ARE WE WILLING TO RECIEVE WHAT WE ASK FOR?

I honestly believE when we ask for things, especially from Heavenly Father, we seriously aren't ready for it. Seriously how many of you just said... "Uh uh, girl, I am READY to receive my blessing! I wouldn't have asked for it if I wasn't ready for it."
I must admit I've been there a few times myself. I ask for something, thinking I'm ready to receive it. What I've realized is, is that I'm ready to have it, but not ready to receive it. "Ready to have" is a totally different than "ready to receive."
When you look up the meaning of "HAVE" you see things like:
Possession, control, to take, obtain or get.

When you look up the meaning of "RECEIVE" you see things like:
gain knowledge of, take in, be subject to, have capacity for.


As I'm reading the definitions for the two words, I'm getting a sour taste in my mouth for the word have.

I'm not saying that having stuff in wrong but I'm recognizing the difference in intent between the two words.

To have seems more of a selfish gain. Of one's own accord by. Have you ever heard anyone say "I get blessings from the Lord?" Even when we speak of gifts there is a different feeling about a gifts. "What did you get for Christmas." See what I mean?

I'm recognizing most of us are ready to have, not receive.
To receive requires some sort of qualification. Some work and effort is required on our end to receive, especially from Heavenly Father.

That kind of receiving teaches, gives us knowledge. Asks us to step it up and be required for us to receive and maintain that which we are asking for.
We say things like "I receive blessings from the Lord." When there is significance and value placed upon something we tend to "receive" instead.

Very rarely does the Lord give us something just because we want it. Most of the time we aren't ready to receive it. We haven't put in the effort to qualify for it. Even the good things we ask for. We may be qualified to receive, but are we qualified to maintain it if we do receive it? Are we qualified to deal with and the real changes in the lives of others,if we receive it? We all have an idea of how things may be if we receive what we ask for. But Only God the Father knows what changes it would actually have, which may not be anywhere near what we are expecting or hoping to happen. Would we be qualified and ready for changes we're not expecting if we were to receive what we ask for.
These are things to be considered when we ask for what we thing we want. If what we want doesn't come how we want, do we still want it?
We gain great knowledge in the journey we travel when we receive something.

How willing are we to take that journey? When we are truly willing to travel the journey, then and only then are we ready to recieve. If we just want an end result and make excuses and justifications about why we can't take the journey or only want to make part of the journey or need to do the journey on terms of your own then, my friends, we are NOT ready to recieve. When we are ready to recieve, we will take the steps to do what is needed, WHATEVER IS NEEDED, hard steps, soft steps, quiet steps, loud steps... Whatever steps,


to take that journey that will allow us to recieve what we are asking for.
Sometimes when we get what we ask for, it's not really what we even want to have. It's something someone else has, something we've outgrown, something that could halt our life progression at this particular time. I think before we start asking for things we need to ask how it will truly effect us and those around us (family) and see how it effects their progression.
Recently I've wondered: If I want something for someone else and it is for their greater good, but I have selfish motivation or intent behind it, then it usually doesn't happen. It's frustrating. I tell myself "this is a good thing, they deserve it! They will be truly blessed by it." And it will be true. But inside I'm counting on and hoping for all the benefits I'll have because of it... I'm not ready to recieve, I'm ready to "have."

Seems recently I've been surrounded by more people who are ready to have and not willing to recieve. With this new understanding I hope I'm having less of a ";get" mentality with "recieve" expectations. Because it seriously doesn't work out, and it doesn't serve me and the woman I want to be.

Not Everyone Can or Should Live in Utah

That's just a fact. Many people have said it. And I agree, not everyone belongs here. This is the place for those who can hold their own. For self starters, high esteem holders and pioneers. It's a place for the tough, the ground breakers and those who have learned to endure.
What I dislike about Utah, is the lack of diversity. It's also what I like about Utah. I live in Utah because if diverse people keep moving because of the lack of diversity, it will never be diverse. I like being a pioneer in that sense. I like paving the way for future generations and challenging people to stretch their minds and open them a little further than they would have.

Each day Utah is growing with different cultures and beliefs. I think it was my visit to the Farmers Market this summer that made me realize what a microcosm Salt Lake City is.







Quite a few people out there think of utah as the land of the Omish & Quackers, and a state full of Polygamized Laura Ingalls in true little house on the prairie fashion. The know there's alot of Mormons here and the myths they carry about the mormon determines their beliefs about the state of Utah:

Myth: Mormons can't watch TV, Listen to the Radio, use computers or have any of the modern convenineces.

Sorry folks this is untrue. Not only can enjoy those things just as the rest of the world, Utah remains on the cutting egdge of technology and technological findings. As a matter of fact the TV was invented by a mormon. To take things a step further, so was the word processor, cd/dvd, radio, video games and many other things enjoyed in the modern world. in less than a 20 mile radious from where I type this are the businesses of Intel, E-bay, Verizon, Discover Card,Oracle. Also about 40 minutes south is Novell and Corell aka Word Perfect.
http://www.adherents.com/largecom/fam_lds_inv.html

Myth: Mormons can't drink soda/pop.
Sorry, wrong again. We can and do drink sodas. Some of us even make our own rootbeer and sarsparilla soda. We are encouraged to stay away from anything that may have an addictive element, such as caffiene


Myth: Mormons Can't eat meat
That's just crazy. We eat meat. The first KFC restaurant is in SLC, I pass it quite often. Many of the men enjoy the hunting of elk, and deer as well as fishing. Some people even raise their own. Me? I personally go to the store and purchase mine just as most of the world does.
Back in the day when meat was hard to come across the pioneers would focus on vegitables, fruits and grains in the spring and summertime when they were plentiful to grow, and then would save meat for winter time when fruits, vegitables and grains weren't so easy to come across. When you think of it that way, it practially logical, yeah?


Myth: Utah is full of religious fanatical farmers.
There is some farming. I see more of it in Michigan, my home state actually in terms of big farms anyway. Residences have small gardens, which is again common sense in the money department and organic department.
Even our church leaders are Doctors' Lawyers, Scientists, Editors and such. We really are in a state of industry, Literally. The beehive is the perfect symbol for Utah.

Myth: Utah is full of nothing but mormons.

That's true. This state is full of Mormons, Jack-mormons, non-mormons, less active mormons, dry mormons, fundamentalist mormons... you name it everyone here is some kind of mormon. Dont tell The Seventh-Day Adventist, Catholics, Greek and Greek Orthodox, Jewish, Baptist, Protestant, Penticostal people down the street. They might get upset about it because they will testify to you that they are indeed NOT mormons and they are indeed here in Utah.

Myth: It's against the law to drink or smoke in Utah and they don't have clubs.

Really? Because I've had enough smoke puffin drunks come up to me in the club asking for a dance. Yes there are clubs, bars, pubs and all the stuff you'd find anyplace else. The law that just passed is no smoking allowed indoor anymore. I LOVE IT! That means we can go to the clubs dancing and not smell like smoke!

Oh and the mythe about mormons not being allowed to sing or dance also false. Have you see the Mormons on "American Idol" and "So you think you can dance?" Utah produces some pretty talented people.

Back to my blog Title:not everyone can or should live in Utah. I believe that wholeheartidly. Utah is not the place for the average Joe. It is thriving and cutting edge in so many ways. However it is lacking in others. And so are many other states. I've heard Utah called the Whitest State in the Country. It's almost as though the media plays it out that way because of the Mormon Population.
The states with the least amount of black people in order are as follows:
Montana
Wyoming
Vermont
North Dakota
Idaho
South Dakota
Maine
New Hampshire
Utah
Alaska
Hawaii.

Utah is further up on the list than I thought. Utah is a prime location for anyone who has the spirit of pioneering and educating. It is prime for anyone who admires MLK, Malcom X, Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman or anyone else who welcomed the chance to make changes needed in this world. The best thing about it is... there is less resistance and an desire to learn and diversify. Not many people can handle that. I welcome the opportunity to make changes for the better and to be a force in the growing of this place. I like being involved on ground floor and first hand events and programs that help Diversity Utah. And I like that my daughter can relate some of her experiences to those of the civil right era in terms of seeing and being a part of some firsts for the State of Utah.
The first black student body president of BYU is a friend of ours. He was elected only 2 years after ole' Miss elected their first student body president. And ole miss is FILLED with the black population.

The first black female Student body president of My daughter's high school refer to me as Aunt Karyn and are my daughter,s best friends (since 3rd grade)My Daughter chose not to run as part of the student body because she wanted to focus on being her Laurel Class president which meant even more to her and made just as much progress as far as church was concerned. They are making history in their own way. I'm not so sure they'd have the opportunity someplace else. It's good for them, for their self esteem and it's good knowing they are making a difference not only in their community, but in the world.
Not everyone can be a Rosa or Malcom. Some people can't stand the heat and should stay out of the kitchen.

Another thing I like about Utah are the hometown and family values. Monday nights all over the state are riddled with family discounts and encourage family togetherness. I like that the whole state practially shuts down on Sunday, the Lord's day. Encouraging worship and rest from every day labors. Remembering the Sabbath day, and to keep it holy. I like the community of sharing and caring. I know that if I'm out shoveling my driveway, one of the neigbor guys will come out in a hurry and help.
I like living in a place where we make quilts for the homeless and have food drives for the community food banks and you can actually trust most strangers. It's your friends you have to look out for! (just kiddin!)
So there in an old time neigborly feeling with ice cream socials and dances at the local Churches and gymnasiums on Saturdays. I like friends who get together on a monthly basis to strengthen ties and bond. And I like knowing that if I'm sick or become bed restricted for whatever reason that my whole neigborhood practically has my back. I can't get that in typical anywhere USA. And let's face it, neither can you. There are some who are that fortunate. But most of my friends outside of Utah aren't that fortunate. And that's ok, some don't want to be. But I do. In a way, Utah has spoiled me: Good Values, Good recreation, Good Health Standards, Good Work Ethic, Good job opportunities. There's plenty of bad, just like anyplace else. But the Good here out weights ALOT of the good other places I've lived.
Not everyone can or should live in Utah. BUT I CAN!

RESOLUTE!

The beginning of each year the world goes into a frenzy making New Years Resolutions. I think we've all done it at some point or another: Written a list of about 10 things you want to work on for the New Year.
Here are the
Top 10 Resolutions each year:
10.Get A Better Paying Job
9. Pay of Christmas Debt
8. Take A Trip
7. Work On Spiritual Growth
6. Try Something New
5. Spend More Time With Family10.Get A Better Paying Job
4. Go Back To School
3. Lose Weight
2. Quit Drinking
1. Quit Smoking

Sound Familiar? Wishful thinking? Broken Promises? Motivational Check list? Seriously what the heck IS that?
It is my thought at people all around the world set forth in the tradition of creating resolutions for the new year and are too tired or hung over on Jan 1st to begin or even remember. In my experience, my goal setting is basically determined on day 1. If I wake up New Years day and didn't spend time in my scriptures or go for short walk to get my blood flowing and heart pumping. Then I will probably have a year full of empty Justifications.

So, are New Year's Resolutions a good thing? Do they set us up for failure or do they really motivate us? What's the point? I do think the majority of those doing new years resolutions are doing it out of "tradition." I honestly believe that if you're really going to do something, you will find a way to get it done, resolution or not. I think it has very little to do with the new year and if the goal is written down or not.
I also think for most that the start of the New Year is simply a hope for better things to come. And most of those hoping for better things to come are not really willing to make changes for better things to come, this is why they simply HOPE for it. I picture Archie Bunker sitting in his recliner watching tv as usually. The Door bell rings and it's Hope with a box full of better things for the new year. All Archie had to do was sit there and wait for it to come. No effort or sacrifice on his part. Hope, of the new year! With better things to come.

Am I against Resolutions? Not at all. I think it's good to take eventory of your life each year. What new thing did you learn to do? What new thing did you learn not to do? What old thing have you learned not to do? What worked, What didn't and why? Am I making the same mistakes over and over? How long is the "to do" list from last year and how much if it actually got done? And how often are the things you want done not getting done or getting done. Get what I'm saying?
Resolutions are more of a progress report in my book and that's not a bad thing at all. It can keep you on track if you let it. It's good to have goals and work toward them or else you're pretty much just floating aimlessly through life. I think couples should sit down and make goals as husband and wife and parents. I think they should sit down with their families and make family goals. And I think everyone should spend some time and make individual goals. And I think progress should be tracked so you know if something is working or if something should be altered. I remember having monthly family council when we were younger. It was actually kind of fun when we did have it. More families should instate this kind of thing.

Another peek at the most popular top 10 resolutions

10. Get A Better Paying Job
9. Pay of Christmas Debt
8. Take A Trip
7. Work On Spiritual Growth
6. Try Something New
5. Spend More Time With Family
4. Go Back To School
3. Lose Weight
2. Quit Drinking
1. Quit Smoking

These are great goals. Nothing wrong with them.

To me, on first sight, this looks like a smoking, drinking, obese, uneducated, faith lacking person who want to go on vacation and then pay bills and work on a better job.

But what would it look like if the priority were changed a little?

Check out this version:

1. Work On Spiritual growth
2. Spend More Time With family
3. Pay Off Christmas Debt
4. Go Back To School
5. Quit Drinking
6. Quit Smoking
7. Find Better Job
8. Lose Weight
9. Go On a Trip
10. Try A New Thing

1-3 is basically the foundation of the family, (3 I see as Debt in general) which is the foundation of the community.
4. Education is the key to success.
And I almost bet cash money that getting 1-4 in order will put into place the steps to take care of 5-8. Because you gain a greater love for your family and yourself and that puts into place or prioritizes the other steps. Steps 9 & 10 are just bonus. Especially if 3,5 & 6 are an issue. Actually taking care of 5&6 and possibly number 8 would probably help with 3 & 4.

Anyway we could sit and analyze this all day. But we wont.

I don't make resolutions anymore. The reason I don't really find a need for it is because if I'm going to do something, and I'm serious about it, I'm going to start implementing it NOW, not next year, not the beginning of the month, not on Monday, but NOW! That's how I know I'm serious about a thing, because it is considered a done deal in my mind, it automatically becomes a part of my behavior. I know if I'm putting off a start date or justifying why I haven't done something, I'm not serious and have no intention of it anytime soon. A life of excuses will take you to a dead end or a cul de sac going in circles.

There comes a time, and the start of New Year is as good of time as any. AS ANY, get what I'm saying? IF you're going to do it, you're really not going to want to wait. It's about integrity, for your own benefit. Each day we tell ourselves and others who we are by what we do. So our resolutions and goals and what we do with them tell us our intention and who we are. I'm in favor of them. But I'm more in favor of doing something with them, and not just having them.

Don't Get Left Behind In 2009

Congratulations one and all! We've made it outta 2008 and into the glorious exciting mystery of 2009.

I'm not sure where the excitment and optimism comes from, but I'm grateful for it. It's been a while since I've been excited about much of anything. I fake it really well, but nope, not this year.
Im going to try some new things this year that may seem a little selfish to some. I'm calling it prioritizing.
I just recieved a job offer. I took it and am exciting to start January 20th. 2009 is already fabulous!



I'm going to laugh a whole lot more to make up for the tears left behind in 2008. Oh, there's nothing wrong with crying and tears. However these are the kind not worth remembering. And they must be replaced with either tears of joy or laughter.

I'm going to enjoy my friends and family a whole lot more this year. Im going to take a bunch of small vacations and do on a lot of weekend getaways especially when the weather is warm and enjoyable for spring and summer. When people ask me about my summer I can only remember 5 days. The rest is a blurr. Bits and peices are coming back to me now, but it does no me no good now. It's bizaar to see myself in some of the photos of the summer, and not have a clue what the pics are about. It's been interesting.




I'm going to celebrate more! Small events, mediocre tasks, Huge accomplishments, I'm going to celebrate the moments of them all. I want so share in them, create them, expose them, you name it, I'm going to give reconition to things that are lovely and of good report. Maybe because of the state I was in that caused me to see alot of ugliness in the world. People being ugly, self-serving, lying, manipulative schemeing and so on. I've had it, I'm sick of it. I'm not going to put up and tolerate it anymore. This earth, the world is a gift from our Father in Heaven. It's inhabitants are our siblings, it's creatures, our pets. When we fail earth, we fail Heaven as well. And my brothers and sisters, WE ARE FAILING!

I'm going to enjoy youth more. The silliness and wonderment and excitment of youth. I love when I see the youth of the church and the world doing good things, discovering their empowerment and the joys and wisdom of the world.

(chill out people, it's Martinelli's sparkling, apple, grapes and peach juices! I was honored to be gathered by my family and friends and be asked to make the New Year's day toast!)

The last 6 months have taught me the following:
It is ok to take care of others, but not to the point of neglecting yourself.
It is ok to take care of yourself, but not at the point of neglecting others.

People and their needs are more important than things and our enjoyment of them, PERIOD.
Those who care about you, will go the extra mile in finding a way to show it effectively.

People who feel they have nothing to learn, value the their own voice & opinion with no consideration of other's have no place in my life. What would they need me for anyway, they're perfectly happy in themselves.

If you want to do something, go somewhere or obtain something bad enough, you will find a way to accomplish it. 2 years ago I went Hawaii. It was amazing. I would have never thought it could happen. Last year, I saved up and sacrificed a few luxuries and was able to go back to my home town for 3 weeks.

Strength, beauty, and esteem from within. It can't come from another person. Another person can dent it or scratch it, but the core of it comes from withing. Own it, nurture it and keep it.

False security and lack of confidence and manipulation are recognizable to Most people. It's not pretty and is rarely impressive. It's more impressive to keep it real

Before you justify something: see the entry above and then think about your intent. The Holy Spirit of promise DOES testify of truth and WILL allow others to discern it no matter how well you think you're hiding it.

If you're someone who has it all together, has over come their flaws & weaknesses or has few of them, and has reached that point in their life where you're making very little mistakes and have everything to offer then we will probably not be friends. My imperfections, flaws and weaknesses and lack of wisdom will get on your nerves and I assure you that your perfection will get on mine.

If you never find the need to apologize or live under the tent of always being right, I bet you probably also live alone.

Actions have more weight than words. Say what you want, but if you can't back it up with action, I don't believe you, PERIOD. If there are more excuses than consistancies, I don't believe you, PERIOD.


I'm STOPPING THE MADNESS!
My goals for this year are simple:
I'm getting back to basics. I lost a bit of my foundation. Daily prayers, daily scripture reading was buried in the woes of whatever I've been going through. I miss fellowshipping with my ward brothers and sisters. I've taken myself out of the social aspect of things for a while and I'm ready to put myself back out there.
I've taken my mental and emotional vacation and I'm ready to join the rest of the world again. I was not meant for being a recluse. I was meant to be out and about serving my family, friends and community.
I'm going to have more meaningful and interesting conversations especially with friends and family. I want to discuss and share ideas and knowledge and a learning of and from each other.


I'm dropping petty stuff. If you don't like the way I structure a sentance or relate thing so I can better understand or anything that doesn't relate to my character, integrity, or core of who I am, Then See ya, have a good one. I no longer have room for the petty things that in the grand scheme of things just don't matter. I no longer have room or time for nit picky little quirks that can and should be overlooked.
Everytime I get paid I'm putting SOME money toward some dept. EVERYTIME!

I'm no longer going to apologize for SOMEONE ELSE'S misunderstandings or misconceptions. It's on them, not me.

I'm going to be more visually thankful and grateful for those around me who add positive and loving aspect to my life.



I'm going to learn and prepare more for Heavenly and Eternal things.

I'm going to let bygones be bygones and old acquaintances will be forgotten. I'll make room for people who deserve a place in my heart.

2009 will be Divine so keep up or get left behind.

Take A Walk Through Bethlehem

Just Imagine if you would a modern day walk through Bethlehem. For the holidays I hope you each will take some time to not only enjoy the sights and sounds of the season but to reflect on the depth and meaning of the events we celebrate this time of year.
Jesus is THE SON OF GOD, sent to us as a gift to provide grace, justice and salvation. He is our SAVIOUR, our elder brother and our example. No one comes to the father except by his son Jesus Christ.
Merry Christmas and Happy "Holy Days."

Is It Enough To Just Have Faith?

I don't think so. I mean faith is of great importance, you really can't do much without it. However there are some who believe they can just have faith, and then sit on their butts and let the blessings start rolling in, without any effort.
Yeah, this post is kinda preachy, so if you've had your fill of Church, just keep on rolling. But before you go, open your mind to the possibility there may be something new you may learn, or some valuable input you can add.

James 2:14 askes the question: What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him?

I've plenty of friends and acquaintances of all religious back grounds who say it's enough to just believe. They are good people with much to contribute to the world. I am saddened for them because I feel they're wasting away. For whatever reason, they have no need or desire to be actively engaged in building up the kingdom of God.

Don't get me wrong, raising a righteous family, maintaining a strong and good family life and being a good citizen and not causing trouble are important. To which at the very least all should be working to do. But is is enough? For some it's all they can do. But for the majority of us, we're piggy backing on laziness if we justify ourselves as one of those.

Now some out there will undoubtably run to their scriptures (which I hope most will) and probably head over to Romans and/or Galations The bible teaches that salvation comes from faith. True Story Folks. Salvation does come from faith.
Romans 3:20 By the deeds of the law, there no flesh shall be justified in his sight.

Galations 3:11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith

Confusing? On one had, you must have faith because you aren't saved by deeds, right? On the other hand, Faith alone is not enough, without works, it is dead faith.

Could it be possible that faith is a two fold entity? I think so.
It's relatively easy to say " I have faith!" or "I believe" and know they have their salvation in the bag. I know alot of people like that, they pray, bless their food, say I believe, maybe listen to some church music on Sunday... and call it good
There is one scriptures that comes to my mind more often then most:
Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits,

I'm willing to be wrong, but for me, the truly faithful, will have actions guided by that faith. My sister uses this analogy you're in a park and come across a hungry homeless person and think to yourself "how sad. I will pray for them and I know the Lord will see they are taken care of." What a wonderful thing to pray for them. It is! They gave them exactly what they needed to survive another homeless/foodless day, you gave them the hope that someone else will bless them and a shout out to the Lord to send someone. But is it enough to have sympathy and condolences? Someone will get them food and find them shelter, I did my job in praying for it.
I believe this is the dead kind of faith being talked about in James: dead faith. For Faith without works, is dead.
Perhaps there is a living faith? A faith that requires actions? The faith that produces the "fruits" talked about in Matthew? You can see the evidence of truly faithful, because their actions are governed by it. And By their fruits, ye shall know them. You will see examples of it.

Let's go back and hang out with James again in chapter 2.
Vs 17 mentions: Even so faith, if has not works, is dead, being alone.
I believe that real salvation bring forth that living faith. The faith that bears living and working fruit. It takes some realkind of physical action on our part. One reason why we need a physical body to function on this earth, or else we could all just sit around in spirit praying and expressing condolences knowing we're saved and our salvation is sure. There would be no point in our existance.

How easy is it to show faith without works? I dare say those who have faith without works have very little... and are constantly struggling to obtain "fruits" that are constantly out of reach. There's a reason for it. I liken in to me and my job search.
I can sit on my butt all day and say "I Love the Lord, I am his daughter, he wants me to succeed there for I know I will get a job" and then continue to sit on my butt from now on happy in the knowledge that because I have faith, the Lord is gonna drop a job in my lap, or cause one to knock on my door. :) It's enough for me just to believe and have faith, right?
Meh!
"Even the devils believe... and they tremble..."

James 2:18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

I don't think believing is enough. I think a strong enough belief which brings about action consistant with committment of faith that results in "good fruits" is the whole point of faith. Or else why bother?

"For as the body without the spirit is dead, so are faith without works dead."

Living faith is what builds up the Kingdom of God. I think anything else is fooling yourself and Dissin the Lord.

Ethnic Children in Utah and the LDS Church.

I've lived in Utah for 18 years. When I first got here, there were hardly any black hair or skin care products, toys, books and so on. For me it was understandable because there just weren't really that many black people living here. Which is why most black people or people of any other ethnicity besides white, don't stay. My sister and I we decided to stay. There must be Pioneering in all aspect of growth. We decided to take it on. If people of different cultures and ethnicity keep leaving Utah, it will never really grow in terms of being a Diverse place.

When my daughter was about 9 she asked me why there were no pictures of any black people on the walls of our home. I was stunned. It made me realize that most of us aren't aware of our children's need to be able to identify thermselves with the world around them.
On our walls were pictures of Christ, a white girl sitting at the knee of Jesus, a white boy just baptized, a white family in front of the temple, the first presidency... you get the point. The portraits are beautiful and positive. But she was trying to identify with how she fits in.

I took a good look around at my apartment. She had fun toys and books and dolls she played with. They were all white. Nothing wrong with that, but culturally, there was something wrong with that. My family it multi Cultural. My stepmom and 4 step siblings and their kids, white. My Dad's brother married a filipeno woman 3 decades ago so their kids are bi-racial. My Brother's first wife was black and french creole, her people were from Louisiana, so their they're bi-racial as well. My Great-Great Grandmother was full blooded Indian, another, great grandmother half black, half white, another, half black half indian.... you get the picture.
I made some choices and decided my home atmosphere should reflect my family. And I needed to find a way to incorporate that with Gospel Principles. Not easy to do in Utah.
I purchased a calendar depicting black art and framed some of the pictures. On a trip to Vegas I found some black greeting cards and framed them as well.
I made come conscious efforts to purchase black dolls, books, videos, even christmas ornaments and decorations. I think one of the most difficult things for me to find in Utah were black dolls that weren't dressed like aunt Jemima or slave looking servants. There were beautiful porclean dolls and barbies and baby dolls in beautiful lace dresses. They were all pretty much white dolls.
I soon began to learn how these things can effect the self esteem of a child. How must if feel to see dolls and toys reflecting your face as servants, or slaves while dolls of other races hand on lacey dresses and hats, or native costume in bright colors and cool accesories. Yeah, I was getting to see things from her point of view.

As the "eternal youth advisor/young women's president" I began to learn what kind of effects these things have on the youth of the church, especially the ethnic youth of the church. I've heard them call each other the racial slurs and the ethnically inappropriate jokes. We need to surround out kids with the positive and beauty of all culturals and diversities.

It's important to children to be able to identify with the world around them. To know there are people and things just like them. It helps to build confidence and and more importantly self esteem.
Although nationally it's easier finding ethnic toys and books, it can still be difficult. I've become part of an affiliation that have ethnic toys, books and dolls of all races: Asian, Bi-racial, black, latin, native american, Pacific Island and yes, white.
So take a look at the website.
I'm also going to have a permanent link to it on this webpage (on the right hand side under the heading JUST LIKE ME.) It is also a perfect website for gift giving. If nothing else, poke around the website.

Every child wants to be able to see and hear things that are "JUST LIKE ME"To see the variety of toys/dolls available for girls and boys of all ethnicity:Click here to browse

Service Tag! You're IT!

I got tagged in another blog to share some of my experiences about Service. I'm honored. And what a great time of year to share such experiences.
Here are ther rules I was given:

1. Tell a story of when you had service done to you
2. Tell about a time when you did some service
3. Tell us about when you saw someone do some service to yet another person
4. Tag 5 other bloggers to do the same.

Oh, here we go.

A few years ago a bunch of my friends were throwing a birthday party for me. A couple of hours before the party I got into a car accident and smashed the front drivers side of my car. Turns out, I had a pretty bad concussion. My bishop and his family were to baby sit my daughter over night as the birthday party would be running pretty late. I called him to let him know we were in a car accident and that I probably wouldn't be going to the bday party. He actually offered to keep my daughter over night and encouraged me to go to the party, instead of sitting at home in pain trying to stay away all night. (It was one of those concussions where you have to be able to say awake or wake up easily for the next 12 hours or so) I had already called my friends and told them I was in a car accident, had a pretty bad concussion and wouldn't be able to make the party. Much to my suprize they called me back and told me someone would be picking me up for the party and to dress comfortably. I was hesitant but agreed.

When I got to the party, there were about 20 0f my friends there. A couple of them had flown in from California and Seattle for the party, 2 of them drove from Reno to be there. Much to my suprise when I got to my friends house who was hosting the party, I walked in and there were pillows, sleeping bags and folks dressed in pajamas. Upon hearing that I had a concussion and needed to pretty much stay up all night, they came prepared to take shifts in keeping me awake.
It was a fun and difficult night. I remember being so tired that I was beggin one of my friends to take all the money in my wallet and let me sleep just 30 minutes. He looked down at me with tears in his eyes and said... "I can't.... I don't want you to wake up dead!" lol

Right now it may not seem like service since there was a party of sorts. But to me at that time in my life, I needed a stellar group of people to be associated with. Never have I had so many peope during that time show so much love and care for me... and my daughter. I always reflect back on that time when I think of service. It wasn't money or material things they gave to aide me. It was simply their time, themselves which really is the greatest of all gifts and when it's needed the most is when it's usually the least convenient.


On of my favorite memories on giving service happened when I was just out of High School. We had a rather large family in the ward. The Husband, Brother Denninghoff was in the Military and rarely home. There were 7 kids. We started baby sitting for them for years. The wife , Sister Denninghoff was my idol. She made her own bread, peanut butter could make ends meet, found time to spend with all her kids who were never lacking even in social graces. Whatever she was doing, she was doing every well. I enjoyed being around her and her family. One Friday my sister and I decided to go over and kick Sister Denninghoff out of her house so she could have the whole day to do what she wanted, and my sister and I would watch all the kids for her, no charge.
The rules were she had to do something she WANTED to do, not had to do unless if was absolutely needed. She was so floored and confused about the whole thing that she sat in her drive way for 30 minutes, not knowing what it was like to have a whole day to herself. She hadn't had one day to herself for about 15 years. Finally she did leave and my sister and I have a fabulous time with the kids. We bbq'd, swam in the pool, made cookies, cleaned the house, did the dishes, went on a hike. For us it was just a day playing with the Denninghoff kids. When she did return home the house was clean, the kids were well fed changed, a couple of them sleeping. Dinner was cooked all she really had to do was come home and relax. When we left forthe day she tried to pay us. We threw a $2o bill back and forth for about an hour. When we left we found it on our car floor. So we took it and bought her flowers with it.
Our parents always taught us to do something for someone else that we would appreciate ourselves. I don't think I really understood what an impact something like that can have until I became a mom myself. True I only have one child, but I can imagine how it must be with someone with 7 kids. Or even 4. I know she really really was appreciative that day. And it was one of my funnest memories of days gone by.

I think one of the greatest acts of Service I ever witness and happen to be a part of was the LDS Genesis Group and their Service at Camp Williams with the Hurricane Katrina Survivors who were brought in. The LDS Genesis Branch was called in by the Office Of Black Affairs with many other Black Church groups in the community to be hands on and in the front lines in the effort to serve them while here in Utah. It was important for them to see friendly black faces as such a cultural shock of Utah could do even more harm to their psyche. The LDS Genesis Group (and many others) Helped hand out clothes and other needed materials on a daily basis. Some of us were there so much people thought we were hurricane survivors. We took them around the city, to job interviews, apartment hunting. Helped them put together furnature after they moved in, Took them grocery shopping, to Dr appointments and so on. Many awards and recognitions were given out to other churches and organizations but the LDS Genesis Group was not given much recognition at all. I would have to say what I witnessed the 4 weeks I spent up there everyday was some of the greatest Kindnesses I've ever witnessed in my life.

So there you have it. It may not be much in what some consider service, but these experiences have touched and changed my life for the better.

I would like to tag:
http://sugar-grenade.blogspot.com/ (Laura)
http://lefthandedinmyrightmind.blogspot.com/ (Adonis)
http://brentito.blogspot.com/ (Brent)
http://all-things-testify.blogspot.com/ (Beth)
http://rubyg.blogspot.com/ (Joy)
http://thoughtsofmark.blogspot.com/ (Mark)

I did and extra one for good luck

Does Non-denominational = Non-Commital?

I'm not accusing, I'm just asking the question is nondenominational essentially the same as noncommital? I was discussing this with one of my friends. She doesn't claim a religion but she claims a believe in God and Jesus Christ and the bible. She's very quick to tell me "the bible says this...?" and "the bible says that..." but only when it suits her needs. If anyone tells her when she doesn something that isn't very Christlike wether it be deed, word or attitude she gets very defensive and upset. Well in her behalf I guess we all do that. Anyways she and I had a little chat about it.

Caution: I do not suggest having this conversation with someone you don't have strong ties to as a friend. All friendships cannot take this kind of conversation, just know what friendships yours are.

I like Cheryl because we can have these discussions without offense, with humor and knowing that we both care a great deal about each other without the Fear of either one of us trying to convert the other. Just an open minded discussion about beliefs. We actually LEARN from each other which is the beauty of it all.
We got to talking about the divorce rate amongst religious denominations. Here's is some of what we found:

The divorce rate was lowest amongst:
Catholics
Lutherans
LDS
(catholics and Lutherans tied for the lowest)

The divorce rate was highest amongst:
Non denominational
Baptist
Born Again Christians.

She joked about ours is low only because civil divorce by man cannot undue and eternal marriage in heaven so most LDS divorces wouldn't count in the stats. HAHAH!

I joked about Nondenominational is the same as noncommittal so why we expect a marriage commitment to be any different with them. Hahah!
She actually got a look on her face and said... " You know, I never thought about it that way but I wonder if there's some truth to that."
I admitted to her I didn't really ever understand the standing of "non denomination." And asked her to explain it to me according to her stand point and view.
She started out as most of my "non denominational" friends do saying how she believes in God and Jesus and the bible, but no particularly in organized religion. That there was many of man's corruptions into organized religion and so you really can't trust it. I absolutely understand her thinking on this as we believe there was a great apostasy as outlined in Isaiah 60 & Amos 8:11-12
(Actually there are SEVERAL references in the old and new testaments so forgive me if I only use 1 or 2 of each reference for the sake of time and space)
Basically she believes we are in those days now and believes all religions are massively corrupt and are establishments for power, greed and money.
WOW, thems are some powerful accusations I tell her. She spoke of how ministers and preachers in their new suites, watches and shiny new cars solicit for church donations and pass around the basket for the sake of "tithes and offerings."
She said she'd have more respect if they just come out and say..

"hey, this is my weekly pay check for serving y'all as the preacher so show me the money."
I understand where she's coming from. There's an old country song "Would Jesus wear a Rolex on his T.V. Show."
She said she respected the fact the LDS has a lay ministry and our leaders have regular jobs in the community from high school principles, insurance, salesmen, to New paper editors, Doctors, Lawyers and yes, even constructions workers/carpenters. They don't get paid for their religious duties, it's considered a "calling." A call to serve and with that call should be a standard of obligation to live righteously and not just preach about being righteous.
She's a little puzzled about our Prophet and why we put so much into having a living prophet on the earth today when the bible teaches so much about false prophets and how obvious it.
She feels Jesus Christ was the last true prophet that walked the earth and because of his sacrifice there is no longer a need for prophets. This is where she and I really differ.
I'm reminded of a few scriptures:
Matthew 16:18-19 Where Jesus Christ says that he will build his church and passes off the keys of the kingdom of heaven to Peter.
Sounds like he is establishing a church to me.
Again in Matthew 26:26-28 is where we believe our weekly "sacrament" covenant began.

Mark 16: 15-16 Christ instructed to go and teach the gospel to every creature. He also said he who believes and is baptised shall be saved.
This is why we have missionary work and baptisms.

Luke: 10:1 is where he calls the office of the "Seventy" and sent them 2 by 2 to every city and place he would also go.

Acts:14:23 They ordained "Elders"

1 Corinthians 12:27-28 : Speaks of how in general we are the members of the body of Christ but the Lord has set apart some to be Apostles, Prophets, Teachers, and it even specifies "Governments" in that scripture.

1 Timothy 3:1-7 Speaks of Bishops and their eligibility and also vs 8-9 speak of the office of the Deacon.

Ephesians 4: 11-16 speak to the issue that Christ not only established his church while here on earth, but state he gave to the church Apostles, Prophets, Evangelist, Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the saint, work of the ministry and the edifying of the body of Christ.

I truly believe Christ organized his church in this. In the case of the great apostasy and the corruption of the church many of these things would be lost. And for them to be reestablished one would only need to refer back to Christ's Organization of it (in the scriptures) to recognize it once again.
We believe a Prophet was chosen in this dispensation to Restore Christ's Church. I say Restoration because it was already established by Christ.

Acts 3:18-22 speaks of Jesus death and when the time of "refreshing" will come from the presence of the Lord and he will send for his son Jesus, "which before was preached unto you."

We discussed a bit on these perceptions and thoughts and it turned into a really good conversation. Some of the scriptures she was familiar with and others she wasn't. She is another one of my friends who believes in the bible, but doesn't really have one on hand. I tease her a bit about that as well. But that is a common theme I'm noticing amongst many of my friends of ALL denominations. We call ourselves men and children of God yet we don't take it upon ourselves to read his word on a daily or even weekly basis. True I have my Scriptures but I'm not in them on a daily basis.
I set a goal one year that I needed to read in my scriptures or any spiritual literature that would help me become closer to God and help build up his kingdom at least 1 hour a day before I could watch any TV, Jump on the Computer or read any other type of book for entertainment.
We're told to "seek ye first the kingdom of God."
So let it publicaly be known... this will be on my goals for 2009.


I'm still confused on the Nondenominational thing. It must be nice to believe in God and Jesus Christ but not commit, really, to any practices or actions on a regular basis supporting it. Cheryl admits she likes not having to feel or obligated to sit in a congregation regularly, and feel she's being preached to or hear testimony of how the Lord has blessed others in their lives.
But I was quite surprised when she shared with me the following.
She feels it's easier to justify and live with her own short coming and what she feels is a lack of blessings and a list of failures. Being Nondenominational justifies her lack of enthusiasm and ambition in doing what she admit can be a better job religiously. But she also says it spill over into other aspects of her life. She knows she's only fooling herself and not so much of anyone around her, but for now, she's OK with willing to live like that.
With that being said, I must say to some it should seem like I should blast Cheryl for her lack of desire to make her religious actions consistent with her religious claims. But I don't feel that way one bit. First of all, "we believe that others can worship whomever, where ever and how ever they want." Its a little irritating when she quotes me things like.. "the bible says...." I have to remind her... "girl, I have a bible, I read it, I know what it says." But I feel we all do that to some degree.
I respect Cheryl a great deal. She knows she is at conflict in her spirit. I appreciate her willingness and humility in recognizing it. She's miles ahead of those who "know what they know and can't take into consideration anything but what they know.." when in reality what they know and what they do are in conflict, inconsistent and those around them see it but they themselves are oblivious to it. Actually it's kind of fun to watch that sort of person. Trudge forward in self pride whilst making a fool out of themselves.
OK, shame on me, for that last few sentences but I find that sort of person quite entertaining.

Cheryl asked me if I could give her any religious council as a friend what would it be. For me I told her it was simple.
Get a bible and read it. I know she read it as a child, teenager and what not. But as we grow older and wiser with life experiences, we see things differently, Although the words are the same, as we are humble and childlike and toward our father in heaven, deeper meanings and perceptions are revealed to us that we understand on a deeper level as adult.

Also I believe with fullness of heart in the following Scriptures:
James 1:5-6

Luke 11:9-10

Especially Luke. I've heard a lot of people say "well God hasn't revealed such and such knowledge to me." And when I ask them.... "have you asked??"
And the response is usually something like "he's revealed many other things to me I'm sure if it were truth he would have revealed that also."
In my opinion that's spoken like a person who has MUCH to learn. I do believe God reveals things to us as we need them and in our own due time. But I whole heartily believes he reveals even more to those of us who ask. Or why else would he command us to
"Come unto me...."
"Ask and ye shall receive..."
"Seek and ye shall find..."
"Knock and it shall be opened.."

We have an obligation to become humble before the Lord and call upon him, not just for the asking of blessing "to be healed, keep us safe, finding a job, gimme gimme gimme." And all of us have a lot more to be thankful for besides "food, fellowship and family." Or the Three F's as I've heard some of my Baptist friends call it. We have an obligation to him and ourselves to ask about the truthfulness and integrity of people around us and our families, the righteousness of political issues and those who are running for political office, if a career path is right to take or even who to court and marry. Why WOULDN'T we ask he who is all knowing on these issues? Of course we're expected to act for ourselves but we're also expected to study things out the best of our knowledge, ask in faith believing and act in according to the answer we receive. I also believe it we act in accordance to what we believe to be correct the Lord will interfere in our best interest before we make those drastic mistakes. Some mistakes we are allowed to make because from them we gain wisdom. But I believe in seeking his council and asking for knowledge the mistakes we make are minor and give us wisdom and strength.

So Cheryl, My Non-committal/non denominational friend, That is my council to you. Know that I only gave it Cuz you asked me for it. You are my friend regardless of religious differences, you always have been. I enjoy our discussions and the things I learn from you make me a better Daughter of God as well.

Elder Joseph B, Wirthin

I just finished watching the funeral for Elder Joseph B Wirthlin. What I remember most of him was watching him in the April 2008 General Conference as his voice and body began to shake during his talk and Elder Russell M. Nelson stood by his side like a diligent servant ready to catch him if he fell.
I'm saddened that I am not as familiar with him as maybe I ought to be. I would like to share with you a General Conference Talk of his that was shared with me about 2 years ago. It was shared with me by a friend who was struggling with the death of his mother as well as other struggles.
I have turned to this talk many times in the last couple years for comfort and peace.
It is in his honor that I share it in hopes that it may do some good to anyone who is looking for comfort and peace as well.
I've included the sound link at the bottom of the page for those who would rather hear it, than read it.

Because of the life and eternal sacrifice of the Savior of the world, we will be reunited with those we have cherished.
I am grateful to be with you today and to draw strength from your testimonies. More than words can express, I am grateful for your kind words of support, your expressions of love, and your prayers.
Today I would like to indulge in a few personal memories.
I was born of goodly parents. From my father, Joseph L. Wirthlin, I learned the values of hard work and compassion. He was bishop of our ward during the Great Depression. He possessed a genuine concern for those in distress. He reached out to those in need not because it was his duty but because it was his sincere desire.
He tirelessly cared for and blessed the lives of many who suffered. In my mind, he was an ideal bishop.
Those who knew my father knew how active he was. Someone once told me that he could do the work of three men. He rarely slowed down. In 1938 he was operating a successful business when he received a call from the President of the Church, Heber J. Grant.
President Grant told him they were reorganizing the Presiding Bishopric that day and wanted my father to serve as counselor to LeGrand Richards. This caught my father by surprise, and he asked if he could pray about it first.
President Grant said, "Brother Wirthlin, there are only 30 minutes before the next session of conference, and I want to have some rest. What do you say?"
Of course, my father said yes. He served 23 years, 9 of them as Presiding Bishop of the Church.
My father was 69 years old when he passed away. I happened to be with him when he suddenly collapsed. Soon after, he was gone.
I often think about my father. I miss him.
My mother, Madeline Bitner, was another great influence in my life. In her youth she was a fine athlete and a champion sprinter. She was always kind and loving, but her pace was exhausting. Often she would say, "Hurry up." And when she did, we picked up the pace. Perhaps that was one of the reasons I had quick acceleration when I played football.
My mother had great expectations for her children and expected the best from them. I can still remember her saying, "Don't be a scrub. You must do better." Scrub was her word for someone who was lazy and not living up to his potential.
My mother passed away when she was 87 years old, and I think about her often and miss her more than I can say.
My younger sister Judith was an author, composer, and educator. She loved many things, including the gospel, music, and archaeology. Judith's birthday was a few days before mine. Every year I would give her a crisp one-dollar bill as my birthday present to her. Three days later she would give me 50 cents as her birthday present to me.
Judith passed away a few years ago. I miss her and think of her often.
And that brings me to my wife, Elisa. I remember the first time I met her. As a favor to a friend, I had gone to her home to pick up her sister, Frances. Elisa opened the door, and at least for me, it was love at first sight.
I think she must have felt something too, for the first words I ever remember her saying were, "I knew who you was."
Elisa was an English major.
To this day I still cherish those five words as some of the most beautiful in human language.
She loved to play tennis and had a lightning serve. I tried to play tennis with her, but I finally quit after coming to the realization that I couldn't hit what I couldn't see.
She was my strength and my joy. Because of her, I am a better man, husband, and father. We married, had eight children, and walked together through 65 years of life.
I owe more to my wife than I can possibly express. I don't know if there ever was a perfect marriage, but, from my perspective, I think ours was.
When President Hinckley spoke at Sister Wirthlin's funeral, he said that it is a devastating, consuming thing to lose someone you love. It gnaws at your soul.
He was right. As Elisa was my greatest joy, now her passing is my greatest sorrow.
In the lonely hours I have spent a great deal of time thinking about eternal things. I have contemplated the comforting doctrines of eternal life.
During my life I have heard many sermons on the Resurrection. Like you, I can recite the events of that first Easter Sunday. I have marked in my scriptures passages regarding the Resurrection and have close at hand many of the key statements uttered by latter-day prophets on this subject.
We know what the Resurrection is—the reuniting of the spirit and body in its perfect form.1
President Joseph F. Smith said "that those from whom we have to part here, we will meet again and see as they are. We will meet the same identical being that we associated with here in the flesh."2
President Spencer W. Kimball amplified this when he said, "I am sure that if we can imagine ourselves at our very best, physically, mentally, spiritually, that is the way we will come back."3
When we are resurrected, "this mortal body is raised to an immortal body. . . . [We] can die no more."4
Can you imagine that? Life at our prime? Never sick, never in pain, never burdened by the ills that so often beset us in mortality?
The Resurrection is at the core of our beliefs as Christians. Without it, our faith is meaningless. The Apostle Paul said, "If Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and [our] faith is also vain."5
In all the history of the world there have been many great and wise souls, many of whom claimed special knowledge of God. But when the Savior rose from the tomb, He did something no one had ever done. He did something no one else could do. He broke the bonds of death, not only for Himself but for all who have ever lived—the just and the unjust.6
When Christ rose from the grave, becoming the firstfruits of the Resurrection, He made that gift available to all. And with that sublime act, He softened the devastating, consuming sorrow that gnaws at the souls of those who have lost precious loved ones.
I think of how dark that Friday was when Christ was lifted up on the cross.
On that terrible Friday the earth shook and grew dark. Frightful storms lashed at the earth.
Those evil men who sought His life rejoiced. Now that Jesus was no more, surely those who followed Him would disperse. On that day they stood triumphant.
On that day the veil of the temple was rent in twain.
Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus, were both overcome with grief and despair. The superb man they had loved and honored hung lifeless upon the cross.
On that Friday the Apostles were devastated. Jesus, their Savior—the man who had walked on water and raised the dead—was Himself at the mercy of wicked men. They watched helplessly as He was overcome by His enemies.
On that Friday the Savior of mankind was humiliated and bruised, abused and reviled.
It was a Friday filled with devastating, consuming sorrow that gnawed at the souls of those who loved and honored the Son of God.
I think that of all the days since the beginning of this world's history, that Friday was the darkest.
But the doom of that day did not endure.
The despair did not linger because on Sunday, the resurrected Lord burst the bonds of death. He ascended from the grave and appeared gloriously triumphant as the Savior of all mankind.
And in an instant the eyes that had been filled with ever-flowing tears dried. The lips that had whispered prayers of distress and grief now filled the air with wondrous praise, for Jesus the Christ, the Son of the living God, stood before them as the firstfruits of the Resurrection, the proof that death is merely the beginning of a new and wondrous existence.
Each of us will have our own Fridays—those days when the universe itself seems shattered and the shards of our world lie littered about us in pieces. We all will experience those broken times when it seems we can never be put together again. We will all have our Fridays.
But I testify to you in the name of the One who conquered death—Sunday will come. In the darkness of our sorrow, Sunday will come.
No matter our desperation, no matter our grief, Sunday will come. In this life or the next, Sunday will come.
I testify to you that the Resurrection is not a fable. We have the personal testimonies of those who saw Him. Thousands in the Old and New Worlds witnessed the risen Savior. They felt the wounds in His hands, feet, and side. They shed tears of unrestrained joy as they embraced Him.
After the Resurrection, the disciples became renewed. They traveled throughout the world proclaiming the glorious news of the gospel.
Had they chosen, they could have disappeared and returned to their former lives and occupations. In time, their association with Him would have been forgotten.
They could have denied the divinity of Christ. Yet they did not. In the face of danger, ridicule, and threat of death, they entered palaces, temples, and synagogues boldly proclaiming Jesus the Christ, the resurrected Son of the living God.
Many of them offered as a final testimony their own precious lives. They died as martyrs, the testimony of the risen Christ on their lips as they perished.
The Resurrection transformed the lives of those who witnessed it. Should it not transform ours?
We will all rise from the grave. And on that day my father will embrace my mother. On that day I will once again hold in my arms my beloved Elisa.
Because of the life and eternal sacrifice of the Savior of the world, we will be reunited with those we have cherished.
On that day we will know the love of our Heavenly Father. On that day we will rejoice that the Messiah overcame all that we could live forever.
Because of the sacred ordinances we receive in holy temples, our departure from this brief mortality cannot long separate relationships that have been fastened together with cords made of eternal ties.
It is my solemn testimony that death is not the end of existence. "If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable."7 Because of the risen Christ, "death is swallowed up in victory."8
Because of our beloved Redeemer, we can lift up our voices, even in the midst of our darkest Fridays, and proclaim, "O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?"9
When President Hinckley spoke of the terrible loneliness that comes to those who lose the ones they love, he also promised that in the quiet of the night a still, unheard voice whispers peace to our soul: "All is well."
I am grateful beyond measure for the sublime true doctrines of the gospel and for the gift of the Holy Ghost, which has whispered to my soul the comforting and peaceful words promised by our beloved prophet.
From the depths of my sorrow, I have rejoiced in the glory of the gospel. I rejoice that the Prophet Joseph Smith was chosen to restore the gospel to the earth in this last dispensation. I rejoice that we have a prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley, who directs the Lord's Church in our day.
May we understand and live in thanksgiving for the priceless gifts that come to us as sons and daughters of a loving Heavenly Father and for the promise of that bright day when we shall all rise triumphant from the grave.
That we may always know that no matter how dark our Friday, Sunday will come is my prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

NOTES
1. See Alma 11:43.2. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith (1998), 91.3. The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball (1982), 45.4. Alma 11:45.5. 1 Corinthians 15:14.6. See John 5:28–29.7. 1 Corinthians 15:19.8. 1 Corinthians 15:54.9. 1 Corinthians 15:55.

Sound link: http://lds.org/conference/sessions/display/0,5239,23-1-646,00.html (click on Sunday Will Come by Joseph B Wirthlin in the Sunday Afternoon Session