Consider the Virtues of White

The virtues of white
Fill my world with light
All because of Christ
Offering new life

The first is aglow
With purity to know
In the dimmest light
It shines brilliant white

The next has a sheen
Like a pearl, it's seen
It holds honor's worth
Midst trials- the worst

One, lighter than air
Dances everywhere
When sunlight comes in
Hope is found again!

One, soft and mellow
Hints of a yellow
Its virtue is seen
Warm and embracing

One, crisp and clean and pure
Holds strength to endure
It promises insight
From wisdom straight and bright

One hints of silver
Veiled like a whisper
With love's gentleness
Faith grows to fullness

One, like butter's cream
Stirs a heart to dream
To lift and entreat
With goodness that's sweet

One, is like a flame
Upwards it does aim
Brilliant, white, and hot
It warns you on the spot

One, seems to flicker
When shadows enter
Here white holds out strong
And brightens what is wrong

Last, surrounding the room like chalk
Rubbing off as here you walk
It becomes a part of you
Reminding that you came through

[Verse 1] The virtues of white fill my world with light All because of Christ, offering new life A brightness rising where the night has been A gift of mercy calling me again [Chorus] White as the morning, clean as the dawn Grace in the darkness, carrying me on Every shade a promise, every beam a sign Christ, You make the broken beautiful and bright [Verse 2] The first is aglow, with purity to know In the dimmest place, it shines brilliant white The next has a sheen, like a pearl softly seen It holds honor's worth through the hardest fight [Verse 3] One lighter than air dances everywhere When sunlight enters, hope is found again One soft and mellow, touched with gentle yellow Its virtue warms and embraces me [Chorus] White as the morning, clean as the dawn Grace in the darkness, carrying me on Every shade a promise, every beam a sign Christ, You make the broken beautiful and bright [Verse 4] One crisp and clean and pure, with strength to endure It promises insight, wisdom straight and bright One hints of silver, veiled like a whisper With love's gentleness, faith grows to fullness [Bridge] One like butter's cream stirs a heart to dream To lift and entreat with goodness sweet One is like a flame, reaching heavenward Brilliant, white, and hot, warning me to turn [Verse 5] One seems to flicker when the shadows enter Yet white holds out strong and brightens what is wrong The last surrounds the room, like chalk beneath my feet Rubbing off as I walk, becoming part of me [Final Chorus] White as the morning, clean as the dawn Grace in the darkness, carrying me on Every shade a promise, every beam a sign Christ, You make the broken beautiful and bright [Outro] Fill my world with light All because of Christ Offering new life Offering new life

King Benjamen

For the last words their king should speak,
They looked up to the tower's peak.
He spoke of God, who lends us breath,
To whom we are so much in debt.
Of what he taught during his reign,
He'd asked himself to do the same:
From holy temple sacrifice
To giving service without price.
This king showed much humility.
Speaking strong in frailty.

Aged and bent his frame was trembling.
Yet, he'd called all for assembling.
What did he want them most to do?
Serve the One True King and man, too.
What are we that we should boast?
For that withdraws the Holy Ghost.
Of the dust, we are created
And remain ever indebted.
His words rid his garments of their blood,
So angels' choirs may round him flood.

[Verse 1] For the last words their king would speak, They raised their eyes to the tower's peak. He spoke of God, who lends us breath, To whom we owe our life and death. [Verse 2] Of all he taught throughout his reign, He asked his heart to do the same: From temple smoke and offering, To serving those with nothing to bring. [Chorus] This king wore low humility, His strength made plain in frailty. Lift up the One True King above, Then serve both God and neighbor with love. [Verse 3] Aged and bent, his frame was trembling, Still he called the people, assembling. “What would I have you choose today? Serve the Lord and serve humankind’s way.” [Verse 4] What are we that we should boast? Pride can drive the Holy Ghost. From dust our borrowed lives were made, And every breath is debt repaid. [Bridge] Let no proud robe conceal the stain, Let mercy wash the heart again. The humble soul, released from blood, May join the angels’ rising flood. [Chorus] This king wore low humility, His strength made plain in frailty. Lift up the One True King above, Then serve both God and neighbor with love. [Outro] From dust we rise, to dust return, Yet grace remains where candles burn. Serve the One who gives us breath, And meet the dawn beyond our death.

• King Benjamin: “I at this time have caused that ye should assemble yourselves together, that I might be found blameless, and that your blood should not come upon me, when I shall stand to be judged of God of the things whereof he hath commanded me concerning you.
  “I say unto you that I have caused that ye should assemble yourselves together that I might rid my garments of your blood, at this period of time when I am about to go down to my grave, that I might go down in peace” (Mosiah 2:27-28).

Climb the Wall- a lesson in mindset

Take a chance at something new

Change what you say, what you do

Gain a mindset and just try

It may be hard but don't be shy

Think of what you do real well

You can do this! Yes, time will tell!

In the mirror, stand up tall

And tell yourself, "I'll climb this wall"

[Verse 1] Take a chance at something new Change what you say, change what you do Gain a mindset, just try It may be hard, but don't be shy [Pre-Chorus] One small step can start the climb Give yourself a little time [Chorus] Think of what you do real well You can do this, time will tell In the mirror, stand up tall Tell yourself, "I'll climb this wall" I'll climb this wall [Verse 2] When the first attempt goes wrong Take a breath and carry on You don't need to know it all Just keep moving when you fall [Pre-Chorus] One small step can start the climb Give yourself a little time [Chorus] Think of what you do real well You can do this, time will tell In the mirror, stand up tall Tell yourself, "I'll climb this wall" I'll climb this wall [Bridge] Look at the work your hands have made Every skill was once afraid Raise your eyes and choose to see There's more ahead than used to be [Final Chorus] Think of what you do real well You can do this, time will tell In the mirror, stand up tall Tell yourself, "I'll climb this wall"

Think of what you do real well You can do this, time will tell Take a chance on something new The next brave step belongs to you [Outro] I'll climb this wall The next brave step belongs to you

The Next Time

The next time you feel sorrow,
Pain, or rejection.
Look to the Lord and borrow
Love for reflection.

Desire becomes belief
As strength, He sends
The hurt soul feels relief
And the heart mends

  [Verse 1]

The next time you feel sorrow, Pain, or rejection, Look to the Lord and borrow Love for reflection. [Chorus] Desire becomes belief As strength, He sends The hurt soul feels relief And the heart mends. [Verse 2] When every answer trembles And hope feels thin, His quiet mercy gathers The scattered heart within. [Chorus] Desire becomes belief As strength, He sends The hurt soul feels relief And the heart mends. [Bridge] Turn your face toward kindness, Lay your burden down; What was broken in the waiting Finds its healing ground. [Final Chorus] Desire becomes belief As strength, He sends The hurt soul feels relief And the heart mends. [Outro] Look to the Lord and borrow Love for reflection.

The Eleventh of September

The eleventh of September

We will always remember

As the day the ugly face of hatred

Left our hearts and country scarred and wounded

Darkness fell upon our nation

Such terror, death and destruction

Thousands of innocent perished

Still the heroic efforts we cherish

For shining through the overcast of fear

As a nation we turned towards the Prince of Peace

And prayed for the families suffering in loss

We vowed to remain a land of freedom, no matter the cost

May the peace of the Redeemer rest upon us

May His healing power mend broken hearts

May our beloved nation be restored, thus

To be a place of peace, as in God we trust

On Sept. 11, 2001, the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, then known as the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, was scheduled to give a concert for the National Association of Insurance and Financial Underwriters.

But following the tragic terrorist attacks on the East Coast, the concert was changed to a memorial service, at which President Gordon B. Hinckley spoke:

"Today has been a day that will be remembered always in the annals of our beloved nation,” he said. “It has been a day when the ugly face of hatred has shown itself with terror, death and destruction. It has been a day when uncounted numbers of the innocent have perished and their loved ones have been left to sorrow. Many have been wounded, and this, our nation, has been seriously injured and insulted.

Despite the darkness of the hour, President Hinckley said, “there is shining through the heavy overcast of fear and anger the solemn and wonderful image of the Son of God, the Savior of the world, the Prince of Peace, the Exemplar of universal love, and it is to Him that we look in these circumstances.

Our hearts are broken, our spirits subdued,” President Hinckley said. “We bow before the Almighty in reverence and reach out to those who have lost their lives, to their families and to those who were wounded in the attacks made against our beloved nation.

May the peace of the Redeemer rest upon us, May His healing power mend the broken hearts and give strength to the wounded bodies and minds of all who have paid so great a price because of the evil acts of those who have injured us and betrayed the entire civilized world.

May the sure hand of Providence guide the destinies of our nation, that it may remain a land of freedom, peace, goodwill, and yet a nation of power and strength.

Our Heavenly Father will hasten the day when men everywhere across this broad earth will ‘beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more’” (Isaiah 2:4).

( The Church News )

Everlasting Covenant

God's temple was wonderfully renovated

We opened its doors for all to see

Gloriously completed, we celebrated

And rededicated it as His holy home

Here, we are reminded of our greatest blessings

The plan of redemption and happiness

Constituted for His son's and daughter's progression

Through the new and everlasting covenant, thus

Above all, our hearts fill with gratitude for His Son

For His Atonement, to redeem us from sin and death

His infinite sacrifice, the ultimate expression of love

That we might seek the path to return unto God's presence

Through the everlasting covenant

In this great and last dispensation

His sealing keys of His holy priesthood

Bind beyond the veil families for generations

[Verse 1] God's temple was wonderfully renovated We opened its doors for all to see Gloriously completed, we celebrated And rededicated it as His holy home [Verse 2] Here, we are reminded of our greatest blessings The plan of redemption and happiness Constituted for His son's and daughter's progression Through the new and everlasting covenant, thus [Chorus] Above all, our hearts fill with gratitude for His Son For His Atonement, to redeem us from sin and death His infinite sacrifice, the ultimate expression of love That we might seek the path to return unto God's presence [Bridge] Through the everlasting covenant In this great and last dispensation His sealing keys of His holy priesthood Bind beyond the veil families for generations [Chorus] Above all, our hearts fill with gratitude for His Son For His Atonement, to redeem us from sin and death His infinite sacrifice, the ultimate expression of love That we might seek the path to return unto God's presence [Outro] Through the everlasting covenant We seek the path to return unto God's presence

San Diego temple had upwards 600,000 people visit during its open house and rededication.  Wow!  Families who had been sealed there years ago came and walked through its beauty and were reminded....

“We thank Thee for the plan of redemption and happiness that Thou hast constituted for the eternal progression of Thy sons and daughters. We are grateful that Thou hast established once again Thy new and everlasting covenant in this great and last dispensation. Above all, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the Atonement wrought by Thy divine Son, Jesus, knowing that His infinite sacrifice to redeem us from sin and death is essential to Thy eternal plan. We acknowledge this ultimate expression of His love and of Thy love for us — than which love there is none greater. Unitedly in this moment, we express to Thee and to Him our unending love and gratitude. We thank Thee for having restored to the earth the Holy Priesthood after the Order of Thy Son that offers to Thy children of all generations the foreordained ordinances and covenants necessary for exaltation in Thy presence. We thank Thee for this temple and all temples that have been and will yet be built to Thy name wherein the holiest of these ordinances and covenants may be realized. We thank Thee for the keys of the holy priesthood, including and especially the keys of sealing to bind beyond the veil that which is bound on earth.”

Dedicatory Prayer San Diego Temple D. Todd Christofferson August 2026

Heroes and Angels

It takes a hero
To put another first
And let all fears go
Regardless of the worst

But, perhaps there is more
Than strength, in the end
Through faith upon the Lord
Unseen hands attend

But, the story goes on
One gunman turned himself in
It did not take him long
For his conscience burned within

Cedar Rapids, Iowa 10-Year-Old Hero Shot Protecting Mom From Gunmen “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13 Masked gunmen broke into 10-year-old Cameron’s house and proceeded to point a gun directly in his mother’s face. Cameron, without hesitation, tackled one of the men, at which point the gun was fired, ripping through the 10-year-old’s forearm. Leaving him and his mother, the gunmen fled the scene, seemingly aware of the reality of what they had just done. Fortunately Cameron will be fine, his wound was fairly minor and he doesn’t regret a moment of his bravery. He says he knows that God was protecting him and his mother that day, and it certainly would seem that way. Read more at http://hopefaithlove.com/10-year-old-hero-shot-protecting-mom-from-gunmen/#WEheXSwQjxjGkc29.99

We Must Ascertain

We must ascertain
What is for our higher good?
What we now obtain
Starts with could, would, and should

There is knowledge we will gain
from each new role that we fill
As we give and, too, restrain
We use our will, feel and instill

We know achievement
Or feel bereavement
But, did we do our best?
That is the true test

We must ascertain
What's for our higher good?
If we rise up with exertion
We are doing as we should

As we advance in what we know
Our scope of influence does grow
From a shared thought, seeds are planted
Soon, progress sprouts and fruits are granted

Then, we must be insistent
That we remain persistent
For life demands that we compete
And there's objectives that we must meet

[Verse 1] We must ascertain What is for our higher good? What we now obtain Starts with could, would, and should There is knowledge we will gain From each new role that we fill As we give and, too, restrain We use our will, feel and instill [Chorus] We know achievement Or feel bereavement But did we do our best? That is the true test [Verse 2] We must ascertain What's for our higher good? If we rise up with exertion We are doing as we should As we advance in what we know Our scope of influence does grow From a shared thought, seeds are planted Soon, progress sprouts and fruits are granted [Bridge] Then we must be insistent That we remain persistent For life demands that we compete And there's objectives that we must meet [Chorus] We know achievement Or feel bereavement But did we do our best? That is the true test [Outro] We must ascertain What is for our higher good? Step by step, we make the choice To become all that we could

Slopes- Climb the Mountain

The world slides down

Quite a slippery slope

Still, those endowed

Have high reasons to hope

Climb the mountain

You'll find all that you need

Living fountains

Continually feed

Hope for the future

Hope for the family

The Way is made sure

For immortality 

Consistency

Open His holy book

Be meek

Have purpose.  More than just a look

Yes.  Seek

Get into the pages

Be there

The Almighty healer

Shows care

Questions, desires, and needs?

Read on

Then, humbly, on your knees

Pray on

The best of relationships 

Takes time

Let Him touch your heart, your soul,

Your mind

[Verse 1] Open His holy book, be meek Have purpose, more than just a look Yes, seek [Verse 2] Get into the pages, be there The Almighty Healer shows care He meets you there [Chorus] Questions, desires, and needs? Read on Then humbly, on your knees Pray on Pray on [Verse 3] The best of relationships takes time Let Him touch your heart, your soul, your mind Let His truth shine [Chorus] Questions, desires, and needs? Read on Then humbly, on your knees Pray on Pray on [Bridge] Through every page, through every prayer You find His faithful presence there With open hands and a listening heart He leads you gently from the start [Final Chorus] Questions, desires, and needs? Read on Then humbly, on your knees Pray on The best of relationships takes time Let Him touch your heart, your soul, your mind Pray on [Outro] Open the book, be still, seek Walk in His care, be meek Pray on

Put it Away- A Flash of Light- thoughts that put me to sleep

Put it away
That which is dark
Continually pray
Let goodness spark

A flash of light
Is all that you need
To lamp the night
And plant thoughts... to sleep

Safety is found
Peace fills the soul
Sleep comes around...
You awake whole

Verse 1] Put it away That which is dark Continually pray Let goodness spark [Chorus] A flash of light Is all that you need To lamp the night And plant thoughts... to sleep [Verse 2] Safety is found Peace fills the soul Sleep comes around... You awake whole [Bridge] Set down the weight Close every door Rest while the quiet Guards you once more [Chorus] A flash of light Is all that you need To lamp the night And plant thoughts... to sleep [Outro] Safety is found Peace fills the soul Sleep comes around... You awake whole

I was a bit of an insomniac last night.  Thinking of one million martyrs storming Jerusalem to make it their capitol... Prayer and the Book of Mormon restored me.  The Nook went dark and I had a thought: put it away, that which is dark... Which I wrote in the dark on the back of some paper I found in the dark. Interesting- this morning I discovered it was something I meant to read while in 2 Nephi.

http://maxwellinstitute.byu.edu/publications/jbms/?vol=4&num=1&id=90

The Passage of Time

The passage of time dims our old memories
And none too soon fades our sorrows and worries.
The pioneer trail where tears fell like rain
Now is a roller coaster of grief and pain.

While crimes creep higher to 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 others the way?
The path has been laid to eternity
May we blaze its trail bright with morality!

"Come follow me," 

The Master calls to each
Keep remembering

My spirit's within reach 

[Verse 1] The passage of time dims our old memories And none too soon fades our sorrows and worries The pioneer trail where tears fell like rain Now is a roller coaster of grief and pain [Verse 2] While crimes creep higher to spiral upward Decency careens society downward And who can escape as the ride moves faster? This thrill of the moment speeds to disaster [Chorus] Can we muster the courage for today? As modern pioneers, can we show others the way? The path has been laid to eternity May we blaze its trail bright with morality [Bridge] Come follow me, the Master calls to each Keep remembering, my spirit's within reach When every turn unsettles what we know Hold to the good, and let compassion grow [Final Chorus] Can we muster the courage for today? As modern pioneers, can we show others the way? The path has been laid to eternity May we blaze its trail bright with morality [Outro] Keep remembering My spirit's within reach Keep remembering And walk the path we teach

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

Ambassadors to the Stars

 

To the future academy, We lived a dream come true From the back of the moon we watched The earth show its glory, too Take our big bold endeavors You'll achieve more with faith With others seek God's favor To receive needed strength As new ambassadors to the stars You are the best in the industry Take our accomplishments far And make our moon presence enduring Plant the stars and stripes on Mars For the universe to see Along the expanse of stars What you dream can come to be

To the future academy, We lived a dream come true From the back of the moon we watched The Earth reshow its glory, new [Verse 2] Take our big, bold endeavors You'll achieve more with faith With others seek God's favor To receive needed strength [Chorus] As new ambassadors to the stars You are the best in the industry Take our accomplishments far And make our moon presence enduring [Verse 3] Plant the stars and stripes on Mars For the universe to see Along the expanse of stars What you dream can come to be [Bridge] Carry the questions farther Build with courage, hand in hand Let the work outlive the moment Let hope guide where you stand [Final Chorus] As new ambassadors to the stars You are the best in the industry Take our accomplishments far And make our moon presence enduring Plant the stars and stripes on Mars For the universe to see Along the expanse of stars What you dream can come to be [Outro] To the future academy, The next horizon waits for you

What an inspiring speech!  A real celebration!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCP4WD6oG_U

Jared Isaacman, recently confirmed as NASA's 15th Administrator in December 2025 under President Trump.

He  envisions bold space achievements beyond viewing Earth from the Moon's far side, by establishing a lasting lunar presence, and planting the U.S. flag on Mars through faith-driven endeavors.

You Were There All Along

 A man was fighting the waves

Taking him out to sea

He prayed to God who saves

Only Him he wanted to see

For a life guard threw him a float

Yet he said, "Thanks, I'm just fine"

He knew his best friend would show

The life guard didn't want a fight

Next came a life boat, 

Accepting their float

On he continued to sea

Waiting for God, but he did not see

That it was Him who sent each float

A day, a night, a day

Still he floated on

Then he heard a voice say,

"I was there twice! You were wrong!"

Soon, he saw a fisherman

And waved for him to save

He knew that God had sent them

He said goodbye to pride with a wave

Last, he seemed to hear

"Whether by my servant or me, it is the same"

I felt His presence near

I felt such joy!  All along it was Him who came!

[Verse 1] A man was fighting waves that pulled him out to sea He prayed to God who saves, “Please come and rescue me” A lifeguard threw a float; he answered, “I’m alright” “My closest friend will come for me; I’m waiting for His sign” [Verse 2] A boat came riding near and offered him a place He thanked them for the float, then turned away his face He watched the water rise beneath the fading blue Still waiting for the hand of God, not knowing what God knew [Chorus] You were there in every helping hand In every voice that called me back to land I looked for You beyond the open sea But every rescue was Your mercy reaching me You were there, You were there all along I mistook Your answer for a different song [Verse 3] A day, a night, a day, he drifted on alone Then a quiet voice replied, “You missed what I had shown I sent the float, I sent the boat, I called you from the waves How many times must love arrive before a heart is saved?” [Chorus] You were there in every helping hand In every voice that called me back to land I looked for You beyond the open sea But every rescue was Your mercy reaching me You were there, You were there all along I mistook Your answer for a different song [Bridge] Then a fisherman appeared and heard him call for aid He lowered down a line, and pride began to fade He whispered, “God has sent you,” and climbed aboard at last The shore grew clear before his eyes; the danger drifted past [Final Chorus] You were there in every helping hand In every voice that called me back to land Whether servant, stranger, friend, or You The saving love was always coming through You were there, You were there all along I was held before I knew where I belonged [Outro] I felt Your presence near, and all my fear was gone Every path that brought me home was Yours all along

I remember hearing a story similar to this, but the man drowns.  I didn't like that.

@Scottobix

Begging for a Sign

 Suffering, in pain with cancer

and given just months to live

How I wish God would answer

How I beg Him for any sign

How I want to believe

For I know death is eminent

It would b a relief

A strength as cancer does not relent

I pray many times a day

Literally begging for a sign

A feeling a sense of presence

Something to hold to that is mine

I don't want grief to be my answer

I don't want to die and leave my family alone

Help me feel holiness linger

I pray Thou would make Thyself known

Help me to be a patient patient

Still my time is running out

That when I pass, my children

Will know to believe I'm still about

Verse 1] Suffering, in pain with cancer Given just months to live How I wish that God would answer How I beg for any sign to give [Pre-Chorus] I want to believe, I want to hold on Though I know the end is drawing near If relief could come with morning Let it leave me stronger than my fear [Chorus] I pray many times a day Literally begging for a sign A feeling, a sense of Your presence Something I can know is mine I don't want grief to be my answer I don't want to leave them alone Help me feel Your holiness linger I pray, Lord, make Yourself known [Verse 2] I know death is drawing nearer And the cancer will not relent Still I search the quiet moments For a kindness heaven might have sent [Pre-Chorus] I want to believe, I want to hold on With my children gathered close to me Give me one small thread of comfort Something stronger than uncertainty [Chorus] I pray many times a day Literally begging for a sign A feeling, a sense of Your presence Something I can know is mine I don't want grief to be my answer I don't want to leave them alone Help me feel Your holiness linger I pray, Lord, make Yourself known [Bridge] Help me be a patient patient Though my time is running out When I pass beyond their seeing Let them know what love's about Let them know I am not vanished Let the bond remain somehow Hold my family when I cannot Be their shelter, even now [Final Chorus] I pray many times a day Still begging for a sign A feeling, a sense of Your presence A peace I can call mine I don't want grief to be my answer I don't want to leave them alone Help me feel Your holiness linger I pray, Lord, make Yourself known [Outro] And if my voice grows quiet Stay near the ones I love Let them feel the love I carried And the mercy from above

BFF 💓

Dissonance vs. Light

Dissonance is awful

We are prone to fight

But, the music of the gospel

Introduces light

Displace the darkness

And introduce light

Dissonance grows less

When we are Christ-like!

Like a child on a violin

The lessons grow less painful

Don't give up, you'll grow within

And your heart strings will be grateful

[Verse 1] Dissonance is awful We are prone to fight But the music of the gospel Introduces light [Chorus] Displace the darkness And introduce light Dissonance grows less When we are Christ-like [Verse 2] Like a child on a violin The lessons grow less painful Don't give up, you'll grow within And your heart strings will be grateful [Chorus] Displace the darkness And introduce light Dissonance grows less When we are Christ-like [Bridge] Give grace when the notes don't agree Let patience shape what we become Step by step, in harmony We learn the heart of Kingdom love [Final Chorus] Displace the darkness And introduce light Dissonance grows less When we are Christ-like Dissonance grows less When we are Christ-like [Outro] Introduce light When we are Christ-like

The Music of the Gospel

"Dissonance in the home is like darkness in a room. … We must displace the darkness by introducing light."

—Wilford W. Andersen, "The Music of the Gospel"
Topics: Change

A Young Man in a Large City

A young man in a large city
In a home of affluence
Was selfish and knew not pity
As he abused his influence

In the best school money could buy
A life of bounty stood before him
Though he had the smarts, he would not try
For he'd naught work ethics to begin

The man's father sought the advice
Of an old man reading a book
"Well, make him pay and he'll think twice"
(For he knew the young man did naught but took)

And when the young man could buy no more
How he shouted and had a big fit!
Then he got a job and improved his scores
And told Grandpa he was thankful for it

when AI takes over and you love it!.......Still, Grandpa and his wisdom saves the day!

Verse 1] A young man lived in a crowded town Where polished towers filled the view In a house where the wealth came pouring down He took what he wanted, as rich boys do He wore his father's name like a coat And leaned on every door he knew If someone needed help, he'd miss the note But called it clever when he pushed on through [Chorus] You can open every door in the world And still refuse to walk inside A gift is only worth the work it takes And pride can make a fool of a guide [Verse 2] The finest school that money could find Placed every chance upon his desk He had a quick and capable mind But chose the easiest road at best His books stayed shut, his hours slipped by While silver spoons kept making noise He thought tomorrow would never ask him why And mistook his comfort for a choice [Verse 3] His father went to an older friend Who sat with a book beside the fire “Let consequence become his teacher, then; Remove the rope that feeds desire Make him pay for every needless thing Let empty pockets clear his sight A lesson carried by a broken spring May hold when lectures never might” [Chorus] You can open every door in the world And still refuse to walk inside A gift is only worth the work it takes And pride can make a fool of a guide [Bridge] When the young man reached for one more treat The cupboard answered, “Not today” He stamped and shouted through the street As every borrowed comfort rolled away No driver came, no tailor called No easy answer, no family shield The world looked different when he stood small With his own two hands to make a meal [Verse 4] He found a job and rose before dawn Learned the weight of showing up He earned each mark he once had pawned And slowly filled his empty cup The work was hard, but the days grew clear He saw what effort could repair Then he thanked his grandpa, year by year: “You taught me how to meet my share” [Final Chorus] You can open every door in the world But you must choose to walk inside A gift becomes a life when effort joins it And humility can be your guide [Outro] So if fortune sets a table wide Take your portion, then do your part The hand that learns to give with pride Has finally grown a grateful heart

Sometimes the Sun Doesn't Reach Us- The Spirit of Revelation

Sometimes sunshine doesn't reach us
Yet we still know when it is day
Here lies a lesson to teach us
How revelation comes our way

Inspiration can brightly sun
Touching us from head to toe
Or line upon line become
A glowing part of us and what we know

The spirit of revelation

Is available to each

Who've received the Holy Ghost 

To inspire, guide, and teach

In feelings, dreams, visions

Conversations, a thought

In a scripture, an impression

Line upon line, we are taught

Ever we are to pray

To search and ponder

Looking for a light ray

To receive God's answer

When you sense something is wrong

Walk in the Light of the Lord

What is dim within can glow strong

Be still, and ponder His Word

[Verse 1] Sometimes sunshine doesn't reach us Yet we still know when it is day Here lies a lesson to teach us How revelation comes our way [Verse 2] Inspiration can brightly sun Touching us from head to toe Or line upon line become A glowing part of us and what we know [Chorus] The spirit of revelation Is available to each Who've received the Holy Ghost To inspire, guide, and teach [Verse 3] In feelings, dreams, visions Conversations, a thought In a scripture an impression Line upon line we are taught [Bridge] Ever we are to pray To search and ponder Looking for a light ray To receive God's answer [Verse 4] When you sense something is wrong Walk in the Light of the Lord What is dim within can glow strong Be still, and ponder His Word [Chorus] The spirit of revelation Is available to each Who've received the Holy Ghost To inspire, guide, and teach [Outro] Ever we are to pray To search and ponder Looking for a light ray To receive God's answer

thoughts from
The Spirit of Revelation
Elder David A. Bednar
Ensign, May 2011,

Stomach the News? We Are Not a Stranger

Just how much of the news
Can you stomach at one time?
Before you get the blues
All this happens on Christ's dime!

For His bowels of mercy 

Extend to the whole human race

He knows how we are hurting

And offers each His throne of grace

The sick, depraved, demented
All tragedies and pain
Things that could have been prevented
Like addictions that chain

He stands at the door and knocks
He waits for an answer
Nothing about our lives shocks
We are not a stranger

He will heal the broken heart

And bind up the wounds within

He has known your name from the start

On the palms of His hands, yours is written

Verse 1] Just how much of the news Can you stomach at one time? Before you get the blues All this happens on Christ's dime! [Verse 2] For His bowels of mercy Extend to the whole human race He knows how we are hurting And offers each His throne of grace [Chorus] He stands at the door and knocks He waits for an answer Nothing about our lives shocks We are not a stranger [Verse 3] The sick, depraved, demented All tragedies and pain Things that could have been prevented Like addictions that chain [Chorus] He stands at the door and knocks He waits for an answer Nothing about our lives shocks We are not a stranger [Bridge] He will heal the broken heart And bind up the wounds within He has known your name from the start On the palms of His hands, yours is written [Final Chorus] He stands at the door and knocks He waits for an answer Nothing about our lives shocks We are not a stranger [Outro] He has known your name from the start On the palms of His hands, yours is written

Isaiah 49:  "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me" (NIV)

 Psalm 147:3, "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds"

The phrase "bowels of mercy" appears in Colossians 3:12, emphasizing deep compassion and kindness. In this context, it signifies a profound emotional response, suggesting that true mercy comes from the innermost being, akin to how one might feel physically in their bowels. This metaphorical use of "bowels" in scripture often represents deep feelings and moral virtues.

Colossians 3:12  Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering".

Hebrews 4:16

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

The Symbol for Christ

What is the symbol, we carry of Jesus?

But His light we hold high on a hill;

There to be seen as it shines outward through us,

As we serve Him, obedient still.

Not in a cross, nor a skyward steeple

A photo, an image, or even a shrine

It is, in deed, in the heart of His people

His living light doth so beautifully shine

Light on the Hill

Verse 1] What is the symbol we carry of Jesus? Not made of silver, or fashioned in stone; His light on the hill is the witness we offer, A mercy made visible, living and known. [Chorus] We hold His light high on the hill, Let every window of kindness shine; Serving with hearts that obey His will, His living love through our lives entwined. Not in a cross or a steeple tall, Not in a picture, a shrine, or sign; Christ is revealed when His people call The weary to hope through a life made kind. [Verse 2] No carved-out image can carry His presence, No painted likeness can speak what He gives; Deep in the hearts of His faithful people, His quiet light rises wherever love lives. [Chorus] We hold His light high on the hill, Let every window of kindness shine; Serving with hearts that obey His will, His living love through our lives entwined. Not in a cross or a steeple tall, Not in a picture, a shrine, or sign; Christ is revealed when His people call The weary to hope through a life made kind. [Bridge] When hands are open, His grace is shown; When feet go gladly, His path is known; When truth and compassion meet, His light makes every service sweet. [Final Chorus] We hold His light high on the hill, Let every window of kindness shine; Serving with hearts that obey His will, His living love through our lives entwined. Christ is revealed in His people still, A living promise, a love divine; We carry His light high on the hill, And let it shine, let it shine.

His Living Light

Verse 1] What is the symbol we carry of Jesus? His light we hold high on a hill; There to be seen as it shines outward through us, As we serve Him, obedient still. [Chorus] Not in a cross, nor a skyward steeple, A photo, an image, or shrine; But in the heart of His faithful people, His living light beautifully shines. [Verse 2] When hands reach out to the weary and lonely, When truth is lived quietly, Mercy and patience make worship grow holy; Christ is revealed for all to see. [Chorus] Not in a cross, nor a skyward steeple, A photo, an image, or shrine; But in the heart of His faithful people, His living light beautifully shines. [Bridge] Let every kindness carry His presence, Let every word point the way; Walking in love, we become His reflection, Serving Him faithfully each day. [Final Chorus] Not in a cross, nor a skyward steeple, A photo, an image, or shrine; But in the heart of His faithful people, His living light beautifully shines. His living light beautifully shines. [Outro] His living light beautifully shines.

The Symbol for Christ

April 1975

Gordon B Hinckley

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1975/04/the-symbol-of-christ?lang=eng

The Cross is a Symbol- Sharing His Light As HIS Christians And Saints

What is the symbol, we carry of Jesus?

But His light we hold high on a hill;

There to be seen as it shines outward through us,

As we serve Him, obedient still.

Not in a cross, nor a skyward steeple

A photo, an image, or even a shrine

It is, in deed, in the heart of His people

His living light doth so beautifully shine

The cross is a symbol
Of a dying Christ
And we as His people
Remember Him alive

He is not a cross or a tree
As He called Himself a lamb
Living water of purity
The Alpha, Omega, and I Am

OUR cross is the giving up
Of each worldly sin
Having, too, a humble heart
Striving to obey Him

We are Christians, it is true
Sharing His light as He asks us to
Inwardly and through
Showing our allegiance, too

We are His Saints, it is true

Sharing His Light as He asks us to

Inwardly and through

Showing our allegiance, too

Verse 1] The cross is a symbol Of a dying Christ And we as His people Remember Him alive [Verse 2] He is not a cross or a tree As He called Himself a lamb Living water of purity The Alpha, Omega, and I Am [Chorus] Our cross is the giving up Of each worldly sin Having, too, a humble heart Striving to obey Him [Verse 3] We are Christians, it is true Sharing His light as He asks us to Inwardly and through Showing our allegiance, too [Chorus] We are Christians, it is true Sharing His light as He asks us to Inwardly and through Showing our allegiance, too [Bridge] We are His Saints, it is true Sharing His Light as He asks us to Inwardly and through Showing our allegiance, too [Final Chorus] Our cross is the giving up Of each worldly sin Having, too, a humble heart Striving to obey Him [Outro] Sharing His light as He asks us to Showing our allegiance, too

The Symbol of Christ

April 1975

Gordon B Hinckley

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1975/04/the-symbol-of-christ?lang=eng

The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-Day belief, the cross is viewed as a symbol of the dying Christ. This perspective emphasizes that while the cross represents Christ's death, the focus of the faith is on His resurrection and living presence.

Symbolism of the Cross

• Dying Christ: The cross is primarily seen as a representation of Christ's sacrifice and death.
• Living Christ: The message of the LDS faith centers on the resurrection and the living Christ, which is why the cross is not commonly displayed in their places of worship.

Cultural Practices

• Lack of Display: The LDS Church does not typically use the cross in its buildings or services, reflecting a focus on the living aspects of Christ rather than His death.
• Personal Choice: While the Church does not officially discourage the wearing of crosses, many members choose not to wear them.