed for walking, explained, “We just got in last night, took an Uber to our rental, and won’t be renting a car until Monday. Where can we get fresh produce?” We looked at each other, “What about the Island Grill… they might have… probably not produce…no, that’s a mile down the road anyway.” We got to know our friends a little as we explained that Foodland and Safeway would be a really long walk.

At Twin Falls with Michigan friends

Vikram and Vani were from Michigan on a vacation with their two daughters (who apparently hadn’t got up yet). “We’d be happy to take you. We’ll just go back up the walkway and get our car.” “Oh, no,” they replied in a subtle Indian accent, “we couldn’t expect you to do that.” “It wouldn’t be any problem,” we countered. “We have the time.” After a couple more courtesy rounds of, “Let us take you,” followed by, “No, that’s too kind,” it was obvious to both parties that it was the right thing to do. So, we all climbed in our little Nissan Versa and headed for Safeway. During the drive they were very friendly and told us more about themselves than we can remember. “I used to be an engineer and my wife is a dentist; but now I work for her…” There is more to this engineer/dentist story but I’ll leave it to your imagination.

We dropped them off at Safeway while we went for our usual extravagant breakfast at McDonalds. While loading their groceries into our trunk they expressed their gratitude with some Ghirardelli, Premium Dark Chocolate (which we accepted), and a bottle of wine (which we did not). “You drink wine, don’t you?” Vikram said. “We don’t, but that’s very kind of you.” We had a pleasant visit all the way back to our rental units. That afternoon they would catch a tour shuttle to Haleakala, and we were gathering with other missionaries and members for a social that night. We dropped them off and expressed hope to do something together ‘later.’

Well, later came and we ran into them at the same place on the same sidewalk that evening where, after some conversation we were invited to go with them Monday on their journey to Hana (that’s a big commitment). On Monday we met at Safeway (a different one), and began our caravan along the Hana Highway. Our first stop was Ho’okipa Beach to view the many turtles we knew would be resting there. Then we continued to Twin Falls where an evening flash flood made it too dangerous for swimming (the daughters were disappointed). Then we continued through Haiku, then a eucalyptus grove, a bamboo forest and on to ‘Half way to Hana,’ a popular food stand with fresh banana bread. It was at a picnic bench here that we finally got to know the full family and learn all about them.

The older daughter lives in New York and works for a financial company as a computer scientist. The parents obviously hoped that their younger daughter would follow a similar academic path. Due to the education level of the conversation, the interest in math and science, and perhaps the fact that I had worked at the Haleakala observatory, for some reason our subjects tended toward rockets, satellites, orbit, NASA and… I threw out some questions gently aimed at the younger daughter. “So, why do astronauts float in space? Why don’t they fall to the Earth?” Considering facial expressions, everyone around the table loved the question, but for different reasons. I kicked into engineer mentor mode, put my soda cup in the middle of the table, placed my crumpled napkin nearby and said, “This is Earth. And this is the moon…” I had fun explaining orbital mechanics and they didn’t seem to mind. We talked and visited and finished our Kalua Pork sandwiches and banana bread and acted like life long friends. We had to get back for our Monday evening addiction recovery support meeting, and they wanted to go further toward Hana. “You must come to Michigan. It is beautiful in the summer and fall.” We parted ways and expected to see each other again. We treasure the picture that was taken of us that day with our new friends from Michigan.

Story Two – The Entangled and the Recovered

Along the southwest coast of Maui, large green sea turtles, or ‘honu,’ ‘forage’ to survive. Families and local fishermen also utilize the coast to catch fish to live. Occasionally, sea turtles interact with fishing gear and get entangled, threatening their lives. On July 4th, a beautiful morning near the Surfside Resort in Kihei, we observed an unusual uniform group of snorkelers moving side-by-side face down just off shore. They were towing a small raft. Another onlooker in a similar uniform saw our curiosity, walked up to us and asked, “May I tell you more about what you are seeing?” “Yes, please,” we responded. Our friend from the Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute explained that these uniformed snorkelers were searching for entangled, ensnared or otherwise compromised sea turtles in need of rescue, not able to release themselves. They search and also respond to siting’s of entangled turtles from other snorkelers. Under authorized and professional direction, they rehabilitate and recover honu to their natural healthy habitats and purpose. (https://www.mocmarineinstitute.org/sea-turtle-rescue-and-rehabilitation)

As our Marine Institute volunteer talked, I was struck by her use of the words entangled, ensnared, rescue and recovery. I thought on this day of liberty and freedom, like sea turtles, our friends we support as service missionaries are entangled in addiction, unable to release themselves and seek recovery, freedom and renewed purpose. Like the uniform group of snorkelers moving side-by-side with a rescue raft nearby, Sister Hardman and I along with many others are working side-by-side in Hawaii and around the world with the Savior nearby to rescue, rehabilitate, and return God’s children to a knowledge of their divine worth, and his plan of happiness for them. As each of us snorkel or travel through life, we will likely find individuals who are ensnared in addiction, and may have lost their sense of identity as children of God. They might wonder if God still loves them. We know that he does. 

In rooms of recovery, we all feel his powerful love. We can encourage the entangled to seek professional and ecclesiastical help. We can help them to his raft of grace, his power.  We can encourage them to participate in Healing through the Savior, 12 Step Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) at addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org. “The 12 Steps of recovery [teach] how to apply the gospel of Jesus Christ to our lives. President Jeffrey R Holland said: ‘Are you battling a demon of addiction—tobacco or drugs or gambling, or… pornography?… Whatever other steps you may need to take to resolve these concerns, come first to the gospel of Jesus Christ.” (Broken Things to Mend,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2006, 70, as quoted in, Healing through the Savior – 12 Step Addiction Recovery Program, pg. 5)

A Healing Exclamation Point

Addictions, Goliath-size challenges, and character weaknesses

After the conclusion of our Youth Handcart Trek with the Lehi Stake in Utah, we completed our Utah visit by celebrating at Olive Garden. Our daughter Melanie recently graduated from UVU, and it was our daughter Lisa’s birthday. The Gardner’s joined us.

Morgan and Bethany Gardner

We also attended our home stake conference, and then the Lehi Stake Trek final devotional. Our Kahului youth tuned into the meeting by Zoom from Maui. Wonderful messages were given, lots of gratitude was spoken, and testimonies were shared. Two weeks later (last Sunday), our Kahului 1st Ward bishopric arranged the sacrament meeting program so that most of our Maui youth got a chance to bare their testimonies and express thanks and love regarding the trek, their relationship with Jesus Christ, and their new trek friends in Utah.

Bridal Veil Falls, Provo Utah

On our first Sunday back, we once again faced our Kahului 1st Ward youth, this time as their Sunday School Teachers. We’re grateful for every chance we have to be with them. They are very special. For Come, Follow Me, “The Battle is the Lord’s,” we took turns reading through the account of David and Goliath, then discussed the following questions (their composite individual and insightful answers follow each question):

  1. What ‘Goliath-size’ challenges have I had, or do I now have to overcome?
    1. My phone, web, swearing, going to summer school, not having the right friends, being happy, overcoming my challenging junior year, preparing for a mission, lifestyle, language, going to the next grade, and not being able to say no when being pressured to do something bad.
  2. How does the Lord want me to view my challenges?
    1. As an opportunity to grow, to know my own challenges and ask for him for help with faith and focus on what I can learn, and as a refiner’s fire to make us better. 
  3. How has he helped me in the past?
    1. He helped me with school tests so I wouldn’t have to go to summer school, joy through friends and church, always being there for me when I need help, feel his peace, given me strength and motivation in talking to girls, started middle school alone, talk to me or even shown me signs to stop and think first, and by getting friends.
  4. What do you find in David’s story that gives you hope?
    1. He had so much faith that he could overcome his challenge, with God weak things can become strengths, no matter how big Goliath was David knew the battle is the Lord’s, David followed the Lord, standing alone God will still help you, and ridiculous challenges can be overcome
  5. What if each of David’s stones represented a strength we need to be triumphant? What could those five stones represent?
    1. Faith, prayer, study, love, family, temple work, gospel study, Holy Ghost, serving others, word of God, priesthood, commandments, church, covenants, and scriptures.
  6. While we had them writing, we asked, “What was your favorite part about the Trek?”
    1. Spending time with my Trek Family, sleeping outside with Joe and watching stars and hanging with my ma and pa, family and friends, meeting new people, the Walk with Christ tour which was the most memorable experience because I got closer to Jesus Christ and it strengthened my testimony, feeling the Holy Spirit, baptizing in the Lindon Temple, being with religious youth, a girl gave me her jacket, hanging with friends, meeting family, my brothers and sisters…their so funny and so sweet, and I loved playing games and [hoedown] dancing with them. 

During our absence, our Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) support meetings continued without pause. A wonderful and dedicated brother (Curt Davis) from our ward substituted for us as the ARP Group Leader during each Monday meeting, supported by our wonderful facilitator. While in Utah, Sister Hardman and I were able to late-night host each Thursday night ARP meeting by Zoom. “Now that Sister Hardman and I have been through each step four times,” I told the group recently, “I feel like each step is the most important one.” The truth is they are all important. Step 6 teaches that in order to not return to addictions we must stop trying to do it ourselves and truly experience a change of heart, “surrender to God all remnants of pride and self-will.” 

Although I do not have what most would consider to be traditional addictions, or even Goliath-size challenges, I certainly have character weaknesses that feed and support my tendencies to impatience and being judgmental. Step 6 promises help as we come unto Jesus Christ. “He will wait patiently for us to weary of our efforts to change on our own without help. As soon as we turn to Him, we will again witness His love and power. Instead of clinging to old patterns of behavior, we can have an open mind as the Spirit gently suggests a better way of living.” We are determined to help addicts all we can. But I am also determined to apply these principles to my own life and receive more fully a change of heart and the healing I need due to my character weaknesses.

Kihei, Maui

Last Saturday, we gathered with members across both Maui stakes in our stake center for the Tabernacle Choir concert recorded recently in the California Hollywood Bowl. It was a special and spiritual treat to listen to the many inspiring performers and musical numbers while rubbing shoulders with people we’ve come to love over the last year and a quarter. It was a special missionary and fellowshipping event for all of us, a healing exclamation point at the end of another week of service.

Part Two: Youth Utah Trip and Handcart Trek 

Christ – Yoked with Him / Walking with Him

On Tuesday, June 9th, after a very cold night in tents we were warmed a little by pancakes, thick syrup, and lukewarm ‘hot-chocolate,’ uplifted by a morning devotional, then journeyed above the pines to an even higher plateau for Day Camp. The trekking included a pause for the Jens & Elsie Nielson story, a ‘men’s call-out,’ a ‘woman’s pull,’ and time for reflection.

Pioneer family portraits

At Day Camp lunch was provided by the amazing food committee. Fun games and activities kept people moving including Styrofoam noodle sword fighting, stick pull, and ma/pa family photo shoots dressed in pioneer clothing and an intriguing paint-by-numbers project.

A little ukulele at day camp

The location was phenomenal with the distant high-altitude vistas, every shade of green, snow fields in the distance, and a stiff cold wind. One of the Lehi families brought a ukulele but it always seemed to be in the hands of one of our group, playing a delightful Hawaiian tune.

Styrofoam sword fighting

Up one more ridge, and after one more story, the famous handcart Kirkwood re-enactment, the company finally descended to the main camp.

Paint by numbers activity

After dinner and some fun free time, all gathered for skits presented by each Ma/Pa family. It was so satisfying to see our Maui youth, one per Ma/Pa family fully engaged and united with their Lehi Stake brothers and sisters. The skits were fun. That evening, before devotional, in front of the whole camp, our Maui youth performed a Hawaiian country line dance, “Uiha Whoa.” They learned the dance on Maui. Their performance was a rousing success. With their matching country hats and smooth hula moves they impressed and raised cheers from the whole company.

Temple replica in camp

On Wednesday, June 10th, after another very cold night, our Bishop Thompson was invited to speak at the morning devotional. He told his story of conversion, faith and love for the Gospel. He is so dedicated to the youth. The company then broke camp, loaded the trailers and moved on down the road to the final camp site and a beautiful 25 foot wide by 30 foot high and 35 feet deep model temple. (The Lehi Stake doesn’t do anything half way!) Before dinner, in honor of the 1856 handcart pioneer rescuers sent by Brigham Young, all gathered near a stream where a pioneer River Crossing and rescue was re-enacted. Youth shivered as they carried other youth across the cold waste-deep water. With violin and guitar, Sister Hardman and I played, “Ashokan Farewell” over the loud speaker. 

Singing, “All of Me.”

At the evening devotional, four of our young women sang, “All of Me,” written by Barbara Doyle, trek chairman. The whole company then gathered in groups near the stream, around the temple surrounded by the beautiful mountain scene. Much was spoken by assigned leaders about the temple, then each participant was invited to walk through the model temple. Inside they were greeted by the stake president and his wife, Brent and Jana Greenhalgh, as well as a large picture of the Savior made by combining the individual ‘paint by number’ pieces painted by each youth the day before. Under the stars, the company then divided into three groups for testimony meetings around three rousing campfires. Many tender testimonies were shared including by our Maui youth.

Campfire testimony meeting

On Thursday, June 11th, yes, after another very cold night, tents were again broken down, stored in trailers and a nice warm breakfast served. At the final devotional on the mountain, a special event developed. President Greenhalgh gave a parting message and then invited the Maui group to sing, “Aloha Oi,” a cultural symbol of farewell and remembrance. After a couple verses, the Lehi Stake joined in and sang,

“Aloha ʻoe, aloha ʻoe
E ke onaona noho i ka lipo
One fond embrace, a hoʻi aʻe au
Until we meet again.”

As the refrains progressed, President Greenhalgh waved his arms in a gathering motion and by the end of the song the entire company was singing as one for perhaps the largest group hug in handcart history, at least on that mountain. It was a happy, cheerful and tearful moment. Over four days and three nights each participant learned they could do hard things. They learned about the faith of pioneers, and how to love and support one another through challenging experiences. They learned to walk with Christ. A closing song and prayer were offered, good-byes were spoken, and the Lehi Stake handcart trek with the Kahului 1st Ward, concluded. 

Before, during and after the event, much love and preparations were made by the Lehi Stake to welcome and integrate our group from Hawaii. For example, before arriving in Utah, the Maui kids were contacted by their assigned Ma/Pa families and welcomed to participate remotely in trek preparation activities as much as possible. Lehi Stake trek leaders found sleeping bags, pads, tents, buckets, and winter coats for our group so that such would not need to be brought on the air plane. They even gifted ocean blue baseball caps for each Hawaiian group member so they could be distinguished and loved and looked after. Eight host families were called who provided love, food, and housing for our youth and adults during the time in Utah when we were not on trek. Family and friends of our Maui group were also helpful with lunches and dinners. We are so grateful.

On Friday, June 12th, before returning to Maui, our youth visited BYU and enjoyed a walk through the Wilkinson Center and Book Store. Many purchased BYU swag. One of our girls said, “I don’t want to leave. I like Utah.” As an engineer, I had the privilege of taking some interested youth on a tour of the Engineering Building where a lab manager enthusiastically showed them various things developed by engineers using math, science and various technologies. Then, the group enjoyed an afternoon at Splash Summit, a major water and slide park in Provo. A few from the Lehi Stake even showed up at the water park.

Sister Hardman and I then parted ways with the group. They needed to get back to their host families, pack their rollaway, and attempt to get some sleep before their 6 AM flight out of Salt Lake City. Rumor has it that some skipped the sleep and played games. The group made it safely back to Maui where ward and family gathered to meet them as they came down the stairs at OGG. What a great event it was. What wonderful feelings and friendships were born. Sister Hardman and I returned to Maui a couple days later to complete the last two months of our service mission. We love these people!

Part One: Youth Utah Trip and Handcart Trek

Christ – Yoke with Him / Walk with Him

During the past month our service in Addiction Recovery continued as we strived to bring to Christ those struggling in difficult situations. We love and admire them. They come to support groups seeking to find power in Christ to be strengthened and continue in recovery.

Departing Maui Airport

After months of planning and preparation, two dozen of our Maui youth and a half dozen leaders made the journey to experience an 1856 handcart trek in the mountains of Utah. It all started when Bishop Benjamin Thompson felt inspired to give his youth an off-island broadening and spiritual experience. More than a year ago when we introduced ourselves into our Kahului 1st Ward, and he learned of our past involvement in trek reenactments, his loving and hard-working eyes beamed with excitement and the planning began.

After searching for suitable sites and handcarts on Maui and Oahu, Lehi Utah stake president Brent Greenhalgh (our son-in-law) invited our Maui group to come on their stake trek. Our youth and leaders were invited to be housed, fed and embraced with much aloha by many loving families in Lehi. New and enduring relationships would be born as our Maui members would stay in the homes of Lehi host families, and as they journeyed and trekked within their Lehi Ma/Pa families.

Arriving in SLC

Over several months, Church and parental permissions were received, preparations were completed, and on June 4th the anxious group boarded a red-eye Southwest flight to SLC. Sister Hardman and I had arrived early to attend the sealing of our grand-daughter Becca Greenhalgh in the Taylorsville Utah Temple. After the sealing, while the wedding party gathered for pictures on the temple steps we literally observed our Maui group’s Southwest jet fly right over the temple spire, descending into SLC. They landed, gathered their belongings and boarded large passenger vans. We met up with them with Costco pizza near Temple Square in Salt Lake City.

At Cascade Springs

On Saturday, June 6th, two days before Trek, our group served at the newly dedicated Lindon Utah Temple. With its two baptismal fonts, beautiful architecture, and heavenly spirit, our Maui youth were blessed to participate in ordinances for others including some of their own ancestors. To get our youth more conditioned for the higher trek altitude, we drove up Provo Canyon and walked through beautiful Cascade Springs. We played at a park in Heber City and had dinner at the popular Dairy Keen. We then ascended even more, physically and spiritually, by experiencing the Walk With Christ activity at the Church Heber Valley Camp. Everyone, including me and Sister Hardman were changed that night as we laid a personal burden at the Lords feet and imagined how he would encourage us if we met him on the trail.

On Sunday, June 7th our youth attended fast and testimony meeting in Lehi. Several from our group including Bishop Thompson stepped to the pulpit and bore their genuine testimonies. Later we met at the Lehi Stake Center and prepared buckets for the handcart trek. Throughout the whole experience, the Lehi Stake treated our group as precious royalty providing sleeping bags, winter coats, buckets and various supplies so such wouldn’t have to be transported from Hawaii. They bathed our group with love, kindness, and encouragement. We were literally embraced as Ohana, family and fellow citizens in Christ for the whole experience. They provided aqua blue baseball caps so that our kids could always be distinguished even though fully integrated into trek Ma/Pa families. 

A Trek Family

On Monday, June 8th all met at the stake center for devotional. My anxiety was high. “With all the work to prepare the youth, were we ourselves ready for another trek?” Inspiring messages were given by trek leaders including President Greenhalgh and Sister Greenhalgh (our daughter). “Even though we are trail bosses,” Jana said, “The real trail boss is Jesus.” We then journeyed again up through Provo Canyon, Heber Valley, and on up and up into the Current Creek area above eight thousand feet. As handcarts were loaded, the trek families became fully formed. Each of our Maui youth had been assigned to different Lehi Stake Ma/Pa families and the company set out on their journey. Two of our adult sister leaders, as well as Sister Hardman and I were assigned to drive vehicles following the company to help anyone struggling. 

Ascending among snow fields

Every few miles the company would briefly halt to rest, stay hydrated and enjoy a view of the beautiful Uintah mountains. Our peak altitude was ten-thousand feet. It was cool and breezy. Even after difficult ascents pushing and pulling handcarts, many still had energy to climb and slide down steep snow drifts. The entire company looked united with their handcart flags, blue Walk with Me, and Yoked [with Christ] hoodies. During lunch camp, our youth Oliver Char was invited to stand on a trailer and speak to the group of three-hundred youth about his challenging life and his faith in Jesus Christ.

1st night camp

Later at camp we enjoy lots of good food, some free time and devotional with get-to-know-you skits from each family. Each evening concluded with prayer, family time, and journaling.

Evening devotional

On Tuesday, June 9th, after a very cold night in tents… (To be continued)

So Incandescently Good

The people you serve will call you blessed forever…get a glimpse into the heart of the Messiah

Beach Chairs and a Haleakala Sunset

Our weekly experience gives us repeating reasons to glory as Alma did, “that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy.” (Alma 29:9). In our regular service to members and leaders, youth, and especially the addicted, “when [we] see many of [our] brethren [and sisters] truly penitent, and coming to the Lord their God, then is [our] soul filled with joy…” (Alma 29:10)

Recently we were told by the Honolulu Mission President that Senior Missionary applications are frustratingly few. A senior couple we love completed their extended service here last week to return home after several missions. Two other couples complete their assignments next month. This week we plead with our senior brothers and sisters to serve. Shared in one of our previous letters, our Pleasant Grove friend Blaine Greenhalgh expressed the amazing experience he and Janet had serving as a couple.

“You do not want to miss this! The experiences of senior missionary service are so sweet, so delightful, so incandescently good that you do not want to pass them by. Nothing that can happen at home will compare—absolutely nothing! You are able to talk and facetime with your family back home more than you realize… The Spirit will make them closer to you than you can imagine.”

Elder Greenhalgh continues, “Sure, serving is hard. We were tired. We were going nearly all day but it was such fun…It is only 6 months, or one year or 18 months or 23 months. What are you stewing about? Go!  … It is not forever…the people you serve will call you blessed forever! 

More than that you will have the deep inner joy that will bring tears to your eyes for the rest of mortality and beyond. You walked by the Lord’s side, you learned from Him in a personal way that is beyond my ability to express. He loves senior missionaries more than you and I can imagine but while you serve you get a glimpse into the heart of the Messiah. 

There are so many ways to serve…Choose what the Lord would have you do and then go. Be a missionary.” (Ref. https://ancestorclips.com/2026/03/07/you-do-not-want-to-miss-senior-missionary-service/)

Sister Hardman and I add our witness of the fulfillment and joy we feel in serving real people each day here in Hawai’i. One sister that we have known for a year broke our hearts as we heard her story and felt of her heart ache. Now, a year later we can witness the light that has returned to her countenance and that Jesus Christ is the grace and source of power that has kindled and is sustaining her light. It is a joy to see and to feel her faith now in a good and hopeful place.

Sinai or Haleakala?

We could mention the daily gratitude expressed to us by strangers, by our bishopric, our stake leaders, spouses or family members of persons struggling in recovery. Instead let us share how much Sister Hardman and I have grown, emotionally and spiritually, individually and as a couple. The Lord is blessing our relationship, our marriage, and our family.

Our shadow on the clouds

A few days ago we treated ourselves to a ten-thousand-foot sunset. We drove up Haleakala in late afternoon, enjoyed a brief hike at the summit, then joined a hundred other people spread out across a west-facing ridge to experience natures masterpiece. That night the deep blue horizon was bounded bellow, not by the sea, but by billowy cumulus cloud tops of infinite shapes and texture, and bounded above by thin flowing cirrus clouds slowly drifting across the sky. The air cooled much faster than the volcanic rock which had been heated by the sun. As the Earth rolled, moving us backwards hundreds of miles per hour in our beach chairs, the sun didn’t really ‘set,’ we simply rolled with the Earth out of view of the Sun. The breeze was cold. Most on that ridge were wrapped in beach towels for warmth. We had remembered our jackets. The clouds below faded through various shades of gray. The cirrus above radiated through various shades of orange. 

Haleakala Sunset

Before it was totally dark, a young couple, Grace and Justin from Wisconsin stepped toward us and held out a smart phone showing a picture of us sitting close to each other in our beach chairs, huddled on the side of a darkened dormant volcano gazing away to the west. “You are so charming,” she said. (Now, the only other person who has ever called me charming was Joan’s Grandma Hansen, forty-seven years ago before Joan and I were married.) Well, if in our (young) senior years, a young couple can deem us charming, then the same can be true for all seniors. We exchanged contact information. 

The next day we wrote, “Dear Grace, Thank you very much for taking these pictures on top of Haleakala. It was very kind of you to share them. We agree, the experience was beautiful and inspiring. Attached are a couple pictures we took. We have worked and played on Maui part time for years. Presently we are Service Missionaries for Addiction Recovery. We are grateful to be able to serve those in recovery. We wish you and your loved ones the very best. Mahalo.”

To which she replied, “Thank you! The view was gorgeous and that is amazing you’re serving with that program. I’m sure many benefit from it!”Grace is correct. Many are benefiting. And her first name is fitting to our experience. The ‘Grace’ of Christ is a powerful blessing. Whether at home or abroad, whether at sea level or on mountain top, may each of you feel the ‘incandescently good’ blessings of serving as senior missionaries.

Wonderous Experiences this week

Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine.

Honolulu Tabernacle

We had an open schedule a week ago so we printed some ordinance name cards, boarded Southwest Airlines and took a temple trip, just Sister Hardman and me to Oahu. Upon landing and before the beautiful journey to Laie, we ventured downtown and toured the famous Honolulu Stake Tabernacle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A kind brother, Family History Library patron, gave us an impromptu tour of the complex which serves as a large gathering place for many wards and branches. Dedicated in 1941, the beautiful Filipino apitong-paneled walls draw reverence and respect. Known by its 141-foot high mosaic of Christ and reflection pool, it is a beautiful place of worship amidst a towering busy city.

Hawaii Laie Temple

Instead of going the shortest way through the tunnels to the north shore, we drove to the east most point of Oahu to see the shoreline. It was a pleasant drive all the way around passing the Halona Blowhole Lookout, then around through Kaneohe and on to Laie. We checked into our hotel, changed, and made our way to the beautiful Hawaii Laie Temple. In addition to the proxy service to others, the endowment and sealings always reward us patrons with new insights, impressions, revelation and peace. In my journal I wrote, “I was very impressed during the endowment and sealings with the boldness and specificity with which God and the universe operates. Apparently two lives, even many lives can’t just be eternally linked without a God given, universe approved power to bind them together.” While waiting between sessions I reviewed the scripture, “It may seem to some to be a very bold doctrine that we talk of—a power which records or binds on earth and binds in heaven.” (see D&C 128:8-11) After the sessions I felt inclined to study related verses. It was a wonderful temple experience, even a “marvelous work and a wonder.” (Isaiah 29:14)

Laie Shoreline

In addition to our serving by conducting several Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) support meetings, we were served by the spirit in meetings we attended including the adult session of the Kahului Stake conference. President Akanaka, a member of the stake presidency admonished all to, “putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ…” (Mosiah 3:19) He acknowledged that it is a constant battle to think of the things of God, and to be at Peace amidst daily challenges. He asked, “Was Daniel calm before the lions den?” He encouraged us to ask, “What has the Lord done for me today?” and then write it down.

Elder Takashi Wada, our General Authority Seventy asked, “Can the Plan of Salvation answer the problems of our day?” He used Joseph Smiths experience as an example then asked what scriptural verses or statements from leaders has changed you? “Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man that this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again,…” (Joseph Smith—History 1:12) He asked us to write down those scriptures that have had this kind of impact on us. (Among others, that prompt led me to 2 Nephi 10:2, “…that they may come to that which will give them the true knowledge of their Redeemer.” I have reflected on this a great deal. It has entered with great force into every feeling of my heart. It has led me to related scriptures, and conference talks. It has given me wisdom and hope). Thanks Elder Wada for this great step-by-step instruction.

Due to General and Stake conferences, we haven’t met with our youth as a Sunday School class for more than a month. We finally got to discuss the Gospel on Sunday in Come, Follow Me. Our topics included the Ten Commandments, the Holy Tabernacle, ancient and modern ordinances, and especially Holiness to the Lord. We love these youth. We are inspired by their faith and comments. We look forward to being with them on Trek soon in Utah. Speaking of Trek, we continue to support our bishopric in being prepared. Our hosts, the Lehi Utah Stake have been so wonderful in their love and support to our group. They are going so out of their way to make our group feel loved and prepared and included. Trek is coming up in June.

For recreation this week we saw the movie, “Michael,” which is played by his amazing nephew Jaafar Jackson. And finally, we are so grateful for the full-time missionary seniors who have been serving on Maui, and who had adopted us service missionaries into their friendship from the moment we arrived a year ago. Several of them are completing their missions soon so we all gathered for a dinner party to visit and enjoy the spirit of the work. Our forever friends, those elders and sisters departing in the next month include David and Neill Marriott (CES), Jeff and Karen Taylor (MLS up-country), and Chris and LaReesa Sherwood (MLS in Hana). 

Amazed and Astonished

Whether small or great, amazing or astonishing, we are experiencing a marvelous work and a wonder.

Haleakala south side

On the extreme south side of Haleakala, along the up-country Piilani Highway far beyond the Ulupalakua Ranch, the volcano is typically very dry, very brown. But not this year. We have driven this road many times and were recently astonished at new life, even thick green grasses that covered the ten-thousand-foot-high mountain. Recent fierce Kona storms awakened seeds to life. It is beautiful. We were amazed.

Each Saturday morning we hold a special Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) meeting called, “Spouse and Family Support,” for those whose lives have been adversely impacted by the choices of loved-ones. This week the Lord orchestrated a change to bless someone far from home. None of our regular attendees came as each had been drawn to activities elsewhere. A few minutes after the appointed hour, a new-comer came through the door. “Is this the 12 Step meeting?” he asked. We shook our heads and kindly said that it was, “Spouse and Family Support.” His frown and drooping eyelids indicated disappointment. We introduced ourselves and learned a little about him. The spirit prompted us to pivot. “Our other guests are not here so let’s have a 12 Step meeting, right now.” He looked encouraged and said, “Could we do Step 4?” On the spot we moved forward with the meeting. We knew that this carpenter, working temporarily on Maui needed support on his day off, this very Saturday. The meeting went well and meaningful sharing took place.

Not anxious to leave, he asked about places nearby to eat. We made a few suggestions, but he still lingered, even engaging with ward members who were conducting fundraising in the parking lot. He even returned for the fundraising dinner that evening. We stand all amazed when it is clear that God knows the situations and needs of all his children, and gently orchestrates his miracles in our lives.

Fundraising car wash

Regarding the youth fundraiser, advertising and lively signage holders on the curb in front of the meetinghouse drew many for the event. “Somewhere between fifty and eighty,” was the response when we asked how many cars were washed by the youth and advisers. “Wow. And the rummage sale?” In addition to visitor purchases, one of our ward members jokingly said, “Yah, we’re all buying each other’s stuff!” The chicken lunch sale was also a big success followed by the well-advertised, “Expensive Spaghetti Dinner,” held that night. Sister Hardman and I were part of the entertainment. Like a wagon train circled on the prairie at night, we stood in the center of the cultural hall and enthusiastically sang several songs from our old, “Hardman Pioneer Band” repertoire, Joan on the violin, me with my guitar. Following the dinner we ‘rounded up’ everyone in pioneer fashion and square danced to, “Oh, Johnny Oh,” “Heal-toe-polka,” and “Virginia Reel.”

Fundraising dinner

Elder and Sister Hardman performing

Heel Toe Polka – all ages

On Sunday morning we presented ARP training at the Kihei 1st Ward Council. We bore testimony of God’s hand at work in the lives of all his children and reflected on amazing scriptures that evidence personal divine love. Including  “When thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed…” (Isaiah 53:10). “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13) “Who for the joy set that was set before him, he endured the cross…” (Hebrews 12:2) “And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind… he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people… that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people…” (Alma 7:11-12). We invited each council member to do their part inviting and encouraging others toward Healing through the Savior.

On Sunday we experienced an example of this divine succoring. Sister Wada from our ward felt inspired to call on another ward member. The latter had been in a pedestrian accident while walking her dog and was suffering and recovering from a multiple fractured leg. Sister Wada called us because of our special friendship with this sister, so we went to show our love. The full-time missionaries came with us and a priesthood blessing was provided. She was grateful.

On Monday we experienced more of the Saviors love as we conducted our weekly in-person ARP meeting. In addition to several regular attendees, we felt wonderful at the return of someone we hadn’t seen for a while, as well as a new-comer, all who participated fully in the reading and sharing. At the conclusion of the meeting I offered my testimony of the Savior. On the wall of the high council room is the well-known picture of the Savior before his ascension, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15). As I opened my mouth it occurred to me that Jesus was making a plea for them to make the good news known regarding what he had done for all of Gods children, the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Surely with power and great love, after having “seen his seed” and “[knowing]… how to succor his people,” he was anxious for all to Come unto Him.

Go ye into all the world (churchofjesuschrist.org)

In conclusion, there is a simple frequent experience that amazes us. It happens when in conversation with someone, local or tourist, member or non-member. When we tell them what we do they get attentive and quiet. Subdued, and with a gentle nod, they say softly, “Thank you.” Reading their eyes we know addiction has touched them or special people they know. They respond with sincere gratitude for being instruments in the hands of the Lord for Healing. We testify that the Lord heals, a healing that is part of what Isaiah, and Nephi called, “a marvelous work and a wonder.” (Isaiah 29: 14, 2 Nephi 27:26) Like rain on the leeward side of Haleakala, the power of Christ brings life, hope and peace to his followers, his seed.

Small and Large Gatherings

If we make effort to listen and observe with inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we can see divine potential in everyone

The Lord’s work includes small, medium and large gatherings. We’ve mentioned in prior posts that in addition to Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) support meetings we coordinate Emotional Resilience classes and also lead Spouse and Family Support meetings. The latter is for those who need healing because of the choices of loved-ones such as addiction. We can’t overstate how valuable these small and medium gatherings are, for our guests, and us. Like the ARP, each of these meetings are held in the confidential environment of the church high council room, allowing for safe sharing and compassionate support. We wish more would attend. Regardless of the emotions, source of the disappointment or hurt, we realize that all of us need hope and peace by coming unto the Savior.

In the weekly Spouse and Family Support, discussion principles range from God’s consolation, chains that bind us, taking care of self, gratitude, honesty, service, patience and peace, all wrapped warmly and completely in the Atonement of Jesus Christ. This week we discussed, “In everything give thanks.” Key messages included the following:

“The more we focus on negative emotions, the stronger they become, until they begin to dominate our thoughts, diminishing our ability to feel the Spirit and find happiness.” During our session I was reminded of my theme missionary scripture from decades ago, “A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken,” (Proverbs 15:13)

“As we consistently take time each day to ponder and record the things for which we are grateful, the evidence of God’s hand in our lives becomes clearer.” This includes God-given gifts and talents as well as finding the good that exists in our loved ones. “If we make an effort to listen and observe with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we can see the divine potential in everyone, even those who have hurt us.” 

After our closing prayer in the high council room, the stake president’s door opened. Standing in the doorway was President Hanks and Elder Peter M. Johnson, General Authority Seventy. Apologizing for the interruption, they invited us to continue our meeting but first Elder Johnson kindly walked over to each of us for a warm greeting and brief introduction, a small gathering, then they went back into the stake president’s office to continue their preparations for stake conference, a large gathering.

Earlier that day as encouraged by our stake presidency to all stake members, Sister Hardman and I had watched a Church video about Elder Johnson, “Running Toward the Light.” Wow! Please watch it. What a hard start in life! What faith! We quickly became more excited to hear from him that Saturday evening and again on Sunday.

That afternoon we felt prompted to text and offer a ride to one of our ARP friends to attend the evening session with us. She readily accepted. During the ride to the church we enjoyed some light conversation, a small gathering, and were grateful for her up-beat spirit. That evening Elder Johnson testified to the large gathering in his very special way that the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, “is all true… It’s all true!” He invited repeatedly and in various ways each of us to share the gospel with the person or persons (small gatherings) who we were prompted to think of during the meeting. The next day, Sunday, was equally spiritual as the large gathering again met for powerful messages from President Hanks and his wife Nancy, many called from the audience for spontaneous testimonies, as well as Elder Johnsons strong, gentle, and passionate assurance that God lives, the Church is true, and true prophets lead us. He concluded with something like, “This is Christ’s church! This is His church!” Such was confirmed by the Spirit to us.

On Monday, a couple hours before our ARP meeting, we got a tender call (a small gathering) from a sister in our ward whose brother in Utah is dying of an illness. Unable to see him again due to distance, she called us for love and support. I did my best to express love and compassion, but Sister Hardman said all the right things. We offered to come over and give a priesthood blessing which our friend accepted. I texted several brothers in our ward and found Brother Davis available who joined us at her home, a small gathering, for loving conversation and a blessing which he was asked to provide. We then went to our ARP meeting for another emotional but spiritual experience.

Also this week, we’ve been wrapping up the Emotional Resilience, medium gatherings, another great Family Services course, by asking participants for testimonials to promote the next session. Here are some of the anonymous expressions.

“I am grateful for all I learned in the Emotional Resilience class. Emotions and challenges can be overwhelming! Not only the beautiful, simple, spiritual solutions benefitted me and my life; I feel less alone. I feel supported like I joined a community that we created. I felt like I was guided through life’s challenges with Heavenly Father at my side.”

“My husband and I enjoyed it very much and the chance to bond with people from our ward and stake was outstanding. There were so many good tips and suggestions for making our communications more thoughtful and I would say it was a life changing experience that will help in our families and marriage.”

“I appreciated the safe environment that was created with our intimate group.  Some were very vulnerable in sharing their experiences, but it is through sharing that we are supported and feel a bond with others in our class.”

“We felt joyful and excited about all we were learning. We’ve been able to identify problems emotionally and learn valuable ways to address them and push forward. We’ve learned to communicate more effectively with each other and others. We hope to continue to apply the principles taught in class. We know they make a difference. They have for us. Mahalo!”

Angles of God Will Step In (2006)

Text: Kenneth R Hardman, Music: Mark Petersen

1. On a trail worn and rocky they came
A pathway of saints bound for God
A valley of peace was their aim
With stranger and kin from abroad

Starting late in the year
They met snow as their fate
Surely the outlook was dim
You must offer each step as a prayer
And the angels of God will step in

2. In my life as I seek to do right
Temptation and trial cloud my view
Using faith, work and courage for light
Each day will begin bright and new

3. As I walk where they walked I can feel
That strength from above helped them through
Like them I know angels are real
Giving help from above to be true

Starting late in the year
They met snow as their fate
Surely the outlook was dim
You must offer each step as a prayer
And the angels of God will step in

(Written June 2006 for the Pleasant Grove Utah Battlecreek 4th Ward Youth Conference Handcart Trek in Wyoming)