Jordan Bench

Matt,

It was really good to hear from you.

I've read your letter a couple times now, and one thing that stood out to me is how much thought you're putting into things right now. It feels like you're doing a lot of reflecting about life. It's cool to see.

Being a dad is the most important thing in my life. It's not easy, but it's the most meaningful thing I've done.

It's interesting how much influence Mom and Dad have on us. Whether we realize it or not, we carry a lot of what they gave us. I see it more and more as I get older.

I liked hearing about your ride up to T-Bone Ridge and thinking about Dad. Moments like that are special. I believe he's aware of us and still a part of our lives in ways we don't always fully understand.

You mentioned struggling with faith.

I think that's okay.

I don't think faith is something you either have or don't have. I think it's something you work through over time. There are times where it feels clear and times where it doesn't. I've had both.

For me, faith gives me perspective and direction. It helps me make sense of things, even when I don't have all the answers. And I definitely don't have all the answers.

One thing I've been thinking about recently is how growth tends to come from discomfort. We did some missionary visits with the youth this past weekend, and a lot of them were uncomfortable. But that's kind of the point.

I believe that discomfort is usually a sign you're in the right place and that you're stretching and growing.

Reading your letter, it feels like you might be in one of those phases. It might not feel great, but I think there's a lot of value in it.

As for what I'm grateful for right now:

Abbey and the kids

My health

Good food and time together as a family

Work that challenges me

And my faith

Life at home has been busy in a good way.

We've been working on finishing the basement, which has turned into a pretty big project. I've basically been playing general contractor and coordinating everything. We're excited about it though. it'll give us more space and a good place for the family to hang out.

Beau just wrapped up basketball and is moving into baseball and flag football. I'm coaching his baseball team this year, which I'm looking forward to.

Blaire is at a really fun age. She's talking a ton and just started dance class. She loves it. I took her to one of her classes and she was so excited to show me everything.

Abbey is doing well too. She's over halfway through pregnancy, and we decided to wait to find out the gender this time. It's been fun not knowing.

Things are good overall. Busy, but good.

You mentioned visiting the ranch, I hadn't thought about visiting before. I'd love to hear more about what that looks like.

I also wanted to say, I'm proud of you.

I can see growth in how you're thinking and how you're approaching life. You've always had a good heart, and I think you're moving in a really good direction.

You've got a lot ahead of you.

Be patient with yourself.

I believe in you.

Jordan