I grew up in a farming family in Northern California during the 1950s. My father managed the largest family-owned peach-growing operation in the state. Despite the many challenges of farming, he consistently found ways to succeed. My mother devoted herself to community service and to caring for my sister, my two brothers, and me.

As far back as I can remember, my mother made sure we attended church every Sunday. From an early age, I began laying a foundation that would make faith the central focus of my life. At the end of third grade, I received a Bible from our Methodist church in recognition of my perfect attendance at Sunday School. At age fifteen, I earned Scouting’s prestigious God and Country Award. Later, at my high school graduation ceremony, I was honored to deliver the invocation.