There is Only One Source of Peace- Often

There is only one source of peace, often
In the most difficult times of our lives
Through the Savior heavy burdens soften
Unto rest to continue to strive

Shall we let a circumstance
Spiritually disable us?
No ...let us mark our existence
Through Christ, with His light and solace

Think of the many generations
Waiting to follow your lead
Then, renew your dedication
To strengthen yourself and your seed

Along the way, may your poor soul
Find joy as exceeding as is your pain
Even, that you may feel healthy and whole
As you find the Lord you have more gained

He, our bright and morning star
Will deliver us out of any bondage
"Hold on thy way", He is never far
Come what elements combine to hedge


Turn to the Lord
Who is mighty to save
Find strength to move forward
On a path He has paved


Turn to the Lord
Elder Donald L. Hallstrom
Ensign, May 2010, 78

I'll Send One and See if It's Okay

I'll send one and see if it's okay
Then another along the way
One by one until we're done
Then we'll go outside and have some fun

A single line straight and long
Moving gently as a train
Showing in behavior...we are strong
And equal to the quality of our brains

I Care too much to See You Fall

I care too much to see you fall
High intelligence is your call
Sit up straight and act your part
Look ahead it's time to start

Good Things to Come

When, desperately, you need to know
Everything will turn out fine
Wait, patiently, as then you will grow
And be surprised by what you'll find

Believe...happiness will come
Whether soon, late, or beyond heaven's gate
Embrace our Lord and welcome
All that for you eventually awaits

A Young Man was Asked to Share His Favorite Scripture

A young man was asked to share his favorite scripture
And thought immediately of one, with wit
But, feelings came. He was not so sure…
He sought for one that all might benefit

As the Spirit works oft in unlikely ways
The scripture came to him through seminary
For it is through obedience that inspiration pays
And, thus, he was given the message he should carry

Yea, Though I Walk Through Life Shadowed Much with Death

Yea, though I walk through life shadowed much with death
I fear no evil, feeling God’s comfort and saving breath

For oft before me, He prepares a table in the presence of my enemies
That I might feast as He anoints my head till my cup flows sweetly over
All my days, surely, goodness and mercy has followed me and my family
In faith, I pray that I might see and dwell with Him forever

Yea and recognizing all this pertains to a spiritual sense
I strive to maintain His Spirit for my very soul's existence
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ever, I see His hand although the innocent are hurt ofttimes
As disease and calamities come and afflict all of mankind

I know there are worse things to suffer than mere mortal destruction
For, I often seek divine protection from what would to spiritually harm
According to His time and will, I know He sends pertinent instruction
Yea, I feel preserved through the grace of His mighty reaching arm

Thus, I find I've only myself to blame when my life is in the wrong
Having fallen into the traps of Satan where I know I don't belong
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The evils of lust and jealousy are about me in every way
Thus, I pray to God for guidance that temptations stay away

As, all the while, I hold the words of Christ, as I would to a rod
Leading me to safety...lest darkness completely surround
Yea I trust not my own paths for the natural man's an enemy to God
Leaning to His enticings… I yield, that His Spirit can be found

Here and now I vow that to His rod and staff I’ll cling for all my days
And seek for the safety that comes to one who feasts, prays, and obeys

Thank you Christian Rogers. Congrats on your high school graduation!

Escape Babylon- Flee to ZIon

Escape babylon, flee to Zion
Where there is safety and order
Advance the cause sure to rely on
And choose to become stewards, not owners

Create a physical manifestation
Of what God has created spiritually
Engage in the principles of consecration
And seek the interests of all, equally

Give your agency back to God
As one meek, humble, patient, and full of love
Pivot yourself from Babylon
And ponder what's gained then above

Care for the Lord's children
Be a wise and profitable steward
Acknowledge all we have comes from heaven
Unto trust, for the highest reward

Come find Zion...let all idleness be spent
As abilities are matched with labor
There in is happiness and self- respect
As prosperity is desired for self and neighbor

The Guiding Principles of Consecration
By Larry Barkdull

read the article at Meridian Magazine
click on title to go directly

Larry Barkdull has written extensively on the principle of Zion...

If We're So Blessed

If we're so blessed
The missionaries will come
To our home for rest
Like family... welcomed

They bright with power
As ambassadors
From them light showers
Through awakened doors

The missionary move in
Will increase their numbers
And better secure them
For the finding of members

What do you think of missionaries moving into family's homes? What a blessing it will be for all!

Our Little Family- Sealed

Our little family
All dressed in white
Were sealed for eternity
In a room filled with light


Dedicated to the Lester family...
soon to have another for their quiver full...
the first to be born under the covenant! Precious...

Seek the Higher Ground

first ces broadcast from Hawaii...

Say the word aloha
Enjoy its sound and meaning
Oh the emotions that grows of
This lovely common greeting

Love, peace, compassion
Kindness, mercy, and grace
Are found in this expression
That’s as sweet as an embrace

Doubly, this word acknowledges
The importance of the individual
As no obligation hedges
Nor becomes trite or too casual

Ever it encompasses
The principle of faith!
Seeing what no one notices
Yet not judging another’s way

Wouldn’t it be a wonder
If, like Hawaii, all the world
Could listen, with this spirit, to hear
What to the heart is then heard?


Honolulu City Council Policy Resolutions
(Link to original Word Processing Version)
97-117, CD1
http://www.co.honolulu.hi.us/refs/cclpol/97-117.htm

Elder Donald L. Hallstrom - Turn to the Lord

There is only one source of peace, often
In the most difficult times of our lives
Through the Savior all life's burdens soften
Unto rest to continue to strive

Shall we let a circumstance
Disable us spiritually?
No ...let us mark our existence,
With Christ's Light, for eternity

Think of the many generations
Waiting to follow your lead
Then, renew your dedication
Strengthen yourself and your seed

Along life's journey, may your poor soul
Find joy as exceeding as is your pain
Even, that you may know God's will and your role
As you find the Lord it is faith that you gain

He, our bright and morning star,
Will deliver us out of any bondage
"Hold on thy way", He is never far
Come what elements combine to hedge

Turn to the Lord
Who is mighty to save!
Find strength to move forward
On a path He has paved

Turn to the Lord
Elder Donald L. Hallstrom
Ensign, May 2010, 78

Put a Human Face

Put a human face
To the issue of immigration
As they are God's children to embrace...
Then let our hearts measure this education

Discovered a new site
Mormon Mentality...

Read one comment proposing sponsership of families that have joined the church and are living good, contributing lives...


President Teddy Roosevelt in 1907, said the following in regards to his idea’s on Immigrants

” In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith, becomes an American and assimilates himself (herself) to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for if it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace or origin. But this is predicated upon the person’s becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American… There can be no devided allegiance here. Any man (woman) who says his is an American, but somthing else also, isn’s an American at all. We have no room for but one flag, the American flag…and we have room for but on language here and that is the English language…and we have room but for one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.”

Life Happens

Life happens
Let it be
Faith opens
Eternity

Lengthen Your Stride

Lengthen your stride
Expand your vision
Till the church is worldwide
Fulfilling its mission

Filling the earth
With faith and prayers
Teaching man His worth
As the gospel light shares

May freedom's doors open
Unto all nations and people
That the blessings of heaven
Might be witnessed through His temples

Boldly,
Nobly,
The Standard of Truth is here
Awaiting to penetrate every continent and ear

Boldly,
Nobly,
Till the great Jehovah shall say the work is done!
And He shall come to reign on earth with Zion won!


To Fill the Earth
Ensign, July 2010, 38

Seek the Face of the Lord

Seek the face of the Lord
And let patience possess your soul
There is glory to behold
That completes us whole

What does it mean to seek His face?
It is to know who He is
And what He has done for the human race

Drawing close through our faith and actions
It is to do as He asks
And to read His words and know His interactions

And while we may not see Him now
He is upon our countenance
And in His house covenants endow
For our eternal continuance

Let us bring our children
Unto the Lord above
Let Him be real to them
That they may feel His love

What do you see on my face?
Does it show that I love you?
When our eyes embrace
Can you see Christ's Light shine through?

With the Lord and through Him
We can do what we need to
As the windows of heavens open
Through the covenants we keep too

That Our Children Might See the Face of the Savior
Cheryl C. Lant
Ensign, May 2010, 81

D&C 101: 38
Seek the face of the Lord always,
That in patience ye may possess your souls,
and ye shall have eternal life

D&C 93:1
Verily, thus saith the Lord: It shall come to pass that every soul who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me, and calleth on my name, and obeyeth my voice, and keepeth my commandments, shall see my face and know that I am.

When We Keep Our Feelings

When we suppress our feelings
True relief is seldom found
When we express them, there is healing
As an inner peace is found

I Want to Save a Soul

I want to save a soul
And invite one unto Christ
As God's disciple, this is my goal
To see another baptized

I want to go out in the world
And live the Lord's teachings
I pray His message will be heard
By those searching, reaching

I want to save a soul
Even if it is but my own
For with Christ, I feel whole
Never to be alone

I want to feel God's power
Each day helping me strive
Preserving me hour by hour
As with the spirit I come alive

saving a soul has three dimensions:
my soul, my neighbor, my family (Including my progenitors)



thoughts from my stake president's talk

I Felt God's Approval Abide

I felt God's approval abide
Encouraging...all who attended
As with her mother at her side
A young woman's recognition was extended

At times... there had been corrective counsel
Yet, she never rebelled or felt rejected
Her parents and leaders had been gentle
Such that she quickly repented

Having crossed the rocky and steep
On her path homeward to God
Though stumbling some...she did keep
To the programs...as need we all

Help Them on Their Way Home
President Henry B. Eyring
Ensign, May 2010, 22

Happy Father's Day

13 poems: Happy Father's Day!


Shoulder to Shoulder- Father and Son

Shoulder to shoulder
Father and son
One a little older
Helping each to become

Where there are gaps
Mentors fill in
Not all have dads
Sons or kindred

Young men- truly
You're the better version
Share your dreams fully
Seek advice how to be that person

Fathers- you are heroes
In countless ways
Be the one who knows
Trusted always

Brethren- listen
Value...suggest
Counsel often
Motivate...confess

Dare to have "big talks"
Unto worthiness
That where e'er each man walks
The spirit's there to witness

Fathers and Sons
A Remarkable Relationship
Eldr M. Russell Ballard
Ensign, November 2009, 47


Father Won't You Kneel


Father won't you kneel
While I stand upon a chair
For a moment I want you to feel
What it's like from way down here

Let me wear your tie
Hold your wallet and your keys
Wave to you good-bye
For just a moment please

Then watch me jump
Into your ready arms
With the sound of a trump
Presto, the car alarms!

Let us go for a ride
With ice cold soda pop
To the park and the slide
Then, carry me as you gallop

This day you're my dad
It is our special day
I don't want you to be sad
So I've planned it all my way

Life Doesn't Get Much Better Than This

Life doesn't get much better than this
The father said as he knelt to pray
For he had just heard from the last child...frantic
Thus, they'd all called or seen him on Father's Day!

And, in the heavens high above
Heavenly Father added one more
Of fathers reporting in with love
(For the blessing of it...not to keep score)



Father- So Oft I Have Come to You

Father, so oft I have come to you
Asking questions from my soul
Thanks for all you have seen me through
And for helping me stay whole

All my life, I have found
You're a solid strand of strength
For choosing the right, I am bound
As you help me go the length

You're a guiding force
On life's playing field
You help me stay the course

You're a constant stream
Of flowing knowledge
You help me learn and dream

You're a waiting light
That I know is there
You help me choose the right

You're a handy tool
As I build my life
That I might serve and school

Lastly, you're a ready book
As an example grand
That I might be as a rook
With a straight path to land

Father, you're who I want to be
So unnerved by the world
On this course I am following
May you wave...like a banner unfurled



Dad- Happy Father's Day

Dad- Happy Father's Day
Thank you for all that you do
May these words in a small way
Express my gratitude

You are solid strength to me
Being ever responsible
Through your example, I see
The impossible is still possible


Please leave comments of what you would like to see in a tribute to the Father...I would love to write a poem for you...


The Sacred Name of Father



The sacred name of Father
You share with God above
In your arms, you gather
His precious ones of love

Irregardless of your wealth
What you hold builds God's nation
Unto generations of health
As you fully man your station

Great things are required
To train a child while still young
Pray... you'll be inspired
Unto righteous dominion

Revere the noble men
Who have come before
They went without often
To provide the home with... more

More of dad's sure words
With votes of confidence
The rush when this is heard
How you make a difference!

And when, for them, you've tears
They feel you're strength so rare
As, through you, the Father nears
With holy comfort there

When love prevails in the home
Oh, the joy of children
The richest treasure known
A whispers distance from heaven

Let the home be the place
Where standards are best taught
Help them express to your face
Love and honesty a lot

Set your house in order
With prayer and priesthood shown
Create a safety boarder
That the spirit is well known

And above all... believe
You have a sacred call
One that never leaves
The noblest one of all

Ezra Taft Benson
Great Things Required of Their Fathers
Ensign, May 1981, 34

Speak to them kindly; get down and weep with them, if necessary, and get them to shed tears with you if possible. Soften their hearts; get them to feel tenderly towards you. Use no lash and no violence, but … approach them with reason, with persuasion and love unfeigned. With this means, if you cannot gain your boys and your girls, … there will be no means left in the world by which you can win them to yourselves.” (Liahona, The Elders’ Journal, 17 Oct. 1911, pp. 260–61.)

your wife and your children are happy, then you will do all in your power to do so. I am not just speaking of satisfying material desires, but of filling other vital needs such as appreciation, compliments, comforting, encouraging, listening, and giving love and affection.

love prevails over a united family is of far greater value to God and future humanity than any other riches. In such a home God can work miracles, and will work miracles. Pure hearts in a pure home are always in whispering distance of Heaven



Dear Father- You're a Wonder

Dear Father, you're a wonder
That all men I measure under
Thankyou for doing your best
And being an example that never rests


You Already Have All the Cool Stuff

You already have all the cool stuff
So, I couldn't think what to buy
Till I remembered I was too rough
With that thing which I used to pry

Perhaps while I am at it
I will clean up your tool shed
For I scattered what wouldn't fit
So it wouldn't land upon your head


Dear Daddy

Dear Daddy,
With all of my heart this day
I love you more than I can say
And I thank you for all you do...
As your example shines so true

Thank you for providing
Us with a home and a car
And forever guiding
Even when you travel far

Thank you for the time you spend
Doing the things you know I like
And for your shoulders you did lend
On that mountainous endless hike

I want to grow up to be like you
Ever strong and valiant
I pray to Heavenly Father, too,
That I might share some of your talents


I Need to Talk to My Father

I need to talk to Father
When something happens bad
Any hour- it's no bother
Time for me- he'll always have

I seek for his perspective
As it's solid as a rock
He'll listen then he'll give
Sound words each time we talk

For him I am so grateful
He ever offers to provide
That when a day seems fateful
I lean on his strength to guide



We Bought Father's Flowers

We bought Father's flowers
A day ahead
For this day showers
Upon the living and the dead

Happy Father's Day is here
Unto all who are men
We'll remember you all year
Until this day comes again


Father's Day... Forever Membered

Today...I see Father's Day
In a totally new way
Feeling those long passed wishing to be remembered
And sealed to our family, as fathers forever membered

Researching with energy, time, and care
I found the known names already there
Some had even at one point became endowed
But most of their sealings had not been allowed

So, as one privileged to gather up the links
I started searching... it became hard to blink
So many names...swirling by all too fast
The heads of households, generations past
Till I found my father's father's fathers at last

Inspired when I saw in the church news:
New FamilySearch Library in Riverton Opens to the Public!


You've Left an Imprint on Me


You've left an imprint on me
And taught me what's best to be
That through your strength and persuasion
I've persisted unto my education

Now, while to my books, I'm returning
For providence and for learning
May this book mark be used for safekeeping...
For the evenings before you tire for sleeping

We Bought Father's Day Flowers

We bought Father's Day flowers
Fully a day ahead
For this day showers
Upon the living and the dead

Happy Father's Day is here
Unto all who are men
We'll remember you all year
Until this day comes again

Dear Heavenly Father - I Have Come to Know Thee through my Earthly Father

Dear, Heavenly Father
I have come to know Thee
Through my earthly father
Thy servant, worthily

Oft he spoke Thy words
In priesthood prayers
The tenderness I heard
Told me Thou cares

Always, from his heart
He spoke of Thee above
From what he did impart
I trust in Thee with love

Now, oft when I pray
I think of his voice
And the fact he's gone Thy way
Causes my heart to rejoice

Father's Day... Forever Membered

Today...I see Father's Day
In a totally new way
Feeling those long passed wishing to be remembered
And sealed to our family, as fathers forever membered

Researching with energy, time, and care
I found the known names already there
Some had even at one point became endowed
But most of their sealings had not been allowed

So, as one privileged to gather up the links
I started searching... it became hard to blink
So many names...swirling by all too fast
The heads of households, generations past
Till I found my father's father's fathers at last

Inspired when I saw in the church news:
New FamilySearch Library in Riverton Opens to the Public!

The Morning was Come

The morning was come, the chief priests were done
Having, amongst themselves already counseled
Jesus was to be decreed- but a blasphemous person
At last... as they'd long wished him condemned

Judas, bitterly guilty of betrayal
Came to repent and give the money back
But, too late, their judgment was final
They mocked his offer, and asked, "What is that?"

Judas, wishing he'd never been born, went to tree... alone,
Tied a rope, and hung, as his own form of sentencing
While the silver coins remained unlawful to have or even own
For, knowing this, the high priests kept them from the treasury

Quickly the money was spent on a potter's field
To bury the homeless and poor strangers therein
And is known as a place of blood... to this day... still
Appointed for sorrow...a land fully cursed and barren

thoughts from:
Matthew 27:10

Jesus had said: The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! It had been good for that man if he had not been born...Matt 26:24
The coins fulfilled prophecy...Zech 11:13

Alma 34:11
Now there is not any man that can sacrifice his own blood which will atone for the sins of another. Now, if a man murdereth, behold will our law, which is just, take the life of his brother? I say unto you, Nay.
12But the law requireth the life of him who hath murdered; therefore there can be nothing which is short of an infinite atonement which will suffice for the sins of the world....this is a great chapter to read...

Redeem Me from My Sins

Beloved Savior, the Son of God
Thine angels awoke my soul
Now I lay upon repentance sod
From my sins, won't Thou come and make me whole?

For the devil comes quickly in his mighty winds
To trap me in the whirlwind's shafts
Dragging me miserably as endless wo descends
While, daily, my demise he crafts

Oh, won't Thou help me to stand
Upon the rock which Ye are built
And hold me safely in Thy hand
Away from all the sin filled silt

His gulf is dark and sickening
And ever I feel alone
Won't Thou heal me unto quickening
Through Thy powers which atone

This I prayed curled in a ball
Swallowed up in pain
Ever being prone to fall
Of my needs... I spoke plain

Then something in my heart did pound
As the Spirit in me burned
And I felt as though on holy ground
For upon the Lord's foundation, I'd returned



Helaman 5:9 O remember, remember, my sons, the words which king Benjamin spake unto his people; yea, remember that there is no other way nor means whereby man can be saved, only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, who shall come; yea, remember that he cometh to redeem the world.
10 And remember also the words which Amulek spake unto Zeezrom, In the city of Ammonihah; for he said unto him that the Lord surely should come to redeem his people, but that he should not come to redeem them in their sins, but to redeem them from their sins.
11 And he hath power given unto him from the Father to redeem them from their sins because of repentance; therefore he hath sent his angels to declare the tidings of the conditions of repentance, which bringeth unto the power of the Redeemer, unto the salvation of their souls.
12 And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.

Shall I Let Satan

Shall I let Satan
My peace, destroy
When I have light within
Unto great joy

So, as I say, "Depart!
I have no need of you"
A pulse jumps from my heart
Lending courage to say and do

Eager to Press Ahead

Eager to press ahead
To the rod, he held firm
Hungrily, each day he read
As a light within him burned

But that was long ago
The light has since but gone
His hands, how they hang low
Unsure, now, where to go

Who has light enough to share?
And can show him where he'd been?
How once he had feasted there...
Search... reaching... way back when

To All Who Suffer

To all who suffer
To all who mourn
Christ's light buffers
The weary worn

The wear of trials
They are as His own
When the world piles
He will carry the load

When Your Mouth is Always Open

When your mouth is always open
It is hard to find your heart
Close it well...search and listen
Be surprised what life imparts

All Things Work Together for our Good

I've gained a testimony of one thing-
A principle leaving little doubt
All the trials this life brings
Eventually will be worked out

God, watching over the human race
Would that we develop perfect faith
Our very lives, then, fall into place
If we believe and grow not faint

All things work together for our good
If we're patient and do what's right
Then, according to the will of God
Our righteous desires come within sight

Our rewards on this grand earth
Are tremendously great
More than that, we're of eternal worth
As we have entered Christ's own narrow gate

Thank you Aria
Happy graduation! Good luck in College!

Ezra 8: 22 For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him.
Alma 36: 3 And now, O my son Helaman, behold, thou art in thy youth, and therefore, I beseech of thee that thou wilt hear my words and learn of me; for I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day.
D&C 90: 24 Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and call things shall work together for your good, if ye walk uprightly and remember the covenant wherewith ye have covenanted one with another.
D&C 100: 15 Therefore, let your hearts be comforted; for all things shall work together for good to them that walk uprightly, and to the sanctification of the church.

All of the Things I Wish for with a Heart's Desire

All of the things I wish for with a heart's desire
Come of the Holy Spirit, as they truly inspire
Like: humility, charity, a growing testimony
Virtue, happiness, and good friends who are not phony

In everything I do, think, wear, and say
I want to be clean in every single way
Already, I have been through many trials of my faith
Recognizing, then, my righteous desires growing faint

Countering this, I've learned the principle of work
Filling my mind with light... lest there's darkness where Satan can lurk
And when I find, upon Christ I am the most centered
I feel tremendous love, renewing covenants solemnly entered

What greater fruit can one obtain from the Latter Day gospel?
Than the sweet love I feel given towards myself and for all of God's people
It's becoming easier to see my blessings every day
As I see with the lord's eyes...and remembering always to pray

D&C 137: 8-9
For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts.

Moroni 6:4 Be watchful unto prayer continually


1 Cor 10:13

Thank you Sister Tingey for teaching me. Happy graduation- hope you fulfill some of your heart's desires at BYU!

Father Won't You Kneel

Father won't you kneel
While I stand upon a chair
For a moment I want you to feel
What it's like from way down here

Let me wear your tie
Hold your wallet and your keys
Wave to you good-bye
For just a moment please

Then watch me jump
Into your ready arms
With the sound of a trump
Presto, the car alarms!

Let us go for a ride
With ice cold soda pop
To the park and the slide
Then, carry me as you gallop

This day you're my dad
It is our special day
I don't want you to be sad
So I've planned it all my way

Oh Savior

Oh Savior won't Thou impart
Thy Spirit more in me
To fill my poor and simple heart
And help me grow like Thee

thought during sacrament meeting...

What a Wonderful Time that is Ours

What a wonderful time is ours to live
Especially in the summer, when the world comes alive
We've gatherings, picnics, reunions, and vacations
Due to the benefits of prosperity and innovations

We know this land is blessed like no other
Let us serve it well and lift one another
Ours is the greatest history we have ever known
But the challenges of pride are more and more shown

Having become idle, time is being filled with distractions
Some, unto lustful behaviors and evil attractions
Thus, with the blessings of wealth, there comes a warning
To those turned to wickedness, calamities are forthcoming

As brothers and sisters we're a blessed people
Privileged fully with the everlasting new gospel
Happy are we to have a foundation of faith
As with our families we prepare for what ever awaits

In all our associations we should be good
Forming everywhere a sense of brotherhood
We've greater appreciation of knowledge and love
Let us keep the commandments and send prayers high above

Let us not fear the future nor be dismayed
For God is near to strengthen and give us aid
If we heed what our leaders now counsel us
With God we'll be upheld with His hand of righteousness

Thoughts from The Messenger
Shadow Canyon Ward
Henderson NV
Green Valley Stake

Bishop Baird
As members of the church what are we to do?

This Babe You Bear- Don't Abort It!

This babe you bear is innocent
A special gift, from heaven, sent
To balance the darkness of the world
It now lay inside you safely curled

Won't you take a moment to humbly pray
How to make it a home or give it away
Equal to your sorrow, there are those who now weep
And mourn for what in the womb you keep

They would to fill the world up with love
And petition prayers for you from above
Imagine your life many years from now
With a long trail of goodness only sacrifice allows

His Voice Pierced their Hearts

His voice pierced their hearts
And caused their souls to burn
Then after He did depart
From Him they never turned

For two hundred years they lived
Perfectly, as He had taught
The witnesses legacy... theres to give
His words, such that they never fought

3 Nephi 11: 3 And it came to pass that while they were thus conversing one with another, they heard a voice as if it came out of heaven; and they cast their eyes round about, for they understood not the voice which they heard; and it was not a harsh voice, neither was it a loud voice; nevertheless, and notwithstanding it being a small voice it did pierce them that did hear to the center, insomuch that there was no part of their frame that it did not cause to quake; yea, it did pierce them to the very soul, and did cause their hearts to burn.

In 14 Days- A Blessed Way to Know

A blessed way to truly know
Our older brother and who He is
Is to walk the paths where He did go
And ponder the words that are His

Then, with love, we can more live
And do as He commands
Out of the highest motive
To be His feet and hands

Intro:
The only way we can really know another person is to: walk in his shoes..." think what he thinks... learn what he knows... say what would say... and do what he does. Christ said, 'Be ye therefore perfect." We can only accomplish this as we become more like Him. Faithfully follow this fourteen day walk with Christ and you will understand Him better.

click on the above title to find a Young Women's 14 Days of- A Walk with Christ...
I like it because each day starts with a question

Life Doesn't Get Much Better Than This

Life doesn't get much better than this
The father said as he knelt to pray
For he had just heard from the last child...frantic
Thus, they'd all called or seen him on Father's Day!

And, in the heavens high above
Heavenly Father added one more
Of fathers reporting in with love
(For the blessing of it...not to keep score)

My Procrastinated Life

I actually made it to noon today
Before I wished the day away
After all, with tomorrow, there's a fresh new start
At least this is what I kept saying deep inside my heart

Here is the story of my procrastinated life
Putting off joy for when I was done with strife...

Each day had barely started
When I wished it away
Overburdened and faint-hearted
It was not my day

And so began the pattern of looking far ahead
Thinking each day and season was something to get through
Yes, life would start when I was finally employed and wed
I began anticipating all I could and then, would do

But, years passed with me still pushing days aside
As though something inside me was dead and wanting more
Not truly living until that day I nearly died...
That was when I asked God, "what was my life really for?"

I prayed like there was no tomorrow
And I held my family close
With God's strength then to borrow
I wished the day would never close

Each word was so sweet
Each smile more tender
And when eyes did meet
What joy I then entered

Don't wait for the house
The job or vacation
Appreciate your spouse
And each daily occasion

When you want the day to end
Take a moment and recount
All the beauty life does lend
And love the day like its the last to count

Thank you Chad for getting me to think!

On Eagle's Wings, A Memorial

Before he was formed as a fetus
God knew Jeremiah...and he was sanctified
To be a special witness of Jesus
But who listened...as children they sacrificed

Jeremiah 1:5 Before i formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

LDS Prophets warn us of the dangers facing America

We have been placed on earth
In a troubled day
Complexity's now hurl
As powers struggle and weigh

The schemes of man
Are more at work
To destroy God's plan
With a downwards jerk

Deeply concerned
For this country of love
To serve...we must turn
And proudly stand up

This message is not sweet
But must be told
From God.. now we sweep
Unto socialism cold

Shockingly, now born
For the whole world to see
Policies have torn
Fabrics of liberty

The executive branch
Through supreme court call
Have worked hard to launch
A nation without God

Our future ... forlorn
Is frightening indeed
We must get informed
If we want to be freed

Stand for freedom's role
No matter the cost
It can save your soul
Without God...we are lost

Through complacency
We are now in danger
For our prosperity-
We must no longer languor

The time has come to heed
And get our homes in order
Portent storms indeed
Now lay upon four corners

If we are prepared
We shall not fear
God's Word, we must share
And proclaim He is near

Prager University: The American Trinity

American values
How are they different?
Here freedom rules
Heaven sent

Here immigrants
Assimilate
Equality grants
We don't differentiate

Epluribus unum
Race, color, creed- we don't care
We're an American union
A love for God and freedom- we all share

Born equally
With inalienable rights
Our equality
Puts talents within sights

Father- So Oft I Have Come to You

Father, so oft I have come to you
Asking questions from my soul
Thanks for all you have seen me through
And for helping me stay whole

All my life, I have found
You're a solid strand of strength
For choosing the right, I am bound
As you help me go the length

You're a guiding force
On life's playing field
You help me stay the course

You're a constant stream
Of flowing knowledge
You help me learn and dream

You're a waiting light
That I know is there
You help me choose the right

You're a handy tool
As I build my life
That I might serve and school

Lastly, you're a ready book
As an example grand
That I might be as a rook
With a straight path to land

Father, you're who I want to be
So unnerved by the world
On this course I am following
May you wave...like a banner unfurled

How Would We Receive Revelation

How would we receive revelation
Within our sacred hallowed halls
If antagonists there in stationed
To thwart our heavenly calls

Quietly He Turned His Head

Quietly he turned his head
Listening to every sound
Seeking hungrily to be fed
He made note of what they'd found

T'was not of food that they spoke
But of a love, pure and rich
Such that it truly in them awoke
Thoughts that did enrich

But when he went into his book
The words...he could not find them
On a computer...he did look
And unto the fullness... his search brought him

How Beautiful are the Feet

How beautiful are the feet
Of our prophets who publish peace
For where'er Saints oft meet
The Lord's Spirit does but increase

Let His good news ever be heard
And administer forth holy light
Quickening minds through His Word
Unto warmth and bright delight

Romans 10:
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

Mosiah 15:
13 Yea, and are not the prophets, every one that has opened his mouth to prophesy, that has not fallen into transgression, I mean all the holy prophets ever since the world began? I say unto you that they are his seed.
14 And these are they who have published peace, who have brought good tidings of good, who have published salvation; and said unto Zion: Thy God reigneth!
15 And O how beautiful upon the mountains were their feet!
16 And again, how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those that are still publishing peace!
17 And again, how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those who shall hereafter publish peace, yea, from this time henceforth and forever!
18 And behold, I say unto you, this is not all. For O how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that is the founder of peace, yea, even the Lord, who has redeemed his people; yea, him who has granted salvation unto his people;

The Godhead Family

God is our spiritual Father
Jesus our Savior and Brother
And, dwelling inside...where e'er light gathers
The Holy Ghost... links us together

When I Go to Church

When I go to church
Spiritually, I'm home
This high place that I perch
Frees me soaring... and things I'm shown

I belong to a family of believers
Where each has a place that awaits
Through God, we are high achievers
Forordained before our earth birth dates

God...we're born spiritually of Him...He is our Father
Jesus lights us, purely...as our Brother
The Spirit... leads us to gather
Dwelling in us...of the Godhead, He is another

No wonders we've a holy house
That the endowed who are worthy enter
There...though the body may drowse
The spirit reaches and teaches our inner

Ehpesians
3:14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, 3:15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,
3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to
be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; 3:17 That
Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and
grounded in love, 3:18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what
is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 3:19 And to know
the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled
with all the fulness of God

Inspiring words...inspire
Writing of them is my desire
thanks for your thoughts:
http://www.spirituallyled.com/2010/01/freedom-in-the-body-tests-the-limits-of-leaders/

God Wants Us to Stretch

God wants us to stretch
Upwards... reaching
He knows our life's sketch
And leads the humble... seeking

He will stir the heart
Softened for a journey
Through faith...He imparts
According to our needs

Like the prophets born of old
Who did as God does say
Miracles do unfold
Blessings often come our way

thoughts from When a Calling Becomes Spiritual Paralysis
http://www.spirituallyled.com/2010/05/when-a-calling-becomes-spiritual-paralysis/#respond

The Ancient Poets Past

The ancient poets past
Come to whisper in my ear
And I must take notes fast
Before they disappear

Who will read the words?
Or even think much of them?
Those with ears flutter by like birds
Hearing but their own sounds often

Perhaps those humbly searching
For their own thoughts to find
Without the words for speaking
Will be led by these angels of time

Sometimes I wonder
Where my words come from
In the quiet, I ponder
With listening begun

The Threatened Demise of Religion in the Public Square - Talk Given by Elder Lance B. Wickman at J. Reuben Clark Law Society - LDS Newsroom

The Threatened Demise of Religion in the Public Square - Talk Given by Elder Lance B. Wickman at J. Reuben Clark Law Society - LDS Newsroom


Just before a bill was lodged
Fully in the eleventh hour
The social rights bullet was barely dodged
In the UK by convincing voting power

For, in the name of equality
It would mandate rules of hire
Ridding our church of the ability
To prescreen, with recommends required

We, with a coalition of churches
Banded to preserve religious freedom
Standing up to discrimination charges
But, these assaults are coming in all kingdoms!

From the plaza to the postage stamp
The demise of religion threatens
Nearly forbidding one to morally stand
By using social rights as weapons

George Washington once said of his time and season
"We have abundant reason to rejoice
That in this Land the light of truth and reason
Has triumphed..." and these words, today, are still choice

The following is part of a talk given by Elder Lance B. Wickman, a member of the Seventy, at J. Reuben Clark Law Society on 11 February 2010.

"As I travel about in my current capacity as a General Authority of the Church and as the general counsel of the Church, I often hear this question: What is the greatest challenge faced by the Church? I suppose there are a number of candidates for an answer—a continuing rapid growth that makes retaining new converts a top priority or perhaps finding and training local leaders. But from where I sit, the greatest challenge faced by the Church is the challenge to religious liberty that is growing worldwide. "

Just Before a Bill was Lodged

Just before a bill was lodged
Fully in the eleventh hour
The social rights bullet was barely dodged
In the UK by convincing voting power

For, in the name of equality
It would mandate rules of hire
Ridding our church of the ability
To prescreen, with recommends required

We, with a coalition of churches
Banded to preserve religious freedom
Standing up to discrimination charges
But, these assaults are coming in all kingdoms!

From the plaza to the postage stamp
The demise of religion threatens
Nearly forbidding one to morally stand
By using social rights as weapons

George Washington once said of his time and season
"We have abundant reason to rejoice
That in this Land the light of truth and reason
Has triumphed..." and these words, today, are still choice

In the Eleventh Hour

In the eleventh hour
Of a trial I did bear
I felt God's love shower
With tender mercy rare

To me He sent my friends
With messages of comfort
Knowing I was stretched to my ends
He inspired others to give support

In the Eleventh Hour

In the eleventh hour
Of a trial I did bear
I felt God's love shower
With tender mercy rare

To me He sent kind friends
With messages of comfort
Knowing I was stretched to my ends
He inspired others to give support

JFK on Mormons

Of all the stories heard
From the days of pioneers
Let's look to the Mormon's words
And how they persevered

To see the right prevail,
with unflagging determination
Their valient courage did not fail
Despite orders for extermination

They had unity to restation
Patience and faith set in motion
And it would do well for our nation
To follow these qualities and notions

As the Mormons have succeeded
We, too, can work to succeed
If we go not back, defeated
But heed their voices as we lead

Given in 1963 before I was born
He died when I was a month old

Prager University: Happiness is a Moral Obligation

Happiness is a moral obligation
To be altruistic no matter where one stations
It is not about me, but all about us
It is about deciding to be pleasant, thus

We have no right to inflict our bad mood upon any other
Just as we should not breath our foul breath onto another
The most miserable people, the earth has ever known
Have used power to let their unhappiness be shown

Nazis, communists, and terrorists alike
Choose to afflict mankind, that unhappiness will spike
So as you share your burdens, do not let them inflict
But, rather let them stir new thoughts to resolve conflicts

The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself. ~Benjamin Franklin
Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. ~Abraham Lincoln
http://www.quotegarden.com/happiness.html

Prager University: Key to Happiness and Goodness

The point of happiness and goodness
Lies upon our thoughts of gratitude
This sweet quality is born of meekness
Founded upon a peaceful attitude

Sadly, we've undermined this quality today
Creating entitlements for an expectant way
The more you feel that life or others owe you
Ungratefully, you compare and badly lash out too

There is a terrible price government will one day pay
For having created dependent people who search for prey
Unproductive and unhappy...entitlement is their excuse
To steal, lie, cheat, and even do that which does abuse

Before we create assistance through a social policy
Let's debate what it entitles... lest the aid's a fallacy
Let's pursue happiness with a key of opportunity
That unlocks talents to improve a "we" community


(what better reason to pray...
upon our families, homes, country, religion, freedoms, jobs, fields, gulfs filled with oil- everything

Prager University: The Most Important Verse in the Bible

after 3:30 he shows nude paintings of statues and his thoughts shift to where I do not agree... but the rest is praise worthy- Articles of Faith

After giving it much thought
I have come to an arrival
There is a single verse I ought
To study in the Bible

So obvious, to be noticed
But, each time I started reading
I quickly read and missed
Its historical meaning

To the the people in days of old
These words were staggering to be heard
For all other god's did fold
To this supreme designer of the word

Genesis 1:1 and so it began...
"God created the heaven and the earth"
If it be evolution...it be at His hand
And the God's of nature were truly naught of worth

The god of nature and light'ning
Of rain, mountain, and sea
These are but signs of God lighting
All that He created here to be

If God came of nature
That just would not be good
For only the high in stature
Survive this brotherhood

The weak would soon die out
And not be taken care of
In fact there's little doubt
They'd be the meals thereof

Taking care of the weak
Is a Genesis notion
And God, above all, whom we seek
Sets charity in motion


I stopped agreeing beyond 3 1/2 minutes...Mr. Prager stated that God is not male or female...(for we believe he is the Father of our spirits, our Heavenly Father) but the rest of his thoughts grabbed my attention.

We Proclaim Unto All the World

We've a proclamation to all the world
God's plan for man is now unfurled
Spiritually born in a premortal realm
We've heavenly parents that reign at the helm

We've always been, men and women
And prepared for earth, while yet in heaven
When mortal life came unto man
The binding of marriage then began

Through covenants made of holy order
Blessings come from heaven's border
Ultimately achieving, perfectly
Our Godly given destiny

But, we've an enemy all the while
Who tries to tempt us that our sins pile
Yet, we will repent each time we slip, and fall short
Having faith... while feeling God's aid and comfort

When we repent, oh the loving
As, like Christ, we are becoming
Ever we've His gospel, shining... to share
Amidst turmoil, we've His light and care

With our faith in God and His Son
We face the high seas we ride upon
Preserving family for all that is grand
Linked to the heavens growing close at hand

Then, when someone crosses the veil
We are assured that all is well
For knowing, one day, we'll be together
Raises us in hope and endeavor

The Eternal Family
Robert D. Hales
Ensign, November 1996, 64

quoting the Family: A Proclamation to the World
Ensign November 1995, 102

Mormon Glenn Beck: Prophet dies

Let us record what touches our hearts
And may it be heard as God's love imparts
Capturing that moment when eyes become moist
And the very comments we treasure the most

For this is our proof that heaven is close
Giving us truth from our head to our toes
Always our eyes as well as our hearts and minds swell
When searching tries and the Spirit dwells

Always there's more than we have on our own
Awaking our core that to God we are known
Sweet is the day when we feel close to Him
And much gives way as love moves within

Our prophet died and word traveled fast
Although we cried we were thankful he'd passed
Such love he had for his eternal sweetheart
We were but glad they were no longer apart

Be on the Lord's Side

Be on the Lord's side
As a bright sunbeam
Set the world aright
Stand tall and be seen

thoughts from
Be on the Lord's Side
President Deiter F. Uchtdorf
Friend, June 2010, 2

Lady Liberty- a Welcoming Mother

Lady Liberty... a welcoming mother
Promises adoption from lands of another
And raising her torch to light the long way
She teaches at her island the bright pledge to say

She lifts up her lamp
Beside the golden door
Here, tyranny stops
And liberty pours

Come of many
To unite as one
This, our country
Through God was won

Her eternal vigilance
Shines a bright example
Let us follow and enhance
Our nations freedoms we sample

Let the bald eagle
Fly high above her
As clasped in its talon
Peace remains through power

I wrote this and did something and lost it before it got posted. I hid in the bathroom, prayed and wrote one similar to it. It, too, is titled Lady Liberty...Then the weirdest thing, I found the original in my drafts on wordpress. Baffled but blessed- is all I can say.

We Open the Windows

We open the windows
Between heaven and earth
When we tithe like the widows
Who know their full worth

They, then with less
Still manage well
Finding knew ways to bless
Than money does tell

How this must please God
Who gives us so much
May what we have grow broad
As we give well and trust

pondering the widows mite...

Community Civility Awarded!

Community Civility
Was awarded to the town
That turned bickering and blaming
Completely upside down

Believing negative thoughts
Had created their sad lot
They pinpointed each confusion
Aimed high and reached solutions

Intelligence was reborn
As their citizenship reformed
They stepped back from old mindsets
Organizing to their highest!

If one plan was not a success
They didn't blame or regress
They stepped back unto new thought
As for brighter light they then sought

May this dream expand through the nation...
For we are in need of an education
Life is simple when it's sound
Unto our foundation let's be found

Let us speak up and get all to pledge
Unto becoming the leading edge
That others nations might follow
For it is through believing... thoughts allow

I hope everyone gets out and votes today
Then not complain, but get to work and pray
This is our country, let us be one under God
He has planted each of us here, on this good sod

I may not like my president
But he is who we picked
May his goodness be evident
As to our convictions, he is pricked

Let him be principled and refined
A man with integrity defined
Let him know we love our country
And it's the American Spirit we are wanting

Let him seek and live our founding,
Before he works to make new laws
May our prayers for him be sounding
That righteousness be his cause

With the principle of pay it forward
Let us be positive and expand onward
We are a city shining on a hill
And we've mighty works to fulfill

It is said we're just seven
From knowing any one
Please go out and tell eleven
We have only just begun!

From the Beginning- The Family

From the beginning- the family
Was lit for eternity
Spiritually of our Father in Heaven
We were always men and women

From the ancient days of Adam
The binding of offspring began
Through matrimony's holy order
We've a glimpse of the celestial border

Dearest Savior Pilot Me

Dearest Savior, ever more
Won't Thou leadst me from the shore
To Thine harbor filled with peace
Where the stillness calms to please
Won't Thou sendst me with a swell
To that place where all is well

Yet a wave sent me along
To a mighty headwind strong
And I felt an unseen hand
Pilot me to a strange land
Not my will but Thine be done
I then said unto the Son!

The place was dark and misty
There was naught that I could see
Only faith could help me now
The Spirit would show me how
Noises came...I would not heed
I turned to prayer for my needs


During sacrament... closing my eyes and adding to the sacrament hymn...
Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me

I Am a Member Today...

I am a member today
Because I was led
Something had urged me to pray
I was surprised by what I had said

I'd been to church before
Brought along by my sister
She'd joined as a teenager
And I had been a visitor

Many years passed
And she stopped going
But memories last
And, in me, something started growing

My baptism was set
I wore her white dress
A day I'll not forget
And...remembering, I feel so blessed

Pondering my baptism, as we all should... July 2, 1983 I have almost been a member for 27 years!
It was fast and testimony today and I felt impressed that everyone has a life's story growing inside them and we learn from each other.

Religious Freedom - LDS Newsroom

Religious Freedom - LDS Newsroom
13 October 2009 Transcript of Elder Dallin H. Oaks speech given at BYU-Idaho on 13 October 2009






The sound of battle
Is underway
We will not settle
But join in the fray

Religious freedom
Is under attack
And our founder's wisdom
Must be brought back

Those who understand
What's happening today
Must unite this land,
Educate, and pray

Our constitution
Divinely designed
Is a light to all nations
For freedoms defined

The rights of all flesh
Must needs be preserved
We've thoughts to express
And consideration's deserved

We've opportunities to act
As each man deems moral
Thus accountability's intact
With sovereignty for all

The inspired Founding Fathers
Wrote the Bill of Rights deliberately
With religion above all others
The source of their beliefs

This country's authored under God
And we sorely need His aid
If we do our part and give our all
Wise choices will be made

Summary of his five points of counsel:

First, we must speak with love, always showing patience, understanding and compassion toward our adversaries.

Second, we must not be deterred or coerced into silence by... intimidation. We must insist on our constitutional right and duty to exercise our religion, to vote our consciences on public issues and to participate in elections and debates in the public square and the halls of justice...
We must also insist on this companion condition of democratic government: when churches and their members or any other group act or speak out on public issues, win or lose, they have a right to expect freedom from retaliation.

Third, we must insist on our freedom to preach the doctrines of our faith. (Such as:)
“We follow Jesus Christ by adhering to God’s law of marriage, which is marriage between one man and one woman. This commandment has been in place from the very beginning.”[xvi]


Fourth, as advocates of the obvious truth that persons with religious positions or motivations have the right to express their religious views in public, we must nevertheless be wise in our political participation. Preachers have been prime movers in the civil rights movement from the earliest advocates of abolition, but even the civil rights of religionists must be exercised legally and wisely.

As Latter-day Saints, we should never be reticent to declare and act upon the sure foundations of our faith. The call of conscience — whether religious or otherwise — requires no secular justification. At the same time, religious persons will often be most persuasive in political discourse by framing arguments and positions in ways that are respectful of those who do not share their religious beliefs and that contribute to the reasoned discussion and compromise that is essential in a pluralistic society.[xvii]

Fifth, ...the religion of a candidate should not be an issue in a political campaign.

Acting as for Years- Kirtland

Acting as for years
The Saints busily worked
In a place that was theirs
Although temporary... no one shirked

God had consecrated the land
That they could build upon it
While learning at His hand
Thus, doubly they did profit

Talented craftsmen tooled
A temple soon was raised
Too, the prophets were schooled
And God, in the highest, was praised

They did this against the black
Of the world around them
Continually under attack
Their faith grew like a gem

We, too, should make the most
Of every stage in our lives
There is naught a time to coast
For one learn as one strives

Each day has its turns and twists
Let us take the time to be still
And remember who God is
We've His purposes to fulfill

Three elements intersect each day
No matter where we are
Our gifts, challenges, and faith
Create expanding patterns like the stars

thoughts from Your Mission in Life is Now
Jan Pinborough
Ensign, June 2010, 44

D&C 51:15-17
And thus I grant unto this people a privilege of organizing themselves according to my laws.
And I consecrate unto them this land for a little season, until I, the Lord, shall provide for them otherwise, and command them to go hence;
And the hour and the day is not given unto them, wherefore let them act upon this land as for years, and this shall turn unto them for their good.
Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God

Our Path of Duty

Our path of duty
has been clearly marked.
When we heed... there is beauty
and Light to embark.

still pondering this wonderful talk
Bishop Keith B. McMullin
Our Path of Duty
Ensign, May 2010

Memorial Day has a Spiritual Side

Our day of decoration
Given to remember those who've died
Has turned unto recreation
Losing its spiritual side

A president proclaimed
It as a day of tribute
To honor soldiers in the grave
And pay respect with gratitude

Let no wanton foot tread
Upon their hallowed grounds
May it always be said
Here is how freedom's found

From the Civil War
To our present day
Let us remember
And unite to pray

Let us recall
How liberty's achieved
And with courage stand tall
With faith in God retrieved


Memorial Day has a spiritual side
Faith has a place in national holiday

By Scott Taylor
Deseret News
Saturday, May 29, 2010

Lady Liberty

Lady liberty...a welcoming mother
Raises her torch to light the long way
Adopting those oppressed by another
She teaches all the bright pledge to say

Here she lifts her lamp
Beside the golden door
And tryanny stops
At freedom's shore

Her eternal vigilance
Shines with example
Let us act with diligence
And maintain freedoms ample

Above her, circling...the eagle
Is high for all to see
Carrying in its talons
Power that keeps us free

For we from many are one
Under God, unified
Because freedom's been won
Through His Constitution ratified

John Adams - Declaration of Independence

When in the Course of human events
It becomes necessary to dissolve political bands
Let it be under God one cements
A nation with liberty raised at hand

There to assume among the powers of earth
A separate and equal station
As God entitles them to rise in worth
With unalienable rights as a nation

Let them, first, submit all facts candidly
Listing how they've suffered from tryanny
Proving what was done underhandedly
Lest their cause be but mutany

This being said, In the chambers of Congress
Twelve voted yea, and one abstained
And America resolved with confidence
That independence must be obtained

For colonies are and ought to be
Free and independent states
With each citizen pursuing happily
What self government, within laws, dictates

Thus, they pledged their lives, their treasure
To fight for liberty to this end
For the highest rights man can measure
Founded upon the laws God does send

From these the Honored Dead

From these the honored dead
Let us increase our devotion
Unto God, equally led
With freedom, full, in motion

thoughts from Abraham Lincoln's address
click on title to read Text of Gettysburg Address

As Refugees- the Saints Came to Nauvoo

As refugees, the Saints came to Nauvoo
They set up farms and built anew
A city, a temple, hard work, and order
But soon they were swept from the state's borders

Once again they left behind all
Seemingly to walk into death's jaws
In the middle of winter they were made homeless
Their hearts were broken, but they were not hopeless

With faith in God, their voices rang in song
Their spirits were strong and they carried on
Today, one can walk down that Parley street
Where the pioneers walked out...some with bare feet

And here, nailed to the many fence posts
Are etched from dairies, their faith filled quotes
Not a one dwelled on the suffering of the saints
Theirs were stories only happiness paints

Their words spoke with joy and confidence
Stir all to walk further along the fence
How they rejoiced...their deliverance had come!
Thankful for the atonement and our Father's kingdom

Elder Wilford W. Andersen
The Rock of Our Redeemer
Ensign, May 2010, 16

It is Said that Boys will be Boys

It is said that boys will be boys
But who will teach them to be men
Two raised fingers quiet the noise
And teach from Akela's den

One of my cubs said that he was having a hard time controlling his temper and his mom had him recite from the wolf book and this reminded him of who is and his promise...
I was deeply touched again as they solemnly raised the flag in front of the church for Memorial Day. They all came, on time, in uniform. Prepared. We said a prayer, raised the flag, said the pledge, and sang our national anthem. A man on a bike stopped and put his hand on his heart. It was a sweet experience. There really is an American spirit and these boys have their part to contribute.

SINS OF OMISSION…A PRAYER by Helen Schlie

If there is only one reason
You didn't die that day
Is that your wisdom might season
Another to pray... my feelings about Helen Schlie


Sins of Omission...A Prayer


Father, Today in prayer I kneel before Thee

Knowing my deep need of Thy compassionate love

My sins of omission weigh heavily upon my soul today

As I hear of the earthly trials of those in my own family

Those to whom you have given me stewardship

Help me to understand their needs

Please grant unto me strength and energy

And desire , to do many things

To write letters of encouragement

To use the telephone to know their voices

To share the patterns of THIS family

In the stories only I can tell



Because I remember…

And because I remember…I must share.



Helen Spencer Schlie
Sunday, 6 March,2005

Annual Reagan Lecture Featuring Mitt Romney - 5/25/10

We acknowledge all the challenges we've had
Undaunted, we are a nation that faces trials head on
Together, we the people, know how to rise up and stand
And ask one another what we can do to remain strong

With a known record, we need a decisive man
Who has built and turned things around
Who is not afraid to be the first to stand
And reunite us with our Fathers to be sound

Let us quote Ronald Reagan
A President our ears had turned to
And correct the liberal agenda
Dignifying the poor to work and be married too

Let us promote the best teachers
And give student individual choice
That they might become the highest reachers
As unions are placed last to make a voice

Let us create the conditions
For ample jobs to burst forth
Increasing entrepreneurs ambitions
Is an investment that broadens our worth

Let us decrease our spending
As well as high taxes that harm
Let us not rescue risky lending
And shorten our government's arm

Let us support our allies
While keeping our values strong
Let us righteously build up ties...
To not stand for freedom is wrong

Let us beware of engagements
That fail to put tyrants on guard
Let us not excuse the arrangements
Of rogue nations that freedom's discard

There is a mission for America
That includes all of the world
Our nation...born of many miracles
Has a banner of freedom waving unfurled

For liberty and the pursuit of happiness, we labor
If we lost our strength who would keep dictatorships in check?
As now some threaten to engulf and command their neighbors
While, without earning it, demand diplomacy and respect...

Let us strengthen America
And remember the treasure and blood
Let us each say we've had enough
And sail with the tea parties flood


See how they honor our brothers in arms by starting with a pledge to allegiance

Annual Reagan Lecture at the Reagan Library in California

Governor Romney accepted an invitation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Library and Nancy Reagan to speak at their Annual Reagan Lecture. Before the speech, Mitt and Ann met privately with the former First Lady. Governor Romney also signed copies of his book "No Apology: The Case for American Greatness" for attendees at the library in Simi Valley, California.

Here is a quote from his speech:

"When we face extraordinary challenges, Americans have risen to the occasion. And that's what makes us a unique nation. Not that we don't have problems, but that when we have them and when leaders stand up and acknowledge them and are honest about the challenges, American people stand and say 'What can I do, what must I do, to make sure that America remains strong?'."

What I Want in a President

What I want in a president
Is a leader without pretense
That, though power is self-evident
It's the people he represents

I want to elect one who unites us whole
With strong vision and moral character
Showing patriotism in their role
And valiant courage that will not waver

I want to elect one who fully loves us
And God has put words in his mouth to say
That is the person I will trust
To lead us unto a brighter day

Does such a person exist
To stand firm and incorruptible
Perhaps if our prayers persist
We'll have a leader that's incredible

Perhaps if each day there's a new shadow
To help him remember who we are
There'll be less temptation and grand show
And he'll rise up as our shining star


Let these shadows be young
That the next generation will know
How leadership is best hung
Upon humble backs where true strength grows

To the Family there is a Window of Healing

To the family there is a window of healing
As God has placed us together to learn
Through a colorful spectrum of feelings
We see better as to each other's light we turn

And... those making the best choices
Should not flee from their lost loved ones
But teach them from what inside voices
That it's the desires for poor things that each one shuns

Let the hardships and issues keep circling
Until there is learning that's bright
Let the values of the past like facets cling
As the family displays prisms of light

Buoyed Up By All the Blessings in my Life

Have you ever wanted to get to know a person just because you've seen their face?
After reading that Elder Donald L. Staheli had passed away, I thought I would read- what I heard was his only talk given at a general conference... thus, the poem-

Buoyed up by wonderous blessings in my life
I cherish all that is good, though oft there is strife
Ever the gospel affords unto each of us
Opportunities to learn and grow, as to God we trust

Then...through our obedience and dedication
We are lifted up unto currents of inspiration
Through the guidance and direction of the Holy Ghost
We have help to attend to what matters the most

Yet...oft, we are at the mercy of what matters the least
Forgetting to partake of daily spiritual feasts
Having become captive to temptations and pressure
We often escape unto habitual pleasures

The varied cares of the world are so entangling
That there's always something new before us... dangling
And all too often we feel we're sailing along fine on our own
Until a challenge on the seas of life makes itself shown

Periodically one might do well, then, to ponder and ask
"If I continue this journey, what will endure and last?"
And, " Am I being chastened or challenged as life's seas ebb and flow?"
Then... might we recognize what saves us as we are tossed to and fro

When obedience ceases to be an irritant and becomes our quest
The Holy Ghost becomes our constant companion as an invited guest
And in that moment of submission, God endows us with His power
For, to the faithful, there is a promise of blessings- warm in shower

Elder Donald L. Staheli
Obedience- Life's Great Challenge
Conference April 1998

As Disaster Erupts

As disaster erupts
Our way of life shatters
Yet, though it disrupts
We awake to what matters

As Disaster Erupts

As disaster erupts
Our way of life shatters
Yet, though it disrupts
We awake to what matters

In Holland During WWII Lived a Family Named ten Boom

In Holland, during WWII
The Jews were being hunted
And like the family called ten Boom
Christians took them in, undaunted

One day, the Nazis laid a trap
Many were killed as bullets struck
2 sisters were sent to camp
In the infamous Ravensbruck

The horrific months were slowly spent
By expressing gratitude for each day
Never did they regret why they were sent
For they had God's word and they could pray

In the end, Corrie survived, Betsie did not
Once out, she taught the war ravaged of forgiveness
Determined to share what she learned from God
Till, one day came the test for faithfulness

A man approached...she knew his face
He'd been one of the cruelest guards she'd known
And spoke close to her leaving little space
Asking that forgiveness to him be shown

He was now a Christian... seeking for freedom
From the torment of the damned
Wanting a place in God's kingdom
He sought repentance at her hand

Corrie ten Boom looked at his hand held out
Seconds passed...she silently prayed
God forgives those who forgive, she had no doubt
But this moment heavily weighed

Woodenly, mechanically...then
She thrust her hand into his before her
A warm current of healing sprang between them
She said, "With all my heart, I forgive you brother"

For another moment, their hands held
Amidst tears flowing... there was love
Come of God, intensely by both sides felt
This is what forgiveness is made of

For those who eschew evil and live good lives
Who strive for a brighter and more perfect day
Though there's tragedy...things get better as one strives
To follow the Savior who shows us the way

From Gethsemane, the cross, and the tomb
He rose triumphant gloriously
And as it is His countenance we weekly re-assume
We've a duty to live our lives virtuously

thoughts from
Our Path of Duty
Bishop Keith B. McMullin
Ensign, May 2010, 13