It's FAMILY That Brought Us Together

Our Stories

Heather Miller: An 18 year old whose end goal in life is to go explore the reaches of space and do as many dumb college things as possible in her limited time in college. Her head is filled with useless but intriguing facts obtained by spending her life growing up with the internet, and she enjoys going on spontaneous trips to anywhere as long as it’s fun.

The most challenging part of this project has been trying to balance the 2 perspectives to where I'm not offending one side or the other. It was all about explaining our perspective in a way that would lead the other party to ponder over both perspectives and walk away with a new understanding of the other person, even if they didn't see eye to eye. That was the best part of doing this project, being able to put aside my own personal opinions and try and gain an understanding for the other perspective, putting myself in their shoes. It lead to me being more open minded about how others view the world and that just because we believe in different things doesn't mean we can't coexist. We just need to learn that people can do whatever they want to do without the fear of harassment, so long as they abide by those same rules. We've been taught in the church to not judge others and to love our neighbors, and this doesn't change just because they hold different beliefs or because they've made other life decisions that we wouldn't make. As I go on in life, I need to remember to hold everyone in the same respect I would for my parents, etc.

Medicia Nelson: I was born and raised in the Caribbean with both parents. One of my childhood hobbies, volunteering has led me to develop a love especially for children. I volunteered at a police station where I had a chance to view life from a different perspective in putting myself aside and to focus on the needs of others.

The main lesson that my parents taught me was to gain an education and to help others in whatever way I can. It does not necessarily have to be something tangible, but a smile can go a far way. At some point in my life, I want to have a job where I will be able to assist in protecting children and providing a great home for them.

My main goal is to continue to do voluntary service and to become an individual that will nurture and create an environment with whom I come in contact with, where is being valued, appreciated and used as a learning tool.

When I started this assignment, I didn’t know what to expect, but I later learn valuable lessons that I will take with me on life’s journey. I had challenges along the way but things got easier the moment I got help from team mates. I have learnt so much and how valuable working in team was. It was a very spiritual experience learning about different ways that I can help others who are struggling with their identity. No one in this life is perfect for all us are struggling with something different. We can elevate others by being our brothers keeper.

Nollan Olvera: I am from Beaverton, Oregon. I am currently a student at Brigham Young University Idaho (BYUI) in Rexburg, Idaho. This is my second year in school and I am working on my bachelor’s degree for advocacy and organizational communications. I enjoy working with people so that they can learn to reach their potential and to stand up for what’s right. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Working on the project has been a big collaboration with the team. We have been discussing a lot about this matter. I feel that there was high energy when we would come together and critique each other. I know that our knowledge has deepened greatly since we have learning about this subject. By us coming together and putting our heads together we have made something great. I feel that the whole project has been an experience that I will keep dear to me. Not to mention the friends I have made with those I have closely worked with

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Stuart Walton: I am 23 years old and was born and raised in Boise, Idaho. I am attending Brigham Young University - Idaho. I have always loved the outdoors and my favorite hobby is wood working. I recently got married this last year and have been blessed with the best wife in the whole world. Everything that I am and everything that I know is because I had a loving family who guided and directed me with the help of the Lord's hand. 

Working on this project has been very interesting and very eye opening. So many times it is easy for us to judge and exclude others when we really should be showing them love and friendship. Working with my group has been amazing. For 14 weeks we met together and discussed and shared our personal opinions on the matter of gender and identity and the insights that we have found throughout our research. Not only did I gain greater insight in God's plan, but I was able to make new friends and have an awesome time.