A Sad Week for Manila 2nd Ward

On Sunday, July 19, sometime after church, a 14-year old boy in our ward took his own life. Sam Perkins had just been coming back to church. His family moved here about a year ago from Saratoga Springs. Before that, they had lived in 1st ward in our stake. Some of Sam's family came to church regularly and some didn't. Sam was one who didn't, until recently. His older sister Liz was a laurel, who always comes and has plans for a mission. His older brother Tanner also comes and is Melia's age.

I went to visit on Monday. Took Liz some flowers and gave Tanner a hug. Mel and her friend Brooke Walker reached out to Tanner. They've known each other since elementary school. They went to visit him on Tuesday night because they were very worried about him. I told them to go. I told them they wouldn't regret going to visit. They are good girls. They also took him Thursday to get frozen yogurt. I drove and we had a fun time, just talking and eating. At one point Tanner said "you guys...I'm really nervous about the funeral." Turns out he was to give the opening prayer and he really wanted to know what to say and to be able to say what would help others. What a great kid.

The funeral was Saturday afternoon. There was a huge turnout. Mel came with me and Keenan. It was a very nice service. Tanner gave a wonderful prayer and specifically prayed for the youth of the stake to know where to find hope. Brother Perkins spoke and shared that Sam had come to him with a message. He was ok and he's sorry. His message is to choose the right and stay true to covenants. To find the truth and live it. President Livingston spoke and shared excellent quotes on suicide and repentance and accountability. He started by complimenting Tanner on his prayer and telling him that it was "God's words." I don't think he could have known of Tanner's concerns about the prayer. Inspired, for sure! He also reminded us that Joseph Smith was a 14-year old boy who almost gave in to dark despair, then he saw a light. We can all find our own light.

It's been an emotional week for everyone. Mel has been sad, but has reached out to Tanner and done good things. She and Brooke and Kobi planned a double date for yesterday and Mel took Tanner. They rode tandem bikes and ate lunch in Provo. She said after they dropped the other boys off, all three girls stayed at Tanner's house and just talked with him. Tanner and Spencer, the younger brother, both spend a lot of time with Keenan. In fact, Tanner called Keenan right away when he heard that his brother had died and told Keenan to come get him. I just came home from WW and Spencer was here with Keenan. They were on their way to set up a sound system for a ward party. Good boys.

Sister Perkins shared in Sunday school that it had been a revelatory week and that she has answers to all of her questions. The Holy Ghost is really helping this family and they, in turn, are helping build testimonies of others.