Poets, Preachers & more.
This is a post that I have wanted to make for several weeks. Unlike many fleeting thoughts my ardor for this one has not dimmed with time. It comes as no surprise to most of you that I like to read. I grew up with most of my free (as well as a few stolen) moments consumed in a book. I love stories. In books I traveled the world. I crossed the plains, fought Indians, sailed ships and flew airplanes. I froze in Siberia and nearly died of thirst in the deserts of Arabia. As good as it was, and believe me it was great, my tastes seem to be changing. I read a reasonable story a few weeks ago. It was entertaining and avoided worldly evils. I was not however a better person for having spent the time. Kind of disappointing. In contrast I also recently read a book in which virtually every page lifts your thoughts and reestablishes the standard for personal excellence.
A series of 48 condensed biographies “The Other Eminent Men of Wilford Woodruff” by Vicky Jo Anderson, describes the lives and convictions of a surprising group of Christian men. Each chapter is about a different man who, along with our nation’s founding fathers, appeared to President Woodruff in the St. George Temple requesting that their work be done. The back of the book includes a list of the 70 Eminent Women (most of them the wives of eminent men) who requested the same service. It also includes excerpts from journals & discourses of Wilford Woodruff regarding the experience. These journals along with the temple records are the source for the list of men detailed in the book. They were a diverse group, poets, actors, soldiers, preachers, kings, congressmen, artists, explorers & scientists. Each of them men of courage, discipline and faith. Here are a few of my favorites.
Admiral David Glasgow Farragut – The first American to receive the title of “Admiral”. Farragut went to sea in his youth, he was given temporary command of a seized ship for the return voyage at just 13. He spent his entire life in the Navy. At 60 years old he was given command of eighty ships blockading southern ports during the Civil War. With 30 ships he was commanded to take the forts at Mobile Bay. His flagship in 3rd position they approached the torpedo line intending to follow the path of the blockade runners. The first ship sunk when it veered into the torpedo bed and the second in fear began to retreat nearly colliding w/ the flagship. In this precarious moment Admiral Farragut appealed to heaven for guidance asking “Shall I go on?” He said that he was answered “Go on!” God had spoken to him, and personal danger could not deter him. Shouting “Damn the torpedoes” (heard that before?) he urged his fleet ahead. Torpedoes bounced off the hull & primers snapped audibly, but there was no explosion. He took the forts and closed the last of the southern ports. More impressive still, he was a Virginian. He chose nation over neighbor. He & his family narrowly escaped Norfolk in the days following succession.
Thomas Johnathan “Stonewall” Jackson – Confederate General, shot by his own troops while reconnoitering the battlefield. This is one man I had actually heard of prior to reading the book. I knew him as a determined defender, a leader who inspired devotion & sacrifice from his troops. What I did not know was how he did it. He was a very religious man. He read regularly from the bible & caused that churches were built for his soldiers to worship in. He did not require participation but given that he & General Lee were regulars the services were well attended. He taught his men to pray, and pray from the heart. Prior to the war he proposed that the nation unite in prayer that the war may be avoided. I am not sure that kind of unity has even yet been achieved. Jackson’s only defeat came under orders from superiors. After each victory he would write in his report , “God blessed our arms with victory.” He was a formidable military man and a superior leader. Personal opinion God took him so the North could win.
My clear favorite from the book was Thomas Chalmers. A Scottish preacher, he conducted an experiment upon his parish. For the better part of 12 years he reviled against the evil and immoral practices of society, yet he experienced very little change in the disposition of his flock. “I am not sensible that all the vehemence with which I urged the virtues and the proprieties of social life had the weight of a feather on the moral habits of my parishioners.” It was not until he preached “the free offer of forgiveness through the blood of Christ” that significant lasting change was made in peoples lives. As he prepared to leave his parish he told them that “You have at least taught me that to preach Christ is the only effective way of preaching morality in all its branches.” A profound lesson, I intend to learn from his experience.
I loved this book!
For what it is worth.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Goodly Parents
My church asignment has not changed. I continue to speak regularly. I had changed my mind about posting my talks fearing that they are to lengthy for this format. However as I sat down to post my Eminent Men report & given the day it is I couldn't help thinking about my Father. Much of what I am today, particularly in the realtion to the gosple is a result of their example & teaching. It was Dad that taught me a love of the scriptures. He was the one who showed me how to help others and who set the example of consistant Church service. I, like Nephi, was born of goodly parents. I love you Dad. Your life fits in this talk. Happy Fathers day.
I, Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father; and having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days; yea, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of God, therefore I make a record of my proceedings in my days.
Due in no small part to repeated attempts at diligence in reading the book of Mormon this verse is as familiar to us as any in scripture. Despite the familiarity I would be surprised if a fair number of us do any more than scan quickly over it as we plow into the initial pages of the book. This is a mistake. Every verse has meaning and the first verse is no exception. The phrase “having been born of goodly parents” communicates that they were kind and compassionate parents, that they respected and loved their children and that Nephi, at least, felt the same for them. Lehi & Saria where good parents, they tried to provide for and protect their children. Nephi also indicates that because they were “goodly parents, therefore (he) was taught somewhat in ALL the learning of (his) father;”.
This is not a solitary reference to Book of Mormon fathers teaching their sons. Enos thanked his father by saying, (Enos 1:1) “my father… taught me in his language, and also in the nurture and admonition of the Lord—and blessed be the name of my God for it….” Initially he did not pay much attention to spiritual things but he learned enough that when his heart was ready he knew where to turn. Procrastination earned him a wrestle with the Lord. Alma the younger like wise disregarded the teachings of his father and even went about “seeking to destroy the church of God”. He too had a wrestle with the Lord, he described the experience to his son Helaman as “being wracked with eternal torment… I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I was tormented with the pains of hell; yea, I saw that I had rebelled against my God, and that I had not kept his holy commandments.” In this forsaken state he remembered at length the words of his father. He remembered to have heard his father speak concerning the coming of Jesus Christ, the son of God, to atone for the sins of the world. It was not only his fathers fasting and prayers that saved Alma, it was also lessons oft repeated to one who would not hear. In some cases we may never know the net effect of our efforts.
Another scriptural example of parental teaching was King Benjamin. He loved his sons (Mosiah 1:2 (2-8)) “And he caused that they should be taught in all the language of his fathers, that thereby they might become men of understanding; and that they might know concerning the prophecies…And many more things did king Benjamin teach his sons.” Mormon likewise “began to be learned” at an early age. It was a priority for scriptural Prophets to teach their children. I suggest that, any parent who wishes to prepare their child for the future will provide for more than their immediate needs of food, clothing & shelter. We have heard before the statement that, “if you give a man a fish, he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime.” Think about how that principle applies to children. If we give them everything we deprive them not only of the satisfaction which comes from a job well done but of the knowledge needed for independence. We need to prepare them physically as well as spiritually. These requisite secular lessons are what I believe is meant by Lehi teaching ALL things or Benjamin teaching many more things. Teach them life skills, how to keep house, to cook, to grow a garden. Teach them how to do the simple physical things someone taught you. Or even better teach them the stuff you learned on your own. Times spent together anxiously engaged in a good cause endear them to you & you to them. While thus engaged opportunities to teach the gospel spontaneously, naturally occur. Watch for them and teach eternal truths.
Lehi evidently taught these truths. Nephi did not complain when asked to leave Jerusalem, he did not question when twice required to return and he was sufficiently well acquainted with the workings of the spirit to be lead “not knowing before hand the things which (he) should do.” These lessons where taught by Lehi, not a primary teacher or youth leader. The primary responsibility for gospel instruction resides with the parents. In the October Conference of 2005 Elder M. Russell Ballard said, “Teach the gospel and basic values in your home. …Too many of our parents are abdicating this responsibility to the Church. While seminary, auxiliaries, and priesthood quorums are important as a supplement to parental gospel instruction, the main responsibility rests in the home.”
From his tower King Benjamin instructed us to (Mosiah 4:14&15) “teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ... teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.”
Alma the Younger directs his son Helaman regarding what to teach the people in Alma 37:32-34, “…teach them an everlasting hatred against sin and iniquity. Preach unto them repentance, and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ; teach them to humble themselves and to be meek and lowly in heart; teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. Teach them to never be weary of good works, but to be meek and lowly in heart; for such shall find rest to their souls.” Brothers and sisters we like Alma & Enos know where to turn for peace. In the Gospel we have the answers to life’s most persistent questions. We know why we are here and where we are going. We even know a little about what it will be like. We understand Gods plan for us. Wouldn’t it be a shame to loose this knowledge between generations? In many ways the extent to which we live the gospel, attend our meetings and serve others will determine how deeply these same principles sink into the hearts and souls of our children.
On September 23 1995 the First Presidency & Quorum of the Twelve Apostles published “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”. Regarding this proclamation President Henry B. Eyring said that, “Since the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ through the Prophet Joseph Smith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has issued a proclamation only four times. It had been more than 15 years since the previous one,… Thus, we can understand the importance our Heavenly Father places upon the family, the subject of the fifth and most recent proclamation…” An apostolic proclamation is not something to be treated lightly, please listen carefully. It reads in part,
“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. …Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations. …Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.”
In these few sentences we are instructed as to our duty, reminded of our accountability and given the principles by which we will succeed.
Think back with me once more to King Benjamin. He demonstrated one other parental principle that I wish to share, endurance. In Mosiah 1:9 we read, “And it came to pass that after king Benjamin had made an end of teaching his sons, that he waxed old, and he saw that he must very soon go the way of all the earth…” I believe he taught well into his retirement. He spent his whole life teaching his sons. To teach our children is not a responsibility with a finish line. As they mature our influence lessens but there are still lessons to be learned and times to teach. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 speaks about teaching children the word of the Lord, “And these words… shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." In all that we do we are always teaching, with even our last breath.
Scripturally it is a common occurrence for a world weary father, ready to pass on, to gather his children around him for final council and a blessing. I love these passages of scripture. Lehi’s pleadings for Laman & Lemuel to “arise from the dust & be men”, Alma’s reproach of Corianton & praise for Shiblon, his council to Helaman to teach the people “…an everlasting hatred against sin.” Or Mormon & Moroni, can you imagine what their last moments together must have been like? What council & wisdom passed from father to son on that day? Now I look forward fondly to a long life and many opportunities to teach my children. If however I were forced to give one final lesson, to teach one last thing I would say this; I Love Jesus Christ. He is my personal Savior. I trust him. I trust my Father in Heaven. I know that they have a plan for us, for me. I love the Book of Mormon. I love the characters, the stories. I am grateful for the understanding of eternal truths contained therin. The scriptures are true. The atonement is real, it works. We, weak and imperfect as we are, can be purified through Christ’s sacrifice and suffering. Joseph Smith was a true Prophet of God. Through him Christ restored his church & his priesthood. By virtue of this power & authority our family is sealed together. We are an eternal family and will be together forever if we are individually humble enough to accept Christ, to let him into our hearts & souls. If we can subdue the natural man & submit our whole soul, our every whim to the will of the Father we will be saved. Stay close to the Lord, Pray, seek for the companionship of the holy ghost. Love and support, help one another. But most of all my family, know that I love you. I always will.
President Monson has said,
“To you who are parents, I say, show love to your children. You know you love them, but make certain they know it as well. They are so precious. Let them know. Call upon our Heavenly Father for help as you care for their needs each day and as you deal with the challenges which inevitably come with parenthood. You need more than your own wisdom in rearing them."
I pray that we may all live worthy of the designation “goodly parents” that we may each & all be forever families.
For what it's worth
I, Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father; and having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days; yea, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of God, therefore I make a record of my proceedings in my days.
Due in no small part to repeated attempts at diligence in reading the book of Mormon this verse is as familiar to us as any in scripture. Despite the familiarity I would be surprised if a fair number of us do any more than scan quickly over it as we plow into the initial pages of the book. This is a mistake. Every verse has meaning and the first verse is no exception. The phrase “having been born of goodly parents” communicates that they were kind and compassionate parents, that they respected and loved their children and that Nephi, at least, felt the same for them. Lehi & Saria where good parents, they tried to provide for and protect their children. Nephi also indicates that because they were “goodly parents, therefore (he) was taught somewhat in ALL the learning of (his) father;”.
This is not a solitary reference to Book of Mormon fathers teaching their sons. Enos thanked his father by saying, (Enos 1:1) “my father… taught me in his language, and also in the nurture and admonition of the Lord—and blessed be the name of my God for it….” Initially he did not pay much attention to spiritual things but he learned enough that when his heart was ready he knew where to turn. Procrastination earned him a wrestle with the Lord. Alma the younger like wise disregarded the teachings of his father and even went about “seeking to destroy the church of God”. He too had a wrestle with the Lord, he described the experience to his son Helaman as “being wracked with eternal torment… I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I was tormented with the pains of hell; yea, I saw that I had rebelled against my God, and that I had not kept his holy commandments.” In this forsaken state he remembered at length the words of his father. He remembered to have heard his father speak concerning the coming of Jesus Christ, the son of God, to atone for the sins of the world. It was not only his fathers fasting and prayers that saved Alma, it was also lessons oft repeated to one who would not hear. In some cases we may never know the net effect of our efforts.
Another scriptural example of parental teaching was King Benjamin. He loved his sons (Mosiah 1:2 (2-8)) “And he caused that they should be taught in all the language of his fathers, that thereby they might become men of understanding; and that they might know concerning the prophecies…And many more things did king Benjamin teach his sons.” Mormon likewise “began to be learned” at an early age. It was a priority for scriptural Prophets to teach their children. I suggest that, any parent who wishes to prepare their child for the future will provide for more than their immediate needs of food, clothing & shelter. We have heard before the statement that, “if you give a man a fish, he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime.” Think about how that principle applies to children. If we give them everything we deprive them not only of the satisfaction which comes from a job well done but of the knowledge needed for independence. We need to prepare them physically as well as spiritually. These requisite secular lessons are what I believe is meant by Lehi teaching ALL things or Benjamin teaching many more things. Teach them life skills, how to keep house, to cook, to grow a garden. Teach them how to do the simple physical things someone taught you. Or even better teach them the stuff you learned on your own. Times spent together anxiously engaged in a good cause endear them to you & you to them. While thus engaged opportunities to teach the gospel spontaneously, naturally occur. Watch for them and teach eternal truths.
Lehi evidently taught these truths. Nephi did not complain when asked to leave Jerusalem, he did not question when twice required to return and he was sufficiently well acquainted with the workings of the spirit to be lead “not knowing before hand the things which (he) should do.” These lessons where taught by Lehi, not a primary teacher or youth leader. The primary responsibility for gospel instruction resides with the parents. In the October Conference of 2005 Elder M. Russell Ballard said, “Teach the gospel and basic values in your home. …Too many of our parents are abdicating this responsibility to the Church. While seminary, auxiliaries, and priesthood quorums are important as a supplement to parental gospel instruction, the main responsibility rests in the home.”
From his tower King Benjamin instructed us to (Mosiah 4:14&15) “teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ... teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.”
Alma the Younger directs his son Helaman regarding what to teach the people in Alma 37:32-34, “…teach them an everlasting hatred against sin and iniquity. Preach unto them repentance, and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ; teach them to humble themselves and to be meek and lowly in heart; teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. Teach them to never be weary of good works, but to be meek and lowly in heart; for such shall find rest to their souls.” Brothers and sisters we like Alma & Enos know where to turn for peace. In the Gospel we have the answers to life’s most persistent questions. We know why we are here and where we are going. We even know a little about what it will be like. We understand Gods plan for us. Wouldn’t it be a shame to loose this knowledge between generations? In many ways the extent to which we live the gospel, attend our meetings and serve others will determine how deeply these same principles sink into the hearts and souls of our children.
On September 23 1995 the First Presidency & Quorum of the Twelve Apostles published “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”. Regarding this proclamation President Henry B. Eyring said that, “Since the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ through the Prophet Joseph Smith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has issued a proclamation only four times. It had been more than 15 years since the previous one,… Thus, we can understand the importance our Heavenly Father places upon the family, the subject of the fifth and most recent proclamation…” An apostolic proclamation is not something to be treated lightly, please listen carefully. It reads in part,
“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. …Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations. …Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.”
In these few sentences we are instructed as to our duty, reminded of our accountability and given the principles by which we will succeed.
Think back with me once more to King Benjamin. He demonstrated one other parental principle that I wish to share, endurance. In Mosiah 1:9 we read, “And it came to pass that after king Benjamin had made an end of teaching his sons, that he waxed old, and he saw that he must very soon go the way of all the earth…” I believe he taught well into his retirement. He spent his whole life teaching his sons. To teach our children is not a responsibility with a finish line. As they mature our influence lessens but there are still lessons to be learned and times to teach. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 speaks about teaching children the word of the Lord, “And these words… shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." In all that we do we are always teaching, with even our last breath.
Scripturally it is a common occurrence for a world weary father, ready to pass on, to gather his children around him for final council and a blessing. I love these passages of scripture. Lehi’s pleadings for Laman & Lemuel to “arise from the dust & be men”, Alma’s reproach of Corianton & praise for Shiblon, his council to Helaman to teach the people “…an everlasting hatred against sin.” Or Mormon & Moroni, can you imagine what their last moments together must have been like? What council & wisdom passed from father to son on that day? Now I look forward fondly to a long life and many opportunities to teach my children. If however I were forced to give one final lesson, to teach one last thing I would say this; I Love Jesus Christ. He is my personal Savior. I trust him. I trust my Father in Heaven. I know that they have a plan for us, for me. I love the Book of Mormon. I love the characters, the stories. I am grateful for the understanding of eternal truths contained therin. The scriptures are true. The atonement is real, it works. We, weak and imperfect as we are, can be purified through Christ’s sacrifice and suffering. Joseph Smith was a true Prophet of God. Through him Christ restored his church & his priesthood. By virtue of this power & authority our family is sealed together. We are an eternal family and will be together forever if we are individually humble enough to accept Christ, to let him into our hearts & souls. If we can subdue the natural man & submit our whole soul, our every whim to the will of the Father we will be saved. Stay close to the Lord, Pray, seek for the companionship of the holy ghost. Love and support, help one another. But most of all my family, know that I love you. I always will.
President Monson has said,
“To you who are parents, I say, show love to your children. You know you love them, but make certain they know it as well. They are so precious. Let them know. Call upon our Heavenly Father for help as you care for their needs each day and as you deal with the challenges which inevitably come with parenthood. You need more than your own wisdom in rearing them."
I pray that we may all live worthy of the designation “goodly parents” that we may each & all be forever families.
For what it's worth
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
God's Country
Several years ago my grandfather Nelson gave me a book, a BIG book, an edition of “A Treasury of American Folklore”. He had a well used copy in which I had show some interest previously. It is a wonderful compilation of folk songs, tall tales, yarns &, poetry. Its contents allude to the hopes & fears, dreams & realities of our countries frontier heritage. As I said it is a rather large book, I have not read it all. I have read one story, previously unknown to me upon which I ponder from time to time about a frontier family in search of God’s Country. They moved several times in search of a better life. They raised a family, fought fires, centipedes, poor crops, sand storms & drought. They spent 48 years together hunting for God’s Country before her beloved died. “Before he died we learned something. Something terribly important…”
If you would have asked me 15 years ago what my life would be like up till now I am not sure how I’d have answered. I do not believe that I would have predicted multiple moves landing in Utah County. Our married time in Cedar seemed brief yet turbulent. The time in Wellington was taken entirely for granted. We did not recognize until we left how deeply we had come to love our friends and neighbors. I don’t know if or when the vacant hole in our hearts will ever be filled. Thankfully some of those loved ones are willing to keep up a long distance relationship & have become even more dear. I don’t know how many of those I am thinking about today will ever see this but to all of you who touched our lives, by loving us, accepting us & just being you, thank you. You may never know how much it meant. You are all in our prayers. (Mormon 8:3)
“…We learned that God’s Country isn’t in the country. It is in the mind. As we look back we knew that all the time we was hunting for God’s Country we had it. We worked hard. We was loyal. Honest. We was happy. For 48 years we lived in God’s Country.”
Find peace with what we have & where we are, physically as well as spiritually, & we will be happy.
For What It’s Worth
Ryan
If you would have asked me 15 years ago what my life would be like up till now I am not sure how I’d have answered. I do not believe that I would have predicted multiple moves landing in Utah County. Our married time in Cedar seemed brief yet turbulent. The time in Wellington was taken entirely for granted. We did not recognize until we left how deeply we had come to love our friends and neighbors. I don’t know if or when the vacant hole in our hearts will ever be filled. Thankfully some of those loved ones are willing to keep up a long distance relationship & have become even more dear. I don’t know how many of those I am thinking about today will ever see this but to all of you who touched our lives, by loving us, accepting us & just being you, thank you. You may never know how much it meant. You are all in our prayers. (Mormon 8:3)
“…We learned that God’s Country isn’t in the country. It is in the mind. As we look back we knew that all the time we was hunting for God’s Country we had it. We worked hard. We was loyal. Honest. We was happy. For 48 years we lived in God’s Country.”
Find peace with what we have & where we are, physically as well as spiritually, & we will be happy.
For What It’s Worth
Ryan
Monday, May 5, 2008
“…as if ye were present…”
Moroni, the last Nephite Prophet concludes the history of his people with a brief rehersal of events since their final battle followed by a beautiful, descriptive prophesy regarding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. In that prophesy he speaks directly to us, “I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing.” (Mormon 8:35) He continues to warn & chasten us over the next several verses, speaking principally about pride in its various forms and then asks several questions. In verse 40 he asks, “why do ye build up your secret abominations…?” In this same segment of writing he tells us he has seen our day, preaches against pride & warns of secret abominations (combinations). In Ether 8:20 he indicates that these combinations and oaths “are had among all peoples…”. Even up to the recent past whenever these combinations were mentioned in Sunday school or Priesthood I have assumed that they referred to gangs & drug runners, with their “secret signs” & evil desires they appear to be Gadianton incarnate. Upon further reflection however, I believe that assertion fell somewhat short of the mark.
My intention here is not to try & identify living Gadiantons, only to establish the likelihood of their contemporary existence, that we may be watchful & “suffer not that these murderous combinations shall get above (us)…to (our) overthrow and destruction…” (Ether 8:23). In my brief study I found both method & motive. The desire of these people is “to get gain”, “to be praised of men”, to commit whoredoms & all sorts of evil contrary to the laws of man & God, “to overthrow the freedom of all lands, nations and countries” all that they might have power. (Helaman 2:8, 6:23, 7:21, Mormon 8:40, Ether 8: 15-16, 23, 25, 11:15 & Moses 6:15) They want to be in control, to rule over everything & everyone around them. There is no humility, only selfishness & greed. Their specific methods described by scripture (surely not an all inclusive list) are murder, thievery, plunder & to bear false witness. (Helaman 2:8, 6:17,21,23) They would certainly be capable of doing anything which might in anyway further their self indulgent cause. This mode of operation is routinely followed by evil of all calibers & description, hence my misplaced label. But does it seem likely that the most powerful Gadiantons will be content with petty turf wars for domination of a few city blocks when by using similar methods they can control entire governments(Helaman 6:39) & thereby nations? Satan’s desires, make no mistake he is the author of all secret combinations, have never been minor league. Right from the beginning he sought to take all power & glory. His modern minions surely harbor the same ambition.
“And whatsoever nation shall uphold such secret combinations, to get power and gain, until they shall spread over the nation, behold, they shall be destroyed…”(Ether 8:22) Moroni indicates that these combinations brought about the destruction of both the Jaredites & the Nephites.(Ether 8:21) We have a responsibility, a command that “when ye shall see these things come among you that ye shall awake to a sense of your awful situation, because of this secret combination which shall be among you” (Ether 8:24). I believe that we have a duty to be watchful, to be aware, to fight evil wherever & and in whatever form we find it. A lone individual has a limited sphere of influence, however united we can stem the tide of evil & complacency which threatens to overwhelm our great nation. I hope that there are modern Moronis, we need men & women of his stature to once again raise a standard of liberty. A lesser know though no less valiant hero of the Book of Mormon was Pahoran Chief Judge of the Nephite nation, I close with his words, (Alma 61:14)
“Therefore, my beloved brother, Moroni, let us resist evil, and whatsoever evil we cannot resist with our words, yea, such as rebellions and dissensions, let us resist them with our swords, that we may retain our freedom, that we may rejoice in the great privilege of our church, and in the cause of our Redeemer and our God.”
For what it’s worth
Ryan
My intention here is not to try & identify living Gadiantons, only to establish the likelihood of their contemporary existence, that we may be watchful & “suffer not that these murderous combinations shall get above (us)…to (our) overthrow and destruction…” (Ether 8:23). In my brief study I found both method & motive. The desire of these people is “to get gain”, “to be praised of men”, to commit whoredoms & all sorts of evil contrary to the laws of man & God, “to overthrow the freedom of all lands, nations and countries” all that they might have power. (Helaman 2:8, 6:23, 7:21, Mormon 8:40, Ether 8: 15-16, 23, 25, 11:15 & Moses 6:15) They want to be in control, to rule over everything & everyone around them. There is no humility, only selfishness & greed. Their specific methods described by scripture (surely not an all inclusive list) are murder, thievery, plunder & to bear false witness. (Helaman 2:8, 6:17,21,23) They would certainly be capable of doing anything which might in anyway further their self indulgent cause. This mode of operation is routinely followed by evil of all calibers & description, hence my misplaced label. But does it seem likely that the most powerful Gadiantons will be content with petty turf wars for domination of a few city blocks when by using similar methods they can control entire governments(Helaman 6:39) & thereby nations? Satan’s desires, make no mistake he is the author of all secret combinations, have never been minor league. Right from the beginning he sought to take all power & glory. His modern minions surely harbor the same ambition.
“And whatsoever nation shall uphold such secret combinations, to get power and gain, until they shall spread over the nation, behold, they shall be destroyed…”(Ether 8:22) Moroni indicates that these combinations brought about the destruction of both the Jaredites & the Nephites.(Ether 8:21) We have a responsibility, a command that “when ye shall see these things come among you that ye shall awake to a sense of your awful situation, because of this secret combination which shall be among you” (Ether 8:24). I believe that we have a duty to be watchful, to be aware, to fight evil wherever & and in whatever form we find it. A lone individual has a limited sphere of influence, however united we can stem the tide of evil & complacency which threatens to overwhelm our great nation. I hope that there are modern Moronis, we need men & women of his stature to once again raise a standard of liberty. A lesser know though no less valiant hero of the Book of Mormon was Pahoran Chief Judge of the Nephite nation, I close with his words, (Alma 61:14)
“Therefore, my beloved brother, Moroni, let us resist evil, and whatsoever evil we cannot resist with our words, yea, such as rebellions and dissensions, let us resist them with our swords, that we may retain our freedom, that we may rejoice in the great privilege of our church, and in the cause of our Redeemer and our God.”
For what it’s worth
Ryan
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Dear Conservative America
Dear Conservative America,
What do we do? Our nation is in distress. The value of our dollar is in a tailspin. We have promised aid & borrowed so much from foreign nations that we owe nearly the sum total of our gross national product. If the Federal Government was held to the same rules of finance that we are individually, it would & therefore we would be bankrupt. Look it up. Don’t believe the politicians who gloss over or problems as if we are unable to handle or not entitled to the truth. How long can we continue in error? We do not have money for social security, Medicare, nationally funded health care, or education let alone a foreign policy which costs millions every day. The recent tax rebates are giving us money that they don’t have, thus increasing the debt. Overspending will never solve our economic woes. I cannot borrow my way out of debt and neither can the government. Although we may stall a recession we cannot avoid it & the more debt we accrue, the weaker the dollar gets the worse & harder the recovery will be.
In this election year we must consider who can best address this unavoidable issue. McCain has been educated on economics by the same institution that got us into this mess. He does not have a prayer of a chance to solve this, our nations most pressing problem & neither do the other democrats (just look at his voting record he is more democrat than republican). The only hope for America is truly Ron Paul. Laugh if you like but truth is truth & he is the only candidate speaking openly about our situation. He is the only one with a plan that may actually fix the economy. He can still win. Less than 30% of Americans vote in Primary elections & less than 15% attend their Caucus meetings. Those who go will get their candidate elected. Go to your caucus & vote to save our nation. Vote Ron Paul.
For what it’s worth
Ryan Nelson
What do we do? Our nation is in distress. The value of our dollar is in a tailspin. We have promised aid & borrowed so much from foreign nations that we owe nearly the sum total of our gross national product. If the Federal Government was held to the same rules of finance that we are individually, it would & therefore we would be bankrupt. Look it up. Don’t believe the politicians who gloss over or problems as if we are unable to handle or not entitled to the truth. How long can we continue in error? We do not have money for social security, Medicare, nationally funded health care, or education let alone a foreign policy which costs millions every day. The recent tax rebates are giving us money that they don’t have, thus increasing the debt. Overspending will never solve our economic woes. I cannot borrow my way out of debt and neither can the government. Although we may stall a recession we cannot avoid it & the more debt we accrue, the weaker the dollar gets the worse & harder the recovery will be.
In this election year we must consider who can best address this unavoidable issue. McCain has been educated on economics by the same institution that got us into this mess. He does not have a prayer of a chance to solve this, our nations most pressing problem & neither do the other democrats (just look at his voting record he is more democrat than republican). The only hope for America is truly Ron Paul. Laugh if you like but truth is truth & he is the only candidate speaking openly about our situation. He is the only one with a plan that may actually fix the economy. He can still win. Less than 30% of Americans vote in Primary elections & less than 15% attend their Caucus meetings. Those who go will get their candidate elected. Go to your caucus & vote to save our nation. Vote Ron Paul.
For what it’s worth
Ryan Nelson
Monday, February 18, 2008
The McCain Bandwagon, a Lost Cause
The value of the dollar is falling & the deficit grows every minute. 72% of Americans believe the economy is getting worse, yet none of the leading candidates have a clear solution. In fact all of them support programs or actions which increase government spending. On this issue there is no clear winner, they are all equally poor choices. Therefore despite the fact that most Americans believe the economy to be a larger problem than our foreign policy it will not be the deciding factor in this election.
The deciding vote will be cast for or against the war & our current absurd foreign policy. Roughly 60% of Americans are dissatisfied with the war in Iraq and believe that we should bring our troops home. Coincidentally primary / caucus exit polls indicate that approximately 60% of voters voted Democratic. Why is that? It is because the leading Republicans profess a 100 year commitment to an unconstitutional war. Republicans will not gain the Presidency with a pro war platform. A vote for McCain is a wasted vote. He cannot win.
The only hope, slim as it may be, for conservative America is Ron Paul. He seems radical only because the party majority has slipped so far from its intended course of constitutionally based limited government, free trade & personal liberty. Ron Paul is the only republican candidate whose platform is capable of beating the democrats, sound, clear economic answers & a plan to bring our troops home. Dr. Paul is the only candidate from either party w/ a vision of and desire for real change. He is still in the race, nothing has yet been decided. Most of the delegates have not yet been awarded. The Utah republican caucus will be held on March 25th. Unless Ron Paul gets the Republican nomination the democrats will win the presidency. STAND UP and make your voice heard.
For what it’s worth
Sources –
Total votes cast in primaries http://www.thegreenpapers.com/P08/tally.phtml
Bring our troops home http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/current_events/the_war_in_iraq/iraq_troop_withdrawal
Public opinion on the economy http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/business/indexes/rasmussen_consumer_index
The deciding vote will be cast for or against the war & our current absurd foreign policy. Roughly 60% of Americans are dissatisfied with the war in Iraq and believe that we should bring our troops home. Coincidentally primary / caucus exit polls indicate that approximately 60% of voters voted Democratic. Why is that? It is because the leading Republicans profess a 100 year commitment to an unconstitutional war. Republicans will not gain the Presidency with a pro war platform. A vote for McCain is a wasted vote. He cannot win.
The only hope, slim as it may be, for conservative America is Ron Paul. He seems radical only because the party majority has slipped so far from its intended course of constitutionally based limited government, free trade & personal liberty. Ron Paul is the only republican candidate whose platform is capable of beating the democrats, sound, clear economic answers & a plan to bring our troops home. Dr. Paul is the only candidate from either party w/ a vision of and desire for real change. He is still in the race, nothing has yet been decided. Most of the delegates have not yet been awarded. The Utah republican caucus will be held on March 25th. Unless Ron Paul gets the Republican nomination the democrats will win the presidency. STAND UP and make your voice heard.
For what it’s worth
Sources –
Total votes cast in primaries http://www.thegreenpapers.com/P08/tally.phtml
Bring our troops home http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/current_events/the_war_in_iraq/iraq_troop_withdrawal
Public opinion on the economy http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/business/indexes/rasmussen_consumer_index
Saturday, February 2, 2008
In Brief
For those of you uninterested in my lenghty ramblings. Here are a few similar thoughts expressed more succinctly.
"The probibility that we may fall in the struggle ought not deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just." - Abraham Lincoln
"There are no easy answers... but there are simple answers. We must have the courage to do what we know to be morally right." - Ronald Regan
"No man is worth his salt who is not ready at all times to risk his well-being, to risk his body, to risk his life, in a great cause." - Teddy Roosevelt
"Never give in ... never, never, never, never, in nothng great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense." - Winston Churchill
Difficult times & chalenging circumstances force us dig deep & find strength within to overcome. Great men are not produced by an easy life. The strongest amoung us grow slowly through adversity then rise to meet the challenge. I frequently wonder, will I be enough?
For what it's worth
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