The Journey of Faith
Thoughts on Joseph Smith
Hello,
Here is a little more inspiration for you…
I have contemplated the last days that Joseph Smith Jr. spent on this earth as well as the greatness of his life. I have examined my own life and feel that I lack so much in comparison to this faithful and shining example of a disciple of Christ. I have asked myself, "Why was Joseph so courageous and amazing, so brave and heroic? Is it possible for us to approach the great charitable acts and stature of this remarkable man?"
I believe that Joseph acted as he did naturally, out of a pure heart, because of the person he was deep down inside. He taught that, "Love grows out of virtue." I believe we can all succeed spiritually by having hope and faith in Christ and by asking our Heavenly Father to bless us with the gift of Charity daily. The gift of Charity will enable us, like the Prophet Joseph, to truly love our fellow man as Jesus would love them. Joseph was a great man, not because he tried to be great, but because he tried to serve others and follow the example of Jesus Christ humbly and sincerely. Joseph practiced the purest form of religion, which is, to love. Joseph loved the Lord and all men and because of this, great power flowed into his life. This spiritual power from our Father in Heaven helped him become the man that he is.
The following quotations are from the Prophet Joseph Smith Jr.-
"I stood alone, an unlearned youth, to combat the worldly wisdom and multiplied ignorance of eighteen centuries, with a new revelation."
"I will always maintain a true principle, even if I stand alone in it."
"A good man will endure all things to honor Christ."
"If you wish to go where God is, you must be like God."
"all things are concurring to bring about the completion of the fullness of the Gospel"
"I intend to lay a foundation that will revolutionize the whole world."
"Well will it be for those who shall aid in carrying into effect the mighty operations of Jehovah."
"I am a lover of the cause of Christ"
"I will try to be contented with my lot, knowing that God is my friend. In him I shall find comfort. I have given my life into his hands. I am prepared to go at his call. I desire to be with Christ. I count not my life dear to me, only to do his will."
Joseph did so many loving things for his fellow man. I believe that the Savior truly would say to Joseph, "These deeds shall thy memorial be, fear not, thou dids't them unto me." I hope that at the conclusion of each of our lives the same can be said of us. I hope that we may all leave a legacy of love and righteousness that will stand as a testimony to those who know us, that Jesus is the Christ and that his gospel is true. I pray that we may desire to have that same hope, that same faith and that same charity at the very core of who we are.
There is a new website called JosephSmith.net that has been prepared in connection with the events commemorating the bicentennial of Joseph's birth and 175 years since the Restoration of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I highly recommend the content as it is uplifting, interesting and inspiring.
I hope that you have a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
-Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Here is a little more inspiration for you…
I have contemplated the last days that Joseph Smith Jr. spent on this earth as well as the greatness of his life. I have examined my own life and feel that I lack so much in comparison to this faithful and shining example of a disciple of Christ. I have asked myself, "Why was Joseph so courageous and amazing, so brave and heroic? Is it possible for us to approach the great charitable acts and stature of this remarkable man?"
I believe that Joseph acted as he did naturally, out of a pure heart, because of the person he was deep down inside. He taught that, "Love grows out of virtue." I believe we can all succeed spiritually by having hope and faith in Christ and by asking our Heavenly Father to bless us with the gift of Charity daily. The gift of Charity will enable us, like the Prophet Joseph, to truly love our fellow man as Jesus would love them. Joseph was a great man, not because he tried to be great, but because he tried to serve others and follow the example of Jesus Christ humbly and sincerely. Joseph practiced the purest form of religion, which is, to love. Joseph loved the Lord and all men and because of this, great power flowed into his life. This spiritual power from our Father in Heaven helped him become the man that he is.
The following quotations are from the Prophet Joseph Smith Jr.-
"I stood alone, an unlearned youth, to combat the worldly wisdom and multiplied ignorance of eighteen centuries, with a new revelation."
"I will always maintain a true principle, even if I stand alone in it."
"A good man will endure all things to honor Christ."
"If you wish to go where God is, you must be like God."
"all things are concurring to bring about the completion of the fullness of the Gospel"
"I intend to lay a foundation that will revolutionize the whole world."
"Well will it be for those who shall aid in carrying into effect the mighty operations of Jehovah."
"I am a lover of the cause of Christ"
"I will try to be contented with my lot, knowing that God is my friend. In him I shall find comfort. I have given my life into his hands. I am prepared to go at his call. I desire to be with Christ. I count not my life dear to me, only to do his will."
Joseph did so many loving things for his fellow man. I believe that the Savior truly would say to Joseph, "These deeds shall thy memorial be, fear not, thou dids't them unto me." I hope that at the conclusion of each of our lives the same can be said of us. I hope that we may all leave a legacy of love and righteousness that will stand as a testimony to those who know us, that Jesus is the Christ and that his gospel is true. I pray that we may desire to have that same hope, that same faith and that same charity at the very core of who we are.
There is a new website called JosephSmith.net that has been prepared in connection with the events commemorating the bicentennial of Joseph's birth and 175 years since the Restoration of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I highly recommend the content as it is uplifting, interesting and inspiring.
I hope that you have a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
-Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Which one?
Hello,
Here is a little more inspiration for you…
I was teaching my young children about the Law of Chastity and decided to just sum it up by saying that Heavenly Father wants us to dress modestly. My Daughter said, "What does modestly mean?" I said, "It means that we wear clothes that cover our bodies." My five-year-old Daughter then announced to her younger siblings, "When it is sunny we don't have to be modest but when it is raining then we have to be modest."
One Memorial Day we went to a Cemetery in Salt Lake City with Grandma and Grandpa and as we were standing by the graves Grandpa said to my Daughter, "This is where my Daddy is buried and this is where my Mommy is buried." "I only have one rose left" My Daughter said. "Go ahead and put it on one of their headstones" Said Grandpa. My five-year-old Daughter hesitated and then asked, "Which one of them did you like the best?" We all laughed heartily in response to her question.
I hope that you have a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
-Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
P.S. "Complete and constant integrity is a great law of human conduct. There need to be some absolutes in life." —President James E. Faust
Here is a little more inspiration for you…
I was teaching my young children about the Law of Chastity and decided to just sum it up by saying that Heavenly Father wants us to dress modestly. My Daughter said, "What does modestly mean?" I said, "It means that we wear clothes that cover our bodies." My five-year-old Daughter then announced to her younger siblings, "When it is sunny we don't have to be modest but when it is raining then we have to be modest."
One Memorial Day we went to a Cemetery in Salt Lake City with Grandma and Grandpa and as we were standing by the graves Grandpa said to my Daughter, "This is where my Daddy is buried and this is where my Mommy is buried." "I only have one rose left" My Daughter said. "Go ahead and put it on one of their headstones" Said Grandpa. My five-year-old Daughter hesitated and then asked, "Which one of them did you like the best?" We all laughed heartily in response to her question.
I hope that you have a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
-Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
P.S. "Complete and constant integrity is a great law of human conduct. There need to be some absolutes in life." —President James E. Faust
Suffering - by Appreciable
Suffering
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There is a law to follow,
With a punishment affixed.
There’s poison you can swallow,
Though with truth it may be mixed.
If we break the rules in life,
While knowing what is right,
We find sorrow, guilt, and strife,
And weep through lonely night.
Yet, suffering comes to everyone,
Resulting from the fall.
We conquer this through God’s own son,
Who has endured it all.
The devil wants to cloud our mind,
So we'll think God’s love is lacking.
He distracts us from the perfect plan.
As his demons are attacking.
Remember the message that has been sent,
While sin does bring grief and sorrow,
All suffering is not punishment,
And, in God’s time, gets fixed tomorrow.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There is a law to follow,
With a punishment affixed.
There’s poison you can swallow,
Though with truth it may be mixed.
If we break the rules in life,
While knowing what is right,
We find sorrow, guilt, and strife,
And weep through lonely night.
Yet, suffering comes to everyone,
Resulting from the fall.
We conquer this through God’s own son,
Who has endured it all.
The devil wants to cloud our mind,
So we'll think God’s love is lacking.
He distracts us from the perfect plan.
As his demons are attacking.
Remember the message that has been sent,
While sin does bring grief and sorrow,
All suffering is not punishment,
And, in God’s time, gets fixed tomorrow.
Judgement - by Appreciable
Judgment
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
This life is like a courtroom,
And we have a role to play.
Like the pattern in a weavers loom,
We’ll leave our mark today.
Some pass sentence very early,
And from their stance don’t budge.
Yet, we’re to be a witness purely,
Letting Jesus be the judge.
You see, we'll all be weighed,
In the balance that is just,
Using good works we have made,
While clothed with mortal dust.
We’ll be judged by the way that we love,
How we’re loved doesn't mater so much.
As we follow the Savior above,
He can heal us with his gentle touch.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
This life is like a courtroom,
And we have a role to play.
Like the pattern in a weavers loom,
We’ll leave our mark today.
Some pass sentence very early,
And from their stance don’t budge.
Yet, we’re to be a witness purely,
Letting Jesus be the judge.
You see, we'll all be weighed,
In the balance that is just,
Using good works we have made,
While clothed with mortal dust.
We’ll be judged by the way that we love,
How we’re loved doesn't mater so much.
As we follow the Savior above,
He can heal us with his gentle touch.
That We May Be One - by Appreciable
That We May Be One
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
When we write the tune, that forms our short life,
We observe all too soon, that there will be strife.
In a choir and band, there must be music players.
And though the piece is grand, it can be played by music slayers.
For, even if we plan the most beautiful thing,
We’ll loose our best fan, if it’s flat when they sing.
I now clearly see, it is God that I should trust.
If our duet becomes off-key, then MY tuning I'll adjust.
Yes, that's the key to life, to trust in God above,
And overcome all strife, with harmony and love.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
When we write the tune, that forms our short life,
We observe all too soon, that there will be strife.
In a choir and band, there must be music players.
And though the piece is grand, it can be played by music slayers.
For, even if we plan the most beautiful thing,
We’ll loose our best fan, if it’s flat when they sing.
I now clearly see, it is God that I should trust.
If our duet becomes off-key, then MY tuning I'll adjust.
Yes, that's the key to life, to trust in God above,
And overcome all strife, with harmony and love.
To my Sweetheart, Dressed in White - by Appreciable
To my Sweetheart, Dressed in White
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There you are, in flawless white.
As a brilliant star, through gloomy night.
I love your soul, and I'm glad to be
Bound by our goal to partake from God’s tree.
We're sealed forever, and though we die,
We'll soon be together, You and I.
I do not recall, time preceding this life.
Yet, someday I’ll know all about you my wife.
Someday this veil, which hides the past
Itself will fail, and part at last.
I then shall know, the one by my side
As we both go, up to God and abide.
So, before the casket closes, I’ll kiss you one more time.
And know that like our roses, next spring you’ll be sublime.
Yes, then I’ll know you fully, as in blazing light we dwell.
In the presence of the holy, and the great Immanuel.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There you are, in flawless white.
As a brilliant star, through gloomy night.
I love your soul, and I'm glad to be
Bound by our goal to partake from God’s tree.
We're sealed forever, and though we die,
We'll soon be together, You and I.
I do not recall, time preceding this life.
Yet, someday I’ll know all about you my wife.
Someday this veil, which hides the past
Itself will fail, and part at last.
I then shall know, the one by my side
As we both go, up to God and abide.
So, before the casket closes, I’ll kiss you one more time.
And know that like our roses, next spring you’ll be sublime.
Yes, then I’ll know you fully, as in blazing light we dwell.
In the presence of the holy, and the great Immanuel.
The soothing summer breeze - by Appreciable
The soothing summer breeze
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Sometimes the wind can move you, and make your heart beat fast.
But, a whirling violent vortex is a thing that cannot last.
For, in that wind is always strife, bringing chaos into life.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen the flames, with a devil’s tongue, leaping to the sky.
Burning up the innocence, to make the forest die.
Passion must be held in check, for sin can make your life a wreck.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen a twister on the lake, spouting water high.
It lifted up a fishy, though It's not safe for trout to fly.
Excitement can bring danger. It’s unwise to kiss a stranger.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen a snow-white devil, in it’s frozen hate.
Throwing snow up all around, angry to face it’s fate.
It seems to know the ageless truth, that it won’t make it out of youth.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen a dusty funnel cloud, out in the desert waste.
It seems to run toward its end with sad and reckless haste.
A desert is so bare and dry, that love born there will surely die.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
Our love and friendship both have grown, stronger through the years.
We’ve cried together many times, with sad or joyful tears.
Your love for me is always there, an answer to my fervent prayer.
You are the gentle breeze that’s always constant.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Sometimes the wind can move you, and make your heart beat fast.
But, a whirling violent vortex is a thing that cannot last.
For, in that wind is always strife, bringing chaos into life.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen the flames, with a devil’s tongue, leaping to the sky.
Burning up the innocence, to make the forest die.
Passion must be held in check, for sin can make your life a wreck.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen a twister on the lake, spouting water high.
It lifted up a fishy, though It's not safe for trout to fly.
Excitement can bring danger. It’s unwise to kiss a stranger.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen a snow-white devil, in it’s frozen hate.
Throwing snow up all around, angry to face it’s fate.
It seems to know the ageless truth, that it won’t make it out of youth.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
I’ve seen a dusty funnel cloud, out in the desert waste.
It seems to run toward its end with sad and reckless haste.
A desert is so bare and dry, that love born there will surely die.
I prefer a gentle breeze that’s always constant.
Our love and friendship both have grown, stronger through the years.
We’ve cried together many times, with sad or joyful tears.
Your love for me is always there, an answer to my fervent prayer.
You are the gentle breeze that’s always constant.
The Most Important Knowledge - by Appreciable
The Most Important Knowledge
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There’s so much knowledge in the world
On which to feast and dine
So many ways that truth is hurled
Toward my open mind
Yet, the most important truth
That we can understand
Comes by learning in our youth
To obey the Lord’s command
The feasting that is best, to me
The most important dish
Is the word the Lord gives us for free
Feeding thousands with two fish
For the teachings of Lord Jesus
Though simple and so small
Are packed with truth and goodness
That can feed and strengthen all.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There’s so much knowledge in the world
On which to feast and dine
So many ways that truth is hurled
Toward my open mind
Yet, the most important truth
That we can understand
Comes by learning in our youth
To obey the Lord’s command
The feasting that is best, to me
The most important dish
Is the word the Lord gives us for free
Feeding thousands with two fish
For the teachings of Lord Jesus
Though simple and so small
Are packed with truth and goodness
That can feed and strengthen all.
We all need a friend - by Appreciable
We all need a friend
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Sometimes we all feel lonely
Those are common tears to cry
We feel that we care only
That we sit and sadly sigh
The spirit's a gift the Savior sent
When he ascended to dwell above
This gift he left when life was spent
Can make a place in hearts for love
The gift of the Holy Ghost
Can fill our heart with peace
This Comforter can help the most
To make our heartache cease
God's love can dry our tears
No matter why we've cried
The Spirit calms our fears
Warming hearts up, from inside
Sometimes, we feel that we're alone
When friends are hard to find
Some leave our God, who they have known
And depart from peace of mind
The tragedy of this dark path
Is very hard to bear
They lose the peace the Spirit hath
For he can't follow there
Our constant friend in life
The one who dwells inside
Must abandon them to strife
As their commitment died
Oh, let us keep this one true friend
And walk with God each day
For, we'll go home at this life's end
If we endure and pray
If we want to conquer sadness
Finding peace in every hour
Let's receive this gift with gladness
And be filled with love and power.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Sometimes we all feel lonely
Those are common tears to cry
We feel that we care only
That we sit and sadly sigh
The spirit's a gift the Savior sent
When he ascended to dwell above
This gift he left when life was spent
Can make a place in hearts for love
The gift of the Holy Ghost
Can fill our heart with peace
This Comforter can help the most
To make our heartache cease
God's love can dry our tears
No matter why we've cried
The Spirit calms our fears
Warming hearts up, from inside
Sometimes, we feel that we're alone
When friends are hard to find
Some leave our God, who they have known
And depart from peace of mind
The tragedy of this dark path
Is very hard to bear
They lose the peace the Spirit hath
For he can't follow there
Our constant friend in life
The one who dwells inside
Must abandon them to strife
As their commitment died
Oh, let us keep this one true friend
And walk with God each day
For, we'll go home at this life's end
If we endure and pray
If we want to conquer sadness
Finding peace in every hour
Let's receive this gift with gladness
And be filled with love and power.
The hearts of the children - by Appreciable
The hearts of the children
by Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I thank my parents for the words of love and truth
That became my building blocks in youth
From these foundations continue to rise
A structure of goodness to reach to the skies
These precious materials I try to share
With each of my children with great effort and care
We are building Eternity every day
With each act that we do and each word that we say
I'm so thankful for all those who have gone on before
Those who taught their children how to love and adore
Their kind words re-play daily in our home still
And down through the ages their love we can feel.
by Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I thank my parents for the words of love and truth
That became my building blocks in youth
From these foundations continue to rise
A structure of goodness to reach to the skies
These precious materials I try to share
With each of my children with great effort and care
We are building Eternity every day
With each act that we do and each word that we say
I'm so thankful for all those who have gone on before
Those who taught their children how to love and adore
Their kind words re-play daily in our home still
And down through the ages their love we can feel.
A Correct Comprehension of Ourselves - by Appreciable
A Correct Comprehension of Ourselves
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
If there's a God in heaven
If there's a plan for me
I know that I must find them
If my purpose I would see
Unless I know why I am here
Upon this troubled earth
I'll never know the reason
My soul has wondrous worth
If there's a great creator,
Why did he send me here?
What's the purpose of my life?
To conquer doubt and fear?
What will happen after death?
Why did we come to be?
Will I just stop existing?
Or come back as a tree?
What's the greatest future,
That I can hope to reach?
Are they only fiction?
These words the prophets teach?
The answers to these questions
Are difficult to find
I look but cannot find them
Recorded in my mind
The mind alone can't find them
These answers that I need
I need something to verify
These words I'm asked to read
The theories of the scientist
Can't explain mortality
These theories can't be proved
With facts my eyes can see
I need a message straight from God
That speaks straight to my heart
Where no one else has access
With all their cunning art
The Holy Ghost alone can teach
The truths that God will share
And God will guide me straight to him
With tender loving care.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
If there's a God in heaven
If there's a plan for me
I know that I must find them
If my purpose I would see
Unless I know why I am here
Upon this troubled earth
I'll never know the reason
My soul has wondrous worth
If there's a great creator,
Why did he send me here?
What's the purpose of my life?
To conquer doubt and fear?
What will happen after death?
Why did we come to be?
Will I just stop existing?
Or come back as a tree?
What's the greatest future,
That I can hope to reach?
Are they only fiction?
These words the prophets teach?
The answers to these questions
Are difficult to find
I look but cannot find them
Recorded in my mind
The mind alone can't find them
These answers that I need
I need something to verify
These words I'm asked to read
The theories of the scientist
Can't explain mortality
These theories can't be proved
With facts my eyes can see
I need a message straight from God
That speaks straight to my heart
Where no one else has access
With all their cunning art
The Holy Ghost alone can teach
The truths that God will share
And God will guide me straight to him
With tender loving care.
Standing in Line
Standing in Line
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I'm going through this Life
Just the same as anyone
Avoiding pain and strife
And looking for some fun
A friend of mine, stood in a line
And I walked over there
The company was so divine
I stayed, without a care
The years flew by as we progressed
Not making any plans
We thought we'd find some peace and rest
But left with empty hands
For, when we'd reached the very end
We found, as others had
We'd been distracted by a friend
We didn’t see the line was bad
Please question the direction
The line is headed in
To make a good connection
That the prize we all may win
Do we want the things this line will give?
Or will we later grieve.
Let’s ask ourselves, while we yet live
“Is there more I can receive?”
The moral of this story
Is there for us to see
If we want to find God's glory
We must ask God where to be.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I'm going through this Life
Just the same as anyone
Avoiding pain and strife
And looking for some fun
A friend of mine, stood in a line
And I walked over there
The company was so divine
I stayed, without a care
The years flew by as we progressed
Not making any plans
We thought we'd find some peace and rest
But left with empty hands
For, when we'd reached the very end
We found, as others had
We'd been distracted by a friend
We didn’t see the line was bad
Please question the direction
The line is headed in
To make a good connection
That the prize we all may win
Do we want the things this line will give?
Or will we later grieve.
Let’s ask ourselves, while we yet live
“Is there more I can receive?”
The moral of this story
Is there for us to see
If we want to find God's glory
We must ask God where to be.
Humorous Singing
Hello again,
I just wanted to share something with you that made me smile recently.
"Give, said the little stream" must be one of the most universally misunderstood songs in the world.
Instead of saying "Give said the little STREAM", one of my siblings believed for many years that this song said, "Give said the little STRING." This led to a lot of confusion about the correlation between giving, a string, and why the grass would grow greener still wherever this magical string went.
One day my Daughter was singing "Give, said the little stream", and I finally heard the way she was singing it, (Instead of "I'm small, I know but wherever I go the grass grows greener still") she used to sing "I smiled, I know, but wherever I go the grass grows green and still."
Even funnier still, my Son also sings "I am a child of God", creatively. He was singing this song recently and belted out, "I am a child of God and so my knees are gray."
I hope that you are having a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
-Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I just wanted to share something with you that made me smile recently.
"Give, said the little stream" must be one of the most universally misunderstood songs in the world.
Instead of saying "Give said the little STREAM", one of my siblings believed for many years that this song said, "Give said the little STRING." This led to a lot of confusion about the correlation between giving, a string, and why the grass would grow greener still wherever this magical string went.
One day my Daughter was singing "Give, said the little stream", and I finally heard the way she was singing it, (Instead of "I'm small, I know but wherever I go the grass grows greener still") she used to sing "I smiled, I know, but wherever I go the grass grows green and still."
Even funnier still, my Son also sings "I am a child of God", creatively. He was singing this song recently and belted out, "I am a child of God and so my knees are gray."
I hope that you are having a wonderful day!
Sincerely,
-Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Christmas Reverence - by Appreciable
Christmas Reverence
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
The winter sun goes early to bed
As Christmas lights shine warm and bright
All passing eyes with the lights are led
To the manger scene a wondrous sight
My daughter was out in the evening air
In the quiet coolness of the winter snow
She went and got herself a chair
And sat before the mangers glow
She sat a long time with reverence resounding
and quietly looked at the little Christ Child
Love and joy in my heart was full and abounding
To see her sitting out there so meek and so mild
I saw her through the window and when she had returned
I asked what she was thinking to see what she had learned
My six-year-old daughter's response was thus...
"I was thinking about how he died for us."
Yes, when we see a manger scene let's try to do the same
To think about Lord Jesus and praise his holy name.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
The winter sun goes early to bed
As Christmas lights shine warm and bright
All passing eyes with the lights are led
To the manger scene a wondrous sight
My daughter was out in the evening air
In the quiet coolness of the winter snow
She went and got herself a chair
And sat before the mangers glow
She sat a long time with reverence resounding
and quietly looked at the little Christ Child
Love and joy in my heart was full and abounding
To see her sitting out there so meek and so mild
I saw her through the window and when she had returned
I asked what she was thinking to see what she had learned
My six-year-old daughter's response was thus...
"I was thinking about how he died for us."
Yes, when we see a manger scene let's try to do the same
To think about Lord Jesus and praise his holy name.
To my Brothers and Sisters in the family of God...
We have so much in common
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I suppose that the nature of the class was bound to attract people like myself. This class would naturally appeal to people who love books. Some people seem to feel that the written word is of equal value when compared with words that we hear with our ears. I have a great love for books, and so taking the Library Studies Skills Class at Weber State University, seemed like a dream come true! However, this class held an unexpected surprise for me when we visited the rare books collection at the Library.
The instructor explained about the rare books collection and then offered to give us the opportunity to look at some of these rare books. The instructor disappeared into the back room for a time and emerged with many wonderful old books. As he mentioned the books he had selected, my excitement grew to a heart pounding level. A few moments later, I held in my hands, a very old religious text that is connected with my faith in God. I opened the old book carefully, while supporting the binding tenderly. I read one of my favorite passages from the book and tears came flooding to my eyes. I felt that I was experiencing one of the singular events of my life as I read these sacred words from so ancient a copy of this beautiful book. I looked around the room, filled with a desire to share the joy I felt. I then noticed a man who was having the very same experience, as he was reading from an old religious text of a different religion. It was apparent to me that this man was of a religion and nationality different than my own. His eyes met mine, and as we saw the tears in the other persons eyes, he said, “These are beautiful,” as he cradled a book in his hands. “Yes they are”, I agreed.
There are moments where communication does not require either written or spoken words. This was such a moment. As I looked into his eyes, I realized that this man was a good and honest man. I realized at the same time, that whatever had moved him to tears must therefore be good as well. These feelings banished any fear, suspicion or prejudice instantly from my heart. I felt a bond of brotherhood with this man that I knew very little about. I felt as though God were reaching out to both of us at the same time through different voices, which were both inspired by him. God seemed to be reaching out in the language and circumstances of our lives with a language that transcends nationality and culture.
This experience happened a long time ago. The details regarding the other students with which I took this class are gone from my memory. I remember the things that I learned from the class. I remember doing the research at the library and I remember my instructor and the skill that he displayed while teaching this class. Even so, the most poignant memory from this class will always be the things that remained unspoken, between me and this other man. I wrote the following poem to describe further the things that I felt in that moment.
His image
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Many see your dark skin
And think they know you well
Other faiths say that we sin
And are headed straight for hell
When we look in the mirror
And memorize our face
We think that we grow nearer
To learning our true place.
Yet, the longer I live upon this earth,
And the more I meet new friends
I've learned a lesson of great worth
As my suspicion ends.
I've learned, as I look in your eyes
And walk on foreign sod
I see, in you, to my surprise
The image of our God.
I’ve thought a lot about the feelings of sacred wonder that this fellow student and I shared in that moment. We both had a desire to share the joy we had received from these wonderful records. This shared experience, gave me an appreciation for the things that other people hold sacred. I gained, in that moment, a greater understanding of the fact that we are all children of the same God. As human beings, we hope and yearn for the same things. As I think back to the night we spent in the rare books collection, I remember walking out of the Library and seeing the night sky. It was a clear night and there seemed to be an endless number of stars shining in the sky. I looked up at them, breathing in the cool night air and feeling wonderfully safe and at home in this world. At that moment, I realized very powerfully that those people who hold as sacred, the written words that teach civility and morality, have ever so much in common.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I suppose that the nature of the class was bound to attract people like myself. This class would naturally appeal to people who love books. Some people seem to feel that the written word is of equal value when compared with words that we hear with our ears. I have a great love for books, and so taking the Library Studies Skills Class at Weber State University, seemed like a dream come true! However, this class held an unexpected surprise for me when we visited the rare books collection at the Library.
The instructor explained about the rare books collection and then offered to give us the opportunity to look at some of these rare books. The instructor disappeared into the back room for a time and emerged with many wonderful old books. As he mentioned the books he had selected, my excitement grew to a heart pounding level. A few moments later, I held in my hands, a very old religious text that is connected with my faith in God. I opened the old book carefully, while supporting the binding tenderly. I read one of my favorite passages from the book and tears came flooding to my eyes. I felt that I was experiencing one of the singular events of my life as I read these sacred words from so ancient a copy of this beautiful book. I looked around the room, filled with a desire to share the joy I felt. I then noticed a man who was having the very same experience, as he was reading from an old religious text of a different religion. It was apparent to me that this man was of a religion and nationality different than my own. His eyes met mine, and as we saw the tears in the other persons eyes, he said, “These are beautiful,” as he cradled a book in his hands. “Yes they are”, I agreed.
There are moments where communication does not require either written or spoken words. This was such a moment. As I looked into his eyes, I realized that this man was a good and honest man. I realized at the same time, that whatever had moved him to tears must therefore be good as well. These feelings banished any fear, suspicion or prejudice instantly from my heart. I felt a bond of brotherhood with this man that I knew very little about. I felt as though God were reaching out to both of us at the same time through different voices, which were both inspired by him. God seemed to be reaching out in the language and circumstances of our lives with a language that transcends nationality and culture.
This experience happened a long time ago. The details regarding the other students with which I took this class are gone from my memory. I remember the things that I learned from the class. I remember doing the research at the library and I remember my instructor and the skill that he displayed while teaching this class. Even so, the most poignant memory from this class will always be the things that remained unspoken, between me and this other man. I wrote the following poem to describe further the things that I felt in that moment.
His image
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Many see your dark skin
And think they know you well
Other faiths say that we sin
And are headed straight for hell
When we look in the mirror
And memorize our face
We think that we grow nearer
To learning our true place.
Yet, the longer I live upon this earth,
And the more I meet new friends
I've learned a lesson of great worth
As my suspicion ends.
I've learned, as I look in your eyes
And walk on foreign sod
I see, in you, to my surprise
The image of our God.
I’ve thought a lot about the feelings of sacred wonder that this fellow student and I shared in that moment. We both had a desire to share the joy we had received from these wonderful records. This shared experience, gave me an appreciation for the things that other people hold sacred. I gained, in that moment, a greater understanding of the fact that we are all children of the same God. As human beings, we hope and yearn for the same things. As I think back to the night we spent in the rare books collection, I remember walking out of the Library and seeing the night sky. It was a clear night and there seemed to be an endless number of stars shining in the sky. I looked up at them, breathing in the cool night air and feeling wonderfully safe and at home in this world. At that moment, I realized very powerfully that those people who hold as sacred, the written words that teach civility and morality, have ever so much in common.
Mormons can be Christians too
Mormons can be Christians too
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There are multiple definitions of the word Christian in the Dictionary. Because there are multiple definitions of words, (and we have no way, while speaking, to indicate which definition we are using), people can argue on both sides of an issue about something and both be 100 percent correct.
For instance, the dictionary defines the word Christian in the following ways...
Christian
1-Pertaining to or derived from Jesus Christ or his teachings.
2-Of, pertaining to or adhering to a religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
3-Of, or pertaining to Christians
4-Exhibiting a spirit proper to a follower of Jesus Christ, as in having a loving regard for other persons.
5-A person who believes in Jesus Christ; An adherent of Christianity.
6-A person who exemplifies in his life the teachings of Christ.
According to these definitions, someone may be correct when he says that one particular member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is not a Christian. (ie. Perhaps one specific Mormon they know, who seems to hate people and does not "have a loving regard for them." As required in definition number four.) On the other hand, a person might simply be confused if he makes the Statement that all Mormons are not Christians. Which definition is he using then?
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There are multiple definitions of the word Christian in the Dictionary. Because there are multiple definitions of words, (and we have no way, while speaking, to indicate which definition we are using), people can argue on both sides of an issue about something and both be 100 percent correct.
For instance, the dictionary defines the word Christian in the following ways...
Christian
1-Pertaining to or derived from Jesus Christ or his teachings.
2-Of, pertaining to or adhering to a religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
3-Of, or pertaining to Christians
4-Exhibiting a spirit proper to a follower of Jesus Christ, as in having a loving regard for other persons.
5-A person who believes in Jesus Christ; An adherent of Christianity.
6-A person who exemplifies in his life the teachings of Christ.
According to these definitions, someone may be correct when he says that one particular member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is not a Christian. (ie. Perhaps one specific Mormon they know, who seems to hate people and does not "have a loving regard for them." As required in definition number four.) On the other hand, a person might simply be confused if he makes the Statement that all Mormons are not Christians. Which definition is he using then?
Eternal Joy - by Appreciable
Eternal Joy
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Standing in the twilight with you
Seeing the temple as though it were new
With glowing lights adorning its face
I thank God for such a wonderful place
The beauty of heaven has come to the earth
Helping us see our own special worth
I feel so much peace from our father above
And to you I offer my heart full of love
My sweetheart forever I hope and I pray
That I'll always remember the joy of this day
I will always obey the spirit's soft voice
I will stand with you always for this is my choice
I'm so grateful we entered the Lord's Temple doors
For throughout all the ages my darling, I'm yours.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
Standing in the twilight with you
Seeing the temple as though it were new
With glowing lights adorning its face
I thank God for such a wonderful place
The beauty of heaven has come to the earth
Helping us see our own special worth
I feel so much peace from our father above
And to you I offer my heart full of love
My sweetheart forever I hope and I pray
That I'll always remember the joy of this day
I will always obey the spirit's soft voice
I will stand with you always for this is my choice
I'm so grateful we entered the Lord's Temple doors
For throughout all the ages my darling, I'm yours.
Do Mormons belong to a Cult?
Do Mormons belong to a Cult?
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There are multiple definitions of the word cult in the Dictionary. Because there are multiple definitions of words, (and we have no way, while speaking, to indicate which definition we are using), people can argue about something and both be 100 percent correct.
There are many people, who claim to follow the teachings of Jesus, that use the word "Cult" to describe religions that are different than their own.
Here is the definition of that word...
Cult
1-A particular system of religious worship, Esp. with reference to it's rites and ceremonies.
2-An instance of great veneration of a person, idea, or thing, Esp. as manifested by a body of admirers: A cult of Napoleon.
3-The object of such devotion.
4-A group or sect bound together by devotion to or veneration of the same thing, person, ideal, etc.
5-A group having a sacred ideology and a set of rites centered around their sacred ideology and a set of rites centering around their sacred symbols.
6-A religion that is considered or held to be false or unorthox.
I have realized that as I talk with someone who uses this term to label me, I could say to him, "My friend, we belong to the same cult. The cult of Jesus." According to definition number two, I would be 100 percent correct. This would likely shock my friend and make him extremely angry however, because the only definition of the word cult that he may be aware of, is number six. (Though, if I were to say this, I would be referring to definition number 4.) If a person feels that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints fits definition number 6, I would like to let this person know that I respect the right and privilege that you have to believe that the Mormon Church is a false religion.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
There are multiple definitions of the word cult in the Dictionary. Because there are multiple definitions of words, (and we have no way, while speaking, to indicate which definition we are using), people can argue about something and both be 100 percent correct.
There are many people, who claim to follow the teachings of Jesus, that use the word "Cult" to describe religions that are different than their own.
Here is the definition of that word...
Cult
1-A particular system of religious worship, Esp. with reference to it's rites and ceremonies.
2-An instance of great veneration of a person, idea, or thing, Esp. as manifested by a body of admirers: A cult of Napoleon.
3-The object of such devotion.
4-A group or sect bound together by devotion to or veneration of the same thing, person, ideal, etc.
5-A group having a sacred ideology and a set of rites centered around their sacred ideology and a set of rites centering around their sacred symbols.
6-A religion that is considered or held to be false or unorthox.
I have realized that as I talk with someone who uses this term to label me, I could say to him, "My friend, we belong to the same cult. The cult of Jesus." According to definition number two, I would be 100 percent correct. This would likely shock my friend and make him extremely angry however, because the only definition of the word cult that he may be aware of, is number six. (Though, if I were to say this, I would be referring to definition number 4.) If a person feels that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints fits definition number 6, I would like to let this person know that I respect the right and privilege that you have to believe that the Mormon Church is a false religion.
McCain or Obama?
The lesser of two evils is still an evil
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
In an episode of “The Simpsons,” two aliens came to earth to take over the world. To accomplish this objective, these aliens decided to run for the office of President in the most powerful Country in the world. They decided that one of them would run as a Republican and the other as a Democrat. In this way, one of them would be elected for sure. In this T.V. show, one of the aliens won the election and soon enslaved all of humanity. In the cartoon, the humans were not happy under the brutal leadership of their alien taskmasters. One of these humans complained to another human working next to him about the horrible changes that had occurred since the election. The other human responded by saying, “Don’t blame me, it’s a two-party system, I voted for the other guy.”
I am not suggesting that John McCain and Barack Obama are aliens. I am suggesting, however, that the time may come in the future, that we will need to find and vote for a third option, in order to maintain our freedom. I believe that honesty is the main qualification for a political leader. Without honesty, the oath of office means nothing. Neither Barack Obama nor John McCain disserves to be elected to the U.S. Presidency. They are entrenched in the powerful grip of National Parties that have lost sight of the overall good of the American People. There are people who will do a much better job of leading this Country. I hope that you will join with me, and write-in someone you respect and admire, for President of the United States of America.
I like Barack Obama’s call for radical change in U.S. Politics. Unfortunately, significant change will not be achieved with either himself or John McCain as President. Barack Obama complains about John McCain being a “Washington politician. It seems to me that for Barack Obama to complain about this, is a little like “the pot calling the kettle black.” (No pun intended.) After all, Barack Obama also works in Washington D.C. as a “Washington politician”. If we really want change, therefore, we must vote for neither Obama nor McCain. Eight political watchdog groups recently asked John McCain and Barack Obama to disclose more about the fundraising for their presidential campaigns. My Father, for instance, really is a Washington outsider, in fact he’s promised that he will not go to Washington D.C. for political purposes unless we elect him to the Presidency. I love America more than I love any political Party and so I’ll vote for the candidate that will be the best leader for America.
One of the most important issues to me is that of Same-Gender Marriage. In other Countries, where same-gender marriages receive legal recognition, there have been declining heterosexual marriage rates and sharp increases in illegitimacy rates. Yet, some people still don't see how allowing same-sex 'civil union' takes away from the meaning of marriage. In the end they say, “a legal civil union is a private contract between two people.” This view overlooks the real consequences on society that have already been realized in other Countries.
Due to some of his recent comments, Obama has been accused of dragging biblical understanding through the gutter. Other people say that Obama is committed to reaching out to people of faith and standing up for families. I personally worry about his tendency to govern by the lowest common denominator of public morality. However, I cannot, in good conscience vote for McCain either. I am concerned over the departures John McCain has made in the past from the ideals of his party.
My father is a man of great wisdom and solid integrity and honesty. My Father is a strong supporter of traditional marriage. He believes that the role of Government is to guarantee freedom, punishing those who are guilty of breaking the law, providing protection against foreign invasion, and to find solutions to the problems in our communities. We cannot ignore problems that prevent families from living in a community with a healthy environment. My father has also served as an unpaid religious leader for a small, Christian congregation for over twelve years. He’s also taught the Bible professionally for almost 40 years. He is a man who is full of love for others and has a remarkable ability to lead others in a cooperative and successful way.
We do have a voice and a choice, not limited to only two options. The argument against voting for a third party candidate, is to say that they can’t possibly win. However, I believe that we can bring a candidate to the White House who wasn’t chosen for us in a back room in Washington D.C. We should each vote for the person we feel would do the best job, even if they do not have an R or D by there name. Many candidates and public servants seek to appear to be honest, generous, and caring, without actually being any of those things.
My Father really is commitment to working with everyone to achieve a happy and prosperous national community. If elected, he will devote himself fully to leading this Country toward collective success and the realization of happiness for both individuals and families. I hope you will join me in answering Barack Obama’s call for change, by voting for someone who really will bring it about. Please join me in writing in someone that you really respect and admire for President of the United States.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
In an episode of “The Simpsons,” two aliens came to earth to take over the world. To accomplish this objective, these aliens decided to run for the office of President in the most powerful Country in the world. They decided that one of them would run as a Republican and the other as a Democrat. In this way, one of them would be elected for sure. In this T.V. show, one of the aliens won the election and soon enslaved all of humanity. In the cartoon, the humans were not happy under the brutal leadership of their alien taskmasters. One of these humans complained to another human working next to him about the horrible changes that had occurred since the election. The other human responded by saying, “Don’t blame me, it’s a two-party system, I voted for the other guy.”
I am not suggesting that John McCain and Barack Obama are aliens. I am suggesting, however, that the time may come in the future, that we will need to find and vote for a third option, in order to maintain our freedom. I believe that honesty is the main qualification for a political leader. Without honesty, the oath of office means nothing. Neither Barack Obama nor John McCain disserves to be elected to the U.S. Presidency. They are entrenched in the powerful grip of National Parties that have lost sight of the overall good of the American People. There are people who will do a much better job of leading this Country. I hope that you will join with me, and write-in someone you respect and admire, for President of the United States of America.
I like Barack Obama’s call for radical change in U.S. Politics. Unfortunately, significant change will not be achieved with either himself or John McCain as President. Barack Obama complains about John McCain being a “Washington politician. It seems to me that for Barack Obama to complain about this, is a little like “the pot calling the kettle black.” (No pun intended.) After all, Barack Obama also works in Washington D.C. as a “Washington politician”. If we really want change, therefore, we must vote for neither Obama nor McCain. Eight political watchdog groups recently asked John McCain and Barack Obama to disclose more about the fundraising for their presidential campaigns. My Father, for instance, really is a Washington outsider, in fact he’s promised that he will not go to Washington D.C. for political purposes unless we elect him to the Presidency. I love America more than I love any political Party and so I’ll vote for the candidate that will be the best leader for America.
One of the most important issues to me is that of Same-Gender Marriage. In other Countries, where same-gender marriages receive legal recognition, there have been declining heterosexual marriage rates and sharp increases in illegitimacy rates. Yet, some people still don't see how allowing same-sex 'civil union' takes away from the meaning of marriage. In the end they say, “a legal civil union is a private contract between two people.” This view overlooks the real consequences on society that have already been realized in other Countries.
Due to some of his recent comments, Obama has been accused of dragging biblical understanding through the gutter. Other people say that Obama is committed to reaching out to people of faith and standing up for families. I personally worry about his tendency to govern by the lowest common denominator of public morality. However, I cannot, in good conscience vote for McCain either. I am concerned over the departures John McCain has made in the past from the ideals of his party.
My father is a man of great wisdom and solid integrity and honesty. My Father is a strong supporter of traditional marriage. He believes that the role of Government is to guarantee freedom, punishing those who are guilty of breaking the law, providing protection against foreign invasion, and to find solutions to the problems in our communities. We cannot ignore problems that prevent families from living in a community with a healthy environment. My father has also served as an unpaid religious leader for a small, Christian congregation for over twelve years. He’s also taught the Bible professionally for almost 40 years. He is a man who is full of love for others and has a remarkable ability to lead others in a cooperative and successful way.
We do have a voice and a choice, not limited to only two options. The argument against voting for a third party candidate, is to say that they can’t possibly win. However, I believe that we can bring a candidate to the White House who wasn’t chosen for us in a back room in Washington D.C. We should each vote for the person we feel would do the best job, even if they do not have an R or D by there name. Many candidates and public servants seek to appear to be honest, generous, and caring, without actually being any of those things.
My Father really is commitment to working with everyone to achieve a happy and prosperous national community. If elected, he will devote himself fully to leading this Country toward collective success and the realization of happiness for both individuals and families. I hope you will join me in answering Barack Obama’s call for change, by voting for someone who really will bring it about. Please join me in writing in someone that you really respect and admire for President of the United States.
Tiny Coffins - by Appreciable
Tiny Coffins
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I feel that caskets shouldn't have to be
Made small enough to hold a child
These coffins really trouble me
For ones so young, and meek and mild
Why must these children die so young?
And why must we loose these little ones?
What painful songs hurting hearts have sung
While grief like a river through their home runs
Yet, the answer spoken in my soul
Brings peacefulness to my weary mind
And out of a heart that with sorrow is full
I thank God for the plan he designed
There's no good reason that children die
Yet it happens often on this flawed earth
Causing heavy hearts to sadly sigh
Who've loved these children from before their birth
And the Children's laughter continues on
In a realm of peace and joy and rest
It only seems like they are gone
Yet, really, we're gone from the place that is best
Though it's hard when little ones leave in their youth
I thank God to know that these children are free
I'm so thankful to know this wonderful truth
And ask strength now to cope with my jealousy.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
I feel that caskets shouldn't have to be
Made small enough to hold a child
These coffins really trouble me
For ones so young, and meek and mild
Why must these children die so young?
And why must we loose these little ones?
What painful songs hurting hearts have sung
While grief like a river through their home runs
Yet, the answer spoken in my soul
Brings peacefulness to my weary mind
And out of a heart that with sorrow is full
I thank God for the plan he designed
There's no good reason that children die
Yet it happens often on this flawed earth
Causing heavy hearts to sadly sigh
Who've loved these children from before their birth
And the Children's laughter continues on
In a realm of peace and joy and rest
It only seems like they are gone
Yet, really, we're gone from the place that is best
Though it's hard when little ones leave in their youth
I thank God to know that these children are free
I'm so thankful to know this wonderful truth
And ask strength now to cope with my jealousy.
Are Mormons Decieved?
Are Mormons Decieved?
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
The following comes from the book, History of Salt Lake City by Edward William Tullidge…
“When President Ulysses S. Grant, on his entrance to Salt Lake City (for the first time), in his carriage, passed the multitude of Sunday School children who, under their teachers, had gathered, arrayed in white to welcome him- in their simplicity of manner, emphasizing the greeting of Brigham Young, 'This is the first time I have had the honor of meeting a President of my nation' – he turned to Governor Emery and enquired, ‘Whose children are these?’ He was answered by the Governor, ‘Mormon children.’ For several moments the President was silent, and then he murmered, in a tone of self-reproach, ‘I have been deceived!’ It was in vain for any anti-Mormon, after that utterance, to tell him that those children had been arrayed to give him welcome, for the purpose of making a favorable impression on his mind in behalf of their Mormon parents. To a man of so strong a religious nature as that of Ulysses S. Grant… these Sunday School children, brought up in the fear of the Lord, were, on this Sabbath day of his entrance into our city, more powerful sermons than he had ever heard… (in his church) against the Mormons from his favorite pastor. And even the depreciatory expounding of the anti-Mormon – that this array of Sunday School children was “all gotten up for effect” – would have been entirely lost on a man of simple directness of mind, for Mormon parents, who could with so much natural sagacity conceive the plot of capturing the conqueror of southern rebeldom, by an army of their Sunday School children, were surely not wicked parents, nor unworthy of the regard of the representative ‘father of his Country.’ “
I am a Member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (a Mormon) and as such, like every other Mormon, I have been encouraged by the church to search for and accept the truth wherever I can find it. I have read the sixty-six books in the bible through (several times) I have read all of the Biblical Apocrypha, I have read the Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and the Pearl of Great Price. I’ve been told, over the years, by several people (Who have not read all of these things) that I have been deceived. I find it interesting that many of the people who call me deceived are, in truth, the ones who are in a deceived state about what I believe and what the LDS Church teaches. Many videos and much written information have been produced by former members of the LDS church, which are intentionally dishonest. Many of these materials are circulated vigorously by some of our friends of other faiths in a seeming effort to bring fear into the hearts of their people so that they will not investigate the “More” that Mormonism offers. I have read books given to me by my friends of other faiths regarding their religion. I have had the experience of seeing fear in the eyes of someone as they tell me that they will never read the Book of Mormon. This fear is unnecessary for all those who believe that God can speak to our spirits through the Holy Ghost and help us discern the difference between truth and error. Faith is a much better approach to finding truth and goodness than fear. I believe that there are many who more closely fit the definition of being deceived if they blindly accept what they are told about the LDS Church and the people within this faith without personally questioning and investigating the validity of what they are being told.
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
The following comes from the book, History of Salt Lake City by Edward William Tullidge…
“When President Ulysses S. Grant, on his entrance to Salt Lake City (for the first time), in his carriage, passed the multitude of Sunday School children who, under their teachers, had gathered, arrayed in white to welcome him- in their simplicity of manner, emphasizing the greeting of Brigham Young, 'This is the first time I have had the honor of meeting a President of my nation' – he turned to Governor Emery and enquired, ‘Whose children are these?’ He was answered by the Governor, ‘Mormon children.’ For several moments the President was silent, and then he murmered, in a tone of self-reproach, ‘I have been deceived!’ It was in vain for any anti-Mormon, after that utterance, to tell him that those children had been arrayed to give him welcome, for the purpose of making a favorable impression on his mind in behalf of their Mormon parents. To a man of so strong a religious nature as that of Ulysses S. Grant… these Sunday School children, brought up in the fear of the Lord, were, on this Sabbath day of his entrance into our city, more powerful sermons than he had ever heard… (in his church) against the Mormons from his favorite pastor. And even the depreciatory expounding of the anti-Mormon – that this array of Sunday School children was “all gotten up for effect” – would have been entirely lost on a man of simple directness of mind, for Mormon parents, who could with so much natural sagacity conceive the plot of capturing the conqueror of southern rebeldom, by an army of their Sunday School children, were surely not wicked parents, nor unworthy of the regard of the representative ‘father of his Country.’ “
I am a Member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (a Mormon) and as such, like every other Mormon, I have been encouraged by the church to search for and accept the truth wherever I can find it. I have read the sixty-six books in the bible through (several times) I have read all of the Biblical Apocrypha, I have read the Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and the Pearl of Great Price. I’ve been told, over the years, by several people (Who have not read all of these things) that I have been deceived. I find it interesting that many of the people who call me deceived are, in truth, the ones who are in a deceived state about what I believe and what the LDS Church teaches. Many videos and much written information have been produced by former members of the LDS church, which are intentionally dishonest. Many of these materials are circulated vigorously by some of our friends of other faiths in a seeming effort to bring fear into the hearts of their people so that they will not investigate the “More” that Mormonism offers. I have read books given to me by my friends of other faiths regarding their religion. I have had the experience of seeing fear in the eyes of someone as they tell me that they will never read the Book of Mormon. This fear is unnecessary for all those who believe that God can speak to our spirits through the Holy Ghost and help us discern the difference between truth and error. Faith is a much better approach to finding truth and goodness than fear. I believe that there are many who more closely fit the definition of being deceived if they blindly accept what they are told about the LDS Church and the people within this faith without personally questioning and investigating the validity of what they are being told.
Pornography
I was listening to a radio program recently during which, they discussed a group of doctors who lived in France many years ago. These Doctors worked at a free hospital for unwed mothers. The death-rate for the mothers at this charity hospital was 70 percent! They all believed that the reason it was higher at their hospital was because God punishes sinners. While it is true that God punishes sinners, in this case the reason these mothers were dying was that the doctors did not wash their hands between doing research at the morgue and delivering babies back at the hospital. One doctor, who refused to accept the easy assumption that most doctors had accepted, continued researching and found out that if they delivered babies with clean hands that the death-rate dropped sharply. If we truly love others we do what is best for them and do not participate in activities that can hurt them even indirectly. This story on this radio program had a happy ending, because once these doctors realized that they were part of the problem, they made sure that their hands were clean and the number of deaths were greatly reduced.
Let us Serve with a Heart that is Clean
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
The women who came to that poorhouse, all carried a child inside.
These ladies felt low as a louse, for with shame they had come to reside.
The Doctors showed them compassion, and helped without charging a fee.
Self-righteousness was their reaction, with virtue all plainly could see.
Yet, once the night had fallen, these Doctors looked at other things.
In the morgue with germs a’ crawlin’, where death to each hand clings.
When they looked to find the answer, as to why these women died,
Infection's deadly cancer, was waiting there inside.
What made these women die, when giving birth right here?
As these Doctors wondered why, their answer seemed quite clear.
For, God will punish evil, and these women were unwed.
When you see the wheat has weevil, you throw away the bread.
And so the search progressed, with dead bodies in the night.
Using corpses they’d undressed, they tried to shed some light.
Then they found the tragic cause, and it truly is obscene.
So shed a tear and pause… yes, their OWN hands were unclean!
The disease that they had viewed, to know why Moms had died,
On they’re own hands had been glued, and this is how it got inside.
These doctors, asked to heal, had spread germs instead that killed.
How does a man then feel, who serves as sword instead of shield?
For, that is false compassion, harming those we claim to pity.
So let’s heed the truth again, and not re-play this ugly ditty.
There are women in the world, who spiritually have died.
Who have their clothing now unfurled, so men can look inside.
Some wicked men shun filth by day, while viewing it at night.
Yet, if each man follows in God’s way, he’ll fill our souls with light.
As we go forth to lift and bless, remember what these lessons mean.
For, we'll never create an immoral mess, as we serve with a heart that is clean.
Let us Serve with a Heart that is Clean
By Appreciable Goodfaithpoet
The women who came to that poorhouse, all carried a child inside.
These ladies felt low as a louse, for with shame they had come to reside.
The Doctors showed them compassion, and helped without charging a fee.
Self-righteousness was their reaction, with virtue all plainly could see.
Yet, once the night had fallen, these Doctors looked at other things.
In the morgue with germs a’ crawlin’, where death to each hand clings.
When they looked to find the answer, as to why these women died,
Infection's deadly cancer, was waiting there inside.
What made these women die, when giving birth right here?
As these Doctors wondered why, their answer seemed quite clear.
For, God will punish evil, and these women were unwed.
When you see the wheat has weevil, you throw away the bread.
And so the search progressed, with dead bodies in the night.
Using corpses they’d undressed, they tried to shed some light.
Then they found the tragic cause, and it truly is obscene.
So shed a tear and pause… yes, their OWN hands were unclean!
The disease that they had viewed, to know why Moms had died,
On they’re own hands had been glued, and this is how it got inside.
These doctors, asked to heal, had spread germs instead that killed.
How does a man then feel, who serves as sword instead of shield?
For, that is false compassion, harming those we claim to pity.
So let’s heed the truth again, and not re-play this ugly ditty.
There are women in the world, who spiritually have died.
Who have their clothing now unfurled, so men can look inside.
Some wicked men shun filth by day, while viewing it at night.
Yet, if each man follows in God’s way, he’ll fill our souls with light.
As we go forth to lift and bless, remember what these lessons mean.
For, we'll never create an immoral mess, as we serve with a heart that is clean.
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