My First EFY Counselor

Craig was my EFY counselor in 2005 at the University of Utah Institute. It was my first year at EFY and I loved it. I don't remember much from it (I lost my EFY journal), but I do remember Craig taking us aside on the first day and telling us that our experience at EFY could be really great if we did what was right. He was an awesome counselor and my experience at EFY that year was really great. My testimony was strengthened and I was inspired.

Now I'm a freshman at BYU. I am in the 192nd Ward at Wyview Park, Craig's last student ward. When I went to our ice cream social I saw him and I thought, "I think that's my old EFY counselor!" I didn't approach him; I decided that I would ask him about it some other time. When I heard his name I recognized it and knew that he had, indeed, been my counselor. I wish I had gotten reacquainted with him when I saw him, and I wish I had thanked him for his example and the positive impact he had on my life.

I didn't know Craig other than at that EFY three years ago. But I distinctly remember admiring him and appreciating him for what a great counselor he was. I am sad that Craig passed before I could get to know him better, and I'm sad that he passed when he was so young: there is so much of this life that he missed out on. Yet I know that he must still be doing what he did for my EFY group and what I have so often heard he did for others: serving. I am sure that there were many on the other side who warmly greeted him.

I know that the pain you, as his family, feel because of your separation from him must be incalculable. The grief you must feel because of his untimely death is a grief that I doubt I can comprehend. But I hope that my small memory of his goodness, his kindness and how great he was will bring you some joy in the midst of your grieving. May you find peace through the Savior’s comforting love.

--Anonymous