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SCOTT GULLEDGE / Scroll
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| Lauren Nordstrom, a freshman from Palo Cedro, Calif., practices her pedal harp. She started learning the harp about two years ago and has participated in several BYU-Idaho musical events. |
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It would not be a stretch to say that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are a particularly busy people.
In addition to church attendance, youth in the Church are expected to participate in Young Men and Young Women’s programs, Seminary, youth dances, temple trips, youth conferences, Young Women’s camp and scout camp. In addition, many serve in various Church callings.
Laura Nordstrom, a freshman from Palo Cedro, Calif., believes there is a certain zeal for involvement that is unique to the Latter-day Saint culture.
“[Latter-day Saint] parents are always trying to influence their kids to be involved,” Nordstrom said. “Perhaps because the Church teaches us to be well rounded in all things.”
Nordstrom played the piano for seven years, and has played the harp for about two years. In her family of seven, discovering and refining talents is greatly encouraged. Nordstrom’s brother and sisters are involved in several different activities, such as marching band and various sports. They have all been taught the importance of sharing talents with others.
“Everyone is good at something, and when parents find out what that is, they should encourage their children to pursue it,” Nordstrom said. “My parents taught us to show our gratitude to Heavenly Father for our talents by sharing them.”
Niki Garrett, a freshman from Colorado Springs, Colo., identifies with Nordstrom. She was raised in an LDS family and has taken piano lessons with various teachers since the age of five.
“Our parents told us when we were little to pick an instrument and learn to play it. We were all started out on piano,” she said.
Shelby Peschke, a freshman from Morgan Hill, Calif., understands the wisdom behind the push for participation.
“The Church is all about getting everyone involved ... Because they see a need for kids to have something to do,” Peschke said.
Garrett sees the benefits of being involved in an activity as well.
“[Latter-day Saint] families realize the importance of having kids involved in an activity. Whether it’s a sport or music, it helps develop the body and mind,” Garrett said.
There is also a personal satisfaction resulting from the development of talents. Nordstrom has enjoyed performing in Church and at nursing homes as well as campus events at BYU-Idaho.
“Knowing that [my performance] makes a difference to other people is a great accomplishment ... It really enhances my life,” Nordstrom said.
Because of her involvement in music, Nordstrom has had unique opportunities she otherwise would not have had, such as performing with the symphony during the inauguration of President Kim B. Clark.
“I was fifteen feet away from the prophet. I don’t know if I’ll ever have that opportunity again,” she said.
Nordstrom plans to involve her children in an activity they would enjoy because she has seen the difference it has made in her home.
“My family is really close just because we were able to share those talents,” Nordstrom said. “My parents have always been so supportive. ... It has really unified our family.”
Nordstrom plans to transfer to BYU and major in harp performance.
