Prior to working at Deseret Industries, my wife and I owned and operated a salvage business. I liked our being able to work together in a job that helped the environment, where I got exercise in the fresh air. However, we were not making enough money to pay the bills. A friend suggested I get some counsel from our bishop. With a referral from the bishop, I was accepted into the DI training program.

I committed myself to this wonderful opportunity. I traveled 41 miles each way—every day—to get to the Deseret Industries store. I showed up on time and ready to go to work. I placed my life in the hands of the Lord, and learned that anything is possible if you have the right frame of mind and are willing to ask for help.

The training at DI is a gift that offers hope. Through the different classes, like telephone courtesy, dress for success, forklift certification, and custodial services, I not only learned new skills, but I learned how to work with customers and other associates. My different assignments helped me to work with many different people. From this experience I got to know them better and to help them. By helping them, I helped myself. Can a shy person become successful in the workplace? I can now say, “Yes!” It has always been difficult for me to talk with people, but through the classes I took while at Deseret Industries I became more practiced. The more practiced I became, the more comfortable I felt.

One of my goals was to obtain a lead position. I needed leadership skills, which I learned by shadowing great examples, my job coaches. They taught me how to push myself, how to ask for help, and how to work as a team. Working as a team, we became like an inflated basketball without a flat spot or damaged skin, but one that is prepared to go to the hoop. Being a lead changed me. I began to desire to be the type of leader Heavenly Father would have me be, one who treats others as I would like them to treat me. I learned that I can help others work through their “fiery darts.”

Through this experience, I have grown. I am different now. My family and friends have noticed the change. The changes I see in myself are that I have become more mellow and supportive of others, and I am more positive and more sociable. I have developed a great desire to give back to others, to do the will of the Lord and not my own. I have learned that our Father desires us to be successful, not to fail.

Part of my training included custodial skills. I gave my training 100%. Customers at DI would see me cleaning and tell me, “You’re doing a good job!” or “If only my house were as clean as you keep it clean here!” It made me feel like I was doing a good job and that I was an asset to Deseret Industries. When I learned of a great custodial job in the school district, I wanted that job. Because of the excellent training I received at DI, I got the job. What a blessing!

I am thankful to all who were a part of this amazing journey.