The President's Attitudes Reflect His Values

The following is a comment that I made after reading a blog and comments to that blog found at the following link:

http://www.findinguncommonground.com/aimee-pro-american-attitude-is-tipping-point/#comment-157

Good last point there, Aimee. Those who do not want to cut the apron strings are those who do want their every need taken care of for them. Even so, I don't think most of Americans, Republican or Democrat are looking for a father figure. But they are looking for someone who promotes what they value most. Those things just don't always align within parties, never mind across party lines.

Lisen, I am not personally looking for someone who pounds his chest either. To me it is important to have a clear-headed leader that can make insightful, informed decisions, but who can also act decisively and promptly when it is necessary. The President's number one concern, especially as Commander-in-Chief, should be the welfare and safety of his own citizens and military and not the feelings of his want-to-be allies. There is always time for diplomacy, but sometimes action is necessary.

I do not think that our current president has proven that he has the ability to act in what I view as the best interests of our Country. My reasons for thinking this are most likely concurrent with Aimee's, what I read in his attitude. I feel a complete lack of concern for the American people exhibited in the president's demeanor. His body language, his smirks, and his condescending attitude during the debates spoke volumes to me and other Americans, both Republican and Democrat. While a few people interpreted this as a strength, I think that most people saw it as a weakness. I didn't see Romney pounding his chest, but I did witness Romney showing extreme control and agility. Good qualities.

Lisen, I am also lost as to why you paint the picture of a father figure as an ugly, undesirable thing. Could you enlighten your readers as to why you have chosen to do this? It seems to me that you can be both a feminist and value the presence of a father figure in society. I think when we demean either of the genders, we are demeaning humanity as a whole, since one cannot exist without the other. (Or are you saying that the president should not have the qualities of a good father? Because those qualities would spill over into any occupation that a good father had.)

I do believe that Governor Romney will be able to work in a bipartisan way for the best good of all Americans. I think he is a unifier, and I think that our Country needs to be unified. We have enough divisions without re-electing a divider. I believer Romney's words in his closing address, "We need strong leadership. I’d like to be that leader, with your support. I’ll work with you. I’ll lead you in an open and honest way."

Attack on Republican Values

Following is a response that I posted after reading the article found at this link:

http://www.findinguncommonground.com/lisen-obama-vs-romney-the-real-question-is-whos-your-daddy/#comment-152

I read the article, and all I have to say is how dare you use one person's "theory" as a lump sum answer to how every Republican in America thinks? We come from a host of different backgrounds, ideologies, and experiences. The theory sounds anti-Republican as well. Most of us may actually support the traditional family unit, but that is not to say that there is an all-powerful patriarch whose word is always final law in every home. Yet isn't it grand when there is actually a father in the home who is not afraid to govern on principles of righteousness because he lives them himself and understands their value.

And so if your adopted theory says that Republicans believe in a higher law, such as following the Patriarch or Father of us all, I for one am glad to say, "Yes, I am that kind of a Republican." So my core beliefs that are found in the Christian-Judeo teachings certainly do influence why I think abortion is so wrong and why I think that capital punishment might actually be the least cruel sentencing in some situations. There are still a few of us in this world that believe accountability must follow choice, and it ultimately will.

As for your analogy of a father figure: I would rather choose a man who had the influence of a loving father in his life to be our president than a man without a father who is constantly trying to cover his identity crisis in  silly humor that misses the mark. We do need a president that takes the concerns of this country to heart and has a valid plan for addressing them. Attacking the intelligence of the candidate, or of the Republican community as a whole, does  in no way make the Democrat president or party appear superior; except, perhaps, to the few Democrats who feel security in lumping themselves into one definition. In writing this, I do not mean to make an attack or judgment, but to prove a point.

Amalekiah’s Usurpation Looks Familiar

http://burst.to/1Nx

Amalekiah’s Usurpation Looks Familiar

There was a man who was unsuccessful in leading a revolt in his own country in which he desired to gain power, enforce his agenda, and gain control of the world at large. Following this failure, Amalekiah, and his brother Ammoron and other dissenters, marched into a land in which he was not a citizen: he didn't look the same as the citizens; he spoke differently; and he did not have a shared history with the people. He did not have the same religion, customs, or core beliefs.  But he killed the king and the military chief commander and took over the kingdom with seemingly little effort or opposition. I often have wondered how a foreigner could enter a country and take it over with the blessing of the people.

First of all, Amalekiah was unsuccessful in his own country because of the efforts of a very young man named Moroni who raised “The Title of Liberty.” Amalekiah and his followers gained support through working on the dissenting voices of the people. He tried to break up harmony and unity and cause disorder. Through words of flattery, he hoped to destroy the foundation of liberty among his people. Moroni’s efforts were a call to unity, a call to remembrance of duty, and a call to be righteous. There is always virtue in the word of God. But even while many were heeding Moroni’s call and being strengthened individually, the country was greatly weakened by those who were more concerned with promoting their self-interest groups instead of working in a bipartisan way to achieve those goals that would promote the security and welfare of the people.

And so Amalekiah bode his time and made careful calculations as to how he could gain more power and authority of the world at large. Since he was unsuccessful in forcing his agenda at home, he sought to use his puppet country in order to bring his own people around to his sordid plan and his social order. And so Amalekiah and Ammoron began their marches as “bold citizens” of a country to which they did not belong to try to implement what they desired to achieve and to usurp power and authority over all surrounding cities, states, and countries. And because they were permitted to get as far as they did without question (first, among dissenters in their own country; and, second, among the apathetic citizens of their new country), they were able to go forth from city to city, gaining more momentum and power, and taking over many strongholds.

It took much fasting, prayer, work, struggle, fighting, and more work for the people to regain their lands and their freedoms. Flattery and fair promises will never bring about order and freedom. It also took the energy and brilliance of many notable leaders to pull the people out of the hole into which they had dug themselves. The cost was tremendous! Of course, there had to be increased military and military spending. New structures had to be built. Cities had to be fortified. Weapons had to be produced in mass numbers. But the most terrible cost was that of human lives on both sides and in both countries.

While Amalekiah, and later on his brother Ammoron, worked upon the weaknesses of the people, Moroni and other righteous leaders depended upon the strength of the people. They did not make fair promises of freebies and handouts. How could they? Those things would not help the people rise up to regain and retain their freedoms. Instead, they were honest about the predicament that they were in, and they depended upon the people to work together to save and safeguard all that was most sacred to them. No matter how sophisticated a society thinks it has become, we are never and we will never be above needing God’s influence to guide and protect and lead us in the paths of freedom, nor will we be above the necessity of heeding His laws. Our cry needs to be Moroni’s cry, “In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children” (Alma 46:12) And our invitation should equal his, “Behold, whosoever will maintain this title upon the land, let them come forth in the strength of the Lord, and enter into a covenant that they will maintain their rights, and their religion, that the Lord God may bless them” (Alma 46:20).

And so we are back to the question of how an individual can take over a country, especially one in which he has no real ties. First of all, the people have forgotten to rely on God and to seek His favor. They rely on their own wisdom (which often is foolishness), and they rely on the flattering promises of a want-to-be leader. Also, a great majority does not want to pay the price for freedom; they want the government to feed and take care of their every need.  Whatever the causes of their weakened condition, there are programs, ideologies, and apathy that have contributed. And there is this universal truth that freedom is not free. Safeguarding freedom takes work and constant vigilance. Regaining freedom takes blood, sweat, and tears, and, most of all, repentance.

(See Alma 46-48)

Fifty-One and a Drop in the Bucket, Part 1

23 October 2012

I turned 51 yesterday. Not magically actually. I mean, I didn’t just make it to 3:30 p.m. (or thereabouts) and say, “I’ve been on this earth for 51 years.” No, I have been becoming 51 every since I turned 50 a year ago.
 

I feel like I have lived an entire lifetime of unfulfilled dreams. That’s not quite right either, I suppose. The things that I have wanted most in life have all happened and are still happening. More than anything, I wanted to be a mother; I have to admit that that desire was stronger than being a wife. Yet I knew that the horse really should come before the cart. And I have always been a romantic. I believe that when I was young, I was more in love with the idea of being in love than with love itself.

Anyhow, I have been blessed to be both a wife and a mother. The awesome thing is that the Lord guided me to marry someone truly tailored to me and my needs. Bob is gentle, soft-spoken, thoughtful, and caring. I would have wilted, shriveled, and died if it had been otherwise. And so I am blessed to have Bob. I’ve got to tell you this secret. I married Bob because of his spirituality. That’s right. Why would a 20-year-old marry someone because they’d read an entire book of scripture at 9-years-old? There is an easy answer to that. I’ll give it in the next question. Why would someone marry anyone else where they were constantly put in the position of being the leader or the stronger partner? I couldn’t do that. I’d already experienced too many friendships where I was the one who had to be the strong one, the one who carried the weight. I knew that Bob and I could be strong together and share the load; and you know what, I was right.

So I’m glad that the Lord led me to Bob. Bob is the most kind, forgiving man I know. That’s the other thing I love about Bob. He has truly loved me unconditionally. I’m trying to learn that skill with him, with my children, and with others still. I’ve got to tell you also that I am not a consistent person. There are times when I am “practically perfect in every way,” but not quite like Mary Poppins. And there are the other times when I am only minimally functional. I also have to let you know that I am an extremely passionate person about some things, and when I have a passionate flare-up, those things get all of my attention at the expense of other things, even basic things. And so there have been years when I have kept a nearly perfect house and yard, and then there have been years when I have supervised our daughter’s schooling. There have been times when I have studied and read, when I have worked on goals and kept great journals; and there have been other times when I have cross-stitched or crocheted for months on end. But it all of it, Bob has offered praise, and he’s told me what a great job I am doing.

I think that in painting this picture of Bob, I need to tell you about his mother, just a little. She offers praise and encouragement over so many things that I’d consider simple or insignificant. But they aren’t. Because she always built up her children, they have the esteem to do so many things that go unnoticed; probably because they hear the constant echo of her praise and they feel good about what they are doing. In any case, I am thankful for the times of praise and quiet encouragement, because I have needed the reassurance.

And my children. Oh, my goodness. Please, I know that young parents would rather not hear that the years go by so fast; but please, recognize that they will. We were blessed with the best and the brightest children ever. Go ahead and say I’m prejudiced; I really don’t care what you think, because I know that I am right. They only problem with that is that there were many times that we forgot that they were just little children. It doesn’t matter if you know that they really are smarter than you from the time they are 4-years-old; they still have to experience the growth of each stage of life, and you still have to allow them that. You can’t expect them to reason and be accountable like an adult (at least not before they are twenty-five), even though they will act like adults a great majority of the time. I certainly am glad that the Lord hasn’t held me to the same accountability that I have sometimes expected of my children.

My children are grown now. The oldest one is 29! I have no idea how that happened. They were all just playing in the backyard last week. And they couldn’t stay outside alone, without me there, for more than five or ten minutes at a time. But most of them are grown and gone. Cathy has done tremendously well. We always knew that she would. I just hope that she can have her fondest dreams come true in this life and the next. I don’t know of anyone more deserving of every happiness there is.

John got married this past June. He’s 27. I remember when he was looking forward to his “big birthday.” That was when he turned three.  He’s even more passionate about life than I am. I’m proud of how he has learned to channel all of his energy and make life happen for him his way. He’s always been a great conversationalist. Good thing he found Megan. She is the perfect fit.

Eliza and Alex got married June 2011. Eliza is our quiet one. Gentle, sweet, and Daddy’s Dolly. She is someone who could always do well in pulling out “organized” from utter chaos. She’d read into the wee hours of the morning as a little girl. (How was I to know; I was sleeping.) And she’d write “A” papers the night before they were due. Once that Alex and she set their sights on each other, there was no turning back. So they encouraged each other to serve a mission, and now they are coaching each other through graduated school.

Oh my Tommy. How can I tell you how proud I am of him? He has the most loving and compassionate heart  ever. And he cleans the house! Tom came back from his mission and married Whitney. He became an instant father, and he has been so responsible and reliable, putting his family first. Jacob is a delight to our whole family; and Amanda will be joining us all soon. I have to say, Tom is a grown man (and he’s nowhere near 25-years-old yet).

Then there is Robby. In many ways, we can say “Hosanna,” or “Lord, grant salvation,” when we talk about Robby, because in many ways the experience that we all had in Robby’s short visit to our family helped to bring the Lord’s salvation to us. He is very much an active part of our family, even though we can’t see him at this time.

Then there is Christine. She is awesome. She is honest. She is a true friend. My life has been so wrapped up in her because we have been schooling together for so many years. I am thankful for her wit, her candor, and for the example of forgiveness and tolerance that she extends to others. I have learned so many lessons in being her mother and being her teacher. And I believe that I have been a better parent in my older years, but definitely not a better housekeeper.

So, tonight, is only a short snippet of my adult years. But to come back to the beginning—I said something about unfulfilled dreams. Maybe I just had the wrong dream. Maybe because I have lived such a good dream that is now reaching into a new chapter, I need to develop a new dream. Maybe I need to implement my bucket list. But, in any case, I am extremely thankful to be Mrs. Robert D. Stevenson, better known as Heidi, and we are blessed beyond compare and beyond ways to truly expressed gratitude or ever repay for the spirits that the Lord has sent to be members of our family.

Now that I am on the downward stretch of life, I hope that I will remember to “smell the roses” every day and be a person who offers praise and encouragement each and every day. I’m glad to be the recipient of such gifts myself.

More to follow!

10-21-12 Sunday Morning San Bernardino Conference

10-21-12 Sunday Morning San Bernardino Conference

Spirit of Conference=seeking the inspiration and direction Heavenly Father has for you.

“Come Unto Jesus”

“While we disagree, we cannot (may not) be disagreeable.” (to the voters)

“For unto Us a Child is Born” (Stake Choir)

Elder Kinser

Returned from serving in the Florida, Orlando Mission. How can we serve the Savior through serving a mission? Mosiah 2:17 “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service of your God.”

Service a mission is an opportunity, a privilege, and (for priesthood holders) a sacred duty. Requirements:

Be cleansed and purified from sins of the world. “Hold up your light, that it may shine unto the world. Behold, I am the light.” Chandelier crystals magnify and spread source of light. We are the crystals that reflect the light and love or the Savior, if we are cleaned and purified. If the crystals are dirty, they can only dimly reflect the light.

The miracle of forgiveness.

Desire to serve. If you have the desire, you are called to the work. Boyd K. Packer, “True doctrine understood changes patterns and behavior.” Help our children understand true doctrine; especially about the atonement of Jesus Christ. Those who experience repentance and forgiveness have a desire to reach out and save others.

Alma and the sons of Mosiah are examples of this. “They were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature.”

Humble and teachable.  We can be like clay in the hands of the Potter. If the Lord can mold us, we will be happy. When we rely on the Lord, He lifts us to new heights that we could have never reached.

Sister Terry

“Whom say ye that I Am?” Who do men say that I am? People all had their own opinions. Many today claim to be Christians, but they do not believe that He is the literal Son of God. Jesus asked questions to make us think, so that He can teach us, we can use our agency and come to an understanding. “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” “Blessed art thou...” Peter was the recipient of personal revelation. It is more sure communication than through an audible voice.

Jesus was the Son of Man. This can hold both meanings: He was a mortal man; He was the literal Only Begotten Son of God; the Son of Man of Holiness. We can all have this testimony if we seek it through study, prayer, and righteous living.

“What shall I do that I may have this eternal life of which thou hast spoken?…I will give away all my sins to know Thee.”

The Gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something. (Gerald Lund) It shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father wants us to become. A true testimony begins in the head, moves to the hands, and then to the heart.

The listens to us and helps us, even when we do not listen to Him the first time.

“Lord, I Would Follow Thee”

Sister Morgan

Story about pearl divers. They would do a small surgery and put a seed pearl, small piece of Mother of Pearl, into the oyster. Then they hoped the oysters would produce beautiful pearls.

We are an irritant to Satan and his followers. We need to build layers of protection around us in order to make our lives smoother. The temple is a layer of protection from the world. The temple will help us to get through some of the more difficult times in our lives.

Do all you can; change your life; develop principles in your life that will help you go to the temple and develop that layer of protection in your lives.

President Morgan

The chandelier, the markings in the carpet, the center table with flowers, they all draw us in from the outside into the light.

Malachi 3

Root or branch. The symbolism of the roots and branch; we are the trunk. The Lord wants us to be a complete tree, with our ancestors and our descendants. (The little baby girl was so happy to be sealed to her parents. She looked at the sealer while he spoke and at each parent in turn with smiles. At the end of the ceremony, she giggled.” The Savior has been in every room of that temple. Let’s make sure that we are complete trees. We are placed here at the right time to get this done. We promised our Heavenly Father that we would do all we could to get our family’s temple work done.

President Kinser

He was the Bishop when all of his sons were called on their missions. Testimony.

President Garvin

“The Messiah.”

We need to work for a conversion. This goes beyond mere testimony. “Whom say ye that I am?”

1. Jesus of Nazareth’s ministry began before the foundation of this earth.

God the Creator; the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the God of the OT; the God of the Nephites. He was the executive who put into effect the plan of the Father. He is Jehovah. All things were created by Him, and through Him, and of Him. “Help of Jehovah or Savior.” “Thou shalt call His name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins.” Christ, Messiah. “I Am” or “Jehovah” having no beginning and no end.

2. Jesus of Nazareth is that Savior of whom all the prophets testified would come into the world.

3. Jesus atoned for the world.

10-7-12 Saturday Afternoon General Conference

10-7-12 Saturday Afternoon General Conference

Elder Hales

What does it mean to be a Christian? We believe that Jesus is the literal Son of God who atoned for our sins. We take upon us the name of Christ through baptism and receiving the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. A Christian knows that throughout the ages, God has testified to His prophets.

God restored His gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith. God has a body of flesh and bone; Jesus is His only Son in the flesh; the Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit. What kind of Christians are we? How are we doing in our quest to follow Jesus Christ?

As Christians today, we have the opportunity to leave our nets straight away and follow Jesus just as Peter and the other disciples did. Denying ourselves ungodly behavior is the beginning of repentance. The Lord can turn our weaknesses into strengths as we follow Him. Faithful Christians will always be blessed to experience difficulties and challenges. We might be tempted to return to our old ways. Peter went back to what he knew, “I go a fishing.” To Christians who have left and returned to your own sinful ways, be as Peter and hear the Lord’s voice, and return to Him once again. “Come and dine.” Jesus will feed you as well. When the Lord asks, “Do you love me,” and you answer “Yes,” be prepared to feed His sheep.

(List how we feed his sheep at home, at church, and in the world.)

The Savior has promised that He will make us equal to His work. “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (List of things that the Savior will help us do.) We need to answer His call by saying, “I’ll go where you want me to go; I’ll say what you want me to say; I’ll be what you want me to be.”

List of Christian attributes.

Elder Scott

The Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith sublime revelation regarding baptism. Vicarious baptism can supply the blessings of baptism to them who did not receive it. We must accomplish the necessary temple work for our own salvation. Then we must provide these ordinances for others through genealogy and temple work. Any work that you spend serving in the temple is time well spent; it is even more special when it is for your own ancestors.

Those of you who have a large reservoir of names, share them. Set aside those things that don’t really matter, and put your family first, both living and dead.

Elder Osguthorpe

New learning tools for youth. When the Savior taught, he taught out of love for the one He was teaching. Conversion is not a one time event, it is a life long commitment to become more like Christ.

Elder Nash

If strong and securely attached to the rock of our Redeemer, faith will help us climb the gospel path…and return to our Father. Patiently wait on the Lord and press forward with hope. The Lord will feed us as we exercise our faith in Him. Our kind and constant God will bless us with His miraculous power according to our needs and His timing. Our perspective is extremely limited compared to the Lord’s. Nurture even a particle of faith. Faith precedes and produces miracles.

Touch not the evil gift nor the unclean thing. Exercise faith unto repentance.

Elder Johnson

We renew our covenant of discipleship every week as we partake of the sacrament.

Trials can be more subtle than a lost crop: worldly popularity, public recognition, physical prowess, prosperity, riches.

Discipleship is all about doing and becoming. Becoming like Him and becoming one with Him is what true discipleship is about.

Elder Clarke

Sacrament meeting is the most important meeting in the church.

1. Feeling of gratitude to Heavenly Father for the atonement of His Son.

Brother Schmidt had communicated with heaven, and heaven had communicated with Brother Schmidt.

2. Remember that we are renewing our baptismal covenants as we partake of the sacrament.

3. Feel forgiven of our sins. Leave Sacrament meeting feeling clean and pure.

4. Receive inspiration for solutions to our problems during Sacrament meeting.

Come prepared, willing to listen, and don’t be distracted.

5. Partaking the sacrament worthily will help us be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Elder Bednar

Any honest seeker of truth can gain a testimony. Testimony brings increased accountability, along with personal …joy. Fundamental parts of a testimony: Heavenly Father loves us; Jesus lives; the gospel is restored.

The 10 virgins.

President Monson

Gospel messages taught and reemphasized. As we take these messages into our lives, we will be blessed. The Lord is mindful of us, and He loves us. He is always on our side as we do what is right. "Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

10-20-12 Saturday Evening Adult Session San Bernardino Stake Conference

10-20-12 Saturday Evening Adult Session San Bernardino Stake Conference

To let the reader know, many of the following notes are my thoughts concerning what the speakers had to say. I followed the talks that were being given, but I wrote down my impressions, or how they would relate to my understanding and to me.

The Lord is My Light

Prayer—Brother Shellhouse

Brother Eric Ewell

22 or 23 years ago, they were at a crossroads in their relationship. They prayed together, and then they were married in the temple. Today’s moral standards have deteriorated. There is a big gap between rich and poor. The real question of course is about cause and effect. When people make family and commitments to gospel principles first, other things follow, including education and more prosperity.

He decided to not work or study on Sundays. They were committed to family, Sabbath worship, and making sacrifices to do what the Lord wanted them to do. Are there hobbies or goals that are interfering with what we want as an end result. Keep the goal in mind. Family first.

Heads of family—this is a joint role. “I need your help to save the family and the nation.” Hypothetical statement from President Monson. Wake up! Use your priesthood power and authority to help save your family. We need righteous men (and women) to step forward now. Provide, preside, and protect.

Strengthen and support your wife; wife, strengthen and support your husband. You will be prospered if you put each other, your family, and the Lord (and His church) first. Do not allow Satan’s whisperings to get you depressed. Rely on the Spirit of the Lord during times of trial. Unemployment can be a devastating trial. Integrity can be on trial. Keep doing those things that will build your esteem. Have a set schedule; study; read scriptures; stay physically fit. Stay away from media entertainment that keeps you from your main purposes.

Providing for the family should be the role of the husband, wherever possible.

Think about the leaders of the church that are in presiding positions. Patriarch—father, ruler—should preside in home over prayers, scripture study, family night, counsels, and interviews. Do this with patience and love unfeigned. Give your children a father’s blessing when they begin a school year. His youngest son had the opportunity to recognize the Spirit at he gave him a blessing. Nothing greater than treating your wife and children with the respect of the priesthood.

We should not send our children out into the world to deal with Lucifer. We should not allow evil influences in our homes. We need to equip them to deal with the world. Pray for inspiration to know one need that each child has, and then try to address that need and serve them accordingly.

Learn to understand each of your children, male and female. The best way for a father to bless his daughter is to love her mother. Set an example of what that daughter should look for in her future husband. (Take her out to dinner and do things with that daughter individually.)

Looking into the faces of our newborns, we are overcome with our responsibilities and with the powerful spirits that have been entrusted into our care. Stay on the right course ourselves, so that we do not lead the little lambs astray. There is no greater joy than to see your children walk in truth. (Awesome feeling to greet your returning missionary.)

Sister Alison Brady

Making the Savior the center of our homes. What is your favorite way of inviting the Spirit into your home. What challenges are arising in your family’s lives? Take the time to invite the Spirit into your lives. The Spirit will help you add a new habit in to your life, one thing at a time. The Lord brings about great things through small means. The Lord will teach us how to manage difficulties in our lives. He will teach us through scriptures, conference talks, etc. It is important to have family prayer, scriptures, night, interviews. Our trials can bring us closer to God. We can become more like Christ through having trials and turning to God to help us through them. We can also become more like Him through serving our children and other people. We need to set a good example for our children: forbearance, forgiveness, kindness, etc. These things all go a long way.

Family history can help us on our path to be more like the Savior. This became her favorite way of promoting the Spirit in her home. In our pre-mortality, we agreed to our Father’s plan, and we covenanted to work in our own sphere as saviors on Mt. Zion.

The Spirit can teach you to be unfailingly kind. (Wow, I need to do that.) It’s not always easy to be unfailingly kind, especially when loved ones use their agency in rebellious ways. “Kindness and gentleness will greatly enlarge thy soul.” (How priesthood should be used properly.) Have the kind of faith that can make things happen. Imagine a day when all of our family members’ faith will be strong. This kind of faith moves people and things. It is marvelous. Children need to know that they are loved and wanted. They need to feel this from both their parents and their siblings. (President Benson) Give children opportunities to pray. Discern discord quickly, and help turn things back to kindness and love. We need to come to Christ as families. We can create a synergy and make it easier for everyone to want to do what is right. What if our whole families did that? What if our ward and stake did that? What if the entire church could do that? We could change the world.

We can choose whether we invite Christ into our homes or not. We have great promises if we invite Christ into our homes and hearts. “And all of thy children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of thy children.” “Then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God.”

More Holiness Give Me

President Andrews  

A Thousand Dollar Bill—what would you do with it? This bill is counterfeit. It is insufficient. Even in all of its similarity, it fails.

There is a clear and distinct difference between being a member of the Church and being a Saint and disciple of Jesus Christ. We need to know Him as our Savior and Redeemer, which is a process of a lifetime. “The natural man is an enemy to God….unless he yields to the enticing of the Holy Spirit… putting off the natural man… and becoming a saint.” Use the atonement to wash away our sins; and then, to change our very natures from the inside out. Grow in the gospel, move from grace to grace, and have your nature change to become more Christlike, more Godlike.

Mosiah 5:2—This Spirit has wrought a mighty change in our hearts; we have no more disposition to do evil.” As our nature changes, our desire to sin diminishes. The quest for divine qualities needs to become our purpose and what we strive for. Especially, we need to seek to have charity, which is the pure love of Christ. Study the difference between testimony and conversion. Testimony=knowing spiritual truth by the Holy Ghost. Conversion=consistently being true to the principles of the gospel. There is great value in sincere self-reflection. Am I a testimony member, content to only know the truth and to just follow the motions? Or do I go further as a committed convert who feeds sheep? Am I a seeking saint seeking to become like my Master? Conversion is an on-going process and not a one-time event. Align your desires with the will of God. This will make the difference that will help us to passionately live the gospel of Jesus Christ. Where am I now? How can I move into a converted member? How do I put on the character of Christ? (DO my visiting teaching. Teach with the Spirit. Seek who needs my visits and my care. Continue to work on genealogy sheets.)

Study His life and character as found in the scriptures. “Search the scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life…” We will learn who He is and what He wants us to be in the scriptures. Get the testimony by searching the scriptures.

D&C 85:5-6

The Lord’s training on how we can effectively live the gospel. We each have our individual responsibilities. Succor the weak; lift up the hands that hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees. And then the promise. Succor, lift, and strengthen. That’s the Lord’s counsel to us. As we do so, we will experience the change of heart that the people of King Benjamin felt. We will begin to develop the nature of Jesus Christ in our own souls.

Bear one another’s burdens; mourn with those than mourn; one more. These are the things that we covenant to do at baptism. We will gain attributes that make us Christian. We begin to be more like Christ, and we become more like Him.

“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.”

Be careful to not hurt and offend others. This will happen. We cannot escape it. It is part of a fallen world. Learn how to let such things go. This is the Lord’s way. “We were sent here to be offended.” What we do in those moments may be the best indicator of our relationship to Christ and our devotion to our Father. Let’s let these things go, and let’s lift those who need lifting. Let us leave correction to those who have been given stewardship: parents; church leaders. It is their prerogative to correct. Showing forth afterwards an increase of love. “Love one another as I have loved you.” Jesus said, “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.”

Sister Scullen and Sister Brady “I Wonder When He Comes Again”

President Garvin

Legal proceeding downtown Los Angeles. He skipped breakfast; he got a burrito in Mt. Saint Clair. He slipped many sauces on his leg. He had sauce all over his tie and white shirt as well. He looked like a double for Pigpen instead of like a distinguished lawyer. He needed to buy new clothes; he felt that he was not ready, and he was in trouble. He showed up late, but appropriately.

The Second Coming of Christ. Elder Sill, the Second Coming of Christ is mentioned over 1500 times in the OT and 300 in the NT. If the Lord wanted us to know about this, He most certainly wanted us to do something about it.

Temple marriage was a day that we needed to prepare for. The scriptures talk about the marriage of the Lamb of God (the Savior, or the Bridegroom) and the Church (or the Bride). We need to be dressed symbolically in clean and white clothing. Have you put on the fine linen of righteousness? How are you dressed? Are you ready?

Go into the highways to bid people to the marriage, because those who were invited were not ready. Someone came without a wedding garment. “How came thou hither without a wedding garment?” The man was speechless. We will be examined separately and individually. How will we fare? Will we be speechless? Will we be ready? How are you dressed? What do you need to take care of to be ready? Those who plan to repent at 11 o’clock usually die at 10:30. “If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear.” “He that is not purified shall not abide the day.” How can we be prepared?

Treasure up His word. Then you will not be deceived. The Son of Man will come with His Holy angels. Pay attention to modern-day prophets and the scriptures. Those who refuse to hear the Word will be cut off from among the people. We need to be taught by someone with experience and authority. Feast upon the words of Christ as He speaks to the prophets. “His word shall ye receive as if from my own mouth.” If we want to be prepared and dressed appropriately for the second coming, we must pay attention to all the words of the prophets.

We need to be watching. We know not hour what day the Lord is coming. It will not take the prepared as a thief in the night. If we are prepared, we shall not fear. Prepare yourself for the Day of the Lord. We have all been left to prepare for it as though it would happen during our own mortal lives. The signs are set and remarkably clear: The coming forth of the Book of Mormon; restoration of church; opposition; temples; commotion; disease; wars; signs in heaven and earth; gathering in Adam…. Watching for the signs is like putting together pieces of a puzzle. AS we see them occur, we will see things fitting together, and we will know the end is near, that He is coming. Search the scriptures; know the signs; watch and be ready.

Stand in Holy Places. Do not be moved. Stand of firm ground that the gospel provides, the rock of revelation and the testimony of Jesus Christ. The Savior teaches 5,000 people by miraculous means. The multitude were offended when He said He was the living manna. And they followed Him no more. His disciples said they would not leave Him. Where would they go? They knew He was the Christ.

Marriage between husband and wife is critical and it is the Lord’s way. No other can match or replace it. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has the words of Eternal Life. Stay with the Church. Seek to stand in holy places: your home; sacrament meeting, temples. Etc. It is up to me to prepare to meet the Savior. I can’t plead ignorance. Preparedness is an individual opportunity that we cannot share. One can’t share attitudes, faith, or testimony. We must all obtain that kind of oil for ourselves. Our practices of righteousness add the oil drop by drop. Do we need more oil? Are we prepared, or are we in trouble?

“I wonder when He comes again.” The Savior lives; He will return to the earth. Treasure up His word; watch for signs of His coming; stand in holy places. We need Him to come. We should pray and work towards this with a desire to be prepared to meet Him. Revelations 22:20 “Even so, Come, Lord Jesus.

"Come, Ye Children of the Lord"

Closing Prayer--Rebecca Cuevas

My Take on the Vice-Presidential Debate

I was extremely disappointed in the “performance” of Vice-President Biden. I have heard too many people say that it was part of his game plan. How can anyone have respect for a leader who is openly laughing at the beginning of a debate addressing the murder of American citizens in our embassies? If laughing to discredit his opponent was part of a game plan, he should have known when it was necessary to abandon that tactic. But it seemed to be the only card he had.
I do not find the loss of American lives a humorous matter. In contrast, I did not think Congressman Ryan acted immaturely in any way at all. He was composed, respectful, and well-spoken. It must have been terribly unsettling to remain so while being taunted by smirks, laughter, and constant interruptions. But he addressed each question with clarity and confidence.
Truly there is not time in a debate to lay out strategy for public review. The opponents were supposed to only have two minute responses.
I was not acquainted with Congressman Ryan before the debate. But I am glad that Governor Romney picked such a qualified, moral man as his running mate. As a citizen who believes that the hope of our Country lies in the moral conduct of its citizens, I am pleased to know that there are still those who put principle above votes, even when the stakes are high. The closing remarks spoke volumes. Both candidates said that they are lifelong practicing Catholics, but Congressman Ryan actually stands firmly behind his religion with conviction.
Leadership, in my opinion, is all about standing on your principles despite what the polls say. Yes, I have to admit, that’s why I liked the cowboy, too. After all, I know that cowboys truly are American.

10-7-12 Saturday Afternoon General Conference

10-7-12 Saturday Afternoon General Conference

Elder Hales

What does it mean to be a Christian? We believe that Jesus is the literal Son of God who atoned for our sins. We take upon us the name of Christ through baptism and receiving the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. A Christian knows that throughout the ages, God has testified to His prophets.

God restored His gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith. God has a body of flesh and bone; Jesus is His only Son in the flesh; the Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit. What kind of Christians are we? How are we doing in our quest to follow Jesus Christ?

As Christians today, we have the opportunity to leave our nets straight away and follow Jesus just as Peter and the other disciples did. Denying ourselves ungodly behavior is the beginning of repentance. The Lord can turn our weaknesses into strengths as we follow Him. Faithful Christians will always be blessed to experience difficulties and challenges. We might be tempted to return to our old ways. Peter went back to what he knew, “I go a fishing.” To Christians who have left and returned to your own sinful ways, be as Peter and hear the Lord’s voice, and return to Him once again. “Come and dine.” Jesus will feed you as well. When the Lord asks, “Do you love me,” and you answer “Yes,” be prepared to feed His sheep.

(List how we feed his sheep at home, at church, and in the world.)

The Savior has promised that He will make us equal to His work. “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (List of things that the Savior will help us do.) We need to answer His call by saying, “I’ll go where you want me to go; I’ll say what you want me to say; I’ll be what you want me to be.”

List of Christian attributes.

Elder Scott

The Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith sublime revelation regarding baptism. Vicarious baptism can supply the blessings of baptism to them who did not receive it. We must accomplish the necessary temple work for our own salvation. Then we must provide these ordinances for others through genealogy and temple work. Any work that you spend serving in the temple is time well spent; it is even more special when it is for your own ancestors.

Those of you who have a large reservoir of names, share them. Set aside those things that don’t really matter, and put your family first, both living and dead.

Elder Osguthorpe

New learning tools for youth. When the Savior taught, he taught out of love for the one He was teaching. Conversion is not a one time event, it is a life long commitment to become more like Christ.

Elder Nash

If strong and securely attached to the rock of our Redeemer, faith will help us climb the gospel path…and return to our Father. Patiently wait on the Lord and press forward with hope. The Lord will feed us as we exercise our faith in Him. Our kind and constant God will bless us with His miraculous power according to our needs and His timing. Our perspective is extremely limited compared to the Lord’s. Nurture even a particle of faith. Faith precedes and produces miracles.

Touch not the evil gift nor the unclean thing. Exercise faith unto repentance.

Elder Johnson

We renew our covenant of discipleship every week as we partake of the sacrament.

Trials can be more subtle than a lost crop: worldly popularity, public recognition, physical prowess, prosperity, riches.

Discipleship is all about doing and becoming. Becoming like Him and becoming one with Him is what true discipleship is about.

Elder Clarke

Sacrament meeting is the most important meeting in the church.

1. Feeling of gratitude to Heavenly Father for the atonement of His Son.

Brother Schmidt had communicated with heaven, and heaven had communicated with Brother Schmidt.

2. Remember that we are renewing our baptismal covenants as we partake of the sacrament.

3. Feel forgiven of our sins. Leave Sacrament meeting feeling clean and pure.

4. Receive inspiration for solutions to our problems during Sacrament meeting.

Come prepared, willing to listen, and don’t be distracted.

5. Partaking the sacrament worthily will help us be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Elder Bednar

Any honest seeker of truth can gain a testimony. Testimony brings increased accountability, along with personal …joy. Fundamental parts of a testimony: Heavenly Father loves us; Jesus lives; the gospel is restored.

The 10 virgins.

President Monson

Gospel messages taught and reemphasized. As we take these messages into our lives, we will be blessed. The Lord is mindful of us, and He loves us. He is always on our side as we do what is right. "Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

10-7-12 Sunday Morning General Conference

10-7-12 Sunday Morning General Conference

President Eyring

In Liberty Jail, the prophet cried out to the Lord. Sometimes we feel separated from God in our anguish. God is never hidden, but sometimes we are. There is not a pavilion that separates us. Our feelings of separation from God will diminish as we become more childlike before him. God is close to us and aware of us and never hides from his faithful children.

The child hoped to see Jesus in the temple. Her mother explained that she wouldn’t see Him, but could feel is presence. She said that he must be somewhere else helping someone.

By the world’s standards, President Eyring had achieved success as a tenured professor at Stanford. Then he was called to be President of Ricks. He prayed to know what to do. He felt a quiet voice in his mind, “It’s my school.” As he sought to do the Lord’s will, he kept the pavilion away from covering him. He had a great job offer as the head of a corporation. His wife had a strong impression that they were not to leave Ricks College. He said that was good enough for him. She said that he needed to get his own revelation. So he prayed. A voice came to his mind, “I will allow you to stay at Ricks a little longer.” 30 days later the Teton Damn broke. President Eyring was instrumental in helping many people.

We can’t insist on our timetable when the Lord has his own. If we insist on acting on our own timetable, we can obscure his desire for us. We remove the pavilion when we pray, “Thy will be done,” and when we accept His timetable.

President Eyring’s daughter wanted a baby for a long time. For the first time she asked not for another child, but for a divine errand. She was willing to go wherever the Lord wanted her to go. She felt peace. Within two weeks later she was expecting. When the baby was a year, her husband was called as a mission president.

The Lord’s delays may seem long; some of them last a lifetime. While there is nothing now to obscure the Lord’s view of us, in the future there will be nothing to obscure our view of Him. The movement toward God can be ongoing. We our serving Him as we do kind deeds for our fellowmen. (Matt 25) If you go for the Lord to bless other, He will see, and He will bless you. When you do see Him, it will be before the pleasing bar of the Great Jehovah.

President Packer

I need to read this later to see the story and its significance to the Atonement. Learn about the atonement and how it can erase our past mistakes so that we can be with our Father in Heaven again. We cannot cleanse ourselves from our sins. Only Jesus can repair the wrongs that we have done to ourselves and to others. Though or sins be as crimson, they will be as white as wool. God (Jesus) suffered for all of us so that we might not have to suffer ourselves. “Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and, I, the Lord remember them no more.” That is what Latter-day saints do around the world. Our message is one of faith and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Sister Burton

First observe; then serve. Learn to observe and serve in charitable ways. As we do so we are keeping covenants. What better place to learn how to observe and then serve than in the home.

Young boy noticed that the class bully never got chosen. He chose him to be a class helper.

Elder Gonzalez

They felt with their hands and eyes and soul that Jesus is the Christ. Come unto Christ by seeking to know truths with our hearts. It is only with the heart that one can see clearly. The things that are essential are invisible to the eye. (The Little Prince)

Elder Holland

The struggling little church that the Lord established seemed doomed to extinction. Peter returned to fishing. They caught nothing. The Lord asked them how it was going. He told them to cast their nets on the other side of the ship. Christ recalls them to the work. John said, “It is the Lord.” Peter had an exchange with the Savior. This was the pivotal point in his apostleship. “Peter, do you love me for than fishing?” The Lord asks third time, “Peter, do you love me?” A few days ago, Peter had denied the Lord thrice. “Then Peter, why are you here. Why are you back on this same shore, returning to your old profession? What I need, Peter, are disciples, and I need them forever. I need someone to feed my sheep and save my lambs. I need someone to preach my gospel and defend my faith. I need someone who truly loves me and follows the commission of what the Father has asked me to do. Peter, I am asking you again to leave all this and labor and serve, until they do to you what they did to me.” “Did all of you think that this ended with my death? I was resurrected. Did not my heart and life touch you more deeply than this?” The Lord recalled them all to the work. God will also ask us what he asked Peter, “Did you love me?” “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, ….” “Feed my sheep.” The crowning characteristic of love is always loyalty. “Love thy neighbor as thyself. We can’t quit and we can’t go back. Nothing is ever to be as it was before. The crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, marks the beginning of a Christian life, not the end of it. "Do you love me?" "WIth our honor and our soul, yea Lord, we love thee, and with our arm to the square and our hand to the plow, we will never look back." (turn back)

President Monson

It’s been 49 years since he was sustained as an apostle, on October 4, 1963. Take an inventory of your life and look for the blessings, large and small, that you have received. Our prayers are heard and answered. Men are that they might have joy. Much of that joy is because we can communicate with God in prayer and receive answers to our prayers. My daily journal provides specifics; otherwise, I might not be able to account for these memories.

The Lord’s purposes are often accomplished as we pay heed to the impressions of the Spirit. The more we heed prompting, the more we will be directed. He arrived at the swimming pool at a care center to save a friend’s life. He followed the prompting of the Spirit.

He was a boy scout and wanted to do a good turn. President Monson wrote him a letter, along with a book, and encouraged him to serve a mission. President and Sister Monson attended his farewell.

The Lord is in the details of our lives. As we turn to Him, He will help us.

Three thousand youth knelt on the floor and prayed for help. The Spirit melted their bones. The problem was located and corrected. The technician attributed it to luck, but the youth knew better. The youth radiated a powerful spirit and performed perfectly. The Lord had indeed made up the difference. 

10-6-12 Saturday Afternoon General Conference

10-6-12 Saturday Afternoon General Conference

Elder Perry

He turned 90 this past summer. Living this long is considered to be a great achievement. So much has changed in my lifetime. We earnestly pray and work that the values of the gospel of Jesus Christ endure. These include the traditional marriage and the sanctity of the family. Satan is attacking the family and the principles that will protect the family. The responsibility to teach the children rests heavily upon the parents. (I need to look at this talk and get the numbered particulars.)

Teach at the cradle-side. Teach by example as well as by precept.

It is amazing to me to think that millions of us are united right now through listening to the message of our prophet and apostles. I hope that we will stay united in our commitment to go and do what we hear today.

Elder Ballard

“Elder Perry, I think you must be the youngest 90-year-old in the whole church.”

The work of the honey bees is amazing. “Each bees 1/12 of a teaspoon of honey is vital to the hive.”

Jaredites carried the honey bee with them. President Young picked the honey bee as a symbol of industry. The symbol is found in the interior and exterior of many of our temples. The lectern is adorned with the honey bee. Many hands anxiously engaged in a good cause.

The first and second great commandments; on these two hang all the law and the prophets. We are to love God and to love and care for our neighbors as ourselves. Service is the very definition of pure religion.

What would be the accumulative effect of small little daily acts of love? Our troubled world needs this love of Christ now more than ever. It will need it even more in the days ahead. There is power in our love for God and for His children. We need to sweep and feed the world with acts of service like the busy honey bee.

Are we truly converted? How do we take the seed of faith that has been nurtured in our minds, and have it planted deep in our souls? Only when our testimony transcends what is in our mind and is deeply planted in our hearts can we reach out properly in love to others.

Be gentle, meek, and mild. Don’t hold grudges. (D&C 121) Be charitable. Take the next logical step in our conversion by assimilated the doctrines deep into our souls, so that we will live the things we believe.

In your morning prayers, ask God to guide you to a person you can help; then stay focused on that during the day. The Lord will strengthen your spiritual sensitivities, and you will be blessed to serve.

At the end of the day, may we be able to say yes to the question, "Have I done any good in the world today?"

Elder Echo Hawk

He served as a marine during Vietnam War. The sergeant held in his hand “The Book of Mormon.” He asked him if he were a Mormon. Do you believe in this book? He did not interrogate or ridicule him. He is thankful he could say that he is a member and that he knew the book is true.

In reading the Book of Mormon, he learned about his ancestors, the Lamanites. Echo Hawk was a Pawnee Indian. The Pawnee was scattered, smitten, and nearly destroyed. The promise in the Book of Mormon says that the Lamanite people will again come to the truth through the message written therein. Elder Echo Hawk read the Book of Mormon when he was 17 and focused on Moroni’s promise and found that it was true. He invites all to find out for themselves, with a special invitation to the remnant of Israel who are descendants of the Book of Mormon people. Read Moroni 10:3-5.

Elder Gay

“Son, would you sell your soul for a nickel?” He didn’t want to pay the extra 10 cents to see the movie when he turned 12, because that would mean two less candy bars.

King Lamoni’s father said that he would give away all of his sins to know God. This is what we need to do. We must act and not sit in thoughtless stupor.

God is mindful of each of us and never forsake us. We must always hearken to the Voice within us and go straightway and do, no matter the inconvenience. We must go to the rescue. We need to help others to conversion. We need to clothe and feed those who need our help. Don’t be a sophisticated neutral.

My testimony is my most precious position.

Elder Whiting

Holiness to the Lord; the House of the Lord. Extreme expectations for the standards of construction even to the minutest details.

When we become aware of things that are amiss in our own lives, we need to take action to correct them, not to cover them.

Elder Andersen

Our faith need not falter even when we lose our loved ones. This is life eternal: that they might know thee, the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. Can you remain steadfast and immoveable during a trial to your faith? He gave a list of things to do. Do not distance yourself from the church. It is within the sanctuary of the church that we protect our faith. In the ordinances, the power of godliness is made manifest.

The Lord taught us to not condemn others. But he also told us, go and sin no more. The world protests, “How can you ask so much?” The Lord responds, “My ways are higher than your ways.” He also say, “My peace I give unto you…not as the world giveth, give I unto you.”

The leaders of the church are honest, but imperfect men. “I never told you I was perfect, but there is no error in the revelations.” (Joseph Smith) Build your foundation upon the Rock or our Redeemer. “With faith, come trials of faith, with increasing faith.” Hold on, fear not, for God will be with you forever and ever.

Elder Oaks

An apostle is responsible to witness to the entire world. All children are children of God. We are all under the Savior’s command to love and care for each other, and, especially, for the unprotected. One of the most common abuses of children is to deny them birth. (2 million are subject to children pornography or prostitution.)

Child abuses that occur after birth are more visible and noted. Children have stunted growth physically and mentally because of improper nutrition. Some continents have children whose caregivers have all died of AIDS. “And whoso receiveth one of these little children in my name, receiveth me.” We cannot diminish the effects of psychological abuse.

41% of live births have been to unwed mothers. 58% to couples that are cohabitating. We should unite in our concern for the welfare of the worlds’ children. We should humble ourselves as little children and reach out to protect children, for they are the future of our church and our nations.