May We So Live

May we so live that if we died today
We'd have eternal life with the Master
Then we'd feel peace and be unafraid
When suddenly comes a disaster

When tragedy struck in 2001
Gone were well-laid out plans for pleasant futures
And all raced to their phones to speak with someone
For the precious moment of now it captures

What are we doing with today?
How fragile life. How certain death!
If only for tomorrows we pray
We're wasting away this days breath!

Tomorrows of change rarely come
Unless today we make the first step
Have we done something for anyone?
Opportunity's an endless debt!

There are words to say and gifts to give
There are souls to save and deeds to do
To extend the joy it is to live
Is to share our Lord's light all anew

As we turn from paths that lead us down
We can follow a star toward the light
As we quicken our step with courage found
Our joy's for today- in doing what's right

Can you hear the children's laughter?
Do you too have a song in your heart?
It's joy that we all should be after
That's from giving of what God does impart

For whom do we feel strongest emotions?
Surely it's not for someone we hate
For that is where we'll place our devotions
And regret is a dark friend at the gate

But, darkness can be dispelled with light
With service being the formula for peace
Those who follow the Master enjoy life
And, oh how our love for all does increase

President Thomas S. Monson
May We So Live
Ensign, August 2008, 5

Teaching Requires Communication

Teaching requires communication
That encourages participation
And as engaged students raise up their hands
This action signifies desire to understand

Thus, permitting the Holy Ghost to teach
A personalized message best to reach
Through the use of agency one is taught
Those who are passive find they've received naught

Richard G. Scott
To Learn and Teach More Effectively
Devotional address 21 August 2007

Knowledge is Power

Knowledge is power

In the world today

As the fullness of light does shower

Towards the dawning of a brighter day

From all that we learn

And from our talents

We can bless and help others in turn

As learning and teaching does balance

The best known resource

For truth of all kinds

Is when the Holy Ghost guides our course

And spiritual promptings light our minds

Once a thought is lit

Our senses expand

And for our eternal benefit

God's true principles we more understand

Whatever we seek

We see, hear, and feel

As we pray for promptings and are meek

The precious impressions come to avail

With paper and pen

In a secure place

As though a new path of light burst open

We write things that come before our face

We've laws to obey

To gain this wisdom

But by faith, repentance, and prayer each day

The sweet whisperings of the spirit will come

........
Richard G. Scott
To Learn and to Teach More Effectively
Devotional address 21 August 2007

A Passenger Jet Took Flight

A passenger jet took flight
In nineteen seventy-nine
To overlook the sight
Of a world white and sublime

To Antarctica and back
With preset coordinates
But, they were two degrees off track
As they descended for just minutes

The white of the clouds above
And the white of all that was below
Hid, till the panels sounded of
What was all in white- soon to show

It was too late, when they saw in terror
A volcano of 12,000 feet!
Twenty-eight miles off course from one error
Of a matter of just a few degrees!

All the passengers were killed on board
As the plane crashed into the volcano
From an error they went way off course
And became a lesson for all to know

In all our actions and all our roles
The longer it takes to get on course
The greater the distance from our goal
And come when it is too late- Oh, the remorse

When to laws we don't adhere
Irregardless of how we've strayed
The way back is certain and clear
As for us the Lord has paid

As we are agents unto ourselves
We should show gratitude for our lives
And measure our actions as one delves
Treasuring the journey as one strives

The difference between happiness
That's eternal and misery
Oft lies between our repentance
And our knowledge of mapery

A Matter of a Few Degrees
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Ensign May 2008, 57

With Open Eyes We See More Clearly

With open eyes we see more clearly
Of Christ's light to live life fully
And as we exercise humility
We receive loving resiliency

Before us lies a grand smorgasbord
That has been placed brilliantly before
And into us, there's joy to infuse
Where do we start and what do we choose?

As we pause to stand very still
We can see and know of God's will
There's much for us that's brightly lit
If we only seek to lay hold of it

For the meek, comes the greatest gift of all
That fills the soul with joy that enthrals
It is the purest love we can know
It is charity which sets us aglow

Thoughts from reading
Search Diligently in the Light of Christ
Wendy L. Watson
1997 Women's Conference

Economy and Money Flows

Economy and money flows
Who has it now? Nobody knows

Yesterday's conglomerates
Are tomorrows desperates

Sell something, be bold or fold
Or at least take stock in gold

Read the news. What's soon to fail
Is engulfed when it's cheap to bail

From progress to improvements
Old money moves to new movements

Yet, to all can come an inheritance
That's eternal which God to us grants

Given to the chosen, though He love's all the same
It's for the righteous, who are known by Christ's name

Pioneer Day- Poems From What the Prophets Say

In remembrance of the pioneers


With full faith in their every footstep
The pioneers forged and tempered their souls
Without the Lord, they would be inept
May we too be true, in all of our roles

Elder Wirthlin - General Conference April 1997

Kinship

We have been blessed by the pioneers
They heeded the voice of the prophets with faith.
They showed courage despite their fears
and conquered the uncertainty of fate.

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Heeding the Voice of the Prophets,” Liahona, Jul 2008, 2–5


A Defense and a Refuge

After hiking as far as they could,
The apostles and the prophet stood.
High above the valley- their new home.
With God’s blessings no longer to roam.

To a walking stick, they tied a cloth.
On a high peak they waved it aloft.
As an ensign to all from the storm.
A raised standard of works to perform.

Here was "the place" that the Savior chose.
The blossoming desert, a unique rose.
Each pioneer had survived circumstance,
The cause of Zion could now advance!

The gospel message is now ours to preach
To our neighbors our example can reach.
Like the pioneers who had much from them taken.
We, through our trials, gain faith unshaken.

If we are doing the best that we can,
We can light a path for our fellow man.
As a candle placed upon a high peak
Our flame can burn bright for all who may seek.

The Lord is our refuge and our defense

For our homes and our inheritance.

We must not attack or turn flighty

But, in faith, pray to our Almighty.

Verse 1] After hiking as far as they could The apostles and the prophet stood High above the valley Their new home With God’s blessings No longer to roam To a walking stick They tied a cloth On a high peak They waved it aloft As an ensign to all From the storm A raised standard Of works to perform [Pre-Chorus] Here was the place That the Savior chose The blossoming desert A unique rose Each pioneer Had survived circumstance Now the cause of Zion Could advance [Chorus] Raise the banner high Raise it high The Lord is our refuge Our defense Light the path ahead Light the path For our fellow man For our inheritance Raise the banner high Raise it high If we do our best We will stand [Verse 2] The gospel message Is now ours to preach To our neighbors Our example can reach Like the pioneers Who had much taken We, through our trials Gain faith unshaken If we are doing The best that we can We can light a path For our fellow man As a candle placed Upon a high peak Our flame can burn bright For all who may seek [Bridge] We must not attack Or turn flighty But in faith Pray to our Almighty Hold us steady When the wild winds blow Teach our hands Where to build and go [Chorus] Raise the banner high Raise it high The Lord is our refuge Our defense Light the path ahead Light the path For our fellow man For our inheritance Raise the banner high Raise it high If we do our best We will stand

-President Packer 85–88, Boyd K. Packer, Nov 2006, “A Defense and a Refuge, ” Liahona

Frozen Handcarts

Verse 1] Fear and dire situation Led to the awful needs Bringing out the worst in them The Donner Party deeds Knowing food could have saved this party Edward Martin led the late company The handcarts were loaded up with food To share as an entire group [Pre-Chorus] Starvation looked them in the face Soon, the journey became a race The Winter was setting in Could they conquer and win? [Chorus] Frozen handcarts, hold on tight Frozen handcarts through the white Starving in the snow Still they had to go Frozen handcarts, hold on tight [Verse 2] Along the trail some died Frozen sleeping side by side The wind kept taking names And the sky kept the blame Starving in the snow With their hope still aglow Boots bit through the crust Each step carved out of dust [Pre-Chorus] Starvation looked them in the face Soon, the journey became a race The Winter was setting in Could they conquer and win? [Chorus] Frozen handcarts, hold on tight Frozen handcarts through the white Starving in the snow Still they had to go Frozen handcarts, hold on tight [Bridge] Then the rescue came like a dream Through the snow they saw the team Fed, on frozen feet they walked on To Zion it would not be long [Final Chorus] Frozen handcarts, hold on tight Frozen handcarts through the white Starving in the snow Still they had to go Frozen handcarts, hold on tight

Our Own Handcarts

 [Verse 1]

Push your handcart towards light With all your heart, mind, and might Along the trail others mock Still, all is well Keep on. Walk. [Pre-Chorus] Push your handcart Press on. Pray. True standards chart the Lord's way Show fortitude The path's sure [Chorus] Push your handcart Push your handcart Have gratitude and endure Push your handcart Keep on now Still, all is well, that's sure [Verse 2] Through the snow The frozen streams Your faith show grow Beyond your dreams When your knees feel worn and thin You lift again [Pre-Chorus] Push your handcart Press on. Pray. True standards chart the Lord's way Show fortitude The path's sure [Chorus] Push your handcart Push your handcart Have gratitude and endure Push your handcart Keep on now Still, all is well, that's sure [Bridge] Through the snow You do not fold The road gets hard Your heart stays bold Beyond your dreams You see it clear The path's sure Keep moving here [Final Chorus] Push your handcart Push your handcart Have gratitude and endure Push your handcart Keep on now Still, all is well, that's sure

Elder Dallin H. Oaks https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/no-other-gods?lang=eng

“There are many political and social pressures for legal and policy changes to establish behaviors contrary to God’s decrees about sexual morality and contrary to the eternal nature and purposes of marriage and childbearing. These pressures have already authorized same-gender marriages in various states and nations. Other pressures would confuse gender or homogenize those differences between men and women that are essential to accomplish God’s great plan of happiness.
“Our understanding of God’s plan and His doctrine gives us an eternal perspective that does not allow us to condone such behaviors or to find justification in the laws that permit them. And, unlike other organizations that can change their policies and even their doctrines, our policies are determined by the truths God has identified as unchangeable.

“In this determination we may be misunderstood, and we may incur accusations of bigotry, suffer discrimination, or have to withstand invasions of our free exercise of religion. If so, I think we should remember our first priority–to serve God–and, like our pioneer predecessors, push our personal handcarts forward with the same fortitude they exhibited.”“Our twelfth article of faith states our belief in being subject to civil authority and ‘in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.’But man’s laws cannot make moral what God has declared immoral. Commitment to our highest priority–to love and serve God–requires that we look to His law for our standard of behavior. For example, we remain under divine command not to commit adultery or fornication even when those acts are no longer crimes under the laws of the states or countries where we reside. Similarly, laws legalizing so-called ‘same-sex marriage’ do not change God’s law of marriage or His commandments and our standards concerning it. We remain under covenant to love God and keep His commandments and to refrain from serving other gods and priorities–even those becoming popular in our particular time and place.

 

The Passage of Time

The passage of time dims bad memories
And none too soon fades our worst worries.
The pioneer trail, where once tears fell like rain
Is now a roller coaster.... a runaway train.

For as crimes creep higher and spiral upward
Decency careens society downward
And who can escape as the ride moves faster?
This thrill of the moment speeds to disaster!

Can we muster the courage for today?
As modern pioneers can we show the Lord's way?
His path has been laid to eternity
May we blaze this trail bright with  morality!

Blaze This Trail

Verse 1] The passage of time dims bad memories And none too soon fades our worst worries. The pioneer trail, where once tears fell like rain Is now a roller coaster... a runaway train. [Pre-Chorus] For as crimes creep higher and spiral upward Decency careens society downward And who can escape as the ride moves faster? This thrill of the moment speeds to disaster! [Chorus] Modern pioneers Show the Lord's way Modern pioneers Walk it today His path has been laid To eternity Blaze this trail bright With morality (Modern pioneers) (Show the Lord's way) [Verse 2] Can we muster the courage for today? As modern pioneers can we show the Lord's way? His path has been laid to eternity May we blaze this trail bright with morality! [Pre-Chorus] For as crimes creep higher and spiral upward Decency careens society downward And who can escape as the ride moves faster? This thrill of the moment speeds to disaster! [Chorus] Modern pioneers Show the Lord's way Modern pioneers Walk it today His path has been laid To eternity Blaze this trail bright With morality (Modern pioneers) (Show the Lord's way) [Bridge] Can we muster the courage for today? Stand where the faithful stood Let the straight road stay One step, one vow, one light Till the dark gives way [Final Chorus] Modern pioneers Show the Lord's way Modern pioneers Walk it today His path has been laid To eternity Blaze this trail bright With morality (Modern pioneers) (Show the Lord's way) (Blaze this trail bright)

Thomas S. Monson 'Come Follow Me," Ensign, Jul 1988, 2

The Coming Tests and Trials and Glory

We stand today on a mountain peak
Humbled for there is much more to seek
In the midst of the mountains of Israel
There's a panavision that is surreal
To gain the height we have climbed up switches
Past forests of evil where much sin stretches
Past canyons, cliffs and crags where some plummet
We have struggled and reached this high summit:

Along the way, as we upward climb,
We pass roaring rivers of hate and crime
Still, we trudge forward. Sharp rocks cut our feet
How we are leery of jackals that we might meet!
The lion's lair, serpents coiled on ledges...
What is lurking in the brush along dark edges?
Yet, far in the distance, hidden in clouds,
A morning mist on Mt. Zion enshrouds.

This Mount is the grandest peak of all
Where Heavenly angels beckon and call.
Here assemble the church of the first born!
Looking back we see the the trails they have worn.
And the view is glorious! Yes, indeed!
We can hear praise for their every deed,
As Angel Moroni flies high in the midst.
From his trump, lo- hear whispers come up from the dust.

While angelic ministrants bless, bearing keys,
What is rolling forth to fill the earth with peace?
A little stone that is cut, all, without hands
Shorn from where the house of the Lord now stands.
As the stone breaks earthly kingdom's damage
Soon, it will smite the Babylonian image.
Then Elders can cry unto these many nations,
"Repent and assemble where e'er one stations!"

We see stakes and temples dotting the ground,
Where gifts, signs, and miracles abound.
As the sick are healed and the dead are raised
And the power of God, in song is praised.
Amidst this toil and sorrowful test
Their sacred covenants strengthen and bless.
God's elect are to progress, tutored and bred
While murderers try their good blood to shed.

We see Nauvoo in flames by those depraved.
We see snow and cold and death and graves.
With a new leader t'wards their promised land
"All is Well," they sing, as in faith, they band.
They lay their all, even their lives, on the altar
And proved, though driven, they will not falter.
They heed the prophet.  Their faith is not weak.
T'wards Mt. Zion, it is God's will that they seek.

As our eyes watch all that lies below
We rejoice that there is much more to know.
With joy, we anticipate the dawn of tomorrow
Though we may face suffering and dampening sorrow.
We know we will yet face even greater perils
As we are proved and tested with our own severe trials.
May our shoes be off, when they are found
For then we stand upon holy ground.

As we ponder and count our bountiful blessings
We climb on and follow the pioneers old treadings.
Crest upon crest along their once charted course
Until, suddenly, we are hit with emotions full force.
So glorious... what we can see causes our hearts to rejoice,
For those with clean hands and pure hearts are sanctified and choice.
Yet, wretchedly, what we can see causes us to tremble,
As we weep for those who'se faithfulness had crumbled.

What wars and plagues which cover earth's kingdoms
As the wayward and worldly abuse rights and freedoms!
Even some of the elect drop to this low pattern
And fall by the wayside bruised, ashamed, and tattered!
But, the Lord's caravan must and does roll forward
To all the nations it presses onward and onward.
More and more missionaries share light and utterance
Ishmael's tribes will have their inheritance!

The now large stone breaks down the last barriers.
We can not stop, be idle, or tarry here.
For, we see saints, of the most high, worshipping
In Moscow, Saigon and in Peking
In Egypt, India, and Africa...
As contrails burst forth from America,
We see Saints of God all the world over
Standing with lights and guides that empower!

The ultimate symbol, brightly triumphant
The new generation takes a virtuous stand!
Crowned with God's power, defending His truth
We see great wisdom of those still in their youth.
This vision's not all sweetness, peace and light
There's greater evils, than at any past time.
As the Saints prepare to meet their God
Sinking depravity rides hardshod!

Hearts become heavy, full of foreboding
While liars, thieves and murderers all are found goading.
With blood, death, and carnage dark everywhere
Mankind's hearts are finding it hard to care.
Adulterers, fiends, and altered sexuals
Take the place of families as usuals.
They glorify all that is lewd and base
As the work of the Lord rolls on, more in haste.

Thus, Satan reigns in the hearts of men
and show his power with Gadiantons.
They'll fill the judgment seats of ruling nations.
They'll overthrow liberty with sedition.
Amist it all, still, there are revelations.
There are prophecies, prayers, and more visions.
There are new gifts, signs, and miracles
Yes, the Holy Spirit of God fulfills!

Amid this believing, souls are born again
Preparing for God and to dwell with Him.
Is it any wonder that we rejoice?
Amid commotion there is a still small voice.
The ungodly will be swept away from the church
As the little stone fills the whole earth.
The Zion of God will be found unmoved.
Amidst great trembling, the Mt. is best proved.

Ahead lies what's dark, dreary and dreadful.
Upon each issue we must be careful.
The blood of the martyrs will poor again
As though doors in Carthage enclose in.
We must heed the Prophet and Apostles
And let their words penetrate our auricles.
As whether in life or death, we will soon see
Our blessed Lord return nigh in Glory!

We will see New Jerusalem coming down
To join the Holy City with peace all around.
We shall mingle with Enoch's pure bright city
While we worship and serve divinity.
From peak to peak, hear the echoing strains?
"Glory to the Lord our God," we will acclaim!
We will sing the Psalms of the Restoration
And among things unlawful to even speak
Will come joy into the hearts of the faithful, meek.

Bruce R. McConkie, Ensign 1980 "The Coming Tests and Trials and Glory"


Give Heed Unto the Prophet's Words

In the promised land
During conference session,
Bad news came at hand...
"There's a stuck procession!"

Those in attendance
Gave heed, nigh at once.
Despite the distance...
They knew of storm-fronts!

They must brave their fears
Time was against them,
To save those pioneers
On the verge of death!

The blizzard stormed.
Twas terrible indeed.
Yet, rescue teams formed
For those in dire need.

In a selfless act
At SweetWater some laved.
Their faith was in tact.
They carried those they'd saved.

When the prophet called
Their love was heroic.
To serve no one stalled
Their wet clothes grew thick.

May we not forget

May we act in like kind

Those in dire need, fret

And, of those may we find

In conference we hear
What's for our best profit
His message is clear
May we heed our prophet


Give Heed Unto the Prophet's Words Elder Quentin L. Cook



Mommy, Why?

Mommy, why are we leaving home
Where are we going, why must we roam?

Come, come along, my dear precious one

We are going to live in Zion

There we'll build the city of our God

Come follow me, hold my hand and come...

How much longer on the ship? I'm sick
We've traveled so long on this Atlantic

Yes, the quarters are small, the voyage too long

But, we are together. Let us sing a glad song

With faith in the Lord we will be made strong

We will soon be in Zion, where we belong...

I feel so very sick, I feel so weak
Do you see land? Please, Mommy, go and peek

Yes, you stay with Mary and hold her hand

She has been too weak to even stand

Her lips are pale and I greatly fear

She is soon to pass through this "vale of tears"...

Why must we bury her out to sea?
Can we sing a song for dear Mary?

The Lord giveth, the Lord taketh away

Yes, little child, let us sing and let us pray

If we do according to God's will

He promises us we have "His peace... be still..."

Why must we walk so long and so far
Can I sit up there, high inside the cart?

We need to keep moving, just to stay warm

Come, and I will hold you under my arm

Here we must step and here we must press on

Until we reach the city of Zion...

Is this our new home, this little dugout?
Is this what Zion is really about?

This quilt can be our door, this short winter

For now all we need is a quick shelter

We have sacrificed and much we have conquered

May our trials always, truly, be remembered...

One-sixth died on the journey, there to slumber.
They endured for us! Now look at our numbers!

Mommy, Why?

“‘Come, Follow Me’,”

Ensign, Jul 1988, 2

"The Sabbath is a Holy Day"




On the Sabbath morning
I felt within my heart
That the Lord's day was holy
And purely set apart
As a soul that rejoices
I speak of heavenly things
Then join the choir voices
And with the angels sing

I rest from cares and labors,
The rushed duties of life,
And with my best endeavors
Reach forth to receive light.
With full dedication,
And feelings of peace and rest
There is education,
Through repentance, I'm blessed.

What I learn from a talk
I can know, "It is true!"
"This is the path to walk."
The spirit tells me anew.
I store up on wisdom.
We teach one another.
The ways of God's kingdom
Shares like no other!

As a memorial
We take the sacrament.
His life, His death, His burial
Gave us the atonement.
And this we must think on
As we partake of His emblems.
And, His ascension
Gladdens us to sing the hymns.

We ought to be careful
And partake worthily.
With tender hearts grown full
We engage more civilly.
We receive blessings
Each time that we partake.
The spirit impressing...
Of our sins, we forsake.

Now the day is not through...
As we attend more meetings.
This we do not simply do,
For that would be fleeting.
We are sustained through each calling
And need not to condemn.
The world would to find us falling
But, we are God's light for them.

In Christ, we must wash our robes
With His blood, they become white.
In heaven there will be more than probes
To see who is in the right.
We have got to arrive at
A state that is ever pure.
The spirit tell us what is fact
Thus, we can know for sure.

May the pioneers inspire.
How they traveled in peril!
The days became more dire.
They soon did not fair well.
Still, they were committed
And rested each Sabbath day.
Gods commandments are written.
Let us, too, show faith and obey.

"The Sabbath is a Holy Day", John Taylor, pg 107 Teachings of the Presidents of the Church

[

The World Needs Pioneers


Without freedom
How can one feel safe?
Act with wisdom
Or become a slave

Noah packed up
Though others jeered
Building was tough
But freedom neared

The pioneers
Left the known behind
Despite the tears
They'd freedom to find

What is security
And a comfortable life
Without liberty
And faith to help you strive


The World Needs Pioneers Today
BY PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON
JULY 2013, ENSIGN

Liberty is the value of individuals to have agency (control over their own actions).

We forget how the Greeks and Romans prevailed magnificently in a barbaric world and how that triumph ended—how a slackness and softness finally overcame them to their ruin. In the end, more than they wanted freedom, they wanted security and a comfortable life; and they lost all—comfort and security and freedom. 

http://www.lds.org/liahona/2013/07/the-world-needs-pioneers-today?lang=eng

Liberty - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty‎

He who sacrifices freedom for security will soon have neither.- Ben Franklin

Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.

Verse 1] Without freedom How can one feel safe? Act with wisdom Or become a slave Noah packed up Though others jeered Building was tough But freedom neared [Chorus] Without freedom What is security? Without freedom Where is dignity? Without liberty I can't feel whole Without faith I lose my soul (Without freedom) [Verse 2] The pioneers Left the known behind Despite the tears They'd freedom to find They walked on dust With hope in view One hard road And a future new [Pre-Chorus] What is security And a comfortable life If the soul is caged And the heart pays the price? [Chorus] Without freedom What is security? Without freedom Where is dignity? Without liberty I can't feel whole Without faith I lose my soul (Without freedom) [Bridge] So I'll keep going When the night comes down With open hands And a steady ground No fear can own me No chain can stay When truth is calling I will find my way [Chorus] Without freedom What is security? Without freedom Where is dignity? Without liberty I can't feel whole Without faith I lose my soul (Without freedom)

The Interviewer Beckons

The Interviewer Beckons
I have only 30 seconds
To highlight who I am
And pass this first exam

Though I'll not speak to excess
I state my name to impress
So my name will stand out
As I tell what I'm about

Where I worked, what I did
That one thing that was splendid
I am just who they need
With my schooling, yes indeed

My name, I'll say once more
Some rapport, I'm hoping for
A lead through another gate
Or ... even a hiring date!

Thoughts after being guided through "the 30 second summary"

beckon

the last definition is a fun one

verb: signal with the hands or nod
verb: summon with a wave, nod, or some other gesture
verb: appear inviting

thank you Brother Rockwood

The Things of Which I Know part 2

Our great creator with His finger wrote
God's commandments unto man
He then condescended to atone
Though the greatest, the "I am"

He who left the royal courts on high
Came to live upon the earth
And with great circumstance to try
He was born of humble birth

He healed the sick and caused the blind to see
He showed compassion unto those infirm
He raised the dead and rebuked the Pharisees
And of His love for all, He then confirmed

As He was ever only the perfect man
He suffered greatly in Gethsemane
He fulfilled the Father's perfect plan
And then in death proved His humility

Gordon B. Hinckley
The Things of Which I Know
Ensign, May 2007

I am Filled- Ever Still

From the Savior
I am filled
With more reasons
Ever still...

For in sorrows
And dark sins
I've afflictions
Deep within

And He suffered
Every one
This He did to
Overcome

With great wonder
I am filled
With more reasons
Ever still...

He descended from
His mansions
To do God's will
And to ransome

He was condemned
Unto death
And now He is
My Living breath

With His Spirit
I am filled
With more reasons
Ever still...

He dwells inside
Of my heart
And how I want
To do my part

I know He is
My Savior
And there's so much
To say more...

Though my father
Passed away
I will see him
Again someday

I've eternal
Family
And together
We will be

I'm so grateful
That God lives
And for the love
That He gives

And I am filled
Ever still
As I strive to
Do His will

Enrique R. Falabella,
“Why Are We Members of the Only True Church?,”
Ensign, Nov 2007, 14–15

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a Wonderful Recipe

The gospel of Jesus Christ
Is a wonderful recipe
For salvation and eternal life
To become what we're meant to be

The perfect dishes we see
In a joyfilled cookbook lend
A promise for following
The steps from the start to end

Every ingredient is used
From the instructions contained
And, as the flavors infuse
The desired taste is attained

If the rules are mistaken
Or if we miscalculate
The proper care is not taken
And once it's cooked- it's too late

Still, looking at the picture
There's motivation to try again
For its promise does assure
What is created in the end

When we think of eternal life
We should have a clear and true vision
We'd then yearn, no matter the strife
To work towards the goal of our mission

With faith in Jesus Christ
And in the atonement
We're baptized in this life
To do as we were meant

But, first we must repent
To have the Holy Ghost
For us it has been lent
And, how we need this host!

Cleansing water begins
Our purification
And the Spirit then lends
The best education

Doing as God commands
We have entered His gate
And made binding covenants
While the world we forsake

In the name of Jesus Christ
We walk the narrow path
With a newness of life
T'wards all the Father hath

With Christ-like service to man
We reach the fatherless and widows
By preaching His gospel we can
To others open heaven's windows

Repenting from moment to moment
We're humble and show remorse
And, too we take the sacrament
As we endure along the course

As a member we're a part
Of the body of Christ
Each with a role we're to play
On the path to eternal life

We pray and fast; and we read
From the Holy scriptures
There's exceeding joy indeed
From the visions the spirit pictures

Elder L. Tom Perry
The Gospel of Jesus Christ
Ensign, May 2008, 44

To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse

Some matters are so sensitive
That they are seldom mentioned
To further the distress it gives
Is not at all the intention

There is light we all can feel
Through dark clouds to see much clearer
Tenderly, may you see and heal
As to you I hold a mirror

Unrighteous acts unto the weak
Have done what's beyond belief
It's of sexual abuse that I speak
And of the path towards relief

As moral agency's missused
The tides rise with vicious sin
The one who causes the abuse
Violates all that is within

To rectify all that's unjust
Our Savior felt all our pain
And, so, the perpetrator thus
Can repent, and resolve from blame
----------------------------
I testify that the victim
Can radiate happiness
As the atonement works within
T'wards a pure love that can be sensed

There's a journey to recovery
And an end to trepidation
As there's a blessed discovery
The atonement's an invitation

He alone can share the burden
As one exercises faith
And all that once had been hurled in
Is seen and the heart does not faint

But see's the true source of abuse
The reviler of God's laws
Has been the author to accuse
And get inside with his claws

Then, to blind alleys he leads
Where like him, one thinks life's unfair
And then his strategy he breds-
With tragedy comes despair

And in his manipulation
The victim loses faith and trust
And falls to alienation
Comfortless, the heart forms a crust

But, this is not the way to live
Alone with pain too hard to bear
It's so important to forgive
For a broken heart to repair
-----------------------------
It will take a prayerful journey
For understanding of strife
And, oh how the abuser needs
To not be pious in this life...

Oh, how the abuser needs to stop
And seek to be rescued now
As sins make its way to the top
And before God we all we bow

For the healing of harm you've caused
Show the abused how you languish
For them show you've changed- not just paused
Recognize their mental anguish

Through the study of the atonement
And possibly also counseling
All can see why Christ alone was sent
And, oh the joy for this we should sing

Richard G. Scott
To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse
Ensign, May 2008, 41

The True and Living Church

The true and living church-
Is clearly not obscure
With brilliance sure and dauntless
It's light spreads out of darkness

The Lord looks upon us
And all that is within
We must repent ever thus
Or His light in us grows dim

The keys of the priesthood
Will ever lodge on earth
To heaven it seals what's good
May we more realize our worth

To show our obedience
We do what is better
With God there's no allowance
To His laws we must measure

In our hearts we do search
For each way that sustains
As servants of the church
We'll heed those God ordains

We've an invitation
To aid those discouraged
Through our dedication
Those lost are encouraged

Let's range across the land
And give to those in need
Let's extend loving hands
And more spiritually feed

And God above who sees
Will shed forth glorious light
For honoring His keys
And for doing what is right

President Henry B. Eyring
Ensign May 2008, 8
obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge
dauntless adjective: invulnerable to fear or intimidation

Picture of Nauvoo temple under construction

dellahill.blogspot.com/2008/02/sunday-story.html

Gaining a Testimony of God the Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost

I ponder continually
Of God and His Son
I've a testimony
How these two are one

People o'er all the world
Do struggle to know
Who's our Savior and Lord?
Does knowledge still flow?

Oft the Exemplar sent prayers
To His Heavenly Father
And the scriptures declare
Of their love for each other

Tender obedience
And glorious trust
United as one in stance
And in their love for us

The Father and Son are real
As two distinct beings
I can know what I feel
And that truth- I'm receiving

If any lack wisdom
They can search in prayer
To the humble, light will come
James 1:5 makes this clear

A witness comes from heaven
To teach us of the Son
And to Joseph Smith was given
This pattern for how it's done

First we must have a desire
That quickens our soul
Then to pray, we retire
With obedience our goal

We pray in the name of
Our Dear Savior, Jesus
As our mediator above
He has proved that He loves us

If you truly believe
With all of your heart
Then in surety you'll receive
And this is only the start...

What has been shown to me
Can be made known to you
The Holy Ghost is the key
To reveal what is true

Elder Robert D. Hales
Ensign, May 2008, 29
Gaining a Testimony of God the Father;
His Son, Jesus Christ;
and the Holy Ghost

Stance: More general:attitude, position, posture
More specific:attention, erectness, uprightness

James 1: 5
5 If any of you lack wisdom,
let him ask of God, that giveth
to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;
and it shall be given him.

Woman, Why Weepest Thou?

Who is mourning, full of heartache
And no longer hears the bird's song?
Who suffers in sins that they make
And feels that they do not belong?

When said Jesus "Why weepest thou?"
To Mary first seen at the sepulchre
His words were for each of us here below
And, for all the ways that tears occur

When we've sorrow, pain or remorse
Or feel overwhelmed- deep in strife
We can walk in faith in our true course
O'er the rough cobblestones of life

We face what's complex on our walk
And though some have much, some have not
As we reach deep into the bedrock
We'll find the faith to do our lot

Our depth of belief is measured
In our gratitude for Jesus
When the atonement is treasured
We've greater courage and purpose

In the garden, darkness closed up
He was pressed as though in a womb
Blood, sweat, and tears- He filled the cup
He knew death, and escaped from the tomb

The first words of the risen Lord
Were for us, "Peace be unto you"
It's peace we all can afford
What's beyond this world leads us anew

James E. Faust
Ensign, Nov. 1996
Woman, Why Weepest Thou?

I Have a Message- Alcohol is Bad

I have a message
Alcohol is bad
Not even a drop
For man should be had

It wounded my heart
And killed my brother
He drove while drinking
And he killed another

This was not the start
Nor is it the end
Of my life lesson
More did descend

For he had a son
That never knew him
He had a daughter
That idolized him

My niece found a man
Just like her dad
He could beat and drink
Doing all that's bad

He killed her baby
While still inside her
And her, too, maybe
As there was naught inside her

She went back to him
With booze on the shelf
She ignored his faults
And thought naught of herself

And when he drank
It did not matter
Though she too was drunk
Her head still did shatter

There is more I've learned
Again and again
Not a single drop
I wish it would end

When I see you smile
With a raised up glass
I see only pain
While you see only class

I will leave right now
Drinking's not that fun
You may think it's cool
But, soon the bottles done

Enjoy your laughter...
Tomorrows the day
When my brother died
What more can I say?

When you are sober
And are able to walk
I have a shoulder
And an ear if you'd like to talk

Do you have control?
Then you are lucky
As others cannot
And, I think that is sucky

The cost for each pour
Does not seem enough
For it is much more
For body bags to stuff ($50.)

A comment I have sketched
(For I like to draw)
While my heart was wrenched
I put it on a straw

Soon these words reached
Unto every glass
Before you entertain to sip
Please say "no thanks, I think I'll pass"

For all the babies
Who too had to drink
Can you please pour this
Down the nearest sink?

For all the drivers
Who've been hit and died
Please remember them
And their last joyful ride

For those who've been raped
And for all who've been abused
Can you please turn away?
And leave the drink unused

For the homeless children
Who've naught where to go
Please hear their crying
May your love for them now grow

Who knows but drama?
There's a better life!
Full of promise
Though not without it's strife

You have to want it
And put away the past
With your eyes straight ahead
To the future, they should cast

There is a message
Inside a bottle
It says drink, drink, drink
But, don't taste a jottle

There's Joy to End All our Worries

There's joy to end all our worries
The atonement has taken place
All iniquities and injuries
With His help, we can face

When we're drowned in sin's we're dealing
The Lord has strength we can borrow
When we repent there is healing
And we are saved from our sorrow

Our Lord is equitiy, truth and grace
Full of mercy and long suffering
He patiently wants to embrace
May we partake of His offering

Each soul and body will be restored
And those who've risen above tribulation
Will be washed in the blood of the Lord
And will wear the robes of salvation...

Part two to Why Weepest Thou
President Faust

When We're Grief Stricken

When we're grief stricken
With a wayward child
May our hearts quicken
Unto love that's mild

We'll not wring our hands
With no way to cope
For we understand
And we ever hope

Although satan lulls
Our loved one to sin
We've been given tools
For attack- to win

The path is simple
And we're not helpless
For, we'll not crumble
We've Christ to enlist

We have perspective
And we know of grace
God is protective
When to Him we race

Our faith must lengthen
Whene'er we are tried
As then we're strengthened
And we're sanctified

The heart knows not rest
Till each temple day
The name is addressed
By all those who pray

We'll fast for success
Sealed to a promise
Though there is distress
Our loves not amiss

We've faith in Christ's name
For He's redeemed us
And He can reclaim
With power that's just

When it's the right time
And it's the right place
Our wayward child
Will see the lord's face

Thoughts after reading
Rescuing a Wayward Child
Larry Barkdull
http://www.ldsmag.com/rescue/080716rescue.html

Our Lord's Love for Us is Perfect

Our Lord's love for us is perfect
And He's foreseen our potential
When we do His will, we detect
Blessings from above that's torrential

May I write down what He has done
How I have grown to be like Him
When I've loving actions like the Son
I am learning who I really am

We Live in Troubling Times

We live in troubling times
I'll pay it not much heed
There's much to do and find
With the Savior who does lead

Rise Up and Be Counted

Rise up and be counted
We've high morals and purpose
With the Lord we've mounted
And integrity's in us

We'll reach a critical
Crossroad often- as there's strife
But, it's not difficult
When we've the Lord in our life

We can't hide who we are
As it shines from within us
We've unseen strength and power
That's given from our Lord, Jesus

Stand up and search your soul
Be identified as one
Who's immovable in his role
Come, be a follower of the Son

Stand Up and Be Counted
President Faust
New Era Aug 1990, 4

See the End from the Beginning

We can see the end
From the beginning
As with hearts we tend
To righteous living

If we trust the Lord
And learn to obey
We are in accord
For a chosen way

The priesthood we bear
Is a force for good
We extend God's care
And do as He would

When we're positive
And self- disciplined
We've freedom to live
And with laws we blend

God's hand's over us
He knows what's latent
There is much to trust
That's beyond this moment

We have potential
And God knows each strength
What is essential
To reach high at length?

For the Strength of Youth
Gives temple standards
We must live its truths
To our core innards

Though we are challenged
With uncertain times
We're not discouraged
There's work, as one climbs

Doubts we entertain
And frustrations too
Help Satan to reign
Our ears are his tool

He whispers "give up,
You will not succeed"
But, that's not enough!
We know God does lead

We know we must learn
To follow God's will
For this we must yearn
For this we must thrill

The Spirit tell us
Whom we should follow
Our Beloved Jesus
Our Lord, we'll all know

May we recognize
Our need to convert
The atonement buys
We must not revert

Immortality!
Plus eternal life!
Principality
Bought with all our strife

It is for this end
That we can see now
May our heart now tend
To what God would to endow

Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Ensign May 2006

A Sense of the Sacred

I sense what is sacred
While in God's holy house
With quiet shoes, I tread
Wearing hose, skirt and blouse

Not to seem of stature
But, clothed to revere God-
I'm His, it's my nature
To groom without facade

Holiness to the Lord
It reads on the temple
I'll avoid what's abhorred
His home, I'll not trample

I'll not be immodest,
Sloppy or casual
I want to be impressed
With what is spiritual

And, on His holy day
I'll wear my Sunday best
In a way it does say
I'm thankful, and I'm blessed

I want to look the part
As a Latter-Day Saint
His spirit fills my heart
And, it cannot be restrained

Some things deserve respect
As well as some events
I've reverence for our Prophet
As, our Lord, he represents

I've also reverence for
The scriptures, they are God's word
I use them, they're not ignored
When He speaks, He should be heard

The day I was baptized
Everyone dressed with care
And the day was more apprised
From this reverence they did share

As I became washed clean
As the newest member
As a new Saint I am seen
And I dress to remember

I choose to walk with grace
In our Savior's footsteps
As I long to see His face
I'll abide in His precepts

And as I practice reverence...
Some things are so sacred
Words... in a trust that is immense
...In my heart they're kept instead


Elder D. Todd Christofferson
A Sense of the Sacred
CES November 7, 2004

Preach the Gospel

Preach the gospel
Unto all people
Teach what is true

Be Thou humble
And fill the temple
There is work to do

Come and unite
With oil for light
Awake and watch keep

Do what is right
The goal is in sight
Call in the lost sheep

Keep the mind pure
There's help to endure
Great blessings await

There is treasure
Of greatest pleasure
On the path that is straight

Preach My Gospel

Preach my gospel
Unto the people
Give them my love
And Father's above

Help them to know
My waters still flow
Teach of my ways
And how best to pray

Those that hear it
Will feel the Spirit
Which testifies
That I hear their cries

As they begin
To reach towards heaven
They'll find treasures
Within in the scriptures

Please be my voice
The rest is their choice
Bless you my son,
From the Beloved One

We Are Daughters of Heavenly Father

We are daughters of Heavenly Father
And we offer Him our obedience
We've divine nature, as His daughters
Which is reflected in our countenance

We walk in virtue and understand
A chosen peculiar person has worth
Our dignity shows in how we stand
And we've retrenched to arise and shine forth

To be the worlds one bright shining hope
We have been called to be immovable
We've power, love and sound minds to cope
Combined, our strength is incalculable

You will find us standing on high ground
For we've drawn a line where we will not go
We have shown our line to all around
And hope for others to come see and know

We have our own style that protects us
As our time's not spent looking like the world
Our dress is modest and free from fuss
And, we're comfortable when our posture is curled

Our temple grounds are constantly groomed
To reflect the sacred spirit inside
And as daughters of God, how our light blooms
When we're good on the inside and outside

Elaine S. Dalton
Arize and Shine Forth
BYU Women's Conference 2004

retrench- to cut down, to reduce or diminish,
to curtail, or to economize
"Retrench in everything that is bad and worthless, and improve in everything that is good and beautiful"- Susa Young Gates, MIA, Deseret News, 1911

Washed Clean

When our conduct is based on values
We're on a path filled with light
As we put the Lord's doctrines to use
Our hope grows through new insight

The gospel can change behavior
Quicker than any behavioral study
With the first we've hope to be pure
With the latter truth's matter is muddy

It is truly exhilarating
To ask and become spiritually cleansed
We are consoled. It is liberating
When we are not harrowed up by our sins

Just as we are obedient to laws
There are laws for ordinances too
The gospel can wash us of flaws
With values that cleanse and renew

Boyd K. Packer
"Washed Clean"
Ensign May 1997, 9
Best baptism poem ever

Boyd K. Packer penned this:
Washed Clean (Friend, Apr. 1999, inside front cover)
If we could only understand
All we have heard and seen,
We'd know there is no greater gift
Than those two words-"Washed clean!"

Alma 36:17-19
17 And it came to pass that as I was thus racked with torment, while I was harrowed up by the memory of my many sins, behold, I remembered also to have heard my father prophesy unto the people concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.
18 Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried within my heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on me, who am in the gall of bitterness, and am encircled about by the everlasting chains of death.
19 And now, behold, when I thought this, I could remember my pains no more; yea, I was harrowed up by the memory of my sins no more.

Modesty Starts in Your Heart

Modesty starts in your heart
Where the spirit can take part
It's more than what's on your skin
As it is all that flows within

It is music and dancing
Love's courtship, romancing
It is wholesome and tasteful
It is respectful and chasteful

It's not cleavage and armpits
And bare waists and high slits
What is underneath won't show
As you bend, reach up and throw

It is not having to straighten
Pick at, pull or rebutton
While with another you're visiting
What it shows, is you are interesting

It is not flaunting the curves
And watching who observes
It is feeling alive and grateful
While not being disdainful

It is recognizing worth
And enjoying life on earth
Not just because we have bodies
But for the knowledge it embodies

I pulled these thoughts together
after reading lds mormon network
comments on modesty