Thursday, February 21, 2008

Reflections of Christ

I know that I am not the first one to write on this topic and I am also aware that I am bit late too. That's okay though, I still want to give tribute and share thoughts, I hope no one really minds. To begin let's talk about what exactly "Reflections of Christ" is- besides remarkable and glorious- To quote Mark directly on the matter "Reflections of Christ" is.... "Thank you for visiting the Reflections of Christ official blog. The Reflections of Christ photography exhibit is a collaborative effort on many peoples part to teach about Jesus. The primary goal of the project was to create photographs that could cast new light on our perceptions of Christ. Most aspects of the imaging process were documented on film. These little clips are much of the out-take footage mixed with images from the project. Cameron Trejo, our filmmaker features many of the people who donated their time and effort to this project. There are still many with whom we couldn't connect.
I fear that the site will appear self serving. The intent of ReflectionsofChrist.org is to inspire people to be up to something. What else do we really own, other than our person story. This is mine and others that participated. I regret that we do not have interviews from all of the participants that tell everyones story of how they got into character to teach about Christ in this unique way. There is much credit to go around and this blog helps me to point that out.
Mostly though... I hope that through the words and actions of our cast, crew, and me I guess, that the reader will be aware of how we feel about Jesus.
There are many cast members who would love to say something about their experience... Please email me and I'd love to work some of it in.

Thank you,

Mark"

DISCLAIMER: I DO LOVE ALL MY BROTHERS AND SISTER EQUALLY BUT THIS BLOG WILL FOCUS ON A SELECT FEW. THANK YOU.

I feel that I cannot do justice to Mark's project so please please I beg you- take the time to explore The Reflections of Christ Blog and if you live anywhere near Mesa, Arizona goto the Visitor Center and reflect upon this exhibit. I had an hour to myself to walk through and take time for each photo, but I still wish I was in Mesa so I could take an hour every day, because the second time I went through it was a new experience. Mark is so talented, not only that but I do feel that the spirit had much to do with the capturing of these photos. Each one does depict a moment, a divine moment for the world. My third time through I was able to go in behind 3 of my 5 older brothers. For those you who know me, you know that I do idolize my brothers and for good reason. These men are giants among men, they are good or at least try to be in all they do. They are hard workers, they show me so much love and patience, and they are men. But the thing that makes my brothers real men, is that even though they are "all boy" the have taken on my fathers tender heart. Watching these grown men walk through the exhibit was truly humbling. As we came around the corner where the photos of Christ in the Garden and then on the Cross were diplayed I could see who my brothers were all across their faces. Their expression was solemn in the most positive way. Ammon was first and as he walked past each photo he genlty put his hand over his mouth. Sam second, small tears welled in the corners of his eyes as he folded his arms across his broad chest. Brigham was last- as he turned toward the first photo of the Garden humility came over his whole body and his lip began to quiver. He was not ashamed and did not hold back the massive tears streaming down his cheeks. His hands were placed in his pockets and his shoulders were a bit slouched. The next moment that took place will forever be cherish in my mind. Slowly Brigham turned his head an looked at me, by this time little streams were running down my face, his eyes met mine, with out blinking we both just starred at eachother, sharring our love and testimony of the atonement, he then turned and continued on through the exhibit. At that moment I realized something, that I am sure I always knew, but it became more apparent then ever. Those moments in Christ's life depicted on film were a representation of, yes Christ's life, but also a Plan- A Plan of Happiness- those moments took place soley so that I maybe return to my Father in Heaven, that I may live eternally with my brothers, even my whole family. We may all walk through that glorious white veil- just as the Savior did. I know this to be true and I am forever grateful for not only that opportunity but for the knowledge I have received.

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