I typed up notes last night from yesterday's sessions but for some reason, my posts are showing out of order. If you want to read them, scroll down until you get to "Conference Notes (Saturday)".
Now, onto today's notes. I really enjoyed all of the talks today but as I look back over the last two days, most of my "favorite" talks came from yesterday's sessions. It reminds me of how important it is to participate in BOTH days of conference. If I hadn't watched yesterday, I would have missed most of my favorite talks.
Once again, there just seemed to be a strong message of being prepared for trials and hardships. There was also a focus on overcoming that through unity and love for one another. I don't know if there is something coming that we need to be prepared for, but I do think it is better safe than sorry and I think it would be wise to heed the warnings and counsel of our leaders.
Sunday Morning Session
*President Henry B. Eyring
There are many conflicts and differences around the world. But there is a great day of unity coming.
Christ will come and His people will be united.
Prophets have always called for unity. The need for it will grow greater.
We are doing better; we are moving toward becoming one.
Heavenly Father desires to grant us the joy of unity.
It cannot be given to individuals, we must seek it and qualify for it with others.
We need to have our hearts changed - so we can be of "one heart".
When testimony of the Savior is born, the Holy Ghost verifies it. And hearts are knit together in love.
Principles to help have unity:
Revelation - will help us know what He would have us do.
Be humble - Pride is the great enemy of unity. Be a peace make, search for what we agree on. Help people see the truth that they share - it's more important than the differences. Children of God have more in common than differences. And even our differences can be blessings. We each have different strengths and weaknesses.
Speak well of each other. Most often, we need to judge not and speak well of others. We see others in an imperfect light. The Savior will judge us generously - we should be generous in our kindness/evaluations of others.
Saints can accomplish any purpose of the Lord when we are unified.
Because their hearts were knit, they were magnified in power.
*Elder Robert D. Hales
We are Christian, so why do people attack us? Why doesn't the church defend itself more actively?
When challenged, we may want to fight back, to "put up your dukes".
Step back, pray, follow Christ's example.
When we do, we invite others to feel His love and follow Him.
Silence, meekness, forgiveness, bearing our testimony - is not being passive or weak.
It takes faith, strength, and Christian courage.
Joseph Smith was a good example. He did not retaliate or give into hate.
When we turn the other cheek, we stand with the Savior.
Love is the only power that can subdue the adversary.
Challenges of faith are not new and will not disappear.
Opposition can provide us opportunities to be strengthened. Take advantage of those opportunities.
We can express our views: write letters to editors, post comments on blogs, give encouraging words, answering in love.
The Lord knows the hearts of our accusers and how to effectively respond. Seek guidance of the spirit.
In every way, true disciples invite the spirit of the Lord.
Never become contentious.
More regrettable than accuastions are when church members act in unChristlike ways.
Meekness is not weakness; it is the badge of Christian courage.The devil laughs when we "debate".
Never confuse boldness with Satan's counterfeit: overbearance.
Instead of vindication, we should desire for people's welfare.
Defend the truth, but don't try to "score points" in a debate.
Be guileless - Be slow to anger, quick to forgive; look for your own fault first. (reference: "Lord, is it I?")
Thomas S. Monson taught to "learn respect for others, none of us live alone" (in our homes, cities, countries)
Don't leave the high ground! It is the safe ground!
We have a great work to do and it won't be accomplished if we give in to contentions.
Elder Keith B. McMullin
God created man and woman in His own image.
We have the capacity to bear children in our likeness.
And so, we are all created in God's image.
Hardships and heartache are a part of life's journey. We need Heavenly Father's help.
Love thy neighbor as thyself.
Ways to receive help:
Church welfare plan and members' offerings provide relief.
The church welfare plan is God inspired. It is heaven's help in practical ways.
Prayer. Ask and it shall be given, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.
If you feel heartbroken and alone, turn to Heavenly Father in faith. He will lift and guide, lead you through the storm.
Jesus Christ. Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have eternal life. Be careful of how we use His name. Give Him reverence. He is the God of Israel, He is the Living Christ.
Sister Elaine S. Dalton
In the strength of the Lord, I can do all things.
The goal of the General YW presidency is to help prepare every YW to make and keep sacred covenants in the temple.
Temples are the reason why we do everything.
The saints are to be a light and a standard.
We need to return to virtue - it is a prerequisit to enter the temple.
It is our pattern of thought and behavior; it begins in our heart and mind.
It is an accumulation of thousands of small decisions and actions.
It is quiet dignity; inner strength.
Make the decision to stand for the right, even if you stand alone.Stand clean and with confidence.
Don't be "poisoned by degrees".
We must return to virtue. Requires strict training.
The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.Now is the time to set our course.
"Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly." Stand in Holy places.
Awake and Arise! Lay hold on every good gift. Find joy in living a virtuous life.
Never underestimate the power of your righteous influence.
Elder M. Russell Ballard
No enemy has sufficient power to frustrate or stop the purposes of God.
The truth of God will go forward boldly, nobly, and independant... until the work is accomplished.
Faith of the saints is tested in every footstep.
Despite persecution, the work is going forward boldly and nobly.
President Kimball told us to lengthen our stride and increase our missionary efforts. There was a miracle of conversion as a result; membership in the church doubled.
And sincet that time, membership has doubled again.
The works and designs and purposes of God cannot be frustrated or stopped!
His paths are straight and His course is one eternal round.
This is God's work. There is still much to be done. We cannot afford to be comfortable or content. We are all needed.
Believe as the early saints believed; work as the early saints worked; serve as the early saints served; overcome as the early saints overcame.
Our challenges are not easier or harder than the early saints, they are only different.
He talked of the growth in South America, specifically mentioning the growth in Brazil. Made me think of an elder serving from our ward down there. :)
This is a great time to live.
It is up to us to carry on the rich traditions and hallmark of previous generations of latter-day saints.
We cannot be superficially righteous; our roots must run deep.
President Thomas S. Monson
He asks us for our faith and prayers.
Change. Nothing is as constant as change.
We must all deal with change. Time never stands still.
This is our one and only chance at mortal life.
Opportunities come and are gone. Don't let the most important things pass you by.
Find joy in the journey - now!
Pile up enough tomorrows and you'll find you collected a lot of empty yesterdays.
Make the most of today. Do allw e can to provide pleasant memories for the future.
Stress comes regardless of circumstances. Deal with them, but don't let them get in the way of what is most important - the people around us.
"They do not love, that do not show their love" - Shakespeare
"Never let a problem to be solved be more important than a person to be loved." (President Monson)
One day, each of us will run out of tomorrows.
"The realization of what's important goes hand in hand with gratitude."
Whatever God blesses you with, take it and be grateful for it.
Attitude of thankfullness - Be happy all our life.
Give thanks to God; ingratitude is one of the most serious sins.
Gratitude is one of the noblest virtues.
Adapt to changes in life, realize what is most important, be grateful.
Sunday Afternoon Session
President Boyd K. Packer
In troubled times, the Lord will always prepare a safe way ahead.
He talked about many of the persecutions of the early saints. Talked about the extermination order and how the saints petitioned the US government for help. They were turned away.
After fleeing to the Salt Lake Valley, the saints celebrated by erecting a US flag, celebrated patriotism by carrying the US constitution and Declaration of Independance.
They knew the cruelties that they had suffered were due to corruption within the government but the foundation of our country was still true. They remained loyal to that.
They were not consumed with revenge, their course was set by teachings in the scriptures. Followed Christ's example.
We teach and live principles of His gospel.
Lucifer is still at work, but we will stay on our course. Anchor ourselves as families and as a church on the principles of the gospel.
Elder Russell M. Nelson
Gratitude for the Plan of Happiness
Joy comes when we choose to live in harmony with God's Plan.
Wise shoppers study their choices before making their purchase.
Bargain shoppers and splurgers make choices that often don't endure well.
Shoplifters steal what they want.
The parable of the Shopping Patterns - likened to marriage.
Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God.
Temple marriage is the highest, most enduring marriage God can offer.
Our noblest yearning is to endure and enjoy eternal marriage.
Celestial marriage brings greater possibility for happiness than any other relationship.
Marriage is not only an exalting principle, it is a commandment.
It is not only a relationship between a husband and wife, but also a relationship with God.
Having an eternal family is more than a hopeful wish.
Not taking advantage of temple marriage is rejecting a gift from Heavenly Father.
When we reject a gift, we reject the giver of the gift.
No blessings will e withheld from faithful saints.
Mortal misunderstandings can make mischief in marraige. It doesn't help that we start out with a setback - marriage is with two imperfect people.
Harmony in marriage requires personal effort.
Minimize personal demands and maximize loving selflessness.
Seek for true happiness outside of ourselves.
God's plan allows us to choose. There's celestial marriage and then there are other alternatives.
Beware of the adversary's options - they always breed misery.
If you've made one of those choices, you can "upgrade". ;)
Celestial marriage is preparation for eternal life.
Elder William D. Oswald
He and his wife were teaching their granddaughters to jump rope. The girls were having trouble learning. Then some older girls came and helped teach and show them how to do it. The girls were then able to easily learn.
When we learn fundamental principles and are shown out to teach, it is easy to do.
Every position in the church requires effective teachers.
Principles of teaching and learning - we need to understand them adn see how they are used.
Basic principles are found in the scriptures and Teaching, No Greater Call.
Our model teacher - Jesus Christ.
He taught as one having authority - God was with Him.
He taught what His fahter had taught and He did what He had seen His father do.
Search the scriptures diligently.
Principles of teaching:
Show love to those you teach and call them by name.
Teach from the scriptures.
Encourage the pondering of gospel truths.
Pondering uses our heads as well as our hearts.
Teaching the gospel is a sacred calling.
Elder Eduardo Gavarret
Fellowship; help non members and less active members to "come home".
Christ asked, "Loveth thou me? Feed my sheep."
President Monson pleas for those who are wandering to "come back".
Read the words to "Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd"
Our care for our brethren is a profound expression of our love for God.
"When ye are in the service of your fellow being, ye are only in the service of your God."
Seek after those who are not here with us.
Elder Carlos A. Godoy
Sometimes we think we need a great, powerful experience to erase any doubt in order for us to gain a testimony.
But the Holy Ghost speaks with a still, small voice.
The Holy Ghost does not get our attention by shouting or shaking us. He whispers and gently carresses.
If we don't heed the spirit, it will withdraw and will have to wait until we seek it and will listen to it.
The witness of the still, small voice can have a stronger impact than a visit from an angel.
*Elder Quentin L. Cook
Many of our trials and hardships are brief with no lasting consequences, but many are severe.
D&C 121:1-8
Harold B. Lee said, "Sometimes the things that are the best for us seem at the moment to be the most bitter."Good will overcome evil, those who repent will be sanctified and receive eternal life.
We will not suffer any more than what is for our good.
Trials are for our personal development.
Trials come to the just and unjust.
Not every cloud brings rain.
Be prepared for the challenges which shall come.
Challenges may be sudden and unexpected.
Keep the commandments. Be grateful.
Christ knows us personally and our trials.
There is no grief or pain or sickness so great that the Atonement and love of Christ cannot heal.
When someone asked President Monson what he wanted for his birthday, he said "Find someone who is having a hard time and do something for them."
President Thomas S. Monson
This has been an inspiring conference.
May we long remember what we've heard at this conference.
Study and ponder the talks.
Be good citizens of our nations, be good neighbors in our communities.
Be people of honesty and integrity.
Alleviate suffering. Be mindful of the needs around us and extend a helping hand and loving heart.
The church is founded on the rock of revelation.
Live together in peace, harmony, and love.
Follow the Savior's example.
Eternal life in the presence of God is our most precious goal.
He invoked the Lord's blessings on each of us.
Remember to whom we pray and in whose name we pray.
Listen for His voice.
Live that He will knock on our door; open the door so He can come in among us.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Bonus!
We are watching Music and the Spoken Word right now, in preparation for today's sessions of General Conference. And just a few moments ago, I caught this wonderful quote by C.S. Lewis,
"Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you did."
:)
"Do not waste time bothering whether you 'love' your neighbor; act as if you did."
:)
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Come Listen to a Prophet's Voice
Today's sessions of General Conference were great! I took a ton of notes but it's going to take forever to type them up... so, I probably won't post them until tomorrow. At least. lol
However, I did want to comment on one thing that really struck me. Is it me, or did there seem to be an overwhelming message today? I think sometimes we hear what we need to hear, so maybe it was just me. It seems though, that almost every single talk was either in regards to, or at least mentions directly, the trials, perils, challenges, etc. that we face. There was a lot of emphasis on how to overcome feelings of inadequacy, discouragement, fear, etc. I take notes and as I looked over my notes, out of the thirteen talks (including the opening remarks by President Monson which wasn't really a "talk") at least nine of them specifically mentioned things like: not allowing stress from challenges to get the better of us; how do we make good decisions in the presence of so many unfavorful situations; never give up, never give in, never allow despair to overwhelm you; hope is like a beam of sunlight piercing the darkness with a brilliant dawn; learn from difficult times, become stronger, wiser, happier; it is not a time to fear and tremble, it is a time to be believing; God will never leave us alone or unaided in our challenges.
What I love is that as I listened to those talks, even though they do mention our "perilous times" and the challenges we face, I didn't feel "doom and gloom", I felt inspired and uplifted. It is a scary world that we live in. And it is going to get scarier (is that a word?). But living prophets and apostles taught us today how we can prepare for and overcome all of those things. They taught us how we can be happy, even in the midst of all the chaos, "madness", and sorrow. It sounds like an oxymoron - how to be happy when you feel sorrow... but it's true, you can feel happiness, peace, and joy even when you are facing sorrows, trials, and fears. I'm so grateful for inspired leaders who instruct us in the ways of the Lord.
I hope that everyone took the opportunity to watch/listen. If not, check it out on-line, you can still go back and listen I think. And don't miss tomorrow's sessions! One of the speakers said that not reading the Book of Mormon was like not reading a letter from a loving parent. Well, not watching or listening to conference is just as foolish. How many of us would read a letter if God mailed it to us? How many would pick up the phone if He called? Well, how many would watch a special TV program or movie if He wrote and directed it, just for us? I'm telling you, this is what conference is. He is speaking to us this very weekend, things we need to know right now, living in our times. Are we going to listen? I hope so! :)
I'll get off my soapbox now. I didn't really intend to get on it, but all of a sudden I looked around and sure enough, I was standing on one! lol It's safe to say that I'm passionate about my faith and I'm passionate about the Gospel. I just LOVE General Conference weekend and I can't wait to hear tomorrow's talks! :)
However, I did want to comment on one thing that really struck me. Is it me, or did there seem to be an overwhelming message today? I think sometimes we hear what we need to hear, so maybe it was just me. It seems though, that almost every single talk was either in regards to, or at least mentions directly, the trials, perils, challenges, etc. that we face. There was a lot of emphasis on how to overcome feelings of inadequacy, discouragement, fear, etc. I take notes and as I looked over my notes, out of the thirteen talks (including the opening remarks by President Monson which wasn't really a "talk") at least nine of them specifically mentioned things like: not allowing stress from challenges to get the better of us; how do we make good decisions in the presence of so many unfavorful situations; never give up, never give in, never allow despair to overwhelm you; hope is like a beam of sunlight piercing the darkness with a brilliant dawn; learn from difficult times, become stronger, wiser, happier; it is not a time to fear and tremble, it is a time to be believing; God will never leave us alone or unaided in our challenges.
What I love is that as I listened to those talks, even though they do mention our "perilous times" and the challenges we face, I didn't feel "doom and gloom", I felt inspired and uplifted. It is a scary world that we live in. And it is going to get scarier (is that a word?). But living prophets and apostles taught us today how we can prepare for and overcome all of those things. They taught us how we can be happy, even in the midst of all the chaos, "madness", and sorrow. It sounds like an oxymoron - how to be happy when you feel sorrow... but it's true, you can feel happiness, peace, and joy even when you are facing sorrows, trials, and fears. I'm so grateful for inspired leaders who instruct us in the ways of the Lord.
I hope that everyone took the opportunity to watch/listen. If not, check it out on-line, you can still go back and listen I think. And don't miss tomorrow's sessions! One of the speakers said that not reading the Book of Mormon was like not reading a letter from a loving parent. Well, not watching or listening to conference is just as foolish. How many of us would read a letter if God mailed it to us? How many would pick up the phone if He called? Well, how many would watch a special TV program or movie if He wrote and directed it, just for us? I'm telling you, this is what conference is. He is speaking to us this very weekend, things we need to know right now, living in our times. Are we going to listen? I hope so! :)
I'll get off my soapbox now. I didn't really intend to get on it, but all of a sudden I looked around and sure enough, I was standing on one! lol It's safe to say that I'm passionate about my faith and I'm passionate about the Gospel. I just LOVE General Conference weekend and I can't wait to hear tomorrow's talks! :)
Conference Notes (Saturday)
I take a lot of notes; it helps me to pay attention better and remember more. Then I type them up here mostly as an easy reference for myself. I never really expect anyone else to read them all (there are A LOT!) but anyone is welcome to read and reference them if they'd like.
I placed an * (or two) next to the talks I especially enjoyed. And if there is an * in the notes of the talk, it is where I'm asking myself a question as I listen to what is being said. And I used bold for statements I LOVED!
Saturday Morning Session
President Thomas S. Monson
128 temples in operation, including 3 new temples dedicated in the last 6 months (Brazil, Panama, and Twin Falls, ID)
President Monson is an advocate for cultural events for the youth to participate in.
Next month Mexico City temple will be rededicated (renovations), other temples to be dedicated in the next few months.
5 new temples announced!: Calgary; Argentina; Kansas City; Philadelphia; Rome, Italy!
Pray for areas that are currently closed to the church to be opened. Countries will open as we pray in faith.
Heavenly Father is mindful of our needs. The conference talks are inspired. Listen to them.
Elder L. Tom Perry
Patterns of life's tests. Cycles of good and bad times.
The challenge is to not allow the stress and challenges get the better of us.
Remain optimistic!
"The best is yet to be" - Faith and Hope
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is true.
When things were difficult, he and his wife would go to Walden's Pond to pause, reflect, heal.
Thoreau determined that the only things a man really needs are: Food, clothing, shelter, and fuel.
Spiritually speaking: Food - The law of Health, Word of Wisdom
Clothing - Modesty, it will be a shield and protection. Casual dress is often followed by casual matters.
Shelter - Live within your means, stay out of debt, be thrifty and frugal.
Fuel - Spiritual fuel - Store sufficient fuel. Acquire knowledge of God's eternal plan. Live righteously.
Simplify our lives.
Someone once asked Thoreau, "Have you made peace with God?" To which he responded, "I was not aware we ever quarreled."
Sister Silvia H. Allred
We have a responsibility to preach the gospel to the world.
She told of when she was being taught by the missionaries, she and her sister would race home - the first one home could read from the Book of Mormon first.
After she was baptized, she wanted to be a missionary. She was called to be a part time missionary and later served a full time mission.
*Is missionary work a part of who and what I am?*
When we save a girl, we save generations.
Missionary work is the life blood of the church. It blesses the lives of all who participate in it. God loves all of His children.
The message of Jesus Christ and His restored gospel is the most important gift we have to give.
Be good neighbors/friends. Set examples. Smile. Live gospel-centered lives.
Prepare yourself and your family for missionary service.
Invite. Accompany missionaries. Give referrals. Share your testimony. Befriend investigators and new members. Support, encourage, and pray for missionaries.
This is the Lord's work and He will help us do it.
*Elder Neil L. Andersen
We are a great family of believers.
Somedays are full of the spirit and inspiration.
Some days are full of feelings of inadequacy, we may feel we are losing our spiritual footing.
"You don't know everything, but you know enough."
Conversion comes step by step, line by line.
The Book of Mormon is powerful spiritual nourishment.
"Faith is not only a feeling, it is a decision."
Challenges, difficulties, questions, doubts - are all part of mortality.
Fear and faith cannot coexist in our heart at the same time.
Christ said, "Be not afraid; only believe."
We come to know what we already knew.
Told a story about a little girl named Hadley who was born deaf. She had gone through surgeries to allow her to hear. One day in the grocery store when she was about four, she saw a boy behind them who was in a wheelchair and who had no legs. She asked her mom why the boy didn't have legs. Her mom carefully explained that Heavenly Father loves all of His children and makes them each different and special. Hadley went to the boy and told him that Heavenly Father had made her so she couldn't hear and that made her special. Heavenly Father had made the boy with no legs and that made him special too. She then told the boy that when Jesus comes again, she will have her hearing and he will have his legs. She said, "Jesus will make everything alright."
Elder Marcos A. Aidukaitis
How do we make good decisions in the presence of so many unfavorable situations?
Pays tribute to his father who joined the church even amidst great opposition: his mother had threatened to disown him, his wife had not decided to join the church, there were few members, not even a meeting house, etc. But he had read the Book of Mormon and knew it was true.
The Book of Mormon is true - it is the most powerful source in conversion.
When you know the Book of Mormon is true, you know that Joseph Smith restored the gospel, that he saw God, the Father and His son, Jesus Christ, that we have a prophet of God on the earth today who holds all the Priesthood Keys, that God lives and loves us, the Plan of Salvation is perfect, etc.
God reveals the truth when people follow Moroni 10:4-5.
Read, pray, have real intent to act upon the answer you receive.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
We live in perilous times with detours and distractions.
How do we live amid it all? D&C 59:9-10. As we attend Sacrament Meeting and partake of the sacrament, we will always have His spirit with us, it will be a compass to guide us.
The sacrament is the most important and sacred meeting in church. It is the only meeting our entire family attends together.
How can we prepare to partake of the sacrament?
Bring a broken heart and a contrite spirit, be seated well before the meeting begins, prayfully meditate as the prelude music plays.
Elder Nelson has said that each member bears responsibility for the enrichment that comes from Sacrament Meeting.
Dress appropriately - it is like going to the temple. Our manner of dress indicates how much we understand and honor the importance of the meeting.
Don't violate the covenant in the very meeting that you're making it! (The covenant to "always remember Him" - don't read books/magazines, talk, text, etc.)
Sacrament meeting music is for worship, not performance.
Joseph Fielding Smith said to "Assemble in spirit of prayer, meekness, and devotion."
3 Nephi 18:11-13
Bishopric must always authorize the sacrament.
**President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
The infinite power of hope.
Faith, charity, and hope are a 3 legged stool, stability.
Hope has power to fill lives with happiness.
The absense of hope leaves us feeling sick.
Hope in the Savior is a principle of promise and a commandment.
We have the responsibility to make it an active part of our lives.
Hope is the foundation of our faith and the anchor to our souls.
Without hope, we cannot receive an inheritance in the Kingdom of God.
The opposite of hope - despair, doubt, failure to care. Forfeits blessings, drains all that is vibrant and joyful, kills ambition, advances sickness.
Hope is like a beam of sunlight, it pierces the darkness with a brilliant dawn.
Hope that transends the trivial - The Hope of Israel.
Believe and expect your prayers to be answered.
Hope that if we live righteously now, we will be blessed later.
With hope comes happiness, patience to bear our afflictions.
There is hope FOR things - future events, better times.
Because of the Atonement, we can be cleansed.
Because of Jesus Christ's life and sacrifice, we can reside in peace and have ultimate joy.
There is hope IN things. It will sustain us during our daily walk, uphold us during our trials and sorrows.
Hope in the restored gospel - principles we hope in carry us.
Prayers are heard, God will keep His promises to us, things will work together for our own good.
Hope in God and His goodness refreshes us with courage.
Hope leads to good works.
Cultivate our hope one step at a time.
Against hope, believe in hope. In the middle of winter, find within us an invincible summer.Without faith there is no hope. Faith is the substance of things hoped for.
Hope braces our resolve.
The brighter our hope, the greater our faith. The stronger our hope, the purer our charity.
Move forward, put faith and hope into action.
The gospel of Jesus Christ and membership in the church strengthens faith and offers bright hope, leads disciples to charity.
Hope in and through Jesus Christ purifies us, even as He is pure.
Never give in, never surrender, never allow despair to overwhelm you.
Saturday Afternoon Session
The choir for this session was a group of primary children - LOVED IT! I totally had a hard time not bawling like a baby when they sang "I am a Child of God"! Acadia loved the primary choir, too. :)
*Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
"Come What May and Love It"
Every day has peaks and shadows.
Learn from the difficult times - become stronger, wiser, happier.
The Lod does not shield anyone from grief and sadness.
The way we react to adversity affects how happy we can be.Greater growth leads to greater happiness.
What we can do:
Laugh. Anger and resentment won't result if we laugh.
Next time you're tempted to groan, laugh instead.
It will make things more enjoyable for you and those around you.
Seek for the eternal. No one is exempt from adversity and sorrow. Learning to endure is "on the job training". Christ understands our suffering adn grief. Our experiences help us to understand and help others. What threatens to overcome us, helps us to overcome.Understand the principle of compensation. Every tear today will be returned 100 fold with tears of joy. Eternal blessings are promised.
Trust in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is our partner, helper, and advocate. He wants us to be happy and successful. He'll help us - He makes weak things become strong.
Put your trust in the Lord, do your best, leave the rest to Him. He will bless you.
*Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
Heavenly Father watched over His earthly family. But in times of special need, He sent angels.
God uses angels as His emisaries in conveying love for His children.
Usually angels are unseen, sometimes they are. But seen or unseen, they are always near.
Sometimes angels are sent to warn but usually they are sent to comfort.
Angels are still sent to help us, even as they were to Adam and Eve, prophets, and even Jesus Christ.
It is by faith that angels appear and administer.
Take heart, be filled with faith. The Lord said He would fight our battles.
Search, pray, and be believing.
The latter-days are not a time to fear and tremble; they are a time to be believing and remember our covenants.
Sometimes the love of God is manifested in the kindness of people so good and pure that "angelic" is the only word to describe them.
God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in our challenges. And He never will.
Always, angels are around us - seen and unseen; known and unknown; mortal and immortal.
May we try to be more angelic ourselves. Perhaps then we can be emisaries sent from God when someone is crying for help.
Elder Gerald Causse
Search for knowledge - it is impossible to be saved in ignorance.
Seek to understand the nature of God and Jesus Christ.
The glory of God is intelligence.
Heavenly Father adjusts to our level of understanding. He is just. He has insured that truths are understandable to all of His children.
Purity and simplicity allow the Holy Ghost to bear witness.
The natural man is an enemy to God unless they yield to the enticings of the spirit. Become as a little child; teachable, humble, meek.
Seek with your heart. Knowing God is a matter of opening your heart. Feel in our heart that God loves us.
**Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge
Jesus Christ is the way, He is the light and the life. He is the bread and the water. He is the beginning and the end. He is the truth and the way.
Every other way is madness.Either we follow Him and see clearly, or we don't.
Either we learn of Him and have life more abundantly or we don't.
Either we accept the blessings of the Atonement or we don't.
Only God can bless and sustain us; preserve and protect us; give us strength; heal us; forgive our sins.
And He will and so much more if we remember Him and keep His commandments.
Remember Him and keep His commandments - it is the only intelligent thing to do.
Every good thing depends on getting and keeping the Holy Ghost in our lives.
Don't think we can't follow Christ. In life, the highest achievements are the most difficult to attain. NOT the case here. This is not a human endeaver, it is God's work and glory. It is achievable by everyone. Not because we are able, but because He is and He can make us able, too.
Oppositon in all things - life is hard for all of us. It is also simple. We have two choices: Either follow God or go another (any other) way. Which way is easier? "Come unto me ye heavy laden, take my yoke upon you, for my yoke is easy."
Life is hard but it is simple.
Get on the path. Jesus is the way. Any other way is madness. Have the good sense to follow Him.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson
Zion is a place and a people.
People of Zion are of one heart, one mind, and dwell in righteousness.
The opposite of Zion is Babylon.
We are called to be beacons of righteousness. D&C 115:5-6
If we want to establish zion, we must rise to this standard:
1) become unified
2) become a holy people
3) care for the poor and needy so efficiently that it is eliminated.
Zion will come AS this happens, not when it happens.
Place the Savior at the center of our lives.
Are we free from lustful desires? We are to hunger and thirst after righteousness.
We are to become not only good, but holy.
"Give up the summer cottage in Babylon."
D&C 104:17-18 - one indication is how well we care for the poor.
In temporal things, be equal. And not grudgingly!
Are we doing what we should and all that we should?
Learn to be content with what is sufficient for our needs. Look after one another.
Building up of Zion should be our greatest object. We do it through unity, godliness, and charity.
Elder David A. Bednar
Prayer becomes more meaningful as we counsel with the Lord in all our doings.
Pray always. Revelation is communication from Heavenly Father to us through the Holy Ghost.
The Holy Ghost is a witness and messenger of Heavenly Father and Jesus Chrsit.
All things were created first spiritually. Morning prayer is our spiritual prep for the day. Then, through the course of the day, keep a prayer in our hearts. At the end of the day, kneel and pray to report. It builds upon and is a continuation of our morning prayer. All prayers are linked together.
Remember our relationship with Deity.
Prayer becomes more meaningful as we express heartfelt gratitude.
Give thanks in all things. The prayers of prophets are childlike in their simplicity and powerful in their purity.
D&C 59:21
We should periodically give prayers where we ask for nothing, just expressing gratitude.
Prayer becomes more meaningful when we pray for others with a sincere heart.
Both those we love, as well as those who seek to hurt us.
If those we serve have not heard and felt our prayers on their behalf, the time to repent is now.
I placed an * (or two) next to the talks I especially enjoyed. And if there is an * in the notes of the talk, it is where I'm asking myself a question as I listen to what is being said. And I used bold for statements I LOVED!
Saturday Morning Session
President Thomas S. Monson
128 temples in operation, including 3 new temples dedicated in the last 6 months (Brazil, Panama, and Twin Falls, ID)
President Monson is an advocate for cultural events for the youth to participate in.
Next month Mexico City temple will be rededicated (renovations), other temples to be dedicated in the next few months.
5 new temples announced!: Calgary; Argentina; Kansas City; Philadelphia; Rome, Italy!
Pray for areas that are currently closed to the church to be opened. Countries will open as we pray in faith.
Heavenly Father is mindful of our needs. The conference talks are inspired. Listen to them.
Elder L. Tom Perry
Patterns of life's tests. Cycles of good and bad times.
The challenge is to not allow the stress and challenges get the better of us.
Remain optimistic!
"The best is yet to be" - Faith and Hope
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is true.
When things were difficult, he and his wife would go to Walden's Pond to pause, reflect, heal.
Thoreau determined that the only things a man really needs are: Food, clothing, shelter, and fuel.
Spiritually speaking: Food - The law of Health, Word of Wisdom
Clothing - Modesty, it will be a shield and protection. Casual dress is often followed by casual matters.
Shelter - Live within your means, stay out of debt, be thrifty and frugal.
Fuel - Spiritual fuel - Store sufficient fuel. Acquire knowledge of God's eternal plan. Live righteously.
Simplify our lives.
Someone once asked Thoreau, "Have you made peace with God?" To which he responded, "I was not aware we ever quarreled."
Sister Silvia H. Allred
We have a responsibility to preach the gospel to the world.
She told of when she was being taught by the missionaries, she and her sister would race home - the first one home could read from the Book of Mormon first.
After she was baptized, she wanted to be a missionary. She was called to be a part time missionary and later served a full time mission.
*Is missionary work a part of who and what I am?*
When we save a girl, we save generations.
Missionary work is the life blood of the church. It blesses the lives of all who participate in it. God loves all of His children.
The message of Jesus Christ and His restored gospel is the most important gift we have to give.
Be good neighbors/friends. Set examples. Smile. Live gospel-centered lives.
Prepare yourself and your family for missionary service.
Invite. Accompany missionaries. Give referrals. Share your testimony. Befriend investigators and new members. Support, encourage, and pray for missionaries.
This is the Lord's work and He will help us do it.
*Elder Neil L. Andersen
We are a great family of believers.
Somedays are full of the spirit and inspiration.
Some days are full of feelings of inadequacy, we may feel we are losing our spiritual footing.
"You don't know everything, but you know enough."
Conversion comes step by step, line by line.
The Book of Mormon is powerful spiritual nourishment.
"Faith is not only a feeling, it is a decision."
Challenges, difficulties, questions, doubts - are all part of mortality.
Fear and faith cannot coexist in our heart at the same time.
Christ said, "Be not afraid; only believe."
We come to know what we already knew.
Told a story about a little girl named Hadley who was born deaf. She had gone through surgeries to allow her to hear. One day in the grocery store when she was about four, she saw a boy behind them who was in a wheelchair and who had no legs. She asked her mom why the boy didn't have legs. Her mom carefully explained that Heavenly Father loves all of His children and makes them each different and special. Hadley went to the boy and told him that Heavenly Father had made her so she couldn't hear and that made her special. Heavenly Father had made the boy with no legs and that made him special too. She then told the boy that when Jesus comes again, she will have her hearing and he will have his legs. She said, "Jesus will make everything alright."
Elder Marcos A. Aidukaitis
How do we make good decisions in the presence of so many unfavorable situations?
Pays tribute to his father who joined the church even amidst great opposition: his mother had threatened to disown him, his wife had not decided to join the church, there were few members, not even a meeting house, etc. But he had read the Book of Mormon and knew it was true.
The Book of Mormon is true - it is the most powerful source in conversion.
When you know the Book of Mormon is true, you know that Joseph Smith restored the gospel, that he saw God, the Father and His son, Jesus Christ, that we have a prophet of God on the earth today who holds all the Priesthood Keys, that God lives and loves us, the Plan of Salvation is perfect, etc.
God reveals the truth when people follow Moroni 10:4-5.
Read, pray, have real intent to act upon the answer you receive.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
We live in perilous times with detours and distractions.
How do we live amid it all? D&C 59:9-10. As we attend Sacrament Meeting and partake of the sacrament, we will always have His spirit with us, it will be a compass to guide us.
The sacrament is the most important and sacred meeting in church. It is the only meeting our entire family attends together.
How can we prepare to partake of the sacrament?
Bring a broken heart and a contrite spirit, be seated well before the meeting begins, prayfully meditate as the prelude music plays.
Elder Nelson has said that each member bears responsibility for the enrichment that comes from Sacrament Meeting.
Dress appropriately - it is like going to the temple. Our manner of dress indicates how much we understand and honor the importance of the meeting.
Don't violate the covenant in the very meeting that you're making it! (The covenant to "always remember Him" - don't read books/magazines, talk, text, etc.)
Sacrament meeting music is for worship, not performance.
Joseph Fielding Smith said to "Assemble in spirit of prayer, meekness, and devotion."
3 Nephi 18:11-13
Bishopric must always authorize the sacrament.
**President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
The infinite power of hope.
Faith, charity, and hope are a 3 legged stool, stability.
Hope has power to fill lives with happiness.
The absense of hope leaves us feeling sick.
Hope in the Savior is a principle of promise and a commandment.
We have the responsibility to make it an active part of our lives.
Hope is the foundation of our faith and the anchor to our souls.
Without hope, we cannot receive an inheritance in the Kingdom of God.
The opposite of hope - despair, doubt, failure to care. Forfeits blessings, drains all that is vibrant and joyful, kills ambition, advances sickness.
Hope is like a beam of sunlight, it pierces the darkness with a brilliant dawn.
Hope that transends the trivial - The Hope of Israel.
Believe and expect your prayers to be answered.
Hope that if we live righteously now, we will be blessed later.
With hope comes happiness, patience to bear our afflictions.
There is hope FOR things - future events, better times.
Because of the Atonement, we can be cleansed.
Because of Jesus Christ's life and sacrifice, we can reside in peace and have ultimate joy.
There is hope IN things. It will sustain us during our daily walk, uphold us during our trials and sorrows.
Hope in the restored gospel - principles we hope in carry us.
Prayers are heard, God will keep His promises to us, things will work together for our own good.
Hope in God and His goodness refreshes us with courage.
Hope leads to good works.
Cultivate our hope one step at a time.
Against hope, believe in hope. In the middle of winter, find within us an invincible summer.Without faith there is no hope. Faith is the substance of things hoped for.
Hope braces our resolve.
The brighter our hope, the greater our faith. The stronger our hope, the purer our charity.
Move forward, put faith and hope into action.
The gospel of Jesus Christ and membership in the church strengthens faith and offers bright hope, leads disciples to charity.
Hope in and through Jesus Christ purifies us, even as He is pure.
Never give in, never surrender, never allow despair to overwhelm you.
Saturday Afternoon Session
The choir for this session was a group of primary children - LOVED IT! I totally had a hard time not bawling like a baby when they sang "I am a Child of God"! Acadia loved the primary choir, too. :)
*Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
"Come What May and Love It"
Every day has peaks and shadows.
Learn from the difficult times - become stronger, wiser, happier.
The Lod does not shield anyone from grief and sadness.
The way we react to adversity affects how happy we can be.Greater growth leads to greater happiness.
What we can do:
Laugh. Anger and resentment won't result if we laugh.
Next time you're tempted to groan, laugh instead.
It will make things more enjoyable for you and those around you.
Seek for the eternal. No one is exempt from adversity and sorrow. Learning to endure is "on the job training". Christ understands our suffering adn grief. Our experiences help us to understand and help others. What threatens to overcome us, helps us to overcome.Understand the principle of compensation. Every tear today will be returned 100 fold with tears of joy. Eternal blessings are promised.
Trust in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is our partner, helper, and advocate. He wants us to be happy and successful. He'll help us - He makes weak things become strong.
Put your trust in the Lord, do your best, leave the rest to Him. He will bless you.
*Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
Heavenly Father watched over His earthly family. But in times of special need, He sent angels.
God uses angels as His emisaries in conveying love for His children.
Usually angels are unseen, sometimes they are. But seen or unseen, they are always near.
Sometimes angels are sent to warn but usually they are sent to comfort.
Angels are still sent to help us, even as they were to Adam and Eve, prophets, and even Jesus Christ.
It is by faith that angels appear and administer.
Take heart, be filled with faith. The Lord said He would fight our battles.
Search, pray, and be believing.
The latter-days are not a time to fear and tremble; they are a time to be believing and remember our covenants.
Sometimes the love of God is manifested in the kindness of people so good and pure that "angelic" is the only word to describe them.
God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in our challenges. And He never will.
Always, angels are around us - seen and unseen; known and unknown; mortal and immortal.
May we try to be more angelic ourselves. Perhaps then we can be emisaries sent from God when someone is crying for help.
Elder Gerald Causse
Search for knowledge - it is impossible to be saved in ignorance.
Seek to understand the nature of God and Jesus Christ.
The glory of God is intelligence.
Heavenly Father adjusts to our level of understanding. He is just. He has insured that truths are understandable to all of His children.
Purity and simplicity allow the Holy Ghost to bear witness.
The natural man is an enemy to God unless they yield to the enticings of the spirit. Become as a little child; teachable, humble, meek.
Seek with your heart. Knowing God is a matter of opening your heart. Feel in our heart that God loves us.
**Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge
Jesus Christ is the way, He is the light and the life. He is the bread and the water. He is the beginning and the end. He is the truth and the way.
Every other way is madness.Either we follow Him and see clearly, or we don't.
Either we learn of Him and have life more abundantly or we don't.
Either we accept the blessings of the Atonement or we don't.
Only God can bless and sustain us; preserve and protect us; give us strength; heal us; forgive our sins.
And He will and so much more if we remember Him and keep His commandments.
Remember Him and keep His commandments - it is the only intelligent thing to do.
Every good thing depends on getting and keeping the Holy Ghost in our lives.
Don't think we can't follow Christ. In life, the highest achievements are the most difficult to attain. NOT the case here. This is not a human endeaver, it is God's work and glory. It is achievable by everyone. Not because we are able, but because He is and He can make us able, too.
Oppositon in all things - life is hard for all of us. It is also simple. We have two choices: Either follow God or go another (any other) way. Which way is easier? "Come unto me ye heavy laden, take my yoke upon you, for my yoke is easy."
Life is hard but it is simple.
Get on the path. Jesus is the way. Any other way is madness. Have the good sense to follow Him.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson
Zion is a place and a people.
People of Zion are of one heart, one mind, and dwell in righteousness.
The opposite of Zion is Babylon.
We are called to be beacons of righteousness. D&C 115:5-6
If we want to establish zion, we must rise to this standard:
1) become unified
2) become a holy people
3) care for the poor and needy so efficiently that it is eliminated.
Zion will come AS this happens, not when it happens.
Place the Savior at the center of our lives.
Are we free from lustful desires? We are to hunger and thirst after righteousness.
We are to become not only good, but holy.
"Give up the summer cottage in Babylon."
D&C 104:17-18 - one indication is how well we care for the poor.
In temporal things, be equal. And not grudgingly!
Are we doing what we should and all that we should?
Learn to be content with what is sufficient for our needs. Look after one another.
Building up of Zion should be our greatest object. We do it through unity, godliness, and charity.
Elder David A. Bednar
Prayer becomes more meaningful as we counsel with the Lord in all our doings.
Pray always. Revelation is communication from Heavenly Father to us through the Holy Ghost.
The Holy Ghost is a witness and messenger of Heavenly Father and Jesus Chrsit.
All things were created first spiritually. Morning prayer is our spiritual prep for the day. Then, through the course of the day, keep a prayer in our hearts. At the end of the day, kneel and pray to report. It builds upon and is a continuation of our morning prayer. All prayers are linked together.
Remember our relationship with Deity.
Prayer becomes more meaningful as we express heartfelt gratitude.
Give thanks in all things. The prayers of prophets are childlike in their simplicity and powerful in their purity.
D&C 59:21
We should periodically give prayers where we ask for nothing, just expressing gratitude.
Prayer becomes more meaningful when we pray for others with a sincere heart.
Both those we love, as well as those who seek to hurt us.
If those we serve have not heard and felt our prayers on their behalf, the time to repent is now.
Friday, October 3, 2008
He dazzles me. Frequently.
Tonight we went bowling after dinner. (It has been so long since the last time I went bowling - well, besides Wii. ;) And of course I broke a nail on the first frame! Ugh. That's one of my biggest reasons for loving Wii bowling! lol) As I got ready to enter our names in the computer, I was trying to decide which nicknames to use. But Ryan had a better idea, "Why don't you put in 'Edward' and 'Bella'?"
Gosh, I love him. :)
Gosh, I love him. :)
L-O-V-E
Today is our 12th wedding anniversary!
So here are just twelve things that I love about Ryan. In truth, I love so many more things than that (One year for our anniversary, I made a list of 365 things I love about him... Poor guy, the list is getting shorter! lol No, of course not. It really has gotten longer but I don't have that kind of time.), but today you get twelve. :)
- He makes me laugh - a lot!
- He is a wonderful father.
- He works hard and provides for our family so I can choose to stay home with our girls.
- He almost always lets me have my way. lol
- He loves the Gospel and leads our family in prayer, scripture study, etc.
- He doesn't mind helping around the house and will often do it without me even asking.
- He introduced me to Lord of the Rings! ... And for that matter, Twilight, too!
- He gives the most wonderful hugs.
- I always know I'm safe when I'm with him.
- He encourages me and supports me in everything that I do.
- He bakes REALLY well!
- He is my very best friend; He knows me better than anyone else and he loves me better than anyone else.
Happy Anniversary, Roe! I love you!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
How to...
I like to get helpful tips from others and whenever I come across helpful tips, I like to share them with others too. And so, I give you "How to" posts.
You're welcome. :)
This particular "How to" post is brought to you by Wide Wire Mesh Safety Gates; quality, durability, versatility, made in the USA. ;)
I stumbled upon this tidbit of knowledge quite by accident. As we all know, women like to accessorize. And we like pretty, colorful things. So, we often combine those two and accessorize with pretty, colorful things.
Let me show you this beauty that I am now donning (Sizes do vary, this particular trinket is a couple inches in diameter, as shown in the photo. I realize that it could be larger, even I have occasionally acquired larger ones, but I don't like to show off too much, I usually prefer to keep my accessories fairly modest in size.)...
Lovely, isn't it? One of the selling points of these are that they even change color. Yes, they do! Every day it's like wearing a new one. This particular piece has varied from black, to blue, to purple, to deep red. I believe there will be even more color variations coming later.
Now, let me explain how you can acquire one yourself. First, it is helpful to have a safety gate. Set up the safety gate in a high traffic area in your home (for example, the doorway between the dining room and kitchen). With the safety gate in place, you are ready to proceed. Put on shoes that are comfortable and sturdy, yet tend to "catch" on things as you step over them. Then, fill your hands and arms with items that would keep you from using them to steady yourself if you were to catch your shoes on something and begin to lose balance. Approach the safety gate carrying the items you selected. Step over the gate, carefully catching the toe of your shoe on the edge of the gate. Remember, you cannot drop the items you are carrying, this is very important. Now, attempt to catch your balance (while not dropping what you're holding/carrying) but ultimately allow the weight of your body to press forcefully down on the baby gate, preferrably using your inner thigh to apply this pressure. Continue as the gate twists slightly under your weight. If you apply pressure in just the right spot, this should be remarkably easy to do. (I recommend pressing at an angle, it's a much more effective way to achieve the desired results.) Using other body parts to also strike the safety gate on your way down is optional. If you are precise with your strikes, you may be successful in getting "two for the price of one", though this is tricky and there is no guarantee. In my personal attempts, I was not successful. However, I did receive another accessory less colorful which will not last as long. Perhaps with practice, results would improve.
I hope that this little "How to" session was useful for you. I will continue seeking other useful information to share for future posts; perhaps homemade ice packs would be a helpful item. I think I'll go research that now.
You're welcome. :)
This particular "How to" post is brought to you by Wide Wire Mesh Safety Gates; quality, durability, versatility, made in the USA. ;)
I stumbled upon this tidbit of knowledge quite by accident. As we all know, women like to accessorize. And we like pretty, colorful things. So, we often combine those two and accessorize with pretty, colorful things.
Let me show you this beauty that I am now donning (Sizes do vary, this particular trinket is a couple inches in diameter, as shown in the photo. I realize that it could be larger, even I have occasionally acquired larger ones, but I don't like to show off too much, I usually prefer to keep my accessories fairly modest in size.)...
Lovely, isn't it? One of the selling points of these are that they even change color. Yes, they do! Every day it's like wearing a new one. This particular piece has varied from black, to blue, to purple, to deep red. I believe there will be even more color variations coming later.
Now, let me explain how you can acquire one yourself. First, it is helpful to have a safety gate. Set up the safety gate in a high traffic area in your home (for example, the doorway between the dining room and kitchen). With the safety gate in place, you are ready to proceed. Put on shoes that are comfortable and sturdy, yet tend to "catch" on things as you step over them. Then, fill your hands and arms with items that would keep you from using them to steady yourself if you were to catch your shoes on something and begin to lose balance. Approach the safety gate carrying the items you selected. Step over the gate, carefully catching the toe of your shoe on the edge of the gate. Remember, you cannot drop the items you are carrying, this is very important. Now, attempt to catch your balance (while not dropping what you're holding/carrying) but ultimately allow the weight of your body to press forcefully down on the baby gate, preferrably using your inner thigh to apply this pressure. Continue as the gate twists slightly under your weight. If you apply pressure in just the right spot, this should be remarkably easy to do. (I recommend pressing at an angle, it's a much more effective way to achieve the desired results.) Using other body parts to also strike the safety gate on your way down is optional. If you are precise with your strikes, you may be successful in getting "two for the price of one", though this is tricky and there is no guarantee. In my personal attempts, I was not successful. However, I did receive another accessory less colorful which will not last as long. Perhaps with practice, results would improve.
I hope that this little "How to" session was useful for you. I will continue seeking other useful information to share for future posts; perhaps homemade ice packs would be a helpful item. I think I'll go research that now.
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