MEMORIES: MORE PRECIOUS THAN GOLD

Video of Tree 

Christmas 2013 is gold and white.

The bells are old but they still play Christmas tunes.
We hang lots of bells.

Papa choose the theme.
And mostly did the work - I was taking finals.
(Yae I did well!)

We decorate with things that remind us of what is most important to us.

snowflake light

The things that light our minds and hearts.

where your heart is, there is your treasure

The sweet memories of home and hearth.

And family times together.
Like dancing.

Or building snowmen.

This antique is so old his finish is changing from white to yellow. 

Cushions - foot and hand print reindeer  from mom and wreath from Clala.

And OH! how we prized new skates that fit! 

The comforts of home . . .

 And see the light is on . . . someone loving, waiting . . . watching . . .

Naturally there are lots of nativities.

Made in 1981 while on bed rest. 

3 kings on camels

from Ben while in Vegas on his mission

purchased about 1972

in a walnut nutshell

clear nativity

There are also lots of stars and frosty icicles.

And lots of angels.
The prophets say angels surround us and wait to help us at all times.

This angel glows in the dark!

There are also many lights and sights of nature.

Papa has always loved deer and the symbols surrounding them

God is good.
So many things to remind us.

Large gold pear purchased in Edmonton Mall 

He created a beautiful world and marvelous creatures and things.

We love the birds.

I chose to put small gold-framed pictures of my children on the tree.

As they rotate around I think of each one and pray they are happy.

I pray they make choices that build happiness.

Home lives in our hearts and minds.

Happiness is mostly a choice.

It is mostly thinking of good things with gratitude.

Most of our ornaments remind us of what we are thankful for.

Santa kneels to the Christ child in worship.
He shows his faith in kind actions.

And we believe . . .
Santa is someone that loves you.

We love you all and miss you.
We are especially thankful for each of you.

ANTI-ENEMY OR PRO-KINGDOM OF GOD

In October 2007, Elder Quentin L. Cook taught “We live in a precarious time . . . [when] we need to have faith and not be fearful.” Sometimes Mormons feel, and even are, attacked in various ways by those who accuse them of being un-Christian. Ironically these accusers often act in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In October 2008, Elder Robert D. Hales taught, "The Savior has said, 'He that hath the spirit of contention is not of me' (3 Nephi 11:29). More regrettable than the Church being accused of not being Christian is when Church members react to such accusations in an un-Christlike way! May our conversations with others always be marked by the fruits of the Spirit—'love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, [and] temperance' (Galatians 5:22–23). To be meek, as defined in Webster’s dictionary, is 'manifesting patience and longsuffering: enduring injury without resentment.' Meekness is not weakness. It is a badge of Christian courage.

"As we respond to others, each circumstance will be different. Fortunately, the Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how we can most effectively respond to them. As true disciples seek guidance from the Spirit, they receive inspiration tailored to each encounter. And in every encounter, true disciples respond in ways that invite the Spirit of the Lord." 

Do we imagine being heroic when confronted by strangers but fail to remember or imagine being heroic in daily frustrations of our own family.

The Book of Mormon teaches, “In the strength of the Lord, [we can] do all things” (Alma 20:4). The Lord's strength is never found in quarrelsome contentions. 

Can we respond to accusers without accusing - in all situations? 

Can we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ in public AND at home?

Elder Hales instructs, “As true disciples, our primary concern must be others’ welfare, not personal vindication. Questions and criticisms give us an opportunity to reach out to others and demonstrate that they matter to our Heavenly Father and to us. . . . Without guile, true disciples avoid being unduly judgmental of others’ views. . . .We need them, and they need us. As President Thomas S. Monson has taught, ‘Let us learn respect for others. … None of us lives alone—in our city, our nation, or our world.’”

Elder Hales taught that Christ-like characteristics “are first learned in the home and family and can be practiced in all our relationships. To be guileless [like Nathaniel in the New Testament] is to look for our own fault first. When accused, we should ask as the Savior’s Apostles did, ‘Lord, is it I?’ (Matthew 26:22). If we listen to the answer given by the Spirit, we can, if needed, make corrections, apologize, seek forgiveness, and do better.”

Doing things that bring the spirit and light into our homes and lives, and excluding things that bring darkness are deliberate choices.

If a child refuses obedience, do we patiently teach true principles and examine our own life to perfect our example for their benefit and ours. Do our spouse and children feel us respond to their concerns in respect and compassion? Do they see us following the example of Jesus Christ, especially when someone is disrespectful, yelling loudly, acting unkindly or refusing to forgive? Or do we become “warlike” and begin to treat them as “enemies?” 

We have had many reminders this semester that this life is God’s plan - His gospel and His plan - a plan of happiness for all, and that He is aware and mindful of all we do. 

In both American Foundations and Family Foundations, the same quote from President Spencer W. Kimball reminded us to trust in God more to be at peace with ourselves and others. American Foundations was debating the scope of American involvement in foreign affairs and other economic and political considerations of neutrality and peaceful non-intervention. Family Foundations was discussing how to successfully have happiness within marriages and families.

President Kimball advised we are too “warlike” and “easily distracted from our assignment of preparing for the coming of the Lord” (The False Gods We Worship, June 1976). He taught, “When enemies rise up . . . [we] depend on [things such as armaments] for protection and deliverance . . . [and] become anti-enemy instead of pro-kingdom of God. . . . We forget that if we are righteous the Lord will either not suffer our enemies to come upon us . . . (see 2 Ne. 1:7), or he will fight our battles for us (Ex. 14:14; D&C 98:37, to name only two references of many). This he is able to do.” 

Remembering God’s power and grace is vital to being a disciple of Christ. President Kimball and other prophets, as well as many scripture stories they recount—such as Christ’s betrayal (Matt. 26:53), Jehoshaphat’s people, and the fear of Elisha’s servant—all remind us to trust in Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ, their omnipotent power, and tell us of the “legions of angels” at their disposal who are “fearsome soldiers." 

President Kimball recounted, "Jehoshaphat and his people were delivered by such a troop (see 2 Chr. 20), and when Elisha’s life was threatened, he comforted his servant by saying, 'Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them' (2 Kgs. 6:16). The Lord then opened the eyes of the servant, 'And he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.' (2 Kgs. 6:17.)” 

In recent General Conferences, many prophets and apostles have reminded us God, and the angels that attend our lives to guard and help us keep us from being overwhelmed in this battle against Satan for the souls of God's children are near and watchful (Eyring, Scott, Monson, October 2012; Nelson, Cook, May 2011; Holland, October 2008). 

Who is our enemy? Can we remember at all times the example of Jesus Christ and realize that members of our family, and most other people are not enemies? Elder Hales taught, “Silence, meekness, forgiveness, and bearing humble testimony are [not] passive or weak. But to ‘love [our] enemies, bless them that curse [us], do good to them that hate [us], and pray for them which despitefully use [us], and persecute [us]’ (Matthew 5:44) takes faith, strength, and, most of all, Christian courage” [sic]. 

Can I have this kind of courage and remember to be Christ-like in my own home? Neighborhood? And ward? Can I proclaim principles boldly by my actions and choices, and avoid contention, accusations, and overbearance?

Elder Hales counsels that each of us has “a great work to do, which will not be accomplished if we allow ourselves to stop and argue and be distracted. Instead we should muster Christian courage and move on. As we read in Psalms, ‘Fret not thyself because of evildoers’(Psalm 37:1).” Elder Hales reminds us that “even as the Savior warned of persecution, He promised peace: ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. … Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid’ (John 14:27).” As Elder Cook taught, “we need to have faith and not be fearful” (October 2007).

CHILDREN

Keys to eternal happiness were outlined in a BYUI devotional this week. It was a pleasure to watch.

It was about "having" and "not having" children.

Having children has been my greatest joy.

It has also, at times, brought my greatest sorrows as I have feared for their safety or happiness.

Ric Page, Associate Academic Vice President Brigham Young University-Idaho, spoke for ONLY 30 minutes! - 30 minutes of potential life changing statements. Thirty mere minutes teaching how to find joy. Thirty minutes teaching about keys of eternal happiness.

Children: An Heritage of the Lord

RELEVANT RESOLVES

Think of a baby.
Any baby.
Seriously.
Name him or her.
Fix an image of that tiny child in your mind.

What can babies do?
Name a few things.

What can babies NOT do?

What can you do that the baby can not?

Why?
How come?

I will wait a minute.
Take your time.

. . .

Imagine if:
You can only go where someone else carries you.
And you could only communicate with noises.
Or with expressions of your face,
     or movements of your body.
Someone else picks out what you will eat,
     and feeds it to you.
They decide how much you get.
     You have little, if any say.
They choose music you will hear,
     and movies you will watch.
They choose the people that will see you,
     and talk to you.
They try to make you sleep,
     and say when and where.
And may wake you up anytime (or not).
They decide if you are clean and dry,
     hot or cold.
They choose if lights are on, or off.
They decide if they will teach you.
They decide what you learn.
And for how long.

Now think about what you want most.
Think as much as you want to.
. . .

Think carefully - what is most important?
Change your mind as often as you wish.
. . .

Did you decide?

What will you need to achieve that?
How can you find out if you don't know?
Where could you start?
What might you do first?
What should you avoid?
What can you  DO?
What CAN'T you do?

On Sunday I asked the youth in my class these questions.
They gave some good answers.

They like their privacy.
They like their phones, etc.
They like to drive. They WANT to drive.
They like to pick their own food,
     clothes, and friends.
They like to date.

I ask them to compare their physical state
     with their spiritual state.

We are the spirit sons and daughters of God.
We can become like our Eternal Father.

Are we spiritually self-reliant?

What can we DO?

Class members received a copy of the quote below as they arrived.

Our lesson taught:

How can I become spiritually self-reliant? 

Spiritual self-reliance is essential to our eternal well-being. When we are spiritually self-reliant, our testimonies do not depend on the testimonies of others. We seek our own spiritual experiences through praying daily, studying the scriptures, and exercising faith in Jesus Christ. We turn to our Heavenly Father for His help to resolve our own difficult problems. We are also able to strengthen others in their times of spiritual need.

Later I asked everyone to summarize this paragraph in 10 words or less. Can you?

I summarized:

"Heavenly Father is real. He will help me."

It was amazing to hear all the different individual summaries.

What would you say?

Next I asked them to trade their summary with someone and then teach that person about spiritual self-reliance using that person's summary and their own personal understanding. (They still had a copy of the quote.)

 It was chaos! It was wonderful!! 

We had so much fun, we ran out of time.

I suggested they could do this for FHE.

I asked them to read D and C 58:26–28

"For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward.

I asked them to pick a word from this scripture and find two more resources (scriptures or conference talks) that help them understand the word better. 

I assigned them to come to class next week with a question about the gospel or their life. I told them they will not have to share their question in class it is only for them to have in their mind as an example.

I don't intend to answer their question.

I intend they should learn how to answer it themselves.

I intend they learn how to have God help them.

He will.

Having questions is like being a baby.

Scripture study is like having a licence to drive. 

Pray is like having the keys to a car.

Where do you want to go?

Other resources:
Matthew 25:1–13;
Mormon 9:27;
Moroni 10:3–5;
D&C 130:18–19;

“The Power of a Personal Testimony,” Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2006, 37–39;

“Coming to Ourselves: The Sacrament, the Temple, and Sacrifice in Service,” Robert D. Hales, Ensign or Liahona, May 2012, 34–36;

David A. Bednar, “Converted unto the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 106–9;

Video: “They That Are Wise” (no download available);

see also Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Visual Resource DVD

NO THANKS!

Trick of treating just upped the ante.

A group of 5 or 6 young children arrived.
They were as excited and noisy as children can be.
And then the unthinkable happened.

For the first time ever I had a boy look over the offerings, say no thanks, and stand there with his pillow case out asking for something else! 

WOW! 

And an adult stood there watching him. 

She saw and heard him do that. 

SERIOUSLY?!? 

We offer three different kinds of candy (because a child may have health issues like allergies) and always offer something that is non-food also. This year it was a choice between a glow-stick necklace or bracelet.

"No thanks!" the boy said.

I found his expectations and actions startling. 

How's that for an attitude of entitlement? 

Whatever happened to the gratitude and excitement of taking whatever you got and trading it to someone if it wasn't your favorite thing? 

On the LDS provident living web site about self-reliance, in Elder Marvin J Ashton's famous financial talk titled "One for the Money," he stated, "We live in a self-indulgent, me-oriented, materialistic society." I recommend his wise counsel about our expectations.

I had some other candy in the house.
I took a small, individually wrapped piece in my hand and put it in his pillow case without him seeing it or having a chance to object. I just wanted them to go away.

I just kept wondering if maybe the adult might take care of teaching him privately.

We have a trick of our own we play on kids each Halloween.
We give them some candy when they knock or ring.

If they say Thank You, we give them more.
Often it is a much more substantial treat.
None of this group qualified.

Sometimes we teach by gentle prompting.

If only one says it, gets the additional treat, and then the group all chorus thank-you we hand them all an extra treat. Including a second round for the first to say it.

We want to help them appreciate the good things of life.
To understand how gratitude increases our blessings.

The whole incident has given me much pause . . .

As I pondered, and confronted my initial outrage, I have been working to try to resolve it into a meaningful learning experience, trying to find good in the experience. I kind of had a scary thought: Am I like that?

Now I find myself wondering if I act like that when I knock on Heavenly Father's "door" begging a treat. And when he offers me a selection I say no thanks, I want something different. I say no thanks to all He offers me and expect him to give me something else I want and maybe even demand . . .

I think I am going to have to repent again  . . .

HOMESICK

At times I miss my family and where I grew up.

I never see this sign without a knot in my throat.

Other signs really get one's attention. Driving through the mountains there are signs warning of dangerous areas.

One rather amused us. Do you think this is a warning about deer that "fly" or deer that "die"? or perhaps about deer about to become "angels"?
  

My parents celebrate 65 years of marriage 14 October  2013.

In August family and friends gathered to congratulate them.

7 of 10 sibings

I always miss my siblings. They are my best friends. I love each of them. Parents and siblings are one of the things I am most grateful for.  Special thanks to my neice, Chrystal, for pictures of the event.

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada.

OVERALL HEALTH

 For my religion class this week I am assigned to read 3 categories on the LDS provident living Physical Health site (including nutrition and diet, and exercise and fitness) and set a goal regarding good health.

The articles under each category are excellent.

One of the articles under the topic "Sleep and Rest" is quite amazing regarding overall health. It is titled “Missionary Health Preparation,” and is from the Ensign, March 2007, 62

This article touches on almost every aspect of physical and mental health and the basic standards a missionary (and therefore all of us) should meet in each area to be able to serve.

Will you join me in a 2 week regime?

Pick something from any category in the Missionary Health Preparation article that will benefit your personal physical or mental health and then set a goal in that area for at least 2 weeks.

CAFFIENE

Working on my Family Foundations class this week to set a 2 week goal about health and exercise.

What to do, what to choose . . .

Hmmm . . .

I am reading links connected to links.

First to the LDS Provident Living Site for  Physical Health 

From there to the Word of Wisdom and Physical Health link

and then a show stopper: Caffeine.

WHAT??

How silly of me!

How could I not realize that an 8 ounce chocolate bar contains more caffeine than a 12 ounce soda? I am quitting. I just don't think that much caffeine is good for my body. I have mocked caffeine coffee and pop addicts for years. Recently I realized chocoholics are also addicted and MUCH pushier about others joining them in their addiction. You've never seen a pushier pusher than a chocoholic pusher.

Are you one?

Are you an addict?
Honest?

I think it is important for me to be in control of my body and to never surrender that control to addictions or habits. Wish me luck!

DAY OF PRAYER

I don't remember where I was on 11 September 2001

or what I was doing when I heard about the US being attacked.


I will never forget 13 September 2001.

Our national and religious leaders called us to prayer.

I think most of us already were praying.


I will never forget 14 September either.

I was on my knees praying with millions of other people.

May we all, ever remember the 14 September,

and pray for peace.

2nd Chronicles 7:14











"Humanity transcends the definitions of outward form and physical location." Sylvia Engdal

SALT

Salt or sugar?
At table which might you guess?

We all know what salt is.
I don't know anyone that does not.

Same goes for sugar. Right?

Which is which? 

Can you tell the difference?
Without scientific testing?

How?

What does it take to tell the difference?

Salt or sugar by the salt shaker?

Sometimes I think I can tell by just looking.
Sometimes I am right.
Sometimes I am wrong.

Sugar or salt by the sugar shaker?

I know only one way to really know.
It is by taste.

To taste I must act.
I must actually do.
Doing is more than knowing there is a difference.

"Doing" requires action, by me.

And when I know salt from sugar, and use them in correctly balanced amounts, I can create marvelous and delicious foods, change my environment (think ice in winter), and increase joy for myself and for others.

What questions puzzle your mind?
What can you "do"?

WASHED WINDOWS

.

looking toward neighbors

I have been noticing my windows lately.

That is double edged.

Last week I observed that, except they are made of glass, I'm not really sure they can be called 'windows' anymore. I noticed they were absolutely filthy and encrusted with dirt, a white film from the sprinkler, and even traces of bird droppings - how does that happen?

Noticing these things is a good thing. A few years ago I wasn't noticing anything, much less doing something about living. Last year I saw problems developing but didn't care enough to try to fix them. But now - well, I am much more mobile and getting a bit of energy back. This spring I notice AND I care.

So what?
What am I going to do about it?

I've pondered this question the last month or so. Spring sunshine has begun to warm afternoons enough that I close the blinds to keep out heat. It also helps me to momentarily forget about the sorry state of the windows. Would I dare climb a ladder and work at window washing? Why not? It might take a long time, but with persistence, and if Papa and I worked together on a day he isn't at work, perhaps we could tackle the job one or two windows at a time: daunting but doable.

Spiderwebs and spider lunch remnants do NOT invite me to wash windows

I decided to prepare like for a marathon! I have been doing some stretches and exercises for balance and strength. I decided to take before pictures. The spider webs convinced me I am not very motivated. I decided to try to hire somebody else to do it and began to ask around. LOL

We were gone all day Saturday.
Anyone that knows us well, knew we would be.

Sunday morning I opened the blinds.
The house seemed lighter or something.

Spiderwebs, spiderwebs, wherefore art thou spiderwebs?

Well! would you look at that!
I can see out my windows.

The layers of dirt are gone!!
What??
Who?
When?

Well obviously Saturday, but ...

I have heard of 'a theif in the night' but this had to be broad daylight. And whoever heard of taking window dirt?  And how can we say thank you if we don't know whom to thank?

Walking around outside we noticed both our ladders were moved.

Hmmm - two ladders used - so at least two people ...

Do I care that the hard water lingers?
HA - it defies even a razor scraping.
I know - I tried!
And it looks like someone else made a serious try, also.

I suppose that someday the grapevine will tattle some detail, but for now I must simply gaze out my washed windows and enjoy seeing the birds (much better than excrement), watch the garden and flowers grow, and the trees fruit with unabashed appreciation.

Thank you - all of you ...
Were there several?
The dirt near the house reveals a few tracks.

BTW: did you misplace a pair of small gloves?
I will leave them on the porch.
And I won't peek if you come to get them.

Know this though, I will be praying for you.

God saw your kind deed.
He knows who you are.
And he knows your secret needs and desires.

He rewards openly secret kind deeds.
The scriptures teach us that.

I am asking him to grant them to you.
I will be asking Him every time I look through a window.
Thanks.

HOPE, HAPPINESS, and HOLDIN' ON

Dear Nena;

Arriving to your family was an adventure.

Of all the choices that could have been  -
   we, you and I, chose to be - family.

Peek-a-boo ...

You've always chosen gleeful delight - 'extreme joy'.
Here you could derive it in a simple game and props.

And then you found real joy.
Real joy in real things.

Hold on to delightful things.
Live gleefully in good.

Choose happiness.
Believe.

We hope a happy birthday for both you and hubby this month -
Extremely so ...

Love Mom and Papa

TRIAL: KNOWING SELF

Now and again, as I study, I learn something.

Some little thing that forever alters my views.

Or answers some nagging doubt or question.
(I have those sometimes - especially during trials.)

 Such an answer was in  Lesson 22 from John Taylor:

(Teachings of the Presidents of the Church.)

Being Perfected Through Trials.

Prophets declare we all WILL face trials.

John Taylor taught, "You and I cannot be made perfect except through suffering: Jesus could not (Hebrews 2:10). ... there is no other way .... It is the process by which knowledge is increased and peace will ultimately be established universally. ...(page 111)."

Such declarations leave my heart cold.

I waffle there - must I really?

Thankfully prophets also declare solutions and concise instructions. They tell us to "Cease to fear" (Richard G. Scott 7 April 2013).

Such were also the teachings of Elder Jefferey R. Holland on 7 April 2013. He told the classic story of a troubled child and a parent's agony from Mark Ch. 9. "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. (Mark 9:23-24)."  

Elder Holland taught, " The father asserts his strength first and only then acknowledges his limitations. His initial declaration is affirmative and without hesitation." He encouraged us that we have more faith than we think and we can start where we are.

"In moments of fear, or doubt or troubling times, hold the ground you have already won," he said, "even if that ground is limited. In the growth we all have to experience in mortality the spiritual equivalent of this boy's affliction or this parent's desperation is going to come to all of us. When those moments come and issues surface, the resolution of which is not immediately forthcoming, hold fast to what you already know until additional knowledge comes."

I experience such moments.

Moments, and longer, of testing.

I have learned to pray.

I have learned to sing.

Sometimes a song is a prayer.

President Taylor taught, "We complain sometimes about our trials. We need not do that. These are things that are necessary for our perfection. We think sometimes that we are not rightly treated, and I think we think correctly about some of these things. We think there are plots set on foot to entrap us; and I think we think so very correctly. At the same time we need not be astonished at these things. We need not be amazed at a feeling of hatred and animosity. Why? Because we are living in a peculiar day and age of the world; which is distinctively called the latter days.

I know that as other men we have our trials, afflictions, sorrows, and privations. We meet with difficulties; we have to contend with the world, with the powers of darkness, with the corruptions of men, and a variety of evils; yet at the same time through these things we have to be made perfect. It is necessary that we should have a knowledge of ourselves, of our true position and standing before God, and comprehend our strength and weakness; our ignorance and intelligence, our wisdom and our folly, that we may know how to appreciate true principles, and comprehend and put a proper value upon all things as they present themselves before our minds.

It is necessary that we should know our own weaknesses, and the weaknesses of our fellow men; our own strength as well as the strength of others; and comprehend our true position before God, angels, and men; that we may be inclined to treat all with due respect, and not to over value our own wisdom or strength, nor depreciate it, nor that of others; but put our trust in the living God, and follow after him, and realize that we are his children, and that he is our Father, and that our dependence is upon him, and that every blessing we receive flows from his beneficent hand (page 203)."

Related Scriptures: Psalm 34:19; 2 Corinthians 4:8–18; 1 Peter 4:12–13;Alma 36:3; Ether 12:6; Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–8

Thank you President Taylor.

Perhaps I can accept my life with more grace.

I have experienced learning about myself as you say.

I do know myself better because of trials.

I do comprehend my own "strength and weakness" better.

I am willing to learn my "true position before God".

I want to "appreciate true principles".

I accept that all "flows from his beneficent hand".

I testify that the additional knowledge and help promised by the prophets, like Elder Holland, does come. God is omnipotent and loving. He is mindful of us and does help and bless us, even if only to strengthen us like Alma's people (Mosiah 24).

I am nearing the end of my Book of Mormon classes. This past week I read:“And Christ hath said: If ye will have faith in me ye shall have power to do whatsoever thing is expedient in me … for it is by faith that miracles are wrought; and it is by faith that angels appear and minister unto men … (Moroni 7:33).”

My student manual, page 391, quoted Elder Holland teaching, “that one of the profound themes of the Book of Mormon is the role and prevalence and central participation of angels in the gospel story ….” Elder Holland's teachings then expanded my understanding about “those more personal ministering angels who are with us and around us, empowered to help us and who do exactly that (Ensign Jan 1996, 16-17).” Why am I so surprised? I have read and heard such promises many times. General Conference talks in 2011 were peppered with such references but this time I heard so much more and felt powerful comfort and hope from the promises for such help.

In General Conference Elder Holland encouraged us to "hope on, journey on .... even if you can no more than desire to believe." He promised, on Sunday afternoon, "God will send help from both sides of the veil."

I am so grateful for scriptures and prophets. I feel so weak and foolish. Why am I troubled by the simple things of this life? With the father of the possessed son I too cry “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief (Mark 9:24).”

SING IN THE DARKNESS

I have always loved Isaiah.

One of my favorite passages is Isaiah 24:14 After graphically describing the terror preceding the second coming Isaiah, as always, tells us the solution: those awaiting Christ in the engulfing darkness "shall lift up their voice, [and] they shall sing for the majesty of the Lord, they shall cry aloud from the sea."

In General Conference we repeatedly heard, not only excellent music, but leaders of the church described the benefits of singing praise to the Lord and using such good music to dispel the darkness that surrounds us in our day. I especially felt the mood of dark terror such as Isaiah often describes, but that may be changed to pure joy, as Elder Deiter F Uchtdorf spoke. Isaiah rejoices in Christ and glorifies his power and majesty.

After describing the horror and darkness wherein we accept darkness exists but choose to not dwell there as we choose to remember light also exists and to constantly radiate light ... through faith, hope, and charity  Elder Uchtdorf described a joyful people that sang in darkness, thus:

"Some years ago ... we saw this promise* [of light] fulfilled in West Africa.... Even though these dear saints were surrounded by difficulties and trials they were filled with light. The meeting began ... but soon the power went out in the building and we were left in complete darkness. ... The darkness in the chapel continued ... As we waited something remarkable happened. A few voices began singing one of the hymns of the restoration, and then others joined in and then more. Soon ... [sweet] voices filled the chapel. These members ... did not need hymnbooks. They knew every word of every song they sang. And they sang one song after another with an energy and spirit that touched my soul. ... In the midst of great darkness these [saints] had filled [this place and us] with light.

"From time to time our lives may seem to be touched by or even wrapped in darkness. Sometimes the night that surrounds us will appear oppressive, disheartening and frightening. ... Our living hope is in Jesus Christ. He is the ... entrance to divine enlightenment. I testify that with Christ darkness cannot succeed. Darkness will not gain victory over the light of Christ. I bear witness that darkness can not stand before the brilliant light of the living son of God. April 6, 2013"

I was filled with joy.
It is such a simple solution to darkness: SING.
Sing praises to God.
Sing, all that love light.
Sing of light, for the darkness cannot abide such goodness.

Sing.
Sing praise for prophets and apostles.
Sing until you know the songs of light.
Sing until they are entrenched in our minds.
Sing until they fill our hearts with relief.
Sing for we live in a time of darkness.
Isaiah and other prophets have forseen this time.

Sing.
Sing for salvation, and sanity.

Sing for joy.
"Lift up your voice and sing."


* NOTE: Elder Uchtdorf taught "Even though we may feel lost in the midst of our current circumstances God promises the hope of his light. He promises to illuminate the way before us and show us the way out of darkness.

"...healing comes when we move away from the darkness and move towards the hope of a brighter light ... in the practical application of faith, hope, and charity [we] transform our [lives]... God's light is real. It is available to all. ...It can be a healing balm for the loneliness and sickness of our souls. In the ? of despair it can plant the seeds of a brighter hope. It can enlighten the deepest valleys of sorrow. It can illuminate the path before us and lead us through the darkest night into the promise of a new dawn.

"How do we open our eyes to the hope of God's light? First start where you are. ... We don't have to be perfect to experience the blessings and gifts of our Heavenly Father. We don't have to wait to cross the finish line to receive God's blessings. In fact the heavens begin to part and the blessings of heaven begin to distill upon us with the very first steps we take towards the light.

"The perfect place to begin is where you are right now. ... The very moment you begin to seek your heavenly Father, in that moment the hope of his light will begin to awaken, enliven, and ennoble your soul. ... As surely as the night always gives way to dawn, the light will come.

"[The gospel of Jesus Christ] teaches us ... the things we must know, do, and be to walk in his light, following in the footsteps of his beloved son, our Savior. ... To all who feel they walk in darkness I invite you to rely on this certain promise spoken by the Savior of mankind, 'I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shalt not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of everlasting life (John 8:12).'

"I bear witness that darkness can not stand before the brilliant light of the living son of God. April 6, 2013"

BETTER MORE and MARVELOUS

Are you enjoying?
It continues tomorrow!

"We are not spiritual orphans ..." (Stanley G Ellis)
"We need to protect our fledglings ..." (Boyd K Packer)
"Catch the wave..." (Russell M Nelson).
This is the "test" ... (David A Bednar).
"...CEASE TO FEAR ..." (Richard G Scott).
"Stand in Holy Places ..." (Elaine S Dalton)

I can hardly wait ... what can be better than that?

MORE!!

183 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Are you ready?
It starts tomorrow!

I can hardly wait ... what can be better than this?

I BELIEVE

In Ether 3:9 an interesting question is recorded. 

Jesus asked the brother of Jared (after he saw the Lord’s finger), “Sawest thou more than this?” Since we know that Christ knows all things, we know he already knows the answer to that question.

I wonder if the reason he asked was to facilitate the agency of the brother of Jared, who answers “Nay; Lord, show thyself unto me (Ether 3:10).”

 “And the Lord said unto him: Believest thou the words which I shall speak? (Ether 3:11)” Again we know that the Lord knows the answer and again the brother of Jared is given the chance to exercise his agency. He is being asked how much he believes and trusts: how much faith he has. Does he believe what he does not know, that has not even occurred yet? How much does he trust Jesus Christ?

Moroni teaches, "faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith (Ether 12:6).”

 “And the Lord [asks me]: 

Believest thou the words which I shall speak? (Ether 3:11)”

“Do I believe the words of Jesus Christ?

Even words we may not have heard him speak yet? 

Do I believe the words of prophets?

Do I believe things that I do not know?  

Do I trust that the Lord is omnipotent? 

Do I recognize his love for me? 

Do I accept it? 

Do I believe?

“And he answered: Yea, Lord, I know that thou speakest the truth, for thou art a God of truth, and canst not lie (Ether 3:12).”

OVER THE PEW

Church is always a fun place to watch children.
And their parents, not to mention grandparents.

I often learn significant lessons thus.

Sunday it was 2 little girls.

They were seated directly in front of me. 

They were quietly reverent.

The younger one (about 5ish), seated between grandma and sister quietly begged to pass insisted on passing the tray of broken bread to her sister. Grandma wisely let her. She held the tray level, carefully waited for her sister to partake, then handed the tray back to a very nervous, hovering grandma. 

I was interested to see what might happen next.

Sometimes I am not as attentive to the sacrament as perhaps I should be - I should have my mind focused on the mission and Atonement of Jesus Christ, not family interactions etc.

I then learned one of the most valuable lessons of my life from the older sister, age 8. She was recently baptized. Her mother is not a member of the church. Her great grandparents were, and her grandmother joined the church as an adult.  She leaned near her sister and very quietly whispered, "thanks". 

It still makes me tear up to even think about it.

Such a simple thing: a grateful heart. 

Sure it would be disruptive and detract from the purpose of the sacrament and the focus of the ordinance if all of us said thank you to the person passing the sacrament to us. I am not in anyways suggesting that. 

I merely observe that gratitude is fundamental.

It is one of the basic principles of happiness.

Noticing the multitude of things others do for us almost constantly, and being grateful for those things, helps us feel greater love for them AND for our Lord. It helps us remember him who always remembers us.

Who can I say thank you to?

Right now, today, what can I notice?

Thank you child. 

Thank you for your example.

I am so grateful I was blessed to see it.

IN THE HALL

A week ago, after SS while on my way to the library to return things used in class, I joined a young girl, about age 13, strolling slowly in the hall. She was headed the same way (and away from YW). Since I may be her SS teacher next year I thought I might be able to establish the beginning of a relationship by walking with her for a few minutes. I will call her Cera.

Cera had a small ball in her hand. It was just a bit larger than a golf ball. She bounced it a couple of times and I ignored that - we were in an empty hall. There was no one else around to hit with it and nothing for it to hit or break. It did not make a loud noise either. She is old enough to know what she should or should not do; I wouldn't boss around an adult friend so why would I boss around a teen?

After she bounced it a couple more times, she asked me, "Do you think I should bounce this ball in the church?" I laughed. I asked her if she thought she should. She said, "I want to."

I laughed again. I told her we all want to do lots of things and must rely on the Holy Ghost to help us know if they are right or not. "You have been baptized, right? and received the gift of the Holy Ghost?" I asked rhetorically. Then as I resumed my quicker pace to hurry to RS, I asked her, "If you need to ask if it is right or not, do you think you are being prompted about something?"

At that precise moment her father came in sight at the other end of the hall. She continued to bounce the ball. As soon as he was in earshot he began to shake his finger at her and scold. I increased my pace exponentially - I did not want to be party to what followed.

Our fathers love us and want to teach and help us. It is hard to know what is best for each child. Some fathers may be unkind,or misguided but I believe they mostly love their children. Some may have never known a kind father or had a role model of gentleness. They must do the best they can at a daunting task. They may have never been taught and do not know where to find answers or how to teach implement what is learned or known.

It is even harder to feel responsible for the eternal welfare and happiness of a child. Papa has often expressed his concern that he teach and train our family so that he can face his maker and say he did his best. As a SS teacher I can leave daily discipline to parents.

I have thought on that repeatedly since then. It helps me realize what a kind and gentle father I have. I asked myself what my father might have done in a like circumstance. I was a deliberately rebellious daughter.

I asked Papa what his father might have done. He replied that he wouldn't have been bouncing a ball! He wouldn't have dared. He has mentioned in the past that he got a 'whipping' almost every single Sunday. He tells a story about that. When he got home each Sunday, he had been 'whipped' for some behavior at church for several weeks in a row apparently to no avail. His father often went to meetings in the morning long before church. One morning he gave Papa a whipping before he left for church to remind him to behave that day. Papa felt like he had a free pass - he already had endured his whipping so he could do anything he wanted to do. He got another whipping after he got home! He still feels that was terribly unfair - he understood being punished for what he was doing and accepted that was what was done but to be punished for the same thing twice he just could not understand.

My father would had come near enough to touch me or catch the ball. He would likely not have said a word, except perhaps my name in a disappointed voice. If I had dared to bounce the ball while he was in arms reach he likely would have caught it and pocketed it.

If I ever wanted my ball back I would have to ask him for it. To get it I would have needed to explain to him appropriate use and purposes of balls and when and how they should be thus employed. If my understanding was lacking he would add to it. Some people call such interactions with their parents 'lectures'. His explanations were seldom lectures. They were just a very loving father making sure I knew what was right and should or should not be done. He expected me to choose to do what I knew when I understood. The harshest and most difficult punishment he ever inflicted was the expression of disappointment.

My father whipped me once when I was 15 ish. I provoked him. After a face to face, head on show down of wills he took off his belt and strapped me with it 2 or 3 times. I fell to the floor. I could not stand. (The stripes took quite some time to heal.) He threw his belt down as he left the house.  I went to my room and cried. I also spent quite some time laying on my bed face down.Some of my siblings witnessed that event. One of them came to try to comfort and help me. I think she wondered if I were going to die. She had never seen or heard of anything so terrible. She brought me some ointment,  Mentholatum, and helped me put it on where I could not reach. 

In the years since that time my father has told me that I was the only child of 11 that he ever gave a whipping like that. I was the 5th child and first girl in our family of 7 boys and 4 girls. He said he had never done it before that and vowed to never do it to anybody again. He has apologized several times and said it made him sick at himself. I tell him I too am sorry. I am sorry I was so disrespectful to a loving and kind father. I tell him I don't know what he might have ever done differently. I was extremely willful and deliberately disobedient. I don't know how my parents endured having a kid like me.

We have talked about this a few times when he has brought it up. As we age we sometimes look with hindsight on our past and wish we had done things differently. There is no going back. It often begins as the littlest of things, a bouncing ball or a misunderstanding. I had wanted to finish a report I was working on for homework. He expected my chore of sweeping the floor to be done immediately. I had fully intended to sweep the floor ... soon ... but ordering immediate compliance was not successful in any way.

I have had to learn more humility. I have had to learn to bend my will to the will of a loving Heavenly Father without needing a harsh punishment. I have learned to try to be obedient to the commandments of God because he loves me and has good reasons to give them. He wants me to be happy. He wants me to be safe. He wants to bless me, and everyone around me, with more of every good thing. I KNOW he does. His commandments explain how to be happy. His commandments are given so that all his children can have joy - forever and always.

Can I try to understand?

Can we try to understand?
Can we trust an omniscient Father?
Can we accept the words of the prophets?
Can we obey?

CALIFORNIA WHEAT CASSOROLE

Mom Ames made a delicious whole wheat casserole she called 'California Wheat Casserole'. (I didn't know until sometime later, when I asked why it was called 'California' wheat casserole, that the frozen vegetables are called by that name. They are a mixture of carrots, cauliflower and broccoli. ) She told me you can put anything that 'seems' good in too.

A few of you have asked for her recipe. 

I will do my best.

Please read all the way through first. 

Remember she seldom used an actual recipe.

The bulgar was always done at least the day before.

It may be kept in the frig for a day or two or frozen.

Wheat Bulgar   prepared in advance

.

   Stove top method: I do NOT use this method.

   It seems to never completely soften and 'pop'.

   [Maybe because my wheat is often ancient.]

Wash 1 cup dry wheat, add 6-8 cups water, boil 2 minutes. Decrease heat to simmer and cook 1 hour or until the wheat has softened but is not mushy, and 'pops' (slightly splits). Drain well. Chill for use in salads, casseroles  meat loaf etc.  

   Oven method: I DO use this method.

   Also the lazy easy 'no attention needed' method.

Cover 1 cup dry whole wheat with cold water and soak a minimum of 8 hours (usually overnight or all day) - rinsing as needed to prevent souring - more often in warm weather but every 3 or 4 hours (once before bed by the late birds and once upon arising by the early birds usually does nicely). I was told if it appears to sprout, that this will actually increase vitamin content. 

Rinse thoroughly.

[AND why limit yourself to this process for only 1 cup? I usually used my roaster and do prep like this about once a month. I would make enough to measure and package into freezer bags (about 1 cup each) and place in the freezer ready for future use. ]

Place in oven proof dish, cover with at least 1/2 inch of water, and bake overnight at 200 degrees F or until wheat is softened but not mushy, and 'pops' (slightly splits). Drain well. Chill for use in salads, casseroles  meat loaf etc. [Of freeze in small packages if making larger amounts.] Adjust cooking times and temperatures to suit your time constraints - more heat = shorter cooking time with more water. DO NOT let it dry out or it will not cook and soften properly. 

CALIFORNIA WHEAT CASSOROLE

Next time we make it we will take some pictures.

.

Ingredients:  ground meat (abt 1 pound - keep fat or use oil) 

                   onions chopped (1 medium)

                   celery chopped (several stalks)

                   wheat bulgar (about 2 times the meat)

                   1 can cream soup* 

                   California frozen vegetables (abt 1 lb - small pkg)

                   cheese - grated (abt 3/4 cup - usually mozzarella)

* I usually use cream of celery when I use celery, cream of chicken when I use chicken, and cream of mushroom when I add mushrooms.

Brown ground meat and remove meat to large casserole dish. Add seasoning to meat mixture if you desire (ie garlic salt etc). [Sometimes I use chopped leftover meat instead because I don't have to cook it and  turkey, ham or roast beef - or canned is fast and easy. Just match up flavors of things you like.] 

Saute onion and celery (may also add garlic, mushrooms or green peppers - any pleasing combination of flavors) 

Add 1 can of cream soup with 1 can of water and heat just until blended. 

Add bulgar (1 - 2 cups depending on taste preferences and tolerance) and  frozen vegetables to the meat and stir just enough to distribute.

Pour soup and sauteed vegetable mixture over meat / vegetable mixture and stir just enough to cover of coat mix. Bake until hot and bubbly. 

Top with shredded cheese the last few minutes of baking or just before serving. 

ENJOY!

Caution:  go easy on the wheat until you become accustomed to the roughage. It tastes so good that it can be a problem if the body is not accustomed to it.

100th PART

100^th – only 1 in 100! – just one penny of every dollar?

I was somewhat surprised as I read in 3 Nephi 26:6 that, “… there cannot be written in this book even a hundredth part of the things which Jesus did truly teach unto the people;” but that the plates of Nephi contain, “…  the more part … (v.7).”

Is that the lost manuscript?

Verse 8-10 (3 Nephi 26) teach us that this part, that Mormon is recording in 3 Nephi, is the ‘lesser part’  to be given to us first to see if we will believe the teachings of Jesus. If we accept and believe this part, THEN the ‘greater things’ will be given, but if we do not ‘believe’ the lesser part the greater things will be withheld.

Jesus commands us, “Search the prophets, for many there be that testify of these things (3 Nephi 23:5).” I remember when President Benson pled with us constantly to remember to read our scriptures, particularly the Book of Mormon, and carefully taught about the blessings of obedience, and condemnation of failure to obey (Oct 1984, April 1986, 1987, 1988 etc).

President Benson often quoted from D&C 84:54-61 (and other scripture) and said we rest under the condemnation of unbelief spoken of there. We also read about this same condemnation in 2 Nephi 27:8; 32:7, here in 3 Nephi, and - as we continue to read the Book of Mormon - will again hear about our ‘sin’ and negligence in Ether 4: 8, 14-16. The prophets then and now beg us to read, accept and do these things as Jesus taught and set an example of.

DO - ah - there is the important kernel - no?

Jesus explains (for several prior chapters) and then commands, and immediately repeats his command to us in 3 Nephi 27:21. He explains, expounds scripture, and demonstrates his expectations to us, and then 2 times reiterates, “… ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do; for that which ye have seen me do even that shall ye do ….”

Do I love and believe his words, searching them diligently, obeying them and following his example?

NOT ENOUGH, not enough!! (3 Nephi 10:14; 20:11; 23:1;
1 Nephi 5:10,21; Mormon 8:23; Alma 14:1; 17:2; 33:2,
Jacob 4:6;7:23; Mosiah 1:7; Moroni 7:19, etc)

A BRAIN

On the farm, when I was a child, I spent a lot of free time 'investigating' the yards and fields outside. Mostly these were fenced with 3 or 4 strands of barbed wire. I was a small child. I could easily crawl underneath, or slide through, the wires. My father taught me not too and some of the sweetest moments of my life were spent standing quietly by a fence observing nature. I have seen wonders: a new colt wobble to its feet and suckle its mother, an ant negotiate the maze of grass stems to a berry, a chicken scratch and peck for its food, young calves frolic in the sun, a shimmering blue green fly buzz from place to place, and a ewe birth a lamb.

On the other side of the wires were cattle and horses. Both were much larger than, and a significant danger to, a pre-school child. Dad pointed out that to me. He was convincing but not threatening.

Dad helped me understand that animals do not think or reason like people do. The animals might not mean to hurt me but they would not know that I would not hurt them. They might be afraid of me. That astonished me. As my father reasoned with me, I could understand why. I had seen our small terrier chase the animals, nip at their heels and bark ferociously at them. I had seen them try to kick or bite it. I had even seen an old bossy cow, with a new calf, charge a meandering cat that came too close.

I had seen cattle tromple things. When they moved as a herd they could even ignore a fence and just flow over it like it did not exist. If the lead cattle stopped the others just kept pushing and if one fell it might be unable to regain its feet as the herd surged forward over it.

A horse stepped on my foot once. My father often mounted his horse and then bending down, grasped a child under the arm, and swung the child into the saddle in front of him or behind him. As he leaned forward to pick me up, the horse shifted her weight slightly and when she put her hoof down again my foot was underneath it. She almost immediately moved again as Dad continued his fluid motion and pulled me up, but I knew horses were so big that they didn't really notice me or necessarily recognize me as a person. I was very wary of horses.

My father taught me the animals needed the sharp pointy barbs on the wire fences to help them remember to stay away from the wires and be safe. I knew to not go on the roads where cars might run over me but horses and cows, and other big animals like deer (quite common in our area) often wandered onto roads and were injured or killed by cars or trucks.They needed fences (and deer were so silly because they just bounded over the fences and got killed all the time)!

Dad explained to me that I could choose to go in the pastures with the big animals but why would I? I had a brain. I could think and I could choose to be safe. My father is a persuasive and inspired person. If you let him think for a moment, he can explain almost anything. His most common discipline was reason - he would take time to carefully explain and demonstrate, to his children or workers (and anyone that might need to know something), what ever we needed to understand for safety, well being morally and physically, and for productivity.

I don't need fences with sharp barbs.
I have a brain.

I also have a heart.
My Father in Heaven teaches much like my dad.
He warns, and prompts my heart and mind.

And then they let me choose.

AT HIS FEET

What a privilege it has been to sit at the Savior's feet this week.

I am humbled and amazed as I read 3 Nephi ( for the BYU-I Book of Mormon class I am taking) about the things Christ said and did in 3 Nephi when he visited the people.

Last week, in Chapter 17, Jesus noticed that the people were weak and could not understand all he was teaching. He asked them to go home and ponder and pray and prepare for him to teach them the next day. I began to wonder what I would do if I were commanded to go pray and prepare for a meeting with Jesus.

When the multitude gather again and he returns (3 Nephi 19:16), after administering the sacrament miraculously (3 Nephi 20:6), Jesus begins to expound the scriptures to them and teach about the prophecies and covenants that are fulfilled by his birth and death, and those yet to be fulfilled - particularly the gathering of Israel and the words of Isaiah. 

I love Isaiah. It is the greatest testimony of Jesus Christ, and the plan our loving Father. What a tremendous composite of Isaiah's teachings 3 Nephi 20 is, as the Savior himself quotes them. Nephi tried to teach from Isaiah (1st and 2nd Nephi) but now we hear Isaiah's teachings from the mouth of Jesus Christ. And then Jesus quotes an entire chapter of Isaiah almost verbatim (see 3 Nephi 22, compare Isaiah 54) and commands us, as did Nephi, to "... search these things diligently; for great are the words of Isaiah." 

But I digress, in my enthusiasm I am getting ahead of myself. THAT starts next week's reading where the Savior continues to expound the scriptures for several more chapters. Maybe I need to 'go home', ponder and prepare for another in depth meeting with the Savior. Maybe it will bless my understanding if I read some of the words of Isaiah (and other prophets he quotes). 

My heart and mind are full of astonishment at how much I do not know. I have never before realized this simple thing - that Jesus taught from the prophecies of Isaiah and expounded them at great length.

 How could I, someone that loves Isaiah not notice that before? How could I, someone that worships Jesus Christ never realize there are whole chapters in the Book of Mormon where he expounds the scriptures (3 Nephi 20-28) and plainly teaches what to expect in the future?

How could I miss all that when I have read all these scriptures so many times? I want to do better. I want to hear the prophets and follow their instructions. I want to meet with the Savior. 

He promises I can.

He promises we all can. 

John 14:1-4

1 Let not your heart be troubled:
   ye believe in God, believe also in me.

 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions:
    if it were not so, I would have told you.
    I go to prepare a place for you.

 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you,
    I will come again, and receive you unto myself;
    that where I am, there ye may be also.

 4 And whither I go ye know,
     and the way ye know.