BEING A MOTHER
This is one mans story that teaches a great principle.
After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me
to take another woman out to dinner and a movie.
She said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman loves you and would Love to spend some time with you.'
The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my Mother, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie. 'What's wrong, are you well,' she asked?
My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.
'I thought that it would be pleasant to spend some time with you,' I responded 'just the two of us.' She thought about it for a moment, and then said,’ I would like that very much.'
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I
was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on.
She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary. She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's.
'I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said, as she got into the car. 'They can't wait to hear about our meeting.'
We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady.
After we sat down, I had to read the menu.
Her eyes could only read large print. Half-way through the entrees, I lifted my eyes and saw Mother sitting there staring at me.
A nostalgic smile was on her lips.
'It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small,' she said. 'Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor,' I responded. During the dinner , we had an agreeable conversation nothing extraordinary but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie. As we arrived at her house later, she said, 'I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you.' I agreed.
'How was your dinner date?' asked my wife when I got home. 'Very nice, much more so than I could have imagined,' I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack.
It happened so suddenly that I didn't have a chance to do anything for her. Sometime later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place Mother and I had dined.
An attached note said: 'I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but, nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me.
'I love you, son'
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: 'I love YOU' and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve.
Nothing in life is more important than your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off till some 'other'
time.
Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back to normal after you've had a baby... somebody doesn't know that once you're a mother, 'normal' is history.
Somebody said you can't love the second child as much as you love the first... somebody doesn't have two or more children.
Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother is labor and delivery....somebody never watched her 'baby' get on the bus for the first day of kindergarten... or on a plane headed for military 'boot camp.'
Somebody said a Mother can stop worrying after her child gets married... somebody doesn't know that marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a mother's heartstrings.
Somebody said a mother's job is done when her last
child leaves home... somebody never had grandchildren.
Somebody said your mother knows you love her, so you don't need to tell her... somebody isn't a mother.
Pass this along to all the GREAT 'mothers' in your life and to everyone who ever had a mother.
This isn't just about being a mother; it's about appreciating the people in your lives while you have them.... no matter who that person is!
Watch your thoughts, they become words..
Watch your words, they become actions.
Watch your actions, they become habits.
Watch your habits, they become character.
Watch your character, for it
becomes...your destiny.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
Talk about "Food Storage"
Talk given by Marti G. Jan 20, 2008
Some think preparedness as either overwhelming or boring but it is neither. I am here to tell you that I have never had as many spiritual experiences as I have had over the last year and it all has to do with preparedness. I KNOW I was led by the hand of God and what I have learned has changed my life.
About 4 months ago I was called to be in preparedness at the ward level . but before I was actually sustained I went again to the Lord and asked Him how I could motivate my ward members. He very softly but strongly said testify. I thought - they are not going to want to hear why I'm into preparedness, and I heard - no testify of the Christ. And I thought - I can do that so I started reciting the different titles of Christ - Jehovah, the Savior, The Good Shepherd, the Redeemer, the Lawgiver, the Word, The Great I Am, and by the time I got to the Messiah, the Anointed One, tears were streaming down my cheeks and then I had what I call a remembrance. It wasn't a vision, but more like remembering when we were in the Great Council and witnessed our Father in Heaven place his hands on the head of Christ, anointing him to be the Savior of all mankind . and then I knew exactly what I was to testify of. Bros. And Sisters, the church is preparing to receive our King for His Millenial Reign. The earth is preparing to receive her creator. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is coming . that before he comes the world will experience more trials and tribulations than ever before - it is prophesied, it is in the scriptures and the Brethren have been warning us very strongly lately. In order for Our King, Our Master to come there will be many calamaties that we need to go through in order to refine us and to make us a Zion people. We are not a Zion people . he will refine us and test us. He wants each of us there to greet Him but if we aren't obedient we may not survive the coming events. We cannot rely upon the Church or our neighbors to save us. Christ will save us through our obedience and part of that obedience is having our food storage.
Paraphrasing Vaughn J. Featherstone Prophecy About Temples - Temple Statement for Utah South April 1987 Vaughn J. Featherstone (given in Solemn Assembly in Manti Temple 7:00 am Sunday)
Before the Savior comes the world will darken. Then will come a period of time where even the elect will lose hope if they do not come to the temples. .
Our garments worn as instructed will clothe us in a manner as protective as temple walls. The covenants and ordinances will fill us with faith as a living fire. In a day of desolating sickness, scorched earth, barren wastes, sickening plagues, disease, destruction, and death, we as a people will rest in the shade of trees, we will drink from the cooling fountains. We will abide in places of refuge from the storm.
They will bathe His feet with tears and He will weep and bless them for having suffered through the greatest trials ever known to man. His bowels will be filled with compassion and His heart will swell wide as eternity and He will love them. He will bring peace that will last a thousand years and they will receive their reward with Him.
I pose this question, are you prepared to take care of yourself and your family? Is it a priority for you to be obedient to the commandment to have food storage? Pres. Kimball made it very clear that food storage is a commandment.
He was very aware of the fact that we have been told since the restoration to store food for preparation of the Second Coming and we sometimes get impatient. In his book, The Miracle of Forgiveness he stated:
"Do we lose faith, do we lose patience, do we lose hope, do we get weary in waiting, because the day is long and the event delayed? It is difficult to be prepared for an event so long delayed. Many have found it too difficult and then slumber without due preparation. Hundreds of thousands of us today are in this position. Confidence has been dulled and patience worn thin. It is so hard to wait and be prepared always.
BUT WE CANNOT ALLOW OURSELVES TO SLUMBER.
Pres Kimball continues . "I believe that the Ten Virgins represent the people of the Church of Jesus Christ and not the rank and file of the world. All of the virgins, wise and foolish, had accepted the invitation to the wedding supper; they had knowledge of the program and had been warned of the important day to come. They were not the gentiles or the heathens or the pagans, nor were they necessarily corrupt and reprobate, but they were knowing people who were foolishly unprepared for the vital happenings that were to affect their eternal lives. They had the saving, exalting gospel, but it had not been made the center of their lives. They knew the way but gave only a small measure of loyalty and devotion. I ask you: What value is a car without an engine, a cup without water, a table without food, a lamp without oil? The foolish asked the others to share their oil, but spiritual and temporal preparedness cannot be shared in an instant. The wise had to go, else the bridegroom wou ld have gone unwelcomed. They needed all their oil for themselves; they could not save the foolish. The responsibility was each for himself. THIS WAS NOT SELFISHNESS OR UNKINDNESS. The kind of oil that is needed to illuminate the way and light up the darkness is not shareable. Each must obtain that kind of oil for himself..
The foolish virgins were not averse to buying oil. They knew they should have oil. They merely procrastinated, not knowing when the bridegroom would come. The day of the marriage feast approaches. The coming of the Lord is nigh. And there are many among us who are not ready for the great and glorious event." (Pres. Kimball - Miracle of Forgiveness).
Many in the church believe that those who have stored a year supply will share with those who have not. Though that is a nice thought, this is what Pres. Packer has said to dispel that notion: "When people are able but unwilling to take care of themselves we are responsible to employ the dictum of the Lord that the idler shall not eat the bread of the laborer". In other words, do not expect your neighbor to feed you. For if he has obeyed the counsel to store up for his family, and you have had the resources to but instead procrastinated, which one of his children should he let starve in order to feed you? If it is not a priority for you to save yourself and your family, why should another family have to take on that responsibility? The Law of Mercy and Justice also apply to food storage ... Some confuse the commandments of sharing and taking care of the poor and needy with sharing their food with the rebellious. There is a huge difference in sharing with the poor and needy and sharing with the rebellious - those who could afford to get their food storage, but don't because other things, buying big screens, vacations, the latest fashions, take precedence over obeying the commandment to store food.
If you are spiritually prepared you will be temporally prepared. You cannot obtain a testimony of tithing unless you pay tithing, you cannot obtain a testimony of prayer unless you pray. It's the doing that brings forth the blessings of heaven and the testimony.
Now let's look at what our current prophet, Pres. Hinckley has said recently.
Oct. 1998-7 years of Plenty begin
"I wish to speak to you about temporal matters. As a backdrop for what I wish to say, I read to you a few verses from the 41st chapter of Genesis. Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, dreamed dreams which greatly troubled him. . . . 'And I saw in my dream . . . seven ears came up in one stalk, full and good: And, behold, seven ears, withered, thin, and blasted with the east wind, sprung up after them: . . . (Joseph's interpretation) Behold, there come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt: And there shall arise after them seven years of famine. . . And god will shortly bring it to pass.' (Gen. 41:20, 26, 30, 32) .. I am suggesting that the time has come to get our houses in order. . . . There is a portent of stormy weather ahead to which we had better give heed.That's all I have to say about it, but I wish to say it with all the emphasis of which I am capable" (President Hinckley, Conference 1998, Priesthood Session.) What does portent mean - it means something momentous or calamitous is about to occur - an evil omen, prophetic or threatening significance. And then 9/11 happened.
It is noteworthy that in General Conference following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack Pres. Hinckley quoted this scripture from the D&C:
Behold, vegenance cometh speedily upon the inhabitants of the earth, a day of wrath, a day of burning, a day of desolation, of weeping, of mourning, and of lamentation and as a whirlwind it shall come upon all the face of the earth saith the Lord. And upon my house shall it begin and from my house shall it go forth, saith the Lord. First among those among you, saith the Lord, who have professed to know my name and have not known me, and have blasphemed against me in the midst of my house, saith the Lord.
And then he said this:
Occasions such 9/11 pull us up sharply to a realization that
"Life is fragile, peace is fragile, civilization itself is fragile. The economy is particularly vulnerable. We have been counseled again and again concerning self-reliance. We cannot provide against every contingency. But we can provide against many contingencies. Let the present situation remind us that this we should do."
EXACTLY 7 YEARS FROM THE DATE THAT PRES. HINCKLEY GAVE HIS 7 YEARS OF PLENTY TALK HE AGAIN MENTIONS THE DREAM OF PHAROH in Oct. 2005-7 years of Lean
"Let us never lose sight of the dream of Pharaoh concerning the fat cattle and the lean, the full ears of corn and the blasted ears, the meaning of which was interpreted by Joseph to indicate years of plenty and years of scarcity." (President Hinckley, October Conference, 2005.)
I do not think there is any coincidence to his giving the talk of famine 7 years apart from each other . I testify that it was a warning to us .
In April 2004 General Conference Elder Dallin H. Oaks said: "We are living in the prophesied time when peace shall be taken from the earth (D&C 1:35), when all things shall be in commotion and men's hearts shall fail them (D&C 88:91). These signs of the Second Coming are all around us and seem to be increasing in frequency and intensity...the accelerating pattern of natural disasters in the last few decades is ominous. While we are powerless to alter the fact of the Second Coming and unable to know its exact time, we can accelerate our own preparation and try to influence the preparation of those around us.. Are we preparing?...We need to make both TEMPORAL and spiritual preparation for the events prophesied at the time of the Second Coming."
Elder Eyring in 2005 said: "The giant earthquake, and the tsunamis it sent crashing into the coasts around the Indian Ocean, is just the beginning and a part of what is to come, terrible as it was. You remember the words from the Doctrine and Covenants which now seems so accurate: (Doctrine and Covenants 88: 88-91) As the challenges around us increase, we must commit to do more to qualify for the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
Casual prayer won't be enough. Reading a few verses of the scripture won't be enough. Doing the minimum of what the Lord asks of us won't be enough. Hoping that we will have the Atonement work in our lives and that we will perhaps sometimes feel the influence of the Holy Ghost won't be enough. And one great burst of effort won't be enough."
Now I want to turn to the story of Noah. Remember Noah preached repentance for hundreds of years while he was building the ark. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark. The world was beautiful, the sun was shining, life seemed "normal". It is important to note that the people who didn't get on the ark suffered and died by the very calamity that for 300 years had been prophesied would come. Noah pleaded with the people to repent of their disobedience so that Mercy would claim them instead of Justice. All they had to do was repent and begin being obedient. This is a story for our time . The ramnifications of disobedience may be the same as in Noah's time. It's our human nature that we think terrible things will not happen to us, but if you believe in the scriptures and our prophet it is undeniable that calamaties are here and they are beginning to touch our lives and they will increase.
Pres. Benson said: The revelation to produce and store food may be as essential to our temporal welfare today as boarding the ark was to the people in the days of Noah.
(Marion G. Romney (Quoting Brigham Young) - April Conference, 1976)
"...If we are to be saved in an ark, as Noah and his family were, it will be because we build it. My faith does not lead me to think the Lord will provide us with roast pigs, bread already buttered, etc., He will give us the ability to raise the grain, to obtain the fruits of the earth, to make habitations, to procure a few boards to make a box, and when harvest comes, giving us the grain, it is for us to preserve it--to save the wheat until we have one, two, five or seven years' provisions on hand, until there is enough of the staff of life saved by the people to bread themselves and those who will come here seeking for safety."
Can you imagine how hard it must have been for Noah, his wife and sons and their wives to listen to the wailing and pounding on the ark as the rains fell. I'm sure when the rains began falling the people began repenting, but it was too late at that point. They had been warned and forewarned to repent of their disobedience so that mercy could claim them but now justice had to be employed. Noah had daughters that married wicked men and I cannot imagine how his heart must have ached when the doors were shut, the rains came and the wailings began. How hard it must have been for Noah, not to extend mercy to his daughters. But he could not, the Lord would not allow him to because even the Lord is governed by the Law of Mercy and the Law of Justice. Did the Lord put Noah and his sons' families at risk by opening the ark for the disobedient who were suddenly repenting? No. If a terrible disaster happens and we do not have services for weeks, would the disobedient be putting the obedient at risk of starving. Obedience brothers and sisters is so very important. Those who are disobedient to the law receive the consequences of their disobedience or rebellious actions. I for one do not want to listen to the cries of my children because I had been disobedient and did not have food for them to eat .
Every prophet over the last 60 years has talked about having the Church members get a bare minimum of at least one year's supply of basic food items, and now has suggested 3 months. Does that mean they have rescinded the one year food storage? NO.
On Sept. 1, 2006, Presiding Bishop David H. Burton - South Jordan Leadership Meeting said:
"Keep your eye on the Prophet. Being self-reliant has always been part of the church. Statistics show that no matter what the Church does, no higher than 15% have storage. We are not going to say any more, but our people are going to need to be prepared. For example, what if somebody released a virus? What if it caused a pandemic? What if that led to a quarantine? What if the quarantine was enforced? (emphasis added) The office of the presiding bishopric has tried to come up with a plan, but we don't know what we could do. The responsibility lies with the head of each family."
It's hard to understand why or how so many good and wonderful people can discount what the prophets have said again and again and again concerning what will suddenly happen to the world in the near future. Are we listening to their voices of warning, to their plea for our repentance?
Brothers and sisters, I promise you, as I have been told I could, that if you begin making preparations and begin your food storage, that the Lord will draw close to you because you are demonstrating that you are drawing close to Him. You will not only be secure in knowing that you are able to feed your family, but you will have spiritual experiences, and you will have a deeper love for Him and for your family.
Preparedness is like a treasure hunt, a beautiful and wonderful path of seeking and receiving further light and knowledge. We as a Stake want you to be prepared, but you must first take the step of asking God to give you a witness as to the importance of being obedient to the command of having food storage and then ask Him to help you in this endeavor. When you receive that witness then you are not left alone.
Let me quote once again Elder Vaughn J. Featherstone. They will bathe His feet with tears and He will weep and bless them for having suffered through the greatest trials ever known to man. His bowels will be filled with compassion and His heart will swell wide as eternity and He will love them. He will bring peace that will last a thousand years and they will receive their reward with Him. I bear my humble witness to you that the great God of heaven will open doors and means in a way we never would have supposed, to help all those who truly want a years supply. All we have to do is to decide, commit to it, and then keep the commitment. Miracles will take place."
I leave you with my witness that I know Jesus is the Christ. I know that he is the Redeemer of all mankind, that our King and Master will reign supreme. I hope that I am worthy to be here when he comes, so that I can be among those who fulfill the prophesy that "every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is the Christ". May we all have that witness. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen
Some think preparedness as either overwhelming or boring but it is neither. I am here to tell you that I have never had as many spiritual experiences as I have had over the last year and it all has to do with preparedness. I KNOW I was led by the hand of God and what I have learned has changed my life.
About 4 months ago I was called to be in preparedness at the ward level . but before I was actually sustained I went again to the Lord and asked Him how I could motivate my ward members. He very softly but strongly said testify. I thought - they are not going to want to hear why I'm into preparedness, and I heard - no testify of the Christ. And I thought - I can do that so I started reciting the different titles of Christ - Jehovah, the Savior, The Good Shepherd, the Redeemer, the Lawgiver, the Word, The Great I Am, and by the time I got to the Messiah, the Anointed One, tears were streaming down my cheeks and then I had what I call a remembrance. It wasn't a vision, but more like remembering when we were in the Great Council and witnessed our Father in Heaven place his hands on the head of Christ, anointing him to be the Savior of all mankind . and then I knew exactly what I was to testify of. Bros. And Sisters, the church is preparing to receive our King for His Millenial Reign. The earth is preparing to receive her creator. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is coming . that before he comes the world will experience more trials and tribulations than ever before - it is prophesied, it is in the scriptures and the Brethren have been warning us very strongly lately. In order for Our King, Our Master to come there will be many calamaties that we need to go through in order to refine us and to make us a Zion people. We are not a Zion people . he will refine us and test us. He wants each of us there to greet Him but if we aren't obedient we may not survive the coming events. We cannot rely upon the Church or our neighbors to save us. Christ will save us through our obedience and part of that obedience is having our food storage.
Paraphrasing Vaughn J. Featherstone Prophecy About Temples - Temple Statement for Utah South April 1987 Vaughn J. Featherstone (given in Solemn Assembly in Manti Temple 7:00 am Sunday)
Before the Savior comes the world will darken. Then will come a period of time where even the elect will lose hope if they do not come to the temples. .
Our garments worn as instructed will clothe us in a manner as protective as temple walls. The covenants and ordinances will fill us with faith as a living fire. In a day of desolating sickness, scorched earth, barren wastes, sickening plagues, disease, destruction, and death, we as a people will rest in the shade of trees, we will drink from the cooling fountains. We will abide in places of refuge from the storm.
They will bathe His feet with tears and He will weep and bless them for having suffered through the greatest trials ever known to man. His bowels will be filled with compassion and His heart will swell wide as eternity and He will love them. He will bring peace that will last a thousand years and they will receive their reward with Him.
I pose this question, are you prepared to take care of yourself and your family? Is it a priority for you to be obedient to the commandment to have food storage? Pres. Kimball made it very clear that food storage is a commandment.
He was very aware of the fact that we have been told since the restoration to store food for preparation of the Second Coming and we sometimes get impatient. In his book, The Miracle of Forgiveness he stated:
"Do we lose faith, do we lose patience, do we lose hope, do we get weary in waiting, because the day is long and the event delayed? It is difficult to be prepared for an event so long delayed. Many have found it too difficult and then slumber without due preparation. Hundreds of thousands of us today are in this position. Confidence has been dulled and patience worn thin. It is so hard to wait and be prepared always.
BUT WE CANNOT ALLOW OURSELVES TO SLUMBER.
Pres Kimball continues . "I believe that the Ten Virgins represent the people of the Church of Jesus Christ and not the rank and file of the world. All of the virgins, wise and foolish, had accepted the invitation to the wedding supper; they had knowledge of the program and had been warned of the important day to come. They were not the gentiles or the heathens or the pagans, nor were they necessarily corrupt and reprobate, but they were knowing people who were foolishly unprepared for the vital happenings that were to affect their eternal lives. They had the saving, exalting gospel, but it had not been made the center of their lives. They knew the way but gave only a small measure of loyalty and devotion. I ask you: What value is a car without an engine, a cup without water, a table without food, a lamp without oil? The foolish asked the others to share their oil, but spiritual and temporal preparedness cannot be shared in an instant. The wise had to go, else the bridegroom wou ld have gone unwelcomed. They needed all their oil for themselves; they could not save the foolish. The responsibility was each for himself. THIS WAS NOT SELFISHNESS OR UNKINDNESS. The kind of oil that is needed to illuminate the way and light up the darkness is not shareable. Each must obtain that kind of oil for himself..
The foolish virgins were not averse to buying oil. They knew they should have oil. They merely procrastinated, not knowing when the bridegroom would come. The day of the marriage feast approaches. The coming of the Lord is nigh. And there are many among us who are not ready for the great and glorious event." (Pres. Kimball - Miracle of Forgiveness).
Many in the church believe that those who have stored a year supply will share with those who have not. Though that is a nice thought, this is what Pres. Packer has said to dispel that notion: "When people are able but unwilling to take care of themselves we are responsible to employ the dictum of the Lord that the idler shall not eat the bread of the laborer". In other words, do not expect your neighbor to feed you. For if he has obeyed the counsel to store up for his family, and you have had the resources to but instead procrastinated, which one of his children should he let starve in order to feed you? If it is not a priority for you to save yourself and your family, why should another family have to take on that responsibility? The Law of Mercy and Justice also apply to food storage ... Some confuse the commandments of sharing and taking care of the poor and needy with sharing their food with the rebellious. There is a huge difference in sharing with the poor and needy and sharing with the rebellious - those who could afford to get their food storage, but don't because other things, buying big screens, vacations, the latest fashions, take precedence over obeying the commandment to store food.
If you are spiritually prepared you will be temporally prepared. You cannot obtain a testimony of tithing unless you pay tithing, you cannot obtain a testimony of prayer unless you pray. It's the doing that brings forth the blessings of heaven and the testimony.
Now let's look at what our current prophet, Pres. Hinckley has said recently.
Oct. 1998-7 years of Plenty begin
"I wish to speak to you about temporal matters. As a backdrop for what I wish to say, I read to you a few verses from the 41st chapter of Genesis. Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, dreamed dreams which greatly troubled him. . . . 'And I saw in my dream . . . seven ears came up in one stalk, full and good: And, behold, seven ears, withered, thin, and blasted with the east wind, sprung up after them: . . . (Joseph's interpretation) Behold, there come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt: And there shall arise after them seven years of famine. . . And god will shortly bring it to pass.' (Gen. 41:20, 26, 30, 32) .. I am suggesting that the time has come to get our houses in order. . . . There is a portent of stormy weather ahead to which we had better give heed.That's all I have to say about it, but I wish to say it with all the emphasis of which I am capable" (President Hinckley, Conference 1998, Priesthood Session.) What does portent mean - it means something momentous or calamitous is about to occur - an evil omen, prophetic or threatening significance. And then 9/11 happened.
It is noteworthy that in General Conference following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack Pres. Hinckley quoted this scripture from the D&C:
Behold, vegenance cometh speedily upon the inhabitants of the earth, a day of wrath, a day of burning, a day of desolation, of weeping, of mourning, and of lamentation and as a whirlwind it shall come upon all the face of the earth saith the Lord. And upon my house shall it begin and from my house shall it go forth, saith the Lord. First among those among you, saith the Lord, who have professed to know my name and have not known me, and have blasphemed against me in the midst of my house, saith the Lord.
And then he said this:
Occasions such 9/11 pull us up sharply to a realization that
"Life is fragile, peace is fragile, civilization itself is fragile. The economy is particularly vulnerable. We have been counseled again and again concerning self-reliance. We cannot provide against every contingency. But we can provide against many contingencies. Let the present situation remind us that this we should do."
EXACTLY 7 YEARS FROM THE DATE THAT PRES. HINCKLEY GAVE HIS 7 YEARS OF PLENTY TALK HE AGAIN MENTIONS THE DREAM OF PHAROH in Oct. 2005-7 years of Lean
"Let us never lose sight of the dream of Pharaoh concerning the fat cattle and the lean, the full ears of corn and the blasted ears, the meaning of which was interpreted by Joseph to indicate years of plenty and years of scarcity." (President Hinckley, October Conference, 2005.)
I do not think there is any coincidence to his giving the talk of famine 7 years apart from each other . I testify that it was a warning to us .
In April 2004 General Conference Elder Dallin H. Oaks said: "We are living in the prophesied time when peace shall be taken from the earth (D&C 1:35), when all things shall be in commotion and men's hearts shall fail them (D&C 88:91). These signs of the Second Coming are all around us and seem to be increasing in frequency and intensity...the accelerating pattern of natural disasters in the last few decades is ominous. While we are powerless to alter the fact of the Second Coming and unable to know its exact time, we can accelerate our own preparation and try to influence the preparation of those around us.. Are we preparing?...We need to make both TEMPORAL and spiritual preparation for the events prophesied at the time of the Second Coming."
Elder Eyring in 2005 said: "The giant earthquake, and the tsunamis it sent crashing into the coasts around the Indian Ocean, is just the beginning and a part of what is to come, terrible as it was. You remember the words from the Doctrine and Covenants which now seems so accurate: (Doctrine and Covenants 88: 88-91) As the challenges around us increase, we must commit to do more to qualify for the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
Casual prayer won't be enough. Reading a few verses of the scripture won't be enough. Doing the minimum of what the Lord asks of us won't be enough. Hoping that we will have the Atonement work in our lives and that we will perhaps sometimes feel the influence of the Holy Ghost won't be enough. And one great burst of effort won't be enough."
Now I want to turn to the story of Noah. Remember Noah preached repentance for hundreds of years while he was building the ark. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark. The world was beautiful, the sun was shining, life seemed "normal". It is important to note that the people who didn't get on the ark suffered and died by the very calamity that for 300 years had been prophesied would come. Noah pleaded with the people to repent of their disobedience so that Mercy would claim them instead of Justice. All they had to do was repent and begin being obedient. This is a story for our time . The ramnifications of disobedience may be the same as in Noah's time. It's our human nature that we think terrible things will not happen to us, but if you believe in the scriptures and our prophet it is undeniable that calamaties are here and they are beginning to touch our lives and they will increase.
Pres. Benson said: The revelation to produce and store food may be as essential to our temporal welfare today as boarding the ark was to the people in the days of Noah.
(Marion G. Romney (Quoting Brigham Young) - April Conference, 1976)
"...If we are to be saved in an ark, as Noah and his family were, it will be because we build it. My faith does not lead me to think the Lord will provide us with roast pigs, bread already buttered, etc., He will give us the ability to raise the grain, to obtain the fruits of the earth, to make habitations, to procure a few boards to make a box, and when harvest comes, giving us the grain, it is for us to preserve it--to save the wheat until we have one, two, five or seven years' provisions on hand, until there is enough of the staff of life saved by the people to bread themselves and those who will come here seeking for safety."
Can you imagine how hard it must have been for Noah, his wife and sons and their wives to listen to the wailing and pounding on the ark as the rains fell. I'm sure when the rains began falling the people began repenting, but it was too late at that point. They had been warned and forewarned to repent of their disobedience so that mercy could claim them but now justice had to be employed. Noah had daughters that married wicked men and I cannot imagine how his heart must have ached when the doors were shut, the rains came and the wailings began. How hard it must have been for Noah, not to extend mercy to his daughters. But he could not, the Lord would not allow him to because even the Lord is governed by the Law of Mercy and the Law of Justice. Did the Lord put Noah and his sons' families at risk by opening the ark for the disobedient who were suddenly repenting? No. If a terrible disaster happens and we do not have services for weeks, would the disobedient be putting the obedient at risk of starving. Obedience brothers and sisters is so very important. Those who are disobedient to the law receive the consequences of their disobedience or rebellious actions. I for one do not want to listen to the cries of my children because I had been disobedient and did not have food for them to eat .
Every prophet over the last 60 years has talked about having the Church members get a bare minimum of at least one year's supply of basic food items, and now has suggested 3 months. Does that mean they have rescinded the one year food storage? NO.
On Sept. 1, 2006, Presiding Bishop David H. Burton - South Jordan Leadership Meeting said:
"Keep your eye on the Prophet. Being self-reliant has always been part of the church. Statistics show that no matter what the Church does, no higher than 15% have storage. We are not going to say any more, but our people are going to need to be prepared. For example, what if somebody released a virus? What if it caused a pandemic? What if that led to a quarantine? What if the quarantine was enforced? (emphasis added) The office of the presiding bishopric has tried to come up with a plan, but we don't know what we could do. The responsibility lies with the head of each family."
It's hard to understand why or how so many good and wonderful people can discount what the prophets have said again and again and again concerning what will suddenly happen to the world in the near future. Are we listening to their voices of warning, to their plea for our repentance?
Brothers and sisters, I promise you, as I have been told I could, that if you begin making preparations and begin your food storage, that the Lord will draw close to you because you are demonstrating that you are drawing close to Him. You will not only be secure in knowing that you are able to feed your family, but you will have spiritual experiences, and you will have a deeper love for Him and for your family.
Preparedness is like a treasure hunt, a beautiful and wonderful path of seeking and receiving further light and knowledge. We as a Stake want you to be prepared, but you must first take the step of asking God to give you a witness as to the importance of being obedient to the command of having food storage and then ask Him to help you in this endeavor. When you receive that witness then you are not left alone.
Let me quote once again Elder Vaughn J. Featherstone. They will bathe His feet with tears and He will weep and bless them for having suffered through the greatest trials ever known to man. His bowels will be filled with compassion and His heart will swell wide as eternity and He will love them. He will bring peace that will last a thousand years and they will receive their reward with Him. I bear my humble witness to you that the great God of heaven will open doors and means in a way we never would have supposed, to help all those who truly want a years supply. All we have to do is to decide, commit to it, and then keep the commitment. Miracles will take place."
I leave you with my witness that I know Jesus is the Christ. I know that he is the Redeemer of all mankind, that our King and Master will reign supreme. I hope that I am worthy to be here when he comes, so that I can be among those who fulfill the prophesy that "every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is the Christ". May we all have that witness. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen
Vaughn J. Featherstone / Food Storage
Brethren of the priesthood, sisters of the Relief Society, President Henry D. Moyle suggested that when someone speaks we ought to get three things out of the message. First and least important (but still very important), we ought to get what is said. Second, and more important, we ought to have a spiritual experience. Third, and most important, we should keep the commitments we make to ourselves. Let’s write them down and follow through. Don’t ever make a commitment to yourself you don’t intend to keep—if you do, you weaken your character.
For twenty-six years, since I was fifteen, I was involved in the grocery industry. I learned much about human nature during those years. I remember the effects that strikes, earthquakes, and rumors of war had on many very active Latter-day Saints. Like the five foolish virgins, they rushed to the store to buy food, caught in the panic of knowing that direction had been given by the prophet but not having followed that direction—fearful that maybe they had procrastinated until it was everlastingly too late.
It was interesting because only in Latter-day Saint communities did people seem to buy with abandon. It was not a few Latter-day Saints—it was a significant number. It caused great increases in sales. One such experience came when a so-called prophecy by someone outside the Church was greatly publicized.
How foolish we can sometimes be! We have a living prophet; we have God’s living oracles, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles. Let us follow the Brethren and be constant. We need have no fear if we are prepared.
Brothers and sisters, what have we done in our stakes and wards to see that every Latter-day Saint has a year’s reserve of food to sustain life? Let’s not only keep teaching the principle, but let’s also teach our people how.
This morning I would like to discuss food storage. Let me suggest three or four things we can do. Start by taking an inventory—take a physical count of all of your reserves. This would be a great family home evening project if you’re prepared. If not, it may be terribly embarrassing to you in front of your family. Imagine how the powerful testimony you bear concerning a living prophet must sound to your children, who know that as a family head you have been counseled for years to have a year’s reserve of food on hand. We need to know where we are. Every family should take an inventory—get all the facts.
Second, decide what is needed to bring your present reserve levels to a year’s supply. Then make a list and prepare a plan. Consider first, what are the basics?—wheat (or grain from your locale), sugar or honey, dried milk, salt, and water. Most of us can afford such basics. Buy them from your monthly food budget allowance. The Church discourages going into debt to buy for storage.
Now that you know where you are and where you need to be, the third step is to work out a time schedule for when you will reach your goal. I suggest that one year from today we ought to have a year’s supply of food in all active—and many inactive—members’ homes in the Church. Where food storage violates the law of your land, then abide the law. However, even in those cases we can plant gardens and fruit trees and raise rabbits or chickens. Do all you can within the laws of your community, and the Lord will bless you when the time of need comes. Now here are some suggestions how:
1. Follow the prophet. He has counseled us to plant a garden and fruit trees. This year don’t just think about it—do it. Grow all the food you possibly can. Also remember to buy a year’s supply of garden seeds so that, in case of a shortage, you will have them for the following spring. I’m going to tell you where to get the money for all the things I’m going to suggest.
2. Find someone who sells large bulk of grains, depending on your locale. Make arrangements to buy a ton or so of grain.
3. Find someone who sells honey in large containers and make arrangements to buy what you can afford on a regular basis or buy a little additional sugar each time you go to the store.
4. Purchase dry milk from the store or dairy, on a systematic basis.
5. Buy a case of salt the next time you go to the store. In most areas, 24 one-pound packages will cost you less than $5.
6. Store enough water for each member of your family to last for at least two weeks.
Where the foods I mentioned are not available or are not basic in your culture or area, make appropriate substitutions.
Now you ask, “Where do I get the money for these things? I agree we need them, but I’m having a hard time making ends meet.”
Here is how you do it. Use any one or all of these suggestions, some of which may not be applicable in your country:
1. Decide as a family this year that 25 or 50 percent of your Christmas will be spent on a year’s supply. Many families in the Church spend considerable sums of money for Christmas. Half or part of these Christmas monies will go a long way toward purchasing the basics. I recall the Scotsman who went to the doctor and had an X-ray taken of his chest. Then he had the X-ray gift-wrapped and gave it to his wife for their anniversary. He couldn’t afford a gift, but he wanted her to know his heart was in the right place. Brethren, give your wife a year’s supply of wheat for Christmas, and she’ll know your heart is in the right place.
2. When you desire new clothes, don’t buy them. Repair and mend and make your present wardrobe last a few months longer. Use that money for the food basics. Make all of your nonfood necessities that you feasibly can, such as furniture and clothing.
3. Cut the amount of money you spend on recreation by 50 percent. Do fun things that do not require money outlay but make more lasting impressions on your children.
4. Decide as a family that there will be no vacation or holiday next year unless you have your year’s supply. Many Church members could buy a full year’s supply of the basics from what they would save by not taking a vacation. Take the vacation time and work on a family garden. Be together, and it can be just as much fun.
5. If you haven’t a year’s supply yet and you do have boats, snowmobiles, campers, or other luxury possessions, sell or trade one or two or more of them and get your year’s supply.
6. Watch advertised specials in the grocery stores and pick up extra supplies of those items that are of exceptional value.
7. Change the mix in your family’s diet. Get your protein from sources less expensive than meat. The grocery bill is one bill that can be cut. Every time you enter the store and feel tempted by effective and honest merchandising to buy cookies, candy, ice cream, non-food items, or magazines—don’t! Think carefully; buy only the essentials. Then figure what you have saved and spend it on powdered milk, sugar, honey, salt, or grain.
The Lord will make it possible, if we make a firm commitment, for every Latter-day Saint family to have a year’s supply of food reserves by April 1977. All we have to do is to decide, commit to do it, and then keep the commitment. Miracles will take place; the way will be opened, and next April we will have our storage areas filled. We will prove through our actions our willingness to follow our beloved prophet and the Brethren, which will bring security to us and our families.
Now regarding home production: Raise animals where means and local laws permit. Plant fruit trees, grapevines, berry bushes, and vegetables. You will provide food for your family, much of which can be eaten fresh. Other food you grow can be preserved and included as part of your home storage. Wherever possible, produce your nonfood necessities of life. Sew and mend your own clothing. Make or build needed items. I might also add, beautify, repair, and maintain all of your property.
Home production of food and nonfood items is a way to stretch your income and to increase your skills and talents. It is a way to teach your family to be self-sufficient. Our children are provided with much needed opportunities to learn the fundamentals of work, industry, and thrift. President Romney has said, “We will see the day when we will live on what we produce.” (Conference Reports, April 1975, p. 165.)
I should like to address a few remarks to those who ask, “Do I share with my neighbors who have not followed the counsel? And what about the nonmembers who do not have a year’s supply? Do we have to share with them?” No, we don’t have to share—we get to share! Let us not be concerned about silly thoughts of whether we would share or not. Of course we would share! What would Jesus do? I could not possibly eat food and see my neighbors starving. And if you starve to death after sharing, “greater love hath no man than this …” (John 15:13.)
Now what about those who would plunder and break in and take that which we have stored for our families’ needs? Don’t give this one more idle thought. There is a God in heaven whom we have obeyed. Do you suppose he would abandon those who have kept his commandments? He said, “If ye are prepared, ye need not fear.” (D&C 38:30.) Prepare, O men of Zion, and fear not. Let Zion put on her beautiful garments. Let us put on the full armor of God. Let us be pure in heart, love mercy, be just, and stand in holy places. Commit to have a year’s supply of food by April 1977.
Bishops and stake presidents, let us accept the challenge on behalf of the Saints in our wards and stakes. It will prove to be a very Christlike deed on your part. Follow through and check up one year from now and make certain we achieve results.
In his October 1973 conference address, President Ezra Taft Benson gave some excellent instructions about home storage:
“For the righteous the gospel provides a warning before a calamity, a program for the crises, a refuge for each disaster. …
“The Lord has warned us of famines, but the righteous will have listened to prophets and stored at least a year’s supply of survival food. …
“Brethren and sisters, I know that this welfare program is inspired of God. I have witnessed with my own eyes the ravages of hunger and destitution as, under the direction of the president of the Church, I spent a year in war-torn Europe at the close of World War II, without my family, distributing food, clothing, and bedding to our needy members. I have looked into the sunken eyes of Saints, in almost the last stages of starvation. I have seen faithful mothers carrying their children, three and four years of age, who were unable to walk because of malnutrition. I have seen a hungry woman turn down food for a spool of thread. I have seen grown men weep as they ran their hands through the wheat and beans sent to them from Zion—America.
“Thanks be to God for a prophet, for this inspired program, and for Saints who so managed their stewardship that they could provide for their own and still share with others.” (“Prepare Ye,” Ensign, Jan. 1974, pp. 69, 81–82.)
I bear my humble witness to you that the great God of heaven will open doors and means in a way we never would have supposed to help all those who truly want to get their year’s supply. I know we will have time and money if we will commit and keep the commitment. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
For twenty-six years, since I was fifteen, I was involved in the grocery industry. I learned much about human nature during those years. I remember the effects that strikes, earthquakes, and rumors of war had on many very active Latter-day Saints. Like the five foolish virgins, they rushed to the store to buy food, caught in the panic of knowing that direction had been given by the prophet but not having followed that direction—fearful that maybe they had procrastinated until it was everlastingly too late.
It was interesting because only in Latter-day Saint communities did people seem to buy with abandon. It was not a few Latter-day Saints—it was a significant number. It caused great increases in sales. One such experience came when a so-called prophecy by someone outside the Church was greatly publicized.
How foolish we can sometimes be! We have a living prophet; we have God’s living oracles, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles. Let us follow the Brethren and be constant. We need have no fear if we are prepared.
Brothers and sisters, what have we done in our stakes and wards to see that every Latter-day Saint has a year’s reserve of food to sustain life? Let’s not only keep teaching the principle, but let’s also teach our people how.
This morning I would like to discuss food storage. Let me suggest three or four things we can do. Start by taking an inventory—take a physical count of all of your reserves. This would be a great family home evening project if you’re prepared. If not, it may be terribly embarrassing to you in front of your family. Imagine how the powerful testimony you bear concerning a living prophet must sound to your children, who know that as a family head you have been counseled for years to have a year’s reserve of food on hand. We need to know where we are. Every family should take an inventory—get all the facts.
Second, decide what is needed to bring your present reserve levels to a year’s supply. Then make a list and prepare a plan. Consider first, what are the basics?—wheat (or grain from your locale), sugar or honey, dried milk, salt, and water. Most of us can afford such basics. Buy them from your monthly food budget allowance. The Church discourages going into debt to buy for storage.
Now that you know where you are and where you need to be, the third step is to work out a time schedule for when you will reach your goal. I suggest that one year from today we ought to have a year’s supply of food in all active—and many inactive—members’ homes in the Church. Where food storage violates the law of your land, then abide the law. However, even in those cases we can plant gardens and fruit trees and raise rabbits or chickens. Do all you can within the laws of your community, and the Lord will bless you when the time of need comes. Now here are some suggestions how:
1. Follow the prophet. He has counseled us to plant a garden and fruit trees. This year don’t just think about it—do it. Grow all the food you possibly can. Also remember to buy a year’s supply of garden seeds so that, in case of a shortage, you will have them for the following spring. I’m going to tell you where to get the money for all the things I’m going to suggest.
2. Find someone who sells large bulk of grains, depending on your locale. Make arrangements to buy a ton or so of grain.
3. Find someone who sells honey in large containers and make arrangements to buy what you can afford on a regular basis or buy a little additional sugar each time you go to the store.
4. Purchase dry milk from the store or dairy, on a systematic basis.
5. Buy a case of salt the next time you go to the store. In most areas, 24 one-pound packages will cost you less than $5.
6. Store enough water for each member of your family to last for at least two weeks.
Where the foods I mentioned are not available or are not basic in your culture or area, make appropriate substitutions.
Now you ask, “Where do I get the money for these things? I agree we need them, but I’m having a hard time making ends meet.”
Here is how you do it. Use any one or all of these suggestions, some of which may not be applicable in your country:
1. Decide as a family this year that 25 or 50 percent of your Christmas will be spent on a year’s supply. Many families in the Church spend considerable sums of money for Christmas. Half or part of these Christmas monies will go a long way toward purchasing the basics. I recall the Scotsman who went to the doctor and had an X-ray taken of his chest. Then he had the X-ray gift-wrapped and gave it to his wife for their anniversary. He couldn’t afford a gift, but he wanted her to know his heart was in the right place. Brethren, give your wife a year’s supply of wheat for Christmas, and she’ll know your heart is in the right place.
2. When you desire new clothes, don’t buy them. Repair and mend and make your present wardrobe last a few months longer. Use that money for the food basics. Make all of your nonfood necessities that you feasibly can, such as furniture and clothing.
3. Cut the amount of money you spend on recreation by 50 percent. Do fun things that do not require money outlay but make more lasting impressions on your children.
4. Decide as a family that there will be no vacation or holiday next year unless you have your year’s supply. Many Church members could buy a full year’s supply of the basics from what they would save by not taking a vacation. Take the vacation time and work on a family garden. Be together, and it can be just as much fun.
5. If you haven’t a year’s supply yet and you do have boats, snowmobiles, campers, or other luxury possessions, sell or trade one or two or more of them and get your year’s supply.
6. Watch advertised specials in the grocery stores and pick up extra supplies of those items that are of exceptional value.
7. Change the mix in your family’s diet. Get your protein from sources less expensive than meat. The grocery bill is one bill that can be cut. Every time you enter the store and feel tempted by effective and honest merchandising to buy cookies, candy, ice cream, non-food items, or magazines—don’t! Think carefully; buy only the essentials. Then figure what you have saved and spend it on powdered milk, sugar, honey, salt, or grain.
The Lord will make it possible, if we make a firm commitment, for every Latter-day Saint family to have a year’s supply of food reserves by April 1977. All we have to do is to decide, commit to do it, and then keep the commitment. Miracles will take place; the way will be opened, and next April we will have our storage areas filled. We will prove through our actions our willingness to follow our beloved prophet and the Brethren, which will bring security to us and our families.
Now regarding home production: Raise animals where means and local laws permit. Plant fruit trees, grapevines, berry bushes, and vegetables. You will provide food for your family, much of which can be eaten fresh. Other food you grow can be preserved and included as part of your home storage. Wherever possible, produce your nonfood necessities of life. Sew and mend your own clothing. Make or build needed items. I might also add, beautify, repair, and maintain all of your property.
Home production of food and nonfood items is a way to stretch your income and to increase your skills and talents. It is a way to teach your family to be self-sufficient. Our children are provided with much needed opportunities to learn the fundamentals of work, industry, and thrift. President Romney has said, “We will see the day when we will live on what we produce.” (Conference Reports, April 1975, p. 165.)
I should like to address a few remarks to those who ask, “Do I share with my neighbors who have not followed the counsel? And what about the nonmembers who do not have a year’s supply? Do we have to share with them?” No, we don’t have to share—we get to share! Let us not be concerned about silly thoughts of whether we would share or not. Of course we would share! What would Jesus do? I could not possibly eat food and see my neighbors starving. And if you starve to death after sharing, “greater love hath no man than this …” (John 15:13.)
Now what about those who would plunder and break in and take that which we have stored for our families’ needs? Don’t give this one more idle thought. There is a God in heaven whom we have obeyed. Do you suppose he would abandon those who have kept his commandments? He said, “If ye are prepared, ye need not fear.” (D&C 38:30.) Prepare, O men of Zion, and fear not. Let Zion put on her beautiful garments. Let us put on the full armor of God. Let us be pure in heart, love mercy, be just, and stand in holy places. Commit to have a year’s supply of food by April 1977.
Bishops and stake presidents, let us accept the challenge on behalf of the Saints in our wards and stakes. It will prove to be a very Christlike deed on your part. Follow through and check up one year from now and make certain we achieve results.
In his October 1973 conference address, President Ezra Taft Benson gave some excellent instructions about home storage:
“For the righteous the gospel provides a warning before a calamity, a program for the crises, a refuge for each disaster. …
“The Lord has warned us of famines, but the righteous will have listened to prophets and stored at least a year’s supply of survival food. …
“Brethren and sisters, I know that this welfare program is inspired of God. I have witnessed with my own eyes the ravages of hunger and destitution as, under the direction of the president of the Church, I spent a year in war-torn Europe at the close of World War II, without my family, distributing food, clothing, and bedding to our needy members. I have looked into the sunken eyes of Saints, in almost the last stages of starvation. I have seen faithful mothers carrying their children, three and four years of age, who were unable to walk because of malnutrition. I have seen a hungry woman turn down food for a spool of thread. I have seen grown men weep as they ran their hands through the wheat and beans sent to them from Zion—America.
“Thanks be to God for a prophet, for this inspired program, and for Saints who so managed their stewardship that they could provide for their own and still share with others.” (“Prepare Ye,” Ensign, Jan. 1974, pp. 69, 81–82.)
I bear my humble witness to you that the great God of heaven will open doors and means in a way we never would have supposed to help all those who truly want to get their year’s supply. I know we will have time and money if we will commit and keep the commitment. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Crabs in the Bucket
Crab fishermen have long known that there is no need to bother putting a lid on the bucket you are using to catch crabs. Once you've tossed in a few crabs, they'll police themselves. Any ambitious crab that decides to make a run for freedom will find it all but impossible to scale the wall of the bucket and scramble over the top. It's not that the bucket is too deep or slippery. It's the seemingly odd behavior of the other crabs. As soon as one starts making a move to scramble over the others and out, its fellow crabs will reach out those long, sharp pincers and pull the errant crab back into the fray. Nobody escapes the crab bucket. That's because no crab will allow another crab to move up and out...even if they have once entertained the same notion themselves. If there were only one crab in the bucket it would certainly escape. However, with more than one crab in the bucket, they grab hold and pull it back down so that it would share the same fate as the rest of them.” This is true with people. If one person attempts to better himself, other people will attempt to drag him back down to share their fate. You must ignore the crabs if you want to be a success in life. Silly crabs. Can't they see that if they just lend a helping pincer, they could form an escape chain and pull the entire group out to freedom? Apparently the crabs don't see it that way. Perhaps they figure that only the one obnoxiously ambitious crab will break free by stepping on the rest of the group in a selfish dash to freedom. Good for one crab, maybe. How about everybody else? Why, they'd risk still being stuck in the bottom of the bucket with one less to support the group. Let us be wise and recognize how we use our pincers. We can choose to prepare, feed, work or hold back with our actions. May we all lift one another and lend our pincer for a chain of escape not a method to hold one in place.
Buckets and Dippers
BUCKETS AND DIPPERS
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
- - - 1 Corinthians 13:11
The world of the child is largely created for him by the adults in his environment. He has little or no control over the kind of input he receives. His self concept is therefore quite dependent upon how he is treated and what is said and done to him. This is appropriate and necessary for the child.
Sad to say, most of us, as adults, continue to function in much the same manner as when we were children. We continue to expect others to make us feel good and we blame them for making us feel bad. This is not only inappropriate for and adult but it is also quite unnecessary While it appears to be true that most of us will always need and welcome support from those around us, it is not true that we are entirely dependent upon them. Yet, many of us never seem to discover this basic truth.
Because we apparently never eliminate many of our past learnings, even when harmed by them, it would be quite helpful if more people became aware of another way of thinking about the self that is, perhaps, a little easier to understand than some of the commonly accepted ways. A simple analogy is presented below which can be useful in helping to understand certain aspects of any personal relationship. However, it is particularly relevant when dealing with children or when observing many of the personal, emotional interchanges between and among children.
Let us imagine and conceive of ourself as if we were a bucket. How we feel and how we will behave at any given moment is dependent upon how much or how little we have in our buckets. If our bucket is filled to overflowing, (which almost never happens), we will feel joy, have energy, and look forward to each day with enthusiasm. We will radiate warmth, be tolerant, forgiving, understanding and supporting of others. We will be glad we are alive and will exultantly proclaim, "Life is good." This is a well-developed pro-life viewpoint.
If our buckets are completely empty, (which almost never happens), we will feel and display all those characteristics which are opposite to those just stated. We will fell depressed, have little energy, and dread the coming of the next day. We will be unhappy, bitter, complaining, vindictive, and non-supporting of others. We will whine and miserably or angrily proclaim: "Life is lousy, purposeless, and hopeless." This is a well-developed anti-life viewpoint.
When faced with a person whose bucket is empty, most of us tend to become defensive---we feel threatened, fearful, hurt, or angry. It is likely that if we are strongly attacked verbally, we will respond in similar fashion. The emotional heat so generated is often not conducive to the development of healthy working relationships, not to the development of kindly feeling toward our attacker.
If we understood and applied the idea of ourself as a bucket, we might discover that we would be able to behave quite differently than is usually expected. For example, when an attack is being directed toward us, rather than feeling hurt or counterattacking, we might find that we will be able to calmly view the upset person from a non emotional vantage point. We could then say to ourselves: ‘Oh, you poor thing! You must have an empty bucket!" This places the attacker in an entirely different perspective. It can make us realize that his state of distress has very little to do with us, even though he seems to think it does. We will be able to realize that he is behaving that way because he feels so bad about himself. His bucket must be empty or else he wouldn’t be behaving that way. We might even be moved to feel genuine sympathy for him.
If we adopted the bucket view of self, we would understand that the motive underlying his attack is more directly attributable to his empty bucket than to anything we might have done to warrant criticism. We would realize that the person who is characteristically bitter is a person who has an empty or near-empty bucket. The bitterness is an expression of that emptiness.
The person with an empty bucket does not feel good about himself. He is actually upset with himself. In fact, he dislikes himself or else he wouldn’t be so consistently hateful toward others. This is axiomatic: anyone who consistently criticizes, finds fault with, demeans, ridicules, or maliciously gossips about another person actually dislikes himself. Furthermore, his behavior may be characterized as an attempt to engage in bucket dipping.
In addition to our buckets, each of us is equipped with a dipper. The consistently negative person keeps his dipper working overtime in a futile attempt to diminish another person and seemingly enhance himself. He may often succeed in the former, but he always fails miserably in the latter. It is impossible to fill one’s own bucket by dipping into another’s.
Knowing that each of us has a dipper as well as a bucket, makes it possible to understand some otherwise fairly inexplicable behavior. It also becomes relatively easy to identify those who approach each day with dipper clutched firmly in hand, frantically engaged in attempting to empty the buckets of those around them. Finally, this view of behavior allows us to cast our own reactions in a different light.
The task then, for a concerned human being who is striving to become more pro-life and more positive, is to exercise every opportunity to help fill another’s bucket and to become intently alert to the spontaneously negative use of his own dipper.
How we go about attempting to fill buckets, to help another person feel better about himself, is actually already well-known by most of us; although, we perhaps never realized quite how or why it was so significant. We fill others’ buckets by giving them sincere praise, compliments, accepting smiles, and displaying concerned interest. Strangely and inexplicably, we can add to our own buckets most directly and most mysteriously by working diligently to put drops into another person’s bucket. Under no circumstances do we ever add drops to our own by dipping into another bucket.
Children are relatively helpless. If more time and energy is spent dipping from their buckets than is spent putting drops into them, they have little recourse available to them other than to cringe in defeat or strike out in retaliation. Thus, the constant ever present phenomenon of children tormenting one another (as well as aiming their dippers at adults), is a relentless quest to "get even." Of course they never succeed. But, their attempt can be understood as an unconscious understanding of at least one half of our concept of buckets and dippers . . . they realize that others have buckets which often contain considerably more than they, themselves, possess. They wrongfully believe that if they dip sufficiently deep enough and often enough, they will not only diminish the supply of the envied one, but will somehow add the stolen drops to their own impoverished supply. Their temporary smile of sadistic satisfaction is soon overcome by the stark reality of the barrenness of their internal environment and they repeat their foolish and harmful bucket-dipping behavior.
When you next look upon or have occasion to relate to a child who is angry, sullen, whining, belligerent, rebellious, obnoxious, cruel, tormenting, destructive or non-cooperative, know that you are witnessing the behavior of a person whose bucket is empty. Psychiatric, psychological, educational, or intuitive diagnosis is unlikely to add much to your knowledge about how to react or respond to him. If the diagnosis suggests a procedure or method of approach which is successfully employed and a positive change occurs in the child, you will know that his bucket must have been filled. Because his bucket was filled, he feels good about himself. When he comes to feel sufficiently good about himself, he will no longer need to respond as he did formerly.
The imperishable child within the adults you see all around you (as well as in your mirror), will respond likewise when his bucket contains a sufficient amount to tip the balance in favor of positive and pro-life attitudes.
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
- - - 1 Corinthians 13:11
The world of the child is largely created for him by the adults in his environment. He has little or no control over the kind of input he receives. His self concept is therefore quite dependent upon how he is treated and what is said and done to him. This is appropriate and necessary for the child.
Sad to say, most of us, as adults, continue to function in much the same manner as when we were children. We continue to expect others to make us feel good and we blame them for making us feel bad. This is not only inappropriate for and adult but it is also quite unnecessary While it appears to be true that most of us will always need and welcome support from those around us, it is not true that we are entirely dependent upon them. Yet, many of us never seem to discover this basic truth.
Because we apparently never eliminate many of our past learnings, even when harmed by them, it would be quite helpful if more people became aware of another way of thinking about the self that is, perhaps, a little easier to understand than some of the commonly accepted ways. A simple analogy is presented below which can be useful in helping to understand certain aspects of any personal relationship. However, it is particularly relevant when dealing with children or when observing many of the personal, emotional interchanges between and among children.
Let us imagine and conceive of ourself as if we were a bucket. How we feel and how we will behave at any given moment is dependent upon how much or how little we have in our buckets. If our bucket is filled to overflowing, (which almost never happens), we will feel joy, have energy, and look forward to each day with enthusiasm. We will radiate warmth, be tolerant, forgiving, understanding and supporting of others. We will be glad we are alive and will exultantly proclaim, "Life is good." This is a well-developed pro-life viewpoint.
If our buckets are completely empty, (which almost never happens), we will feel and display all those characteristics which are opposite to those just stated. We will fell depressed, have little energy, and dread the coming of the next day. We will be unhappy, bitter, complaining, vindictive, and non-supporting of others. We will whine and miserably or angrily proclaim: "Life is lousy, purposeless, and hopeless." This is a well-developed anti-life viewpoint.
When faced with a person whose bucket is empty, most of us tend to become defensive---we feel threatened, fearful, hurt, or angry. It is likely that if we are strongly attacked verbally, we will respond in similar fashion. The emotional heat so generated is often not conducive to the development of healthy working relationships, not to the development of kindly feeling toward our attacker.
If we understood and applied the idea of ourself as a bucket, we might discover that we would be able to behave quite differently than is usually expected. For example, when an attack is being directed toward us, rather than feeling hurt or counterattacking, we might find that we will be able to calmly view the upset person from a non emotional vantage point. We could then say to ourselves: ‘Oh, you poor thing! You must have an empty bucket!" This places the attacker in an entirely different perspective. It can make us realize that his state of distress has very little to do with us, even though he seems to think it does. We will be able to realize that he is behaving that way because he feels so bad about himself. His bucket must be empty or else he wouldn’t be behaving that way. We might even be moved to feel genuine sympathy for him.
If we adopted the bucket view of self, we would understand that the motive underlying his attack is more directly attributable to his empty bucket than to anything we might have done to warrant criticism. We would realize that the person who is characteristically bitter is a person who has an empty or near-empty bucket. The bitterness is an expression of that emptiness.
The person with an empty bucket does not feel good about himself. He is actually upset with himself. In fact, he dislikes himself or else he wouldn’t be so consistently hateful toward others. This is axiomatic: anyone who consistently criticizes, finds fault with, demeans, ridicules, or maliciously gossips about another person actually dislikes himself. Furthermore, his behavior may be characterized as an attempt to engage in bucket dipping.
In addition to our buckets, each of us is equipped with a dipper. The consistently negative person keeps his dipper working overtime in a futile attempt to diminish another person and seemingly enhance himself. He may often succeed in the former, but he always fails miserably in the latter. It is impossible to fill one’s own bucket by dipping into another’s.
Knowing that each of us has a dipper as well as a bucket, makes it possible to understand some otherwise fairly inexplicable behavior. It also becomes relatively easy to identify those who approach each day with dipper clutched firmly in hand, frantically engaged in attempting to empty the buckets of those around them. Finally, this view of behavior allows us to cast our own reactions in a different light.
The task then, for a concerned human being who is striving to become more pro-life and more positive, is to exercise every opportunity to help fill another’s bucket and to become intently alert to the spontaneously negative use of his own dipper.
How we go about attempting to fill buckets, to help another person feel better about himself, is actually already well-known by most of us; although, we perhaps never realized quite how or why it was so significant. We fill others’ buckets by giving them sincere praise, compliments, accepting smiles, and displaying concerned interest. Strangely and inexplicably, we can add to our own buckets most directly and most mysteriously by working diligently to put drops into another person’s bucket. Under no circumstances do we ever add drops to our own by dipping into another bucket.
Children are relatively helpless. If more time and energy is spent dipping from their buckets than is spent putting drops into them, they have little recourse available to them other than to cringe in defeat or strike out in retaliation. Thus, the constant ever present phenomenon of children tormenting one another (as well as aiming their dippers at adults), is a relentless quest to "get even." Of course they never succeed. But, their attempt can be understood as an unconscious understanding of at least one half of our concept of buckets and dippers . . . they realize that others have buckets which often contain considerably more than they, themselves, possess. They wrongfully believe that if they dip sufficiently deep enough and often enough, they will not only diminish the supply of the envied one, but will somehow add the stolen drops to their own impoverished supply. Their temporary smile of sadistic satisfaction is soon overcome by the stark reality of the barrenness of their internal environment and they repeat their foolish and harmful bucket-dipping behavior.
When you next look upon or have occasion to relate to a child who is angry, sullen, whining, belligerent, rebellious, obnoxious, cruel, tormenting, destructive or non-cooperative, know that you are witnessing the behavior of a person whose bucket is empty. Psychiatric, psychological, educational, or intuitive diagnosis is unlikely to add much to your knowledge about how to react or respond to him. If the diagnosis suggests a procedure or method of approach which is successfully employed and a positive change occurs in the child, you will know that his bucket must have been filled. Because his bucket was filled, he feels good about himself. When he comes to feel sufficiently good about himself, he will no longer need to respond as he did formerly.
The imperishable child within the adults you see all around you (as well as in your mirror), will respond likewise when his bucket contains a sufficient amount to tip the balance in favor of positive and pro-life attitudes.
The Bucket and the Dipper
The Bucket and the Dipper
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. - Ephesians 4:29
Once upon a time it was discovered that everyone has a bucket. No kidding. It's a bucket which is kind of like a cup -- in that it can be filled .. . even to overflowing. I guess it's sort of like a source of peace, comfort, love, strength, and such. And the fuller it is, the easier it is to share what's in the bucket with others.
There are a lot of wonderful ways in which we can put things in each others' buckets. For example, we can say, "Good Morning!" when we see each other. That's a great way to put something in someone else's bucket. And, you can double the contribution by adding someone's name -- "Good Morning, Mrs. Smith!" Other things which can fill up a bucket are hugs, listening, sincere praise, pointing out strengths, being sensitive to needs (and doing some- thing about them when you can), cheerfulness, honesty, patience (almost sounds like a description of THE PURE LOVE OF CHRIST: CHARITY, when you think about it). Anyway, one of the things we all ought to spend time doing, is helping to fill others' buckets.
Now. . . it must needs be, so they say, that there is opposition in all things. And so, just as we all have a bucket, we all have a dipper. And sometimes, other people can get their dipper in your bucket!! It's been known to happen!
Just imagine that we're going out to eat with some friends at a nice restaurant. There'll be fine linens and candles and everything. We're sitting at the table, visiting and I accidentally knock over my glass of V-8 juice. Big red spot. I am so embarrassed. I am turning redder than usual. But, the juice just keeps crawling across the table right toward our hostess. It's like a flood! It won't stop! And, then finally it does dribble on her! She jumps a little, but is being nice even though it's wet and gooey. And then, old bright eyes, down the table a little, looks up and says, "You spilled your juice." He got HIS dipper in MY bucket!
Tell me how old you have to be to know... you made a mistake!? ...that you're not perfect!?
Can you remember sitting down to breakfast with your family and your little brother spilled his milk? And about 35 people (it seemed) said "You spilled your milk!" All those great big dippers in such a tiny little bucket!
Have you ever noticed that when your bucket is low, or empty -- when you need most to have someone put something in it -- THAT is when you're most irritable to people? We chase people away when we need them most.
We try hard to figure out WHY we run around with our dippers out. We're busy trying to get our dippers in other people's buckets -- and they don't want their bucket to have our dipper in it!
This is where the trap is. Have you ever noticed that when you get your dipper in somebody's bucket . . . you're pointing out some- thing wrong with them? You tell them they've got wrinkles in their socks and they don't have them on yet? You tell her she's moody and then you find out she's got a toothache. You tell someone there's a spot on their face and then find out that your glasses are dirty. You've got YOUR dipper in someone else's bucket! It might feel good, sort of, when you first shove your dipper into someone else's bucket -- but after a while it doesn't feel good anymore.
Do you know what a DIP-IN is? It's not exactly like a drive-in or a sit-in. . . It's when several people get together and just DIP someone good! Next time you realize that's happening, point it out and then stop. "Hey, we've all got our dippers in little sister's bucket! Let's fill it instead of emptying it!"
Sometimes you say to yourself, "Self, she's got a LID on her bucket!" Or you may ask, "Hey, does anyone know where I can buy a lid for my bucket? There are a lot of DIPS around this place! Some of you may even think you don't HAVE a bucket! Or you may feel that your bucket's been shot full of holes.
Well, for SURE we're just not the same when our bucket is empty, and that's all there is to it. And, we're not the same when we're dipping instead of filling, and that's all there is to that, too! My friends, keep your dippers out of other's buckets. FILL their buckets . . . you'll discover yours is getting fuller too. Full and overflowing -- you'll have so much, much more to share. It really could be that way. It really CAN be that way. Love one another . . . enrich and lift and bless and fill one another."
Author Unknown
If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. - 1 John 4:12Tuesday, March 24, 2009
The Book of Mormon and The TV Guide
On the table, side by sideSide By Side
The Book of Mormon and the TV Guide
One is well worn and cherished with pride;
Not the Book of Mormon, but the TV guide,
One is used daily to help folks decide,
No, not the Book of Mormon, but the TV Guide.
As the pages are turned, what shall they see?
Oh, what does it matter, turn on the TV!
So they opened the book from which they confide,
No, not the Book of Mormon, but the TV guide.
The word of God is seldom read
Maybe a verse or two before they fall to bed,
Exhausted and sleepy and tired as can be,
Not from reading the scriptures, but from watching TV.
So back to the table, side by side
The Book of Mormon, and the TV Guide
But is found in the Book of Mormon, not on the TV.
Friday, March 20, 2009
The World VS The Lord
The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in. The world would take people out of the slums. Christ takes the slums out of people, and then they take themselves out of the slums. The world would mold men by changing their environment. Christ changes men who then change their environment. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ would change human nature. Christ changes men and changed men change the world -- Ezra Taft Benson
Saturday, March 14, 2009
When is a Man Educated.
I once was in a group of men where there was a very learned man in the midst.
Another educated man came into the room and was asked to introduce himself.
The man introduced himself and explained that he had just moved to the area for his Job as a professor at the local University. He stated he had just received his PHD and was happy to have a job in that area. As the meeting commenced the Young professor made a comment and immediately the Old professor very forcefully shouted I disagree with that man, and proceeded to give some meaningless explanation to validate his disagreement. It seemed this Old professor felt threatened by the young professor because there was now 2 PHD's in the room. As the meeting wore on The Old Professor sang himself praises to demonstrate his Alpha Male status. The young professor it being his first day chose the high road and just remained silent for the remainder of the meeting.
We are taught in the scriptures the person with much learning or the (natural man) is an Enemy to God and has been from the creation of Adam. An educated man is what the Lord would have us become.
A man knows when he is educated by a few things.
When he can look out upon the universe.
See the Glorious and Terrible
The dark and the Luminous with a sense of his own littleness in the grand scheme of things.
And yet have faith Hope and courage.
He is educated when he knows how to make friends and keep them.
And above all when he is friends with himself.
When he can look at an honest man or pure woman straight in the eye no matter how plain they may seem.
When he loves flowers an values nature.
When he can hunt a bird without a gun.
When he can feel the stir of forgotten joy in the laughter of a little child.
When he knows that hoeing corn is as honorable as playing golf.
When star crowned trees and sunlight on flowering waters subdue his soul,
like the thought of one much loved but long dead.
When he can be happy and high minded amid the drudgery of life
When he can look into the very face of the most forlorn mortal soul and see something besides sin.
When he know how to pray. And is humble enough that he can hear an answer.
When he is a friend of all good causes and the champion of those who fall.
When little children love to see him because of the smile on his face.
When he can be happy alone.
when he has put away childish things and yet has kept through the good and bad days a open mind and a child's heart.
When he has been true to himself and his fellow men and to his God
Glad to live but not afraid to die.
Such a man is an educated soul whether he be famous or obscure rich or poor,
high or low.
It does not take an AA,AS - BS,BA - MD. or PHD to Serve the Lord.
It only takes a willingness to serve and at that moment He will qualify you for the work.
By D. Newburn
Another educated man came into the room and was asked to introduce himself.
The man introduced himself and explained that he had just moved to the area for his Job as a professor at the local University. He stated he had just received his PHD and was happy to have a job in that area. As the meeting commenced the Young professor made a comment and immediately the Old professor very forcefully shouted I disagree with that man, and proceeded to give some meaningless explanation to validate his disagreement. It seemed this Old professor felt threatened by the young professor because there was now 2 PHD's in the room. As the meeting wore on The Old Professor sang himself praises to demonstrate his Alpha Male status. The young professor it being his first day chose the high road and just remained silent for the remainder of the meeting.
We are taught in the scriptures the person with much learning or the (natural man) is an Enemy to God and has been from the creation of Adam. An educated man is what the Lord would have us become.
A man knows when he is educated by a few things.
When he can look out upon the universe.
See the Glorious and Terrible
The dark and the Luminous with a sense of his own littleness in the grand scheme of things.
And yet have faith Hope and courage.
He is educated when he knows how to make friends and keep them.
And above all when he is friends with himself.
When he can look at an honest man or pure woman straight in the eye no matter how plain they may seem.
When he loves flowers an values nature.
When he can hunt a bird without a gun.
When he can feel the stir of forgotten joy in the laughter of a little child.
When he knows that hoeing corn is as honorable as playing golf.
When star crowned trees and sunlight on flowering waters subdue his soul,
like the thought of one much loved but long dead.
When he can be happy and high minded amid the drudgery of life
When he can look into the very face of the most forlorn mortal soul and see something besides sin.
When he know how to pray. And is humble enough that he can hear an answer.
When he is a friend of all good causes and the champion of those who fall.
When little children love to see him because of the smile on his face.
When he can be happy alone.
when he has put away childish things and yet has kept through the good and bad days a open mind and a child's heart.
When he has been true to himself and his fellow men and to his God
Glad to live but not afraid to die.
Such a man is an educated soul whether he be famous or obscure rich or poor,
high or low.
It does not take an AA,AS - BS,BA - MD. or PHD to Serve the Lord.
It only takes a willingness to serve and at that moment He will qualify you for the work.
By D. Newburn
Food for Thought
It is impossible to rise Higher as a Leader than we rise as an Individual.
Reputation is what men and women think of us
Character is what God Knows of Us.
Nothing sets one out of the devil's reach so much as Humility.
Always hold your head up but be careful to keep your nose at a friendly level.
If you are right, take the humble side and you will help the other fellow.
If you are wrong, take the humble side and you will help yourself.
The life of every man is a diary in which he means to write one story but writes another. His humblest hour comes when he compares the volume as it is written with what he vowed to write.
Aristotle wrote:
Anybody can become angry that is easy;
but to be angry with the right person
and to the right degree
and at the right time
and for the right purpose
and in the right way
that is not within everybody's power
and is not easy.
A good leader inspires others with confidence in him.
A great leader inspires them with confidence in themselves;
Nothing will be right to the man whose heart is wrong.
Ability will enable a man to get to the top
but character is the only thing that will keep him there.
There is a must for one who desires leadership.
Learn to obey before you command.
You can be called into a position of leadership and turn around
waving your hands up in the air beckoning the flock to follow you.
And turn around only to realize not one soul is in line.
To be an effective leader one must have the attention,respect and devotion
of the flock and this comes when a leader realizes he is there
To serve NOT to be served.
Reputation is what men and women think of us
Character is what God Knows of Us.
Nothing sets one out of the devil's reach so much as Humility.
Always hold your head up but be careful to keep your nose at a friendly level.
If you are right, take the humble side and you will help the other fellow.
If you are wrong, take the humble side and you will help yourself.
The life of every man is a diary in which he means to write one story but writes another. His humblest hour comes when he compares the volume as it is written with what he vowed to write.
Aristotle wrote:
Anybody can become angry that is easy;
but to be angry with the right person
and to the right degree
and at the right time
and for the right purpose
and in the right way
that is not within everybody's power
and is not easy.
A good leader inspires others with confidence in him.
A great leader inspires them with confidence in themselves;
Nothing will be right to the man whose heart is wrong.
Ability will enable a man to get to the top
but character is the only thing that will keep him there.
There is a must for one who desires leadership.
Learn to obey before you command.
You can be called into a position of leadership and turn around
waving your hands up in the air beckoning the flock to follow you.
And turn around only to realize not one soul is in line.
To be an effective leader one must have the attention,respect and devotion
of the flock and this comes when a leader realizes he is there
To serve NOT to be served.
Longfellow of Harvard University
LONGFELLOW Of Harvard began his first year of regular, prescribed duties in
September 1837. He was tingling with energy, confidence, and
cheerfulness. "I shall commence the Term in great spirits, and
lecture on the Faust of Göthe."1 He did more than the minimum pre
scribed. He was ever industrious. "The arrangement with the Com
mittee requires me to lecture but once a week. I'll throw in the other, to
show, that I am not reluctant to work; and likewise for my own good;
--namely, to make me read attentively--give me practice--and keep
me from growing indolent."2 This fervor subsided gradually, but never
was lost completely. In 1847, Longfellow wrote in his journal: "This
term I have three classes; two in Molière and one in Dante. No col
lege work could possibly be pleasanter."3 Even near the end of his
teaching career, Longfellow wrote of his lectures with warmth and
enthusiasm. One day one of Longfellows students asked him
"How do you Keep so Young Professor Longfellow??" We never get tired of your classes. You always have something interesting to give.
Professor Longfellow responded "I've never had that question put to me before" as he gazed out the window. Longfellow then said "do you see the difference between those 2 apple trees in the yard??
No replied the student, they look alike to me.
Longfellow replied How do you account for the fact that the old apple trees flowers out as beautifully as does the young one?
The student at a loss for words said I don't know I cant explain it.
Longfellow said Let me tell you a secret. That old tree managed last year to grow enough new wood to put forth its new blossoms. Blossoms you know come only on new wood.
Oh I see said the young man to keep young one must keep growing. Yes came the quiet response.
For any one who has been around fruit trees it seems like if a tree does not bloom it will soon die, To me it is almost as if it has nothing to live for.
Likewise we must never we stop growing in the gospel of Jesus Christ. And as we grow in the gospel it is only natural for us to blossom and bring forth new wood and new fruit. The tree never knows the impact its fruit has on the receiver. Likewise we may never know the impact our fruit has on the ones around us.
September 1837. He was tingling with energy, confidence, and
cheerfulness. "I shall commence the Term in great spirits, and
lecture on the Faust of Göthe."1 He did more than the minimum pre
scribed. He was ever industrious. "The arrangement with the Com
mittee requires me to lecture but once a week. I'll throw in the other, to
show, that I am not reluctant to work; and likewise for my own good;
--namely, to make me read attentively--give me practice--and keep
me from growing indolent."2 This fervor subsided gradually, but never
was lost completely. In 1847, Longfellow wrote in his journal: "This
term I have three classes; two in Molière and one in Dante. No col
lege work could possibly be pleasanter."3 Even near the end of his
teaching career, Longfellow wrote of his lectures with warmth and
enthusiasm. One day one of Longfellows students asked him
"How do you Keep so Young Professor Longfellow??" We never get tired of your classes. You always have something interesting to give.
Professor Longfellow responded "I've never had that question put to me before" as he gazed out the window. Longfellow then said "do you see the difference between those 2 apple trees in the yard??
No replied the student, they look alike to me.
Longfellow replied How do you account for the fact that the old apple trees flowers out as beautifully as does the young one?
The student at a loss for words said I don't know I cant explain it.
Longfellow said Let me tell you a secret. That old tree managed last year to grow enough new wood to put forth its new blossoms. Blossoms you know come only on new wood.
Oh I see said the young man to keep young one must keep growing. Yes came the quiet response.
For any one who has been around fruit trees it seems like if a tree does not bloom it will soon die, To me it is almost as if it has nothing to live for.
Likewise we must never we stop growing in the gospel of Jesus Christ. And as we grow in the gospel it is only natural for us to blossom and bring forth new wood and new fruit. The tree never knows the impact its fruit has on the receiver. Likewise we may never know the impact our fruit has on the ones around us.
Just Killing Time
In this life it seems we are constantly at battle with the Time clock.
Many times It seems like I am reliving the movie Ground Hogs Day.
There are so many things to occupy our time and as a consequence we put off to tomorrow what we should have done today.
The other day I ran into a man I have not seen in over 20 years while we were talking his son walked up. I soon realized he was 25 years old. I almost fainted on the floor to realize that much time had passed since I had seen this man. I recall the time because his little son was about 5 years old the last time I saw him.
As I contemplated that single event I became very conscious of how we can let time get away from us. This man was in the scouting program at church when I was a youth. He was a great man with a loving desire to help the youth and the ward. He was active for about 2 years and as always happens change came to the ward. Through these changes in the ward and personality conflicts he fell away and has now been lost for 20 years. To think of this makes me physically sick.
When I was released from my labors as a Full time LDS missionary at the age of 21 My Stake President gave me some council that I thought was rather silly and trivial at the time but it has stuck with me.
He told me the best thing I could do in this life is forgive every man before he offends me. He said if I could do this I would find happiness in this life.
I am now 35 years old, 14 years has passed and it is only now that I am beginning to appreciate understand and begin to try to heed those words of council.
When we are offended more often that not we neglect the things the Lord would have us do. This is Satans plan. If he can get you offended then you loose the desire to accomplish the Lords Work.
The Lord Does not care about our abilities.
He only cares about our availability to be an instrument in his hand.
All of the abilities in the world are for naught if we are unwilling to humble ourselves and submit to the Master, Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
As we go through the upcoming weeks let us try to remember to be a little more understanding. Many times when we get mad with someone it is because we have not walked a mile in his or her moccasins. Only when their story is shared with us do we truly understand and appreciate their actions. If you still catch yourself becoming offended stop and realize what Old scratch is trying accomplish. And say a silent prayer for you and that individual.
The Savior taught constantly through his ministry and death, for us to forgive.
We see it illustrated as he hung on the cross he uttered the words,
Father Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do.
We are taught in the scriptures in Mosiah 2:17 And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.
The biggest compliment you could ever give someone is your time.
Time is the most valuable possession one has.
If someone spends an hour with you they had to give up that hour in another facet of their life.
There is no Higher Honor that can be paid other than Death and in death you have given up your time.
I once heard a quote that said.
The saddest words of tongue or pen is what might have been.
Had I only done (????????)
The time is now..
Don't put off to tomorrow
The things that ought to be done TODAY.
Many times It seems like I am reliving the movie Ground Hogs Day.
There are so many things to occupy our time and as a consequence we put off to tomorrow what we should have done today.
The other day I ran into a man I have not seen in over 20 years while we were talking his son walked up. I soon realized he was 25 years old. I almost fainted on the floor to realize that much time had passed since I had seen this man. I recall the time because his little son was about 5 years old the last time I saw him.
As I contemplated that single event I became very conscious of how we can let time get away from us. This man was in the scouting program at church when I was a youth. He was a great man with a loving desire to help the youth and the ward. He was active for about 2 years and as always happens change came to the ward. Through these changes in the ward and personality conflicts he fell away and has now been lost for 20 years. To think of this makes me physically sick.
When I was released from my labors as a Full time LDS missionary at the age of 21 My Stake President gave me some council that I thought was rather silly and trivial at the time but it has stuck with me.
He told me the best thing I could do in this life is forgive every man before he offends me. He said if I could do this I would find happiness in this life.
I am now 35 years old, 14 years has passed and it is only now that I am beginning to appreciate understand and begin to try to heed those words of council.
When we are offended more often that not we neglect the things the Lord would have us do. This is Satans plan. If he can get you offended then you loose the desire to accomplish the Lords Work.
The Lord Does not care about our abilities.
He only cares about our availability to be an instrument in his hand.
All of the abilities in the world are for naught if we are unwilling to humble ourselves and submit to the Master, Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
As we go through the upcoming weeks let us try to remember to be a little more understanding. Many times when we get mad with someone it is because we have not walked a mile in his or her moccasins. Only when their story is shared with us do we truly understand and appreciate their actions. If you still catch yourself becoming offended stop and realize what Old scratch is trying accomplish. And say a silent prayer for you and that individual.
The Savior taught constantly through his ministry and death, for us to forgive.
We see it illustrated as he hung on the cross he uttered the words,
Father Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do.
We are taught in the scriptures in Mosiah 2:17 And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.
The biggest compliment you could ever give someone is your time.
Time is the most valuable possession one has.
If someone spends an hour with you they had to give up that hour in another facet of their life.
There is no Higher Honor that can be paid other than Death and in death you have given up your time.
I once heard a quote that said.
The saddest words of tongue or pen is what might have been.
Had I only done (????????)
The time is now..
Don't put off to tomorrow
The things that ought to be done TODAY.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Starfish Thrower
adapted from The Star Thrower
by Loren Eiseley
1907 - 1977
Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself as he the thought of someone who would dance to the day. The old man picked up his pace so he could catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?"
The young man paused, looked up, and replied "as he Threw another starfish into the ocean."
"The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."
Upon hearing this, the wise man commented, "But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are thousands of starfish all along every mile? Don't You realize that you can't possibly make a difference!"
The young man simply bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean and turned and said well it mattered to that one.
Often in life we look upon a task and see it as insurmountable.
It is in those moments we need to step back and pray to gain a vision of the big picture the Lord has for us.
The Lord works by small means to bring about great miracles.
The ant did not eat the elephant all in one sitting he did it one bite at a time.
If we are to accomplish the purposes the Lord has for us to do in this life we must not loose sight of the plain and precious truths of his gospel. For more information on the Lords plan see: http://mormon.org
by Loren Eiseley
1907 - 1977
Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself as he the thought of someone who would dance to the day. The old man picked up his pace so he could catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?"
The young man paused, looked up, and replied "as he Threw another starfish into the ocean."
"The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."
Upon hearing this, the wise man commented, "But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are thousands of starfish all along every mile? Don't You realize that you can't possibly make a difference!"
The young man simply bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean and turned and said well it mattered to that one.
Often in life we look upon a task and see it as insurmountable.
It is in those moments we need to step back and pray to gain a vision of the big picture the Lord has for us.
The Lord works by small means to bring about great miracles.
The ant did not eat the elephant all in one sitting he did it one bite at a time.
If we are to accomplish the purposes the Lord has for us to do in this life we must not loose sight of the plain and precious truths of his gospel. For more information on the Lords plan see: http://mormon.org
Sunday, March 1, 2009
The little Indian boy and the Snake
Once upon a time there was a little Indian boy out climbing a nearby mountain on one cold winter day. While he was hiking he came across a rattle snake laying in the path. The snake was shivering, and said to the boy. "Please help me. I can't move, I am so cold that I can no longer make it any further down the mountain." The boy said to the snake "No way! You're a snake, if I pick you up, you'll bite me! " The snake replied. "No, no I won't, I promise I won't bite you. If you help me you will be different. You will be my best friend why would I harm you. The snake was very cunning and very persistent in his pleading. So the young boy picked up the snake, put him in his shirt, and down the path. When the little Indian boy got back down to the bottom of the mountain, he reached in, took out the snake, and the snake bit the young boy. The boy replied to the snake "Hey! You bit me, you said that if I'd help you out, that you wouldn't bite me! "The snake replied "But you knew what I was when you picked me up!"
So often in life we believe that we can associate with sin and not suffer any consequences. Let us remember Satin only ask for you to let him allow his toe to rest upon your door. But before you know it he is in your house. If you allow him to ride with you the next thing he will want to do is drive. I pray that we will be wise in our daily activities so we will not become causality of unrighteousness.
So often in life we believe that we can associate with sin and not suffer any consequences. Let us remember Satin only ask for you to let him allow his toe to rest upon your door. But before you know it he is in your house. If you allow him to ride with you the next thing he will want to do is drive. I pray that we will be wise in our daily activities so we will not become causality of unrighteousness.
The little things
We do not know the impact we have with the little things we do
I found this story I am not sure of the validity of it but it teaches a great lesson in life. Be careful in life so you are never be too busy to listen to the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
One day, when I was a freshman in high school,
I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school.
His name was Kyle.
It looked like he was carrying all of his books.
I thought to myself, 'Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday?
He must really be a nerd.'
I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on.
As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him.
They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt.
His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him
He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes
My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye.
As I handed him his glasses, I said, 'Those guys are jerks. '
They really should get lives.
"He looked at me and said, 'Hey thanks!"
There was a big smile on his face.
It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude.
I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived.
As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked hi m why I had never seen him before.
He said he had gone to private school before now.
I would have never hung out with a private school kid before.
We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books
He turned out to be a pretty cool kid.
I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends
He said yes.
We hung out all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him.
Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again.
I stopped him and said, 'Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday! He just laughed and handed me half the books.
Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends.
When we were seniors we began to think about college.
Kyle decided on Georgetown and I was going to Duke.
I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem.
He was going to be a doctor and I was going for business on a football scholarship.
Kyle was valedictorian of our class.
I teased him all the time about being a nerd.
He had to prepare a speech for graduation.
I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak
Graduation day, I saw Kyle.
He looked great.
He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school.
He filled out and actually looked good in glasses.
He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him.
Boy, sometimes I was jealous! Today was one of those days.
I could see that he was nervous about his speech.
So, I smacked him on the back and said, 'Hey, big guy, you'll be great!'
He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled.
Thanks,' he said.
As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began
Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years.
Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach. but mostly your friends...
I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them.
I am going to tell you a story.'
I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend.
He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home.
He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile.
Thankfully, I was saved.
My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.'
I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment.
I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile.
Not until that moment did I realize it's depth.
Never underestimate the power of your actions.
With on e small gesture you can change a person's life.
For better or for worse.
God puts us all in each others lives to impact one another in some way.
Look for Good in others.
And through your service you will find the masters face has become engraven upon your countenance
When you are in the service of your fellow man
you are only in the service of your God
I found this story I am not sure of the validity of it but it teaches a great lesson in life. Be careful in life so you are never be too busy to listen to the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
One day, when I was a freshman in high school,
I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school.
His name was Kyle.
It looked like he was carrying all of his books.
I thought to myself, 'Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday?
He must really be a nerd.'
I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on.
As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him.
They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt.
His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him
He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes
My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye.
As I handed him his glasses, I said, 'Those guys are jerks. '
They really should get lives.
"He looked at me and said, 'Hey thanks!"
There was a big smile on his face.
It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude.
I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived.
As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked hi m why I had never seen him before.
He said he had gone to private school before now.
I would have never hung out with a private school kid before.
We talked all the way home, and I carried some of his books
He turned out to be a pretty cool kid.
I asked him if he wanted to play a little football with my friends
He said yes.
We hung out all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him.
Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again.
I stopped him and said, 'Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday! He just laughed and handed me half the books.
Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends.
When we were seniors we began to think about college.
Kyle decided on Georgetown and I was going to Duke.
I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem.
He was going to be a doctor and I was going for business on a football scholarship.
Kyle was valedictorian of our class.
I teased him all the time about being a nerd.
He had to prepare a speech for graduation.
I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak
Graduation day, I saw Kyle.
He looked great.
He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school.
He filled out and actually looked good in glasses.
He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him.
Boy, sometimes I was jealous! Today was one of those days.
I could see that he was nervous about his speech.
So, I smacked him on the back and said, 'Hey, big guy, you'll be great!'
He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled.
Thanks,' he said.
As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began
Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years.
Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach. but mostly your friends...
I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them.
I am going to tell you a story.'
I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend.
He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home.
He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile.
Thankfully, I was saved.
My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.'
I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment.
I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile.
Not until that moment did I realize it's depth.
Never underestimate the power of your actions.
With on e small gesture you can change a person's life.
For better or for worse.
God puts us all in each others lives to impact one another in some way.
Look for Good in others.
And through your service you will find the masters face has become engraven upon your countenance
When you are in the service of your fellow man
you are only in the service of your God
World Without Me??
When you are down and out and feeling blue
Just remember the Mighty Oak
was once a Nut Just Like You.
sit back and take stock of your life as you read the next 11
1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
Just remember the Mighty Oak
was once a Nut Just Like You.
sit back and take stock of your life as you read the next 11
1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
Lifes Road
In life there are many roads we have to choose from
some roads come to a fork where we must choose
yet others have many curves and hills but seldom lead us astray
while some roads seem to go on forever without a single curve
On this road we call life there are many times issues are encountered by chance
but so often God determines who walks into your life...
As our agency is God Given it's up to you to decide
who you let walk away,
who you let stay,
and who you refuse to let go.
slow down and enjoy the good things in life
some roads come to a fork where we must choose
yet others have many curves and hills but seldom lead us astray
while some roads seem to go on forever without a single curve
On this road we call life there are many times issues are encountered by chance
but so often God determines who walks into your life...
As our agency is God Given it's up to you to decide
who you let walk away,
who you let stay,
and who you refuse to let go.
slow down and enjoy the good things in life
Trying to do the job alone
Trying to do the Job alone
In life so many times I have caught my self trying to take upon myself too many obligations.
I have struggled with trying to do the job by myself to make sure it is done right.
However being right is relative.
There are many ways to be right and most of the time there is more than one right answer to a given problem.
More often than not we neglect to invite the Lord to our meeting of the minds.
I can remember many times working so hard to solve a problem and after many hours of brainstorming and frustration I gave up and at long last remembered that I should ask the Lord for help.
There have been many times my prayers for guidance has been almost immediate.
What a testimony of the power of prayer.
As I have thought of this principal I recalled a story that illustrates my point.
The story is called.
Trying to do the Job alone.
Dear Sir.
I am responding to your request for additional information regarding how my recent injury occurred. In block number 3 of your accident report form I put "trying to do the job alone" as the cause of my accident. You said in your letter that I should explain more fully. I trust that the following details will be sufficient.
I am a bricklayer by trade. On the day of the accident I was working alone on the roof of a new six story building. When I completed my work I discovered that I had about 500 pounds of bricks left over. Rather than carry the bricks down by hand, I decided to lower them in a barrel by using a pulley, which fortunately was attached to the side of the building at the 6th floor.
Securing the rope at the ground level, I went up to the roof, swung the barrel out, and loaded the bricks into it. Then I went back to the ground and untied the rope, holding it tightly to ensure a slow descent of the 500 pounds of bricks. You will note in Block number 2 of the accident report form that my weight is 135 pounds.
Due to my surprise at being jerked off the ground so suddenly I lost my presence-of-mind and didn't let go of the rope. Needless to say, I proceeded at a rather rapid rate up the side of the building.
In the vicinity of the third floor I met the barrel coming down. This explains my fractured skull and collarbone.
Slowed only slightly, I continued my rapid ascent, not stopping until the fingers of my right hand were two knuckles deep into the pulley.
Fortunately, by this time I had regained my presence of mind and was able to hold tightly to the rope in spite of my pain.
At approximately the same time however, the barrel of bricks hit the ground and the bottom fell out of the barrel. Devoid of the weight of bricks, the barrel then weighed approximately 50 lbs.
I refer you again to the information in Block number 2. As you might imagine, I began a rapid descent down the side of the building.
In the vicinity of the third floor, I met the barrel coming up. This accounts for the two fractured ankles and the lacerations of my legs and lower body.
The encounter of the barrel slowed me enough to lessen my injuries when I fell onto the pile of bricks and fortunately, only 3 vertebrae were cracked.
I am sorry to report, however, that as I lay in pain on the bricks, unable to stand-up, and watching the empty barrel 6 stories above me, I again lost my presence of mind and let go of the rope. The empty barrel weighed more than the rope so it came down upon me and broke both of my legs.
So many times we think that we can take the weight of an issue all upon our shoulders all at once.
A Gold medal Olympian does not earn his medal over night.
It takes the help of others and practice each day to reach their full potential
As we look upon our lifes at the insurmountable burdens
Let us remember If the Lord does not remove our afflictions when we want, it may be for our good and to fulfill His purposes, though we may not always understand why at the moment. Such times can be a test of faith or even a learning experience. Divine comfort, support, or deliverance may well come later. A scriptural example is the Savior’s intentional delay in going to Bethany to help Lazarus see John 11:4, 6, 21–44.
Another example of delayed deliverance occurred on the Sea of Galilee, when the Lord did not immediately calm the storm. Even as gusting winds and waves tossed and covered the boat to the point that His disciples believed they would perish, the Master slept see Matt. 8:23–26. Then in a majestic exercise of divine power, the Lord controlled the elements, subdued the storm, and brought calm. The disciples “marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!” see Matt. 8:27.
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