Brandon Hatch
“I have found when the rougher patches of life have approached, it is more important to lean IN instead of leaning OUT of the gospel. Six years ago, the night before my mother passed away unexpectedly, my wife Kate and I decided to read the Book of Mormon one chapter a night… hoping that for once, we would be consistent.
Retroactively, I was shocked to have made that particular commitment at such a pivotal time. Over the course of the next year, I felt incredibly blessed to have made that decision for myself at that time. I was able to go the “well”, and draw deeply in a time of intense personal trial. I felt a whole range of emotions, but the simple act of coming back daily, opening myself up to the spirit allowed me to heal and progress.
Then last year, right before we were getting ready to move, my family was struck with another terrible experience as my brother, who suffered from a condition called ‘Suicide migraines’ took his own life.
It was a crucible, I took a new job, Kate was very sick with pregnancy, and we experienced a tremendous loss and did it away from friends and family. I was once again left with what felt like another big choice… Lean in, or bow out. Doubt what I’ve known or double down.
This felt like such a trying time and in many ways I just felt out of gas, running on spiritual fumes. I am grateful to report, that that I am here. I am here because I was strengthened by these small choices. While the loss of two brothers and my mom deeply impacted me, my strength was consistently increased to match that of my burden. I can’t explain why these events have happened, but choosing this path and perspective has opened me to a source of strength and resilience I wouldn’t otherwise have.
I leaned in and it was hard. But I was blessed in myriad of small ways that qualified me for my challenges ahead.”