Peacemakers

Love is the light that persuades

Friendships that build a bond

For inspired brightened results

That can right any wrong!

peacemakers

After Tragedy- (church shooting) Lessons on Humanity

Loving Light shines upon mortality

Despite a tragedy, sudden and fierce

For, with faith and hope in eternity

Through any darkness, the Lord can pierce

And restore us, with lessons on humanity

resolve

devotion

faithfulness

Thankful for Elder and Sister Bednar.  I get the saying, "Never Forget!" at a time like this.  Your faces say it all.

https://youtube.com/shorts/cL_q_8TEYvA?si=CID2hm5hxJVs-znv

1. www.merriam-webster.com › dictionary › humanityHUMANITY Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

   The meaning of HUMANITY is compassionate, sympathetic, or generous behavior or disposition : the quality or state of being humane. 

Mighty Miracles

Yes we mourn that any 

Were killed or injured 

Still mighty and many 

Miracles occurred!

Hold on to this great news!

It softens the blow!

Seek the positive.  Choose,

To spiritually grow!

Elder Bednar went to minister the Latter-day Saints following the meeting house attack in the Grand Blanc Township.

 https://youtube.com/shorts/dqveyZ7jWf8?si=dhiyUD_m24byyCKk

When Tragedy Overtakes Us

https://youtube.com/shorts/ysb5Vo6wvC8?si=5dGZD6ihhALXGB7r

God is in the Details

God is in the details

The timing and the date

We sense this... all else pails

We've joy that builds our faith

https://youtube.com/shorts/v2Y3ud8kM34?si=_jz7jldh79Fqfl3G

Anadrome Live

Live spelled backwards is evil

Repent and turn around

And come to await the veil

Where the Savior is found

Flow spelled backwards is wolf

Beware of these

Invite the Savior's help

He hears your pleas

Anadrome - Wikipedia An anadrome^{[1][2][3][4][a]} is a word or phrase whose letters can be reversed to spell a different word or phrase. For example, desserts is an anadrome of stressed.

A Message of Comfort

Jesus' Apostle came
And shared what was needed the most
At this time of sorrow
The comforter, the Holy Ghost

I've seen general authorities come to places of devastation to offer love and support- But, never at a crime scene. 😢😢

https://youtu.be/WXZm-sdl8-4?si=MO9FwSfgSZlyGuqX

From this video:

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles visited Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Tuesday...

Elder Bednar said he spoke to the people about Jesus Christ, with the hope that God would give each of them a message of comfort that transcended any of his own words.

Suspect likely planned Mormon church shooting 'well in advance': Nicole ...

A place of worship is sacred
For all the charity and second chances found there,
For all of the Christian love spread,
And for the beauty of forgiveness that we share

Bishop of Latter-day Saint Grand Blanc, Michigan Ward speaks about tragi...

A ward shaken... yet upheld together by faith

And by the love and support of others

Heartsick... the community shares the pain

For we are all sisters and brothers

I can't imagine the weight on the shoulders of this bishop caring for his flock!

In His Last Hour

Satan is spreading his wings

In his last hour

Hovering to install fear

And retain power

But, we are in revival 

Being reborn

Our spiritual survival

In Chirst has formed

Keep Going Missionary

Keep going

And don't look back

You're growing

And quite on track

Bring yourself to Christ

And feel His love for you

Grow in Truth and Light

And let Him lead you, too

Take people into your heart ❤️ 

Let them see how you glow

Offer God's words to impart

That they might feel and know

We had a missionary farewell for a sister who has already served in Nepal, helping those with leprosy.  She said they were very caring and giving people. She has already been working in the temple and feels this has helped her see the bigger picture of the journey she hopes to help others begin.

Pure and simple-

Joy and peace

Hope to sample 

Let's meet, please!

"Dignitas Infinita,” - Infinite Dignity

A very fitting message to give in Rome, where "all road lead to..."

Elder Christofferson was one of the invited speakers, focusing his remarks on the Catholic Church’s  2024 publication, “Dignitas Infinita,” or Infinite Dignity.

“This concept of infinite dignity instills in each human person a responsibility to treat every other person with love and respect, said Elder Christofferson. “This duty is not abstract; it is rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ."  https://youtube.com/shorts/5dVPz9dqPjs?si=TErloJRyd0YR941p

Love and respect all

Friends and strangers alike

We're brothers and sisters.

And we should be Christlike!

Brighter days are ahead

With every remaining breath

With joy, he served our Father

Now  brighter days are ahead

For him in the hereafter

#presidentnelson We love you!

https://youtube.com/shorts/Jm5t1rk2Dzw?si=vVU8XhU1CNiOjYS6 

The Christian Fight!

To God, our King

Pray mightily

For the blessings

Of liberty

For righteousness' sake

To maintain our rights

That God may bless us

And help fight our fights

For home and family

And this land we love

For religious freedom

Till we meet above

We can't pray enough!

Alma 46

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19uhA7fSGG/

Sacred Hill Cumorah

Come feel what is sacred

At this historic site

Be where prayer was answered

and touched by Heaven's light

https://youtube.com/shorts/HR0i7gH3KAE?si=et-HvYlYUjz-bEid

How God's Angels Help Us Every Day | Russell M Nelson

Angels do exist

They are ever on call

To watch over us

As they are sent by God

https://youtu.be/kftlXjZqP2U?si=f2U7DY2TtMGpcmBw

“God’s holy angels are ever on call to help us… They and their holy angels are watching over us. I know that is true.” — Russell M. Nelson “They and their holy angels are watching over us. I know that is true.” — Russell M. Nelson “We stay on the covenant path and are blessed with spiritual strength, personal revelation, increasing faith, and the ministering of angels.” — Russell M. Nelson “Please listen to this promise of Jesus Christ to you. I will be on your right hand and on your left and mine angels round about you to bear you up.” — Russell M. Nelson (quoting D&C 84:88) How do you invite heaven’s help today? In this message from President Nelson, learn a simple pattern: pray with confident access, stay on the covenant path through daily repentance, and worship in the temple so you can “part the veil,” receive a fullness of the Holy Ghost, and walk with angels round about you—even amid chaos. PROBLEMS SOLVED --Feeling alone or unsafe; needing divine protection and peace. --Prayers feel unanswered; lacking confidence before God. --Spiritual fatigue; seeking power, revelation, and guidance. --Unsure how temple worship practically blesses daily life.

Pray Read Heed

Pray for protection

With gratefulness, trust

Read loves' instruction

And heed always, thus

Truth Never Dies

Truth never dies

In regards to murder

Technology

The cold case solved, for her

DNA evidence ended the search for a young woman (Melissa Turner of

Tempe, Arizona) who disappeared in 2000. That is a long wait for family to get answers!

The family said they will remember Melissa in the light of justice.

Truth never dies

It is eternal

It dispels lies

To light, it signals

Care Time

The weight, the touch, each word,

Truly a time for self care

A relationship with the Lord

Just for you, He is there!

#charliekirk thinking of you 

https://youtube.com/shorts/LCMmdiyIFt0?si=oA7i7IPnJQICL14F

The written Word has one sole role

Unlike a device filled with distractions.

In the pages is shown Gods love, 

Revealed as answers, thoughts, and reactions!

A Sabbath Sunset

Midst this beautiful Sabbath sunset

Where the sky is filled with color

There's a promise of hope for us yet

As our covenants we honor

 

Fixed

Where do you fix your eyes

To fill up your time?

If they are upon Christ,

Light from Him will shine!

Justification Sanctification

My nature needs help

So I can become

Better than myself

And more like the Son

Justified

She did her sentence

But no change was made

There was no remorse

Yet her time was paid

Not one of us is safe

From the weight of sin

But Jesus pays the debt

Again and again

Sanctified

The sentence was death

She made her peace

And to her last breath

Goodness increased

Still no holiness 

Or changes that we make

Can perfect us

The Lord knows what it will take

The Lord will get us there

In this life more to face

Through obedience where

He molds us more in place

Freedom and joy to feel

From His  mercy and love

Through His hand in all things

To perfect us for Heaven above

Bryce on the Atonement 08

https://youtu.be/g90Ki1bxtAM?si=aLYigIN7YoOrpMBo

Identity Thieves- Shared Pain- Remember Who You Are

 

The world is a thief

Of energy and time,

Of identity, 

And would to take your mind.

Loud and angry voices

Some influencers, too

Dull the heart of choices.

Remember what's in you!

Rebuke this evil taught!

You are of noble birth,

A child born of God!

Your spirit and your worth

Shall not be bought or robbed!

My thoughts have turned to the family of the assassin who killed Charlie Kirk. I totally see how this bright son with a promising future turned this dark corner. My heart goes out to you.  Hey, they say you are only seven people away from knowing anyone. So maybe after this message reaches them, then, I will delete it. It is painful.  

I have decided to tell our family 's dark story..  please dont read this if you are looking for hope and light. This is only for someone looking for shared pain. Ours is so small compared to yours!

I have a step granddaughter who started to believe things that became her identity.  She moved in with us to complete high school. She struggled with mental health, obsession with perceived health problems, sexual identity and rarely ate. The depression and continual trips to doctors led to hatred and self harm in growing ways.  Resulting in (during college) sex change and medication...

Unfortunately, due to the ideology she became a part of in high school and then college, she now both hates and denies God and this has replaced family.  We never heard from her. A bright and promising future with full ride scholarship choices- and after receiving 2  degrees, she has completely broken ties with family after intentionally seeking to destroy her father who never abandoned his financial support while she was away in college.

Insanely, she arranged to be "raped", ( there is a site for this) consensually, by a man who resembled her father. What she wanted done to her was sick- including branding. Then she visited her father after years of being away. Accused him of these acts and had him arrested. Fortunately, they confiscated her phone and found all of the plot and even spoke with the man she had this "arrangement" with. But, it took a year to clear my step son's name and the arrest painfully still  shows on his record. She has since changed her name and has deliberately disappeared.  As far as we know, she is not pursuing a career except possibly as a protestor. We know she has a gun. 

I miss the little girl who loved monopoly and horses.  She loved cats and dogs. She loved the park and especially the swings.  She loved school projects.  She loved art and writing.  She loved us. She had big dreams of her future and of all the colleges she could apply to.

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/10/its-art-too-early-and-its-never-too-late?lang=eng&utm_campaign=Feed:%20lds-inspirational-messages-eng%20(Daily%20Messages)&utm_medium=email&utm_source=feedburner

It’s Never Too Early and It’s Never Too Late

By Elder Bradley D. Foster

Of the Seventy

Brothers and sisters, we are engaged in a battle with the world. In the past, the world competed for our children’s energy and time. Today, it fights for their identity and mind. Many loud and prominent voices are trying to define who our children are and what they should believe. We cannot let society give our family a makeover in the image of the world. We must win this battle. Everything depends on it.
The children of the Church sing a song that teaches them about their real identity: “I am a child of God. … He has sent me here, has given me an earthly home with parents.” Then, the children’s plea to us: “Lead me, guide me, walk beside me. … Help me to understand his words before it grows too late.”¹

I know I can’t turn back time, but this I now know—that it’s never too early and it’s never too late to lead, guide, and walk beside our children, because families are forever.
It is my witness that our Heavenly Father loved us so much that He sent His Only Begotten Son to live the life of a mortal so that Jesus could say to us, “I’ve been where you are, I know what comes next, and I’ll help you through it.” I know He will. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 

Beyond What We See

There is much going on

Beyond what we can see

Still know, it won't be long

Till the Lord is coming 

Salt of the Earth

 Be the salt of the earth

Tastefully preserve

This generation for

The coming of the Lord

Take a Walk with Me

Take a walk with me. I swear it won't cost a thing.

I want to hear about your spirit, your philosophy.

How you're fearless. You're on top of things.

Take a walk with me. Come talk with me.

By my daughter. Courtney Vanwagenen wrote this and gave me permission to post it. She is musical and is doing her own song writing, singing and production. I don't know where she got her perfect ear! 😍 

Thankful For Windows

Im thankful for having clean windows

That I dont have to cover

For if it weren't for the bugs outside

I'd be a nature lover

Just Because

If everybody's doing it

That doesn't make it right

Live right by the Holy Ghost

Then, you can be a light

I'm a Work in Progress

I'm a work in progress,

Ongoing and moving forward.

There is much to address,

While it's new growth I look toward.

Talents to Be Planted Not Buried

 Our Father in Heaven

Is a God of miracles

And for each, He's given

Purposeful gifts that fulfill

 

These gifts are like seeds

Waiting to be planted

In grateful faithful soil

For the best growth, granted!

Talents are for growing 

In the Light of God's love

Without...you've just buried

Your blessings from above

They Try Your Patience

Though you are hostile

And hard to tolerate,

Patience us a virtue

To see your good, I'll wait

And keep praying in faith!

It's there, think Celestial 

This journey is for all:

To learn how you're special

In the eyes of our God!

His love is never gone!

Love Comes First

Keep love in your heart

For God reaches there

To speak to your mind

Then,  you'll really care

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17CDsqkkWn/

Answers Etched on Your Heart

 Not knowing how I could do more

I prayed to know my part

I received direction from the Lord

Written on my heart ❤️ 

Your Moment in the Wilderness

When you feel all alone,

Confused, and out of place

Know the Lord who atoned

Knows your heart - how it fades

Pray to Him and with faith

Black Sheep

We're a church with black sheep

Oft despised and outcast

But God can make of each

His- 

Despite sordid pasts

Childhood Cancer Hospital Angels

The wish that weighs on the heart

Is for cancer to go away

And all the pain to depart

So our children can all be safe 

Though the nights are long

Know that angels walk those halls

They'll help you stay strong

For what the future calls

Praying for Riley

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1714PpgseQ/

Questions Answered

 How oft our neighbors

Struggle with what do!

The answers can come

Through the spirit, through you!

Thick Skin

We have thick skin

Complaints roll off of our backs

We've God within

And stand firm against attacks

https://youtube.com/shorts/dqRGCmhud6Y?si=GeJiN6Pa5UJcjcMJ

#charliekirk

Hear Him

Don't overindulge.

The flesh dulls the Spirit.

Live, overall

With faith, so you hear Him

#charliekirk

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16uY8DCW4D/

Civility-The Top Priority

Your priorities

Are not mine

I'll leave it at that

We are fine

Contention. Division.

Leave no place

For discourse, admission,

And of grace

#charliekirk

https://www.psychologytoday.com › us › blog2 Ways to Get Better at Admitting When You’re Wrong

Apr 27, 2023 · Remember, apologizing, admitting to an error, or changing a flawed belief does not make you any less of a person. It shows courage, honesty, and strength of

Contention's Chill is in the Air

I  now sense a chill in the air

As less feel the value of human life

My heart drops in the lack of care

As it's become ok to spread a lie

Is it ok to defame or kill

If it proves to serve your own purpose?

What of justice and of free will

And the conscience that dwells within us?

The problem is we've villainized 

Those we oppose and then act in fear

Wouldn't we all be so surprised 

To find no one's as bad as they appear?

One comes across as arrogant

The other crosses your values

One you can't wait to imprison

While division and strife continues!

The bottom line is we don't trust

Our opponents or the system

Let truth and light become your onus

And seek the Lord for our wisdom

#charliekirk

The Better Angel Inside

Our nation under God
Grows divided, further.
Sanctity of life is gone
As some celebrate murder

Take a look in the mirror
There's a better angel inside
Replace malice with horror
That a fellow citizen has died

Based on Utah Governor Cox's comments after the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

https://youtu.be/iuh875lCSVA?si=7Fe2KKU91VzHKXRP

#charliekirk

The term was first used by Abraham Lincoln in his inaugural address in 1861, where he appealed to the “better angels of our nature” during a time of political turmoil and division in the United States. Since then, it has become a popular expression used to describe acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness.

Offering

Give your best fruits

To the Lord's day:

Your offering,

Given with faith

God Shows Up

God always shows up

And extends His great love ❤️ -

Our greatest of blessings

Is  refuge in His wings!

biblehub.com › psalms › 91-4Psalm 91:4 He will cover you with His feathers; under His ...

He will cover you and completely protect you with His pinions, And under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and a wall. Christian Standard Bible

The Ultimate Future

We can be certain of our future

And gain confidence along the way

As we make covenants in the temple

And strive for the Spirit every day

Time is a Running Short

The final hour draws nigh

And time is running short

There's signs on the Earth and sky

Of our returning Lord

Dark forces increase on each nation

And the Woman with birth pains grows

In both intensity and duration

Yet, the time and hour no one knows

SIOPA

Rebuke and silence

What rages within

Order siopa

Feel calmness begin

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BHfyziYUd/

Angela Hopkiss made this comment

"I love this differentiation between the energy behind the phrase. In the verse it says that he “rebuked” the storm. Rebuking certainly goes along with the correct translation of SIOPA - and that certainly changes the image when we realize Jesus did not stand up and gently say “ok storm, it’s time to calm down” like a mom would say to her baby. He said it authoritatively - demanding the storm be calm - rebuking the storm. There are times when speaking harmoniously is in order, then there are times when “siopa” is necessary- a more aggressive approach to communicating. Thank you for this beautiful clarification. 🙏🏽"

Gather Your Children

Gather your children, 

Share how much you care

Then as a family

Serve each member there

When you hear of loss-

The innocent killed 

Pray for the victims

Each future now stilled

Remember the names

And learn about them

Their death, though a loss,

We'll meet in Heaven

Too, let their death change

How we love others

Our community 

Of sisters and brothers

Always remember 

#Annunciation Catholic Church

https://youtube.com/shorts/UAk0aKaD2Ak?si=zPI3nVdXsgd6LDAH 

://abcnews.go.com › US › minneapolis-school-shootingParents of children killed in Annunciation Catholic school ...

Aug 28, 2025 · Fletcher Merkel, 8, and Harper Moyski, 10, died in the Annunciation Catholic School mass shooting, their families confirmed Thursday.

Testimony

 A testimony 

Can burn bright like the sun 🌞 

Cycle like the moon 🌙 

Or die like a star that's done  🌠 

Our Destiny

 We are all destined 

For glory above

Through choice, by degrees

Because of God's love ❤️ 

Grin and Bear It

Sometimes life sucks

And kicks you in the teeth

But keep your chin up

And watch your two left feet

Faith in the Journey

You can end up

Where you are meant to

Focus on love ❤️ 

In all that you do

Keep on the path

You were born to achieve.

In Christ, you have

The atonement, believe

Busyness

Busyness

Is a thief

Of happiness 😊 

And belief

Survive the Frigid Night

The secret to survival

On  a frigid night

Is to warm and receive warmth

Until morning light!

Anton was a Jewish baker, once the owner of one of Germany’s most beloved bakeries. When people asked how he had managed to survive the Holocaust, he would share a story that revealed both courage and compassion. It began on a train bound for Auschwitz, where he and countless others were packed into freezing wagons without food, water, or coats. Snow fell outside, and death loomed in the bitter cold.

Among the prisoners was an elderly man who trembled uncontrollably in the night. Anton, though frozen himself, used his hands to rub warmth into the man’s arms, face, and legs. He spoke to him, encouraged him, and held him close until morning. When daylight broke, Anton made a heartbreaking discovery: everyone else in the wagon had perished in the cold. Only he and the old man were still alive—kept alive by the warmth they had shared.

Reflecting on this moment, Anton would explain the lesson he carried all his life: “The secret of survival is to warm the hearts of others. When you give warmth, you receive warmth. When you help someone live, you too will live.” It was a truth forged in the darkest of times, a reminder that humanity’s strength lies in compassion. #fblifestyle

Truth Seekers Get to the Bottom of

 A truth seeker often

Finds what they need

At the very bottom

To plant faith's seed

Idiom

Get to the bottom of means to find the cause or reason for something 

Love God

The more you love Jesus

The need to sin halves.

As we feel Him with us

Then we're on the right path

Still, we are not perfect

But we've  purpose within

We're more prone to repent

And not do it again

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BJ4MUrkfH/

Look

Look at the world

With the lights on

See what is real

Where you belong

The Gathering is Now

2M

The gathering is now

Doors have been opened

The gospel is growing

That other's can hope on

For roughly 20 years,  I have been writing poems. This summer I made it my goal to reach 2 million views by my birthday.  I have been doubting that goal, but I am thrilled to celebrate a month early! Now I can say, in my own style-I am a poet! It has been a quiet adventure with very few comments.  Before this summer, when I started this goal, I struggled and thought I was weird. My step kids lovingly call me the crazy lady. With thousands of poems, maybe that's what it takes?

Still, in the end 

It's not about me. 

I have a friend

Who helps me,  you see

Jesus I love you

You have touched my heart ❤️ 

And whispered me on

That I can do my part

Begin with the End in Mind

 Happy birthday! #PresidentNelson101

 You inspire us to think Celestial!!

Begin with the end in mind

With eternity as your goal

Think Celestial and you will find

The holy spirit warm your soul

Don't Fall Asleep with Your Eyes Open

Don't fall sleep

With your eyes open

His Light, keep,

And ever love Him

Don't numb out

With your favorite sins

Have no doubt

Life is best, with Him

Feel Him both

At work and at home

Your actions 

Are how He is shown

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CoyMDrK45/

God is Not Done with You

God is not done with you

He doesn't give up or in

Give Him your faith, anew

And you'll feel His love within

There is a sure path for you

So never give up or in

Remember His love and do

Whatever it takes, for Him

Forget yourself and serve

With loving joy and faithfulness

That is the path, be sure

Where both you and who you help are blessed

Divine Intervention 

https://youtube.com/shorts/6UJ0e5RRNik?si=TJQT3iOd9y6EcH07

Refined as Silver

You place silver in the middle

Of the flaming oven

Until you can see your image

In the liquid of it

You are in that burning fire

Being refined, you see

Letting go of your own desire

For who you are meant to be

The Lord stays, please know

Enduring the heat too

Until you reflect also

His image upon you 

https://youtube.com/shorts/MT3pUao8XBM?si=1PtE1j3npYMWHozf

Hearing God's Message

I hear God's message
I know He is real
My heart, then, settles
And time feels- still

This moment is special
I am changed within
I know that He knows me
And my soul knows Him

Elder Kearon is such a blessing!

You Belong in His Light

https://youtu.be/1sBicu6VBEo?si=FyoKrZri8qfDZT3T

Jesus Knows Us

Jesus knows us

The good. The bad

And we can trust

He has our back

He, as God's Son

Paid to atone

For everyone

And get us home

The breadth

Of every pain

The depth 

Of Sins made plain

He experienced our lives

Our temptations and struggles

He understands what tries

Aflicts and even cripples

He did so in one night

That was an eternity

All in the absence of light,

With the taunting of the enemy

He knows what it's like

To be queer or crazy

To be paralyzed 

He lived both sides of hazing!

He saw our hopes and dreams and wept

As He saw all that could have been...

He knows anxiety, shame, and regret

And all that's unfair we've been given

What's the worst that you have known?

He felt that...and oh so much more!

The weight...our sins became His own!

 He sweat and bled from every pore!

The hardest part?

The shock to His system!

Is He was pure!

And no vile was in Him!

Still He held on

Obediently with faith

Doing no wrong

Midst evil was His to face

Knowing Circumstance

He is the best judge

Of all mankind

For He bears no grudge

Our good, He'll find!

Who best to show mercy

And to pardon each sin?

He can perfectly see

From the start to the end

He knows the conditions

And our state of mind

In every situation 

That life can design

He's your  best witness

And your best defense

He knows sure justice

For a just sentence 

No other path 

Would have been right for me

All that I am

Has lead me unto Thee

A Tree Bearing Good Fruit

I am like a tree

That's meant to bear fruit 

But...no ripening

For I grew from poor roots

Plucked where I was found

Pruned and grafted in

I stand on wholesome ground

Where new blossoms begin

The master of the Vineyard

Never gave up on me

Though at times it's been hard

I have made growth, I see

https://youtu.be/_FGySDZ7eTU?si=Rr7Mf16l_lAm6aID

He's Got You

He has you

And He has this

Until lEarth's through

That's His promise!

It's spiritual warfare

Kids are beyond scared

It's worth it if there

Is even one child spared

https://youtu.be/t_d0RZordA8?si=7sow2xBDUzU9_RCk

Christ knows what these kids are going through. 

Operation rescue is fighting for these kids who are being trafficked.

Rise Above this Precarious World

We can rise above   ⏫️ 

This precarious sinful world 🌎 

The Lord, with His love, ❤️

Hears every repentant/grateful word.

He atoned and overcame it all 

Every worry, burden or pain

He knows the effects of the Fall

And wants to show us all we have to gain

Twice I woke up from napping with this conference talk playing.  Another with him talking about giving up your favorite sins- in the plural! Giving up sins is how we find rest. 

Thoughts from;

Overcome the World and Find Rest

Russell M Nelson

This fallen, sin saturated, exhausting world - He knows!

The Savior atoned for our each of our weaknesses, mistakes and sins.

He knows every worry, pain or burden we have ever had!

Get Your Words Out

Find the words

To get the thoughts out

Write them down

Though not a lot now

More will come

As you ruminate

Life lessons,

In you, will awake

This poem is based on personal reflection.

I had a concussion and blacked out around 10 years ago. It was a bit of balance and vision recovery. Since then, I don't play the piano (only for my ears in quality) or read like I used to. I decided to push myself into getting a masters. Crazy, right?

And I would hear my husband say, 'Find your words" a lot when we were talking. We kind of joked about it. I would replace words in sentences like couch for bench. And it was fascinating how my brain came up with that. But writing became more of a joy. I find it easier to write than speak. A good thing because getting a masters in education requires a lot of written reflection which I call blah blah. Lol.

I have always been one who remembers things better by writing them down. Each church talk I listen to is a new gem- a source for writing. Never do old talks or previous poems get in the way- even after 7,000 poems!&nbsp;</div><div>I ponder and feel the words/the thought that get me started. And I know when I'm done because I got "all the words out".</div>

I had to revisit about using words incorrectly. Today I said "Is the door unlocked?" Instead of "Is the gate unlocked?" ....tired brain

Joy in Christ

Joy in Christ

Changes everything 

There is Light

That warms the heart to sing

Each truth we find
Carries with it, Light,
That's Christ's, to share
For joyfilled insight!

Crushing darkness is real
It smothers what you feel
But Christ can reach your darkest parts
Such that light can enter and heal.
My mom compared her depression to being in a closet without light- something that was done to her as a child - for punishment. How wonderful it is to heal and feel!!! AND SEE!!

I hear God's message

I know He's real

My heart, then settles

And time feels still

https://youtu.be/1sBicu6VBEo?si=ebN2F_digafYX55q

Limelight

It feels cold among the empty seats

Where thousands  cheered you in the limelight 

How meaningless to achieve great feats

If that is all you do with your life

Limelight- focus of public attention

https://youtu.be/1sBicu6VBEo?si=ebN2F_digafYX55q

God Given Joy

Joy is a gift 

Bought at great price

Christ did not quit

He valued our lives

Elder Craig C. Christensen of the Quorum of the Seventy spoke about joy in a talk titled “There Can Be Nothing So Exquisite and Sweet as Was My Joy” and said the following. 

We were created to have joy. It is our intended destiny as children of a loving Heavenly Father. He wants to share His joy with us. The prophet Lehi taught that God’s plan for each of us is that we “might have joy.” Because we live in a fallen world, enduring joy or everlasting joy often seems beyond our reach. Yet in the very next verse, Lehi continues by explaining that “the Messiah [came to] … redeem [us] from the fall.” Redemption, by and through the Savior Jesus Christ, makes joy possible.

The gospel message is a message of hope, of “good tidings of great joy,” and the means whereby all can experience peace and occasions of joy in this life and receive a fulness of joy in the life to come.

The joy we speak of is a gift for the faithful, yet it comes with a price. Joy is not cheap or casually given. Rather, it is bought “with the precious blood of [Jesus] Christ.” If we really understood the value of true, godly joy, we would not hesitate to sacrifice any worldly possession or make any necessary life changes to receive it.

Angel With a Broken Wing

We've an angel

With a broken wing

We wouldn't trade him

For anything

He may struggle

To keep his head up

Yet he has taught us

How to truly love ❤️ 

Thinking of the Alder family...

Cause of Liberty

The flag of freedom

Is a banner that we share-

A Constitution 

Now seems framed everywhere! 

You burned the red, white, and blue- 

Having given up on God?

How hatred burns within you! 

You've forgotten what we've got!

Government doesn't grant freedom

It protects God's gift to us

So we can grow in love and wisdom

And self govern through choice, thus.

Now- it is time to unite

And trust in principles

Let's focus on what's right

For common sense is simple

https://youtu.be/0FRfGvTlQsM?si=depLHUrMzhNECjcy

Please don't destroy our country

Because you feel to protest

Let it go and let it be

And trust the election's process

May Trump Get to Heaven

 May Trump get to Heaven

For having saved lives

For ending six wars, even

By rebuilding ties

Might I add one more war?

America, from within

We forgot what we're for

Perhaps we will with Him?

Money, fear, enemies

Family, abortion, sex

We've lost our identity

I can't fathom what comes next!

Lost, are the rules

Of Civility!

We've become fools!

Where's dignity?

America loves immigrants

But not through the Cartel!

For each pass through evil hands

Who're now more powerful 

Human trafficking?

And...who wants Fentanyl?

Corruption's infiltrating!

Let's fight this!- One and all!

Pray for America

For the land of the free

We need miracles

To achieve unity

And Heaven...our destiny

Watch and Pray Walk the Way

 

May you watch, 

May you pray
May you walk

The bright Way

May you know 

Keen insight

May you show

Your delight

Look upward

You're enough

Glow with warmth

Share His love❤️ 

Divine Expression

" His title was the Word—spelled with a capital W. In the Greek language of the New Testament, that Word was Logos, or “Divine Expression.” It was another name for the Master. That terminology may seem strange, but it is so reasonable. 

We use words to convey our expression to others. So Jesus was the “Word” or “Expression” of his Father to the world."

Jesus, giver of redemption,

Speaks Our Father's will as the Word,

Logos, or Divine Expression!

Thus, through the Spirit, the Word is heard!

My thoughts from

The Word

President Nelson 

https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/russell-m-nelson/jesus-christ-master/

Children of Light

Children of Light

Who are of the day

Wear a helmet of hope

And a breastplate of faith

1 Thessalonians 5:8

But let us who are of the day

Be sober

Putting on the breastplate of faith and love

And for an helmet

The hope of salvation 

Don't Push Out the Light

Don't push out the light

Of God's mercy and love

Forgiveness is in sight

We've reasons to look up!

Rainbow

God speaks through the elements

May the rainbow prevail

His promise to Earth's inhabitants

That our hearts may not fail

https://www.ldsliving.com/why-no-rainbows-appearing-in-the-sky-could-be-a-sign-of-the-second-coming/s/86778

Adoption Born of My Heart

Dear child, born of my heart ❤️,

Where would I be,

Without you as a part

Of this, our family?

Dear child, so born of my heart

Where would I be,

Without you as the start

of this wonderful painting of family art?

Feeling blessed that my son and his beautiful wife have 3 wonderful children- The first having been adopted.  She was pregnant (after losing a pregnancy and trying for so long) and starting to "show" when the adoption went through. Then they had a third. 

 He and his mother were talking one day and he said that he was born of his mother's heart.  Beautiful, right? 

Keep Coming

Keep coming,

Even when it is hard.

Don't give up!

We've all sins to discard.

https://youtube.com/shorts/9cnhP1K_Qjc?si=6svXxkjN8va3t3-u

Stand Steady in Life's Storms

Stand steady 

in your Life's storms

With a peaceful heart

Be prayerful 

with the Lord

Trust 

He will impart

The Savior knows the storms

And where we are meant to be 

Great wonders, He performs

To lead us Home to safety

Steady in the Storms

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2022/04/18eyring?lang=eng

Rationalizing

 Rationalizing 

Is but a friend

Of dishonesty

Yes. Pride pretends!

Its own pit, it digs

,,,which deepens

Pride is one of the seven deadly sins.

) pride, sometimes rendered as self-overestimation, arrogance, or grandiosity^[7

Watching

He watches over the tiny sparrows

The lost Lamb's and the wayward

He knows our travails with all its errors

And lights the Way to look toward

Forces and Peril

The forces of nature

Do not compare

To the greater danger

Of sin everywhere

Thoughts from reading:

Steady in the Storms 

 By President Henry B. Eyring Second Counselor in the First Presidency  

"Those forces are increasing. And so it will become more difficult, not easier, to honor the covenants we must make and keep to live the gospel of Jesus Christ. For those of us who are concerned for ourselves and for those we love, there is hope in the promise God has made ..."

Tune In

Tune in

To the Lord.

Pray. Read.

Heed His Word.

Saving Lives

Make a deal
That's not a bribe
Money speaks
Incentivize

Speak of harm

Listening's wise

Reach the heart

You will save lives

Leverage. Trump has a business mind and understands win- win negotiations. No more pleading and giving money to a country so they won't use their nukes. No money to a country saying, "Death to America!"

No superiority

No desperation

No pushover 

Just mutual respect 

https://youtu.be/wcIvAwv4ZN8?si=B_HUJsGT8kQxpMjh

Slopes

The world slides down

Quite a slippery slope

Still, those endowed

Have high reasons to hope

Hope for the future

Hope for the family

The Way is made sure

For immortality 

Extend a Hand

Extend a hand

Just long enough

To instill faith

And share God's love

Do You?

Do you want to get well?

So used to your sin...

Say, "Yes!" And let hope swell

And change you within!

Labels of Doubt

Jesus sees beyond 

The labels that hold us back

To Him, we belong

And offers strength where we lack

4th Watch

Toiling in the waves

Rowing against the wind

The Lord comes and saves

In the 4th watch;, towards the end

He gives us time alone

To develop our faith

Then He shows us how we've grown

And where we need more strength

Have you heard of this thought? It comes from when the disciples thought they might die in the storm while out on the lake. Then they saw Jesus walking on water. 

My Jesus

Get to know Jesus

As a loving friend 

He's there for each of us

His reach does not end

Angels

An angel, perhaps?

Has been in our midst

It was not by chance

So do not forget

Mistakes

It's so easy

To see mistakes

Be forgiving

For, then, love awakes

No Interference

God Helps

But doesn't force.

We need Him,

To see our course

Though we seek

To give all we've got

We are weak

So don't blame God

Free poem just click here

I feel free

When there's naught on my soul 

To weigh me down 

And I can be me

Sure

You can know for sure

That the Words of God are true

Keep them before your eyes

They'll share truth and light with you

1. www.churchofjesuschrist.org › study › generalLight and Truth - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

   God’s light includes the physical light we see, which makes us feel so warm and comfortable. God’s light is also the power to understand and comprehend all things. In other words, all kinds of light are related to intelligence and truth.

   • 
     

   • Truth

     Truth also refers to light and revelation from heaven. Truth...

You've Reason to Hope On

His arms are always open

Mercy's within reach

You've much reason to hope on

Let His spirit teach

The atonement is for each!

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1CHgMygXbK/

Departing Words

If you could say one last thing 

Before you depart

A message everlasting

What would you impart?

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1AuZxkRK/

Bountiful Gifts

Embrace the bounty
Of every good gift
The gospel of Jesus
Does ever uplift!

Elder Holland says, in Fear Not Believe Only, that life is the most precious of all gifts, a gift which is obtained eternally only through the atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Fear Not: Believe Only!

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2022/04/23holland?lang=engFear Not: Believe Only!

Share the Gospel with All

You never know

Who is being prepared.

Judge less. Love more.

Preach unto all to share

You never know

Who is being prepared 

Share the gospel with all

Nothing can compare!

https://youtu.be/lXp9OsJUXjY?si=XwI9VnUWMBESavAc

Raise You Hand and Speak

 Raise your hand up, high

And vow to do your part

Open your mouth. Share!

You hold God's Word- impart!

Impart= make known, communicate:

Confidence to Preach

 We can grow in confidence

Trusting we've what we need

To preach and make a difference 

To everyone we meet

Prone to Roam

 Before I pick up my phone

Or do anything else

Because I am prone ro roam

I pray to God, for help

The Prayer Isn't Done At Amen

When you say, "Amen."

Prayers are not done

Yes, in the right time

Answers will come

Always be ready

It will wash over you

And flood you with love

For strength to know and do

https://youtube.com/shorts/5FRk70e-xsY?si=DkHvRqAqTlv8-Kno

Elder D. Todd Christofferson speaks about praying in the Sacred Grove and waiting gor an answer. It wasn't until later that his prayer was answered. He says he learned to always be ready for an answer to a prayer. I love that he said it flooded over him. Feeling the Spirit is Heaven's gift to us. It is so filled with love!  ❤️ 

Loved at Your Worst

Know you are loved

Even at your worst

You cannot destroy

Your own unique worth

You are treasured

By angels above

You've a future

In CHRIST, through His love ❤️ 

Share Your Dreams

Whenever you dream a dream,

Don't keep it to yourself.

It beacons, like a beam.

Shining the way to help

.My dad is 93 and blind except for a small amount of blurred vision in one eye.  He relies on contrast and cannot see in color. He is starting to have vivid dreams that are in color! Some are of family members who have passed. He has shared that his time might be soon....in reality my dad shared his dream, but isn't ready. He keeps putting goals in front of him. Like his birthday when all together his kids will visit 

Lesson 3: The Vision of the Tree of Life

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/book-of-mormon-gospel-doctrine-teachers-manual/lesson-3?lang=eng

I love that Nephi wanted to know what his dad saw in a vision. Then he saw this vision and gained insight into its meaning.  In this case, Lehi shared his dream and he was blessed with lifesaving help. A son who would grow up to lead the family to the promised land.

His brothers Laman and Lemuel wanted nothing to do with visions. And they received nothing. They probably resented Nephi for seeking a vision. 

Others recognized that his father spoke truth and believed.

Zinc Spark at Conception

The moment of conception

It's a miraculous thing!

A flash of light... the sperm's in the egg!

And now? New life's creating

https://youtube.com/shorts/VZ8ij_xkQs4?si=5Artc7bwZKUeWOWS

Angel Mothers

Our angel mother, now with Jesus,

Has powers like never before.

For, sometimes we feel her among us

Teaching more what families are for!

Wake Up Call

This is your wake up call

Tribulation will come

It will be felt by all

As we await the Son

It will be dangerous

Yet, we will not be alone

We'll have the spirit with us 

And God's angels will be shown

Stand in holy places

Though there's turmoil all around

Though darkness embrasses

The Light of Christ can be found

https://youtu.be/eoLn4vaZj0M?si=tnYnY5TujQYih50L

Love Finds You

 Love finds you

In the quiet moments

When you are real

There, your heart opens ♥️ 

You Don't Have to Crumble

 

God knows your heart ❤️ 

You don't have to crumble

And fall apart

He blesses the humble

That's the best place to start

He'll help you do your part 😉 

https://youtube.com/shorts/ujmt6hMjgZk?si=8KbTNsVLc5knEpvp

Compilation of Prophets' words about the Word

War Times and The Book of Mormon

A threat is a monster

That's somewhat unknown

When you give it a face

A way to defeat it is shown

There's always a weak spot

A way to get in

So you are impowered

With a chance to win

I love the Book of Mormon- even its wartime aspects. For you can get nearer to God anywhere/anytime!. Every person in the military should read it! I wonder what great generals would think about it?

 Since October 7th,  Israel has been trading significant numbers of Hamas prisoners to get any hostage back that they can. I keep wondering how the ratio was negotiated? Well Hamas has the advantage, for sure. Because they know they have what Israel wants. They know that Israel values its citizens . What does the other side value? It's prisoners- for fighting. Who is the monster in this conflict?  The fight just keeps going back and forth. Just like the ongoing conflict between the Nephites and Lamanites in the Book of Mormon.  And righteousness matters.  For, then, the leaders are inspired and the army is strengthened. Plus the Civilians are protected.

Read the Book of.Mormon

 For you, me, all

We are in need

Or else we fall

So, read, read, READ!

We fall under

Condemnation

If we don't read

The Book of Mormon

Nearer to Christ!

Dust off that book.

Be filled with Light!

Do more than look!

For a pure heart ❤️ 

Absorb its truths.

Love, will impart

And warm you as proof

See the World as Jesus Does

Watch our children around us.

When they've troubles, they let them go

They see the world as Jesus does

Look for beauty with eyes that hope

https://youtube.com/shorts/cmzNNgq-W3Y?si=pdED0AskfAT1g51H

https://youtube.com/shorts/cmzNNgq-W3Y?si=A_wy0FEAhNAMYTJa

Bullies? No!

We will not back down

So bullies, no more

Our faith, we have found

We are worth much more!

The Call

 Get ready 

For the call!

When it comes,

Give your all!

It Will Take Every One of Us

 It will take every one of us

With our testimonies of Light

Plus, the blood of the Lamb, Jesus

To bind up Satan, the father of all lies

And it will be the best day, ever!

Every Effort Counts!

Every effort counts

Come and show up

Bring your faith with you

It will be tough

After the flood is the clean up and the search for bodies and anything salvageable....

The muck and the debris is unimaginable.  I spent a lot of time watching and waiting for news about the missing children.  

1. www.nytimes.com › article › texas-floods-kerr-countyTexas Floods: Death Toll, Map and What to Know - The New York ...

   Jul 20, 2025 · What We Know About the Floods in Central Texas At least 135 people, including 37 children, died in the torrential downpour over the July 4 holiday weekend.

1. www.khou.com › article › news3 missing in Central Texas floods: Fire chief, child, father ...

   5 days ago · Three people remain missing after the July 5 Central Texas floods: a volunteer fire chief, an 8-year-old camper, and a Lewisville father.

3. 

   Thousands join effort to find treasures in the mud after Texas floods

   Phaedra Trethan, USA TODAY

   Sat, August 2, 2025 at 3:01 AM PDT

   7 min read