Just to let you know...

Almost Done

2011-08-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hmm... Well, clearly I didn't do all that great at blogging this summer. Yet another failed attempt. I have three blogs now, and none of them are especially vibrant. I am mostly posting this just to make myself feel better. Yeah, that's pretty much the only reason. I think I'm just going to retire this blog. Keep it online for memories, but no more updates. I want a fresh start to see if I do any better. Ok. Bye.

Another Week in Zion

2011-05-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

The thunder is rolling outside and the rain is falling again. And just on Friday I could see the stars so well!

This week has flown by. It feels like just a week since I last went to church, but it's been two weeks. Last Sunday I was working Kid's Camp all day. It was really fun, but it took a while. I don't mind helping out there. Especially that time. I actually get tips when I work Kid's Camp. Plus spending the whole day with a little kid is fun! I'm just glad I don't have to do it all summer. I'm not really sure how to work with kids that long.

Monday night the staff had a bonfire. We loaded about 23 of us into an 18 passenger van and rode out to the Ridge firepit. It's a huge stone ring with a firepit in the middle out on Zion Ridge. Massage Darren told us spooky stories about the area and we ate s'mores. It was a great evening.

Tuesday some friends from Provo got down here to spend the night. I took them out to the Ridge and told them the story of Old Man Jolly that Darren told us the night before. It was daytime, so not quite as creepy, but I did my best. We played on the rock wall, the zipline, and Katie even did the bungee trampoline! Turns out that Clarke and my partner Tasia are super good friends. So she joined us for dinner in Hurricane. We went to Wendy's and felt so cool! It's amazing how awesome even a fast food joint becomes after being stuck up here. That night we went hot tubbing and then headed to bed. In the morning, I hung with my Provo buddies until they took off.

After telling the ghost stories on Tuesday.

Work-wise, I made a lot of phone calls and emails to big groups that are coming in these next few weeks. I couldn't get in touch with everyone, but I made a first and second attempt for all of them. Third attempts for that group start tomorrow.

On Friday, we had a group of writers for various big magazines arrive on site. They were out here for a marketing visit, which means that I was there to pamper them. I decided that I really like doing that as a marketing intern. Tasia and I each connected especially closely to one writer. Tasia and Caron were really good friends and Nicole got along really well with me. We talked about all sorts of thing - related to the resort, religion, and more. It was super fun! Tasia even gave Caron a Book of Mormon. I didn't have an opportunity to offer one to Nicole. Or at least not without feeling really awkward.

I think I should probably learn to get over that fear. I'll need to offer things to people at strange times as a business person. You can't wait for the topic to just show up - you have to make the opportunity.

That evening we had a campfire with the writers. Phillip, Jessica, Darren, and Tiago came as well. Darren is our massage therapist, Tiago is another intern, and Jessica and Phillip are wranglers. Phillip rode Cactus - his beautiful horse - right up to the site. He managed to show up just in time to be a cowboy silhouette against the sunset. It was cool. A bit cheesy, but it definitely made a great impact. We ended the night with stories about Butch Cassidy and one of my cowboy poems. Actually, it was Martin's Haven. The next morning Nicole and I took a ride and the other writers did various activities on-site and then they took off. I felt really good about that first experience.

Sunday was really nice. I took most of the day off and went to church. The ward is really friendly and really hick. It's pretty funny some of the things they say. A town this small and this rural gets some interesting experiences. Lots of farm stories and fun Southern Utah accents.

Well, that's it for this week. All the best, and I'll keep you updated each week. :-)

My First Email

2011-05-22T19:54:00.000-07:00

Well, ok, second. But this is just an easy way to catch up. I'll be recording my summer here on the blog. It will be a great way to keep track of my life. :) This was just a letter to my extended family. The rest of the posts will be a bit more polished with some photos even!

So this weekend has been fun. I was thrown in charge of kid's camp until the actual councelor gets here. Along the way, I burned pretty thoroughly. I included a picture. I didn't even realize I was pink until dinner when one of my friends pointed it out. I couldn't feel it at all. I thought it was just a little warm and it would brown by today. Then I took a hike before bed. Then it hurt like nothing else!! Luckily I found my tube of Aloe.

Kid's camp is fun but a bit crazy. Today I was keeping a 4 year old, a 5 year old, a 7 year old, and a 9 year old in tow and happy. The 4 year old was from Switzerland and spoke no English. But she just loved the 5 year old, who is from Wales. And the two boys were brothers from Boston. It was a pretty international group I had with me.

I took a hike up to Emerald Pools on Wednesday when I had my day off. It was really pretty. I've got some pictures up on Flickr. I'll get around to putting up pics from last night's hike a bit later. But what I've got will go up on Flickr. http://www.flickr.com/photos/62744757@N04/ should get you to everything.

I've now gone on two hikes. One in the park and one on site. They have very different views, but were both so beautiful. This world that God created is just so amazing! I love the sky and clouds and little shrubby trees and rocks and everything!!!! Earlier this week I was just out by our tent sites and I looked out and there were white clouds in a bright blue sky and I wished I could capture the beauty somehow. The horizon spread out forever and the sky seemed endless above it. It was the cleanest, most amazing view ever! I could see up towards Bryce and down right into Zion. And everything between it was so wide and big! I wish everyone could have a moment like that.

I knew right then that the reason I am here at this job is because of those views. I'm here to share the love of Zion with guests and all those around me. It's not only the mission statement of the resort, it's something I'm good at. I remember my freshman year, Ben said he'd never really thought about how amazing the mountains were because he'd always lived there. He knew they were beautiful, but he didn't understand why I'd suddenly just stop and stare or spin in circles to see everything at once. Ari says that one of her favorite things about him is that he notices things like that just when walking around or whenever. I was able to not only tell him about the beauty, I was able to help him notice it more. And I just love it so much that I can't help but tell people to stop and look when it's that amazing. So that's why I'm here. I'm so excited!

I love you all. Enjoy the week. Take 5 minutes one day and look at something you've seen a hundred million times and notice how beautiful it is.

The Final Trip

2010-08-15T13:54:00.000-07:00

For our last week, we went to see an old (not ancient-at least not comparatively) lava flow. Then we got to go play in sand dunes. We finished up by going to the site of Jesse Knight's silver mines, and hearing the story that they played in the history of the church and of BYU. From the site, you can look across Utah Lake and see the Y above campus. A powerful ending note.

Little Cottonwood Canyon

2010-08-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

This week we hiked up the back of Alta Ski Resort, after looking at temple granite and the church vaults. Overall, an absolutely wonderful week.

Timpanogos Caves

2010-08-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

A hot, steep walk up the side of Timp culminated in a pleasant and eerie trip through the mountain.

Bingham Copper Mines and the Thanksgiving Point Dino Museum

2010-08-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

We headed up to see the pretty colored rocks up Bingham Canyon closer up. Turns out they're junk rock. After seeing a giant hole in the ground, we went to Thanksgiving Point's awesome Dinosaur Museum.
Sorry these ones are sideways. I thought I'd fixed them. It takes a while to re-upload though, so I'll just let you figure it out.

Heber City and Cascade Springs

2010-07-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is from when we drove up Provo Canyon to Heber City and the area up by Homestead. We came back past Cascade Springs, which were beautiful!

Spanish Fork Canyon

2010-07-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm really behind on putting up photos, but I'm working on it. These are from the week we went up Spanish Fork Canyon and looked at landslides.

Rock Canyon

2010-07-06T09:15:00.000-07:00

I hope this works. These are supposed to be photos from my first field trip with BYU's Geology 102 class with Brother Skinner. We hiked up Rock Canyon this week.

Super Revamp and Move

2010-06-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

Although I may post here from time to time, I've moved most of my attention to a different blog. That's one reason there hasn't been anything here for a while. This link will take you to my new page.

http://make-a-stand.blogspot.com/

This blog is less about daily activities, and more about things I've learned about life. It means more to me, and I'd rather spend my time working on it. The posts here from my classes that made me think are what inspired me. I just felt that separating off a new blog would help me focus a bit more, since I like fresh starts.

Please feel free to follow my new blog, I'm happy to still share my thoughts with you. If I didn't want to, I wouldn't put them online. :)

Exodus in Many Times

2010-04-06T19:39:00.001-07:00

I remember last semester how we discussed the parallels between Utah and the Holy Land. How they were both promised lands of safety and plenty. How even geographically they were similar. But the discussion on how the methods of arriving at the two paralleled each other was fascinating.

In each case, the chosen of the Lord were being guided to safety from their homes and the homes of their enemies. Realizing this reminded me that the Jews in Exodus were also leaving homes, not just slavery. It had to be hard for both groups of faithful Children of God to leave their homes. No matter how much faith you have, the unknown is scary. However, they trusted their prophet, and gathered together to leave.

Because it would be hard and scary, both Joseph and Moses arranged their followers into groups. God's system is a Patriarchal order. He wants people in families, placed together to support each other. In both ancient times and modern He has set this up. In Moses' day, they were divided into tribes, companies, and smaller groups. In Joseph's day, they were given in companies of tens, hundreds and thousands. Today we are also arranged by family. Stakes, then ward families, and then FHE or blood families within the ward. Families, physical and spiritual, are the backbone of the Saint's strength.

Once the groups or families were organized and given a leader, with someone else to report to, supplies were collected. Before the Jews left with Moses, they all gathered together to see that they had what they needed for the journey. Joseph tried to get each small company to gather supplies to support themselves. Although not everyone listened, they were able to simplify the journey by knowing what they needed and collecting it early.

Not only physically, but also spiritually, the two groups had to prepare similarly. They were all God's chosen people. Along with this blessing comes responsibility to follow His commandments. In both the ancient and modern exodus, those who were led by the Lord were commanded to interact peaceably with each other, to cease from drunkenness, to uplift those around them. To be guided by the spirit, you need to be able to hear him. By following God's commands, and remaining true and faithful, His children could hear instruction vital to keeping their journey safe and successful.

History through printing

2010-03-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

Last semester I had a chance to go to the Crandall Museum with my class. These were my thoughts at the time, since I didn't have a chance to go this semester.

Being a bit of a history geek, I really enjoyed watching the development of printing. We started in Gutenburg's time. They had this MASSIVE press and showed us how to use it. They even cast a piece of type. It cooled crazy fast! They poured in burning hot printers' metal into the cast, and almost instantly it was solid.

The second room was probably my favorite. It was shown to us by Ben Franklin. He told us his history. How he became a printer, his love story with his wife, and many of his contributions. As I've said before, I love seeing the story of the people behind history. This was a great insight into who Ben Franklin, the grandfather of our country.

On top of hearing Ben Franklin’s history, we learned a bit about the physical process the Constitution and Declaration of Independence underwent. The Declaration was written, edited, reworked, ratified, and then signed. Then, it was rushed to the printer’s, late at night. By morning, several copies had been printed and were distributed throughout the colonies. The speed of the process was astounding. Plus, it was all done in secrecy. When we had been told this story, we were told to touch the type set that was in the press. It was type set molded from the same punches that formed the original letters for the first printing of the Declaration of Independence. To touch something that close to history was moving and exciting.

Our final stop on the tour was in a room the same size and shape as that in which the first copies of the Book of Mormon were printed. The room contained a pres s that was an exact replica of that original press for the Book of Mormon. It was really cool. We had seen how the presses had gotten smaller and more precise, but other than that, this press was basically the same as that which Guttenburg had invented. We looked at the type for the first few pages, and saw stacks of pages, 2,000 high, just as they would have been when the original printing happened. We even got to see how the books were bound.

At the end, we got to see a linotype machine and the ink rollers that replaced the old fashioned beaters. Those were both cool. The rollers were what I usually imagined when I thought of old-fashioned presses. The linotype machine was also awesome. It was like a massive, old type writer. Except, instead of putting words on paper, it put words on metal! That was super crazy.

The entire experience was wonderful. It made me happy to know that they are going to expand, and then have all the missionaries in the MTC come through the tour. I think it’s a worthwhile experience that all students who have the chance should take. I would not hesitate if I had another chance to visit. The one drawback is that it cost a ton if you don’t go with a group. So find a group, and have fun!

Prophetic Discource to Canonized Scripture

2010-03-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

Early in Joseph's time as prophet of the church, his main work was establishing the fullness of the gospel on earth. Because there was little to nothing to work with, most scripture was direct revelation from God, giving instruction to His children. He reestablished priesthood, baptism, and sacrament. The order of church was laid out. Joseph had very little knowledge of what he needed to do, and had to rely entirely on the Lord for direction.

As persecution increased, the church struggled to stay together. They constantly moved, and had to basically start over all the time. Having written instruction of the basics was vital in the early months of the church. The early records helped the members know what to do and where they were going.

Coming into the Nauvoo period, the saints were feeling like they finally had a home where they could stay. Nauvoo was their Zion and they didn't forsee anything making them leave. A feeling of home and settling came over their culture. Because the church was well established in Missouri, more and more missionaries were being sent out. The basic pricinciples of the gospel were established, and the temple ordinacnes were in the process of being so. Joseph better understood the fullness of the plan and how important it was that the saints understand the plan as well. To fascilitate this, he began more often to preach. Partly due to the outward growth of the church, it became important for Joseph's sermons to be recorded. His teachings were able to benefit new and seasoned members alike. The record of his preaching was carried out into the mission field and used within the church at Nauvoo.

In this time, many of the teachings that are now scripture were being created. Later, they were canonized and are now in the Pearl of Great Price and the Doctrine and Covenants. Each piece was added for a different reason, and often times slowly, but they were all considered beneficial to the church as a whole. Many of Joseph's sermons fell into this category. His teachings on temple ordinaces especially. Now we read as scripture what was once a letter, a missionary lesson, or a discourse. Although we don't now publish prophetic council in our D&C or other standard works, we continue to take our leaders' teachings as guidence that should be followed. This follows the tradition started by Joseph's teachings in Nauvoo.

Zion's Judiciary

2010-03-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

This semester, I am in a class on the Constitution. It is fascinating. We read several articles or amendments each week, and then discuss them in class. If nothing else, it gives me a better idea of what is in there just from reading it. I've learned a lot more about how a governmental system is formed, and the sorts of questions that must be answered by an establishing contract. We've studied elections, amendments, and judiciary licence.

At the same time, I've been studying the Pearl of Great Price. In that class, we have talked about Zion, which includes God's political kingdom on earth. The political system He has outlined is centered around family and community. Consecration will be the major economic system, and a divine King will lead the government. A judgment system, economic system, and leadership system are all planned.

The manuscript that later became section 102 in the D&C is like a constitutional statement on the judiciary system of God's kingdom. The mortal presidencies and high councils that the church needs are arranged and their appointment is laid out. Officers will be selected by revelation and the vote of the council. Within the presidency, the authority to lead is given first to the President and then to the other two presidents who preside with him, should circumstances not allow him to do so.

After establishing the top leadership, this revelation lays out how trials are to be run. The council of twelve is to present the two sides to the presidency for judgment. Each is previously assigned to the order in which they will speak so that there is an established routine. Also, to protect the accused against "insult or injustice,"half of the council will defend the accused. This half is determined by the order in which they speak. Those who draw an even number are given to the accused for their defense.

There is a lot more protocol about how the council can call a council meeting. I didn't understand how this worked. But I did gather that a council can be called wherever it is needed, so long as the high priests shall perceive the necessity of the council.

This judiciary system still functions within the church, and will, in some form, exist in God's Zion. Eventually Christ shall be the presiding president over the council. He will reign as King of the earth, and His Father will be the ultimate judge. It makes me wonder how similarly the eternal councils will function.

New Perspectives

2010-03-09T18:47:00.000-08:00

Having attended the MoA tour last fall, I took this chance to explore more on my own. There had been several paintings I wanted more time with, so I skipped straight to those. As I tuned out the sound of other visitors, I felt a stronger connection to each image.

First I stopped by the image of the praying woman and the glass of water. I saw for the first time how much they were part of the same image. Much discussion had focused on the flatness of the woman as opposed to the realism of the glass. However, I saw several connecting elements. The proportions were perfect. The woman could easily pick up and hold the tall glass, but instead she just looked. Her dress was intricate, but not gaudy. It seemed subdued, and created the perfect background for the simple glass. I really got the sense that this woman deserved and was capable of having the water. If she simply made the effort to step out of her flat and one-way life, she could have the fullness the living water offered her. Her face showed her desire, she simply needed to take action.

Next I sat in front of my personal favorite, The Prodigal Son. Last time I visited, I was entranced by the idea that should you remove the middle, squalid panel, the two ends would fit nicely together. The son did not need to go through his time of struggle in order to have a full life. This visit, I noticed more details. Although his life would have been happier, and just as full, there were experiences that forever changed him. In the first panel, there were beautiful, perfect apples, and the blue cloth cover. But down in the bottom were a couple of darker, moldy-looking apples. Something was festering. There was unhappiness and discontent with the way life was. Life was good, full, and happy, but there was a desire for something else. In the middle panel, richness was everywhere: lots of wine, apples, grapes, pigs. But despite the seeming glory of this compared to simple apples, it was all moldy, grey, and miserable. Only sorrow really came through. The signs of splendor were nothing more than empty promised. However, in the final panel, the beauty and cleanness of the first panel is restored and improved. Here, there is no festering longing for something else. Life has changed, and now there is wine and grapes along with beautiful apples, but it is all in the light. Definite changes happened, and the story may even have improved because of the trials and mistakes of the center. To me, this really shows how every experience in life changes me. I can improve and better myself, even when I make mistakes. The key is getting back into the light and returning to where I need to be. Bringing lessons along with me, I will continue to grow, and even push farther forward, despite mistakes I will inevitably make in my journey.

The Olive Leaf

2010-03-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

Reading the original transcript of D&C 88 made me notice different things. Without much punctuation, I got more of the idea than the specifics. I noticed several different things, and have explained my thoughts on each below.

The Holy Spirit of God is through all time and space, even while God is a single entity in a single place and time. Because the Spirit is part of God, He is able to see all things. He knows and understands everything in existence. And more than that, He is in and through all things. His power is the quickening and life-giving power of the universe. All things are dependent on His power and presence for their organization and existence. Thus, His power is restricted only by "wisdom, mercy, truth, justice, and judgment."

Before the last days, the responsibility of the Saints will be to declare the prophesies and commands of the Lord. I must take up this responsibility, as it is mine. I'm not one of the revolutionary students who helped change roll across Europe. I'm not someone who can march with Civil Rights activists. Those days are over. It's not the same anymore. But I can't sit quietly and watch the world be "made drunk with the wine of her fornication." (Rev. 17:2) Today my voice can make a difference. If one person speaks out, that is one less person supporting Babylon. And maybe someone will listen. But as long as I don't back down from my stand, I can be a rebel for righteousness.

One day, God's full will will unroll across the face of the earth. It won't be calm and quiet. Testimony of the Lord will be born in the rumblings of earthquakes and thunder, in the flash of lightning, and in the sound of rushing floods. The entirety of our world will be thrown into turmoil and "reel as a drunken man" in the sky. This will be a terrifying day. No matter how righteous I am, if I am alive at that point, I will experience terror. Although my safety may be assured in Zion, many loved ones will probably be in the main line of destruction. But fear cannot exist where there is faith. I shall strive to have full faith to help accomplish God's will, no matter the temporal difficulty it may place me in.

Courage out of Misery

2010-02-24T18:56:00.001-08:00

All life experiences change and shape the character of those involved. Some affect them very little, being merely routine happenings. It is rare that a trip to the grocery store alters the philosophical views of an old man. Other events can radically change those they happen to. Liberty Jail did this to Joseph Smith. He considered it the worst possible experience of his life. Trapped in a small room for months, with no sight of the end, and little word from those outside, he was cut off from everything he cared for.

The pain and misery of the experience was never forgotten, and its memory stayed with him for life. But he also grew in that time, and changed. No longer was he the young leader of a church, a voice of God, but lacking the ability to articulate his own thoughts. When he emerged, he was a powerhouse of conviction, clarity, and even charisma. He still may not have been the strongest speaker, but his talks touched the souls of many. He was able to express his personal views and direction for the church. Before Liberty, Joseph relayed God’s messages. Now he understood the end goal himself, and was able to act freely to guide his followers in the right direction.

How could Joseph come out of such a dark and miserable experience with such an increase in power and conviction? There is probably no one answer. Some reasons may weigh more heavily than others, but having not been born until well over 100 years after the fact, I will not try to choose one reason as a main reason. However, I do believe that two key elements guided the change, and many other specifics can be included in these categories.

First is Joseph’s new relationship with God. During his time incarcerated, Joseph lost almost all hope. His well-know opening to a prayer is recorded in D&C 121: “Oh God, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?” In complete despair he turned to a God he could no longer feel in his life. Although he had not been abandoned, he felt so alone and cast out that it was as if he were. God answers His prophet’s soul-deep plea with personal comfort: “My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment.” Even as Joseph was beginning to lose hope, his Father was there, and looking after him. With this assurance, in even the darkest moments, Joseph was able to develop a new sense of assurance in his God’s protection.

Secondly, Joseph spent much of his time pondering. With not much else to do, he was able to think about all that had happened to him since the first vision. Being in the moment, it is often hard to see the bigger picture. Liberty Jail took him out of the time line, as it were, for five months. In close communion with God, Joseph was able to spend this time reviewing all the commands he had received, and the reasons behind them. By this point, a more unified end goal began to come clear. Joseph was able to see several yards down the path, rather than relying on God to tell him where to place his foot as each new step came about. Once he was released from Liberty, Joseph kept this greater perspective. He was confident in where he was to go next, and where the church should be right at the moment. This allowed him to step up on his own, and speak to his followers. He could confidently preach without worrying that he was out of line of the plan. Along with the assurance that God would look after him and not allow him to blindly stumble and fail, Joseph began again with a new confidence in his cause, and in the steps he was taking to seek it’s goal.

Life after Death

2010-02-16T17:46:00.000-08:00

A little over a year ago, my paternal grandpa died. He followed his wife, who had gone home less than two years previously. Their oldest, and only biological, child, Sydney, only has a single date on her headstone. I was here in Utah when my grandpa passed away, and watched as he neared that time. For me, it changed my perspective on life and death. Rather than viewing death as the end, I now realize that it's just as much a beginning. He is now home with his beloved wife and their long-missed daughter. Here on earth, we wish they were still with us, but where they are they are free from the ills that affected them in life.

Section 137 teaches me more about where my family is now. My grandparents, life-long and dedicated members of the church, are safe in the spirit world, waiting the resurrection when they will regain their bodies. Sydney is waiting with them. She never reached her first birthday, let alone her eighth. Despite this, God knows her heart, and has brought her home to be with Him. I will someday meet the aunt that I don't even have stories about.

The judgment system is fairly basic to a member of the church, but section 137 not only answers, but also raises questions. I wonder if Sydney is a little girl, or a grown woman. I wonder how she felt, finally meeting her mortal parents. Or even more so, how did they feel meeting her? I am satisfied that whatever the answers, my family is safe. Death will someday come to me, and I can be sure that so long as I do my best, I will go home and see them together once again.

Deeper than Ink

2010-02-10T21:45:00.000-08:00

History is an interesting thing. It takes many forms. From a small diary, to a grandparent telling a story, to long-dead animals entombed in stone. For me, stories and journals keep the best histories. No matter how much you dig in a long-buried trash pile, you won’t get first-hand knowledge. For the past several years I have kept a daily or almost daily journal. It has been a source of relief when I am tense, an aid to my memory of detail, and a source of inspiration in times of struggle. Someday, I want to be the grandma telling stories, and my journal will help me remember what happened.

However, effective record keeping is contingent upon not losing the record. What would have happened if Nephi had misplaced two or three pages of the plates? What about the history of the early United States? Our knowledge of that time is vital to the identity of our nation. Why would I talk about this sort of a depressing topic? Well, I lost my journal. I wrote in only a few weeks back, and now I can’t find it. I even had to replace it. A year and a half of my record is gone. Memories and details that I thought I would have to treasure forever are now saved only in my mortal mind, a mind full of facts and figures for school that crowd out personal thoughts. Each book in special collections once had that much importance to a living soul. Now they are little more than specimens to be ogled over by interested and disinterested students alike. Once, those books were treasured, and loved. Each page gently turned, each cover carefully cleaned. A book to read and a book to write are keys to a unique form of happiness.

Losing my journal has given me a new perspective on the importance of history. Records of the past are not just records, they are bits of life. A book written by hand has the intrinsic, innate and intimate stamp of the soul of the person who wrote it. A printed book that someone owned was carefully read, softly treasured, and highly valued. The books most loved are the most battered, yet most carefully preserved. Letters are meant to share feelings, thoughts and emotions. This power lasts through the ages in the ink sunk into the paper. No matter the book, it has more than words can convey, and the meaning will last forever.

As I go on in my life, I will continue to treasure the written word, both in the books I read and the histories I write. I hope that I will continue to remember how valued these words on paper are, and how much they will mean to me and others in the future. It is my prayer that more people will come to look past the surface interest and curiosity of books, into the underlying value and personal meaning of each.

Suffering with Joy

2010-02-03T19:46:00.000-08:00

A discussion on suffering can take many avenues. You can start with a question: Why do people suffer? Is suffering necessary? You can relate an experience, and focus on what was learned or what was lost. You can talk about reducing suffering or enduring suffering. There are so many perspectives because everyone suffers. But what is suffering? I particularly like the definition of suffering I found online. Suffering (verb without object): to endure… patiently or willingly.

Suffering is an underlying current that reaches every corner of life. At all times, there is a longing that cannot be satisfied, a dream that cannot be reached. Enduring that stream of sorrow and desire without letting it affect daily life constitutes true suffering. Every day of my life, no matter how satisfied I am with the current situation, I want more. Not in a greedy, self-centered way, but in a manner that reflects the plan of God’s whole creation and glory. Progression is the key point. I am progressing toward eternal life. I am working to progress to exaltation. Once I reach exaltation, I will receive of God’s glory and progress to greater glory and light.

I desire progression. Innately and divinely within every human soul is the dream of progression. Each day we live our lives, hoping to make it further, to make it higher. We strive to improve ourselves in any way we can. Why do we do this? It is how we suffer. We must endure this mortal probation. We willingly selected to come to earth, to gain a body that can sustain injury, to experience emotions that can feel deep hurt. Each day, as children of a Divine Father, we endure the aches and pains of mortality, willingly and patiently.

We suffer through this mortal existence, but that is not a depressing or hateful idea. Suffering intrinsically includes enduring. We need only strive to suffer with joy, and we will reach our goal. Each day, when the pain of being far from our eternal home resonates beneath our emotions, we search for ways to be happy, to be joyful, and to be productive. Working toward dreams is a fulfilling activity. When I am making personal progress toward a goal, I am more satisfied with my life and more joyful in my suffering.

As I continue on my journey forward and upward, I will continue to find joy. When I love even the most difficult circumstances, I will know that I have fully understood and accepted the idea of suffering and enduring. Life is hard, and life is long, but it is worth every moment.

D&C 121:7-8 peace be unto thy soul, thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high;

Revelation in my Life

2010-01-25T10:22:00.001-08:00

When I contemplate my patriarchal blessing, I look upon it as a valued and integral part of who I am. It is a private comfort for times of trial, a guide in times of choice, and a shout of victory in times of triumph. I carry it with me in my scriptures, and turn to it just as often as the standard works when searching for an answer. Sometimes, if the day has been long, and I can’t gather energy enough to read verses written in intricate and archaic language, I pull out my blessing and peruse its contents as my daily enlightenment. There are lines that I practically have memorized, and others that I rediscover each time I read it. Each word is perfectly chosen to strike my heart with joy and dedication to the Lord.

Although the Doctrine and Covenants comes from the same divine source as my blessing, it does not have the same personal significance to me. The revelations laid out in the Doctrine and Covenants are given to specific people, but contain direction to the church in all times and places. To me, these revelations are important direction for my life, but are not as personally motivating. Some of the revelations were originally personal blessing to individuals, but now they are public, church-wide material that can benefit all saints. Some commands and blessings are time sensitive, and more akin to patriarchal blessings. These parts can show me how to apply my blessing, but do not offer any direct advice. Other parts lay out the doctrine or teachings of the gospel. I often rely on these verses to guide my daily actions.

My patriarchal blessing is very important to me. I rely on it for guidance and consider it a road map to my entire life. Its contents are often too general for a situation though, so I use the Doctrine and Covenants and other scriptures to supplement my decision making. Both are revelations from God, and as such are just and true. The teachings contained both in canonized scripture and my personal blessing can help me choose a path that leads to exaltation. As I study them both, I receive further inspiration from heaven that guides my actions. If I balance my reliance on several types of revelation, I will thrive and bring God’s glory into my life. Personal revelation and public scripture are formative articles in my life, but neither is a complete guide and instruction for me. Together, the two can help me in any struggle I may face in life.

New Blog

2009-12-08T22:06:00.000-08:00

I don't want to end this blog. It will still be a blog about my life in general and fun stuffs. However, I have a new blog now that's a bit more serious. I'll not post to it all the time, but they will possibly be more interesting and will definitely be interesting to write. Here's the link. To quote the quote wall, it's a cool blog about being awesome.

http://make-a-stand.blogspot.com/

2009-12-08T21:34:00.000-08:00

This semester I have learned many things that have shifted my perspective on life. My Book of Revelation class has been more mind opening and perspective shifting than any other single force in my life. It tells of how dark, low, and filthy the world will become. Of how hard it will be to avoid the pitfalls that abound. Of how only those who remain faithful to the very end will survive the terror, and the glory that will be theirs. Reading section 76 of the D&C emphasized this whole idea. It illustrates with vivid detail the end result of the story played out in Revelation.

Section 76 is a major paradigm shift. So much is implied and so much is explained, it is hard to accept that all this can be real. After The Great Tribulation explained in Revelation, we will be rewarded beyond all we can believe. I believed that the Telestial Kingdom was just like the temporal earth. I was shocked to realize that the glory of even the Telestial Kingdom will be more than I know now. Here the Holy Spirit will dwell throughout eternity. They receive the administering of angels and will be heirs of salvation. One direct quote is that “the glory of the Telestial… surpasses all understanding.” If that is the inheritance of “they who are thrust down to hell,” than what am I worthy of? What are my non-member friends worthy of?

Next, comes the Terrestrial Kingdom. Those who dwell eternally there will receive the glory of Christ. They will be denied His fullness, but those who “died without law” and “honorable men of the earth” will be with Jesus. I have family who left the church. They were moral and upright people, but they were no longer active members. Although I am not certain, since I don’t know how the judgment works, I would guess that this is where they will spend eternity. They will be in the presence of Christ, the Son, but not in the Father’s kingdom. It is so wonderful to know that good people, like some of my family and most of my friends, will receive a reward that is more than mortal minds can comprehend.

The final vision is of the Celestial Kingdom. I desperately want to be with Heavenly Father, but this is even more than that. D&C 76 describes those who dwell in the Celestial Kingdom as “after the order of Enoch… [who] shall dwell in the presence of God and his Christ forever and ever. [They are] come unto Mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly place, the holiest of all.” After reading this I turned to my reading for Revelation. In the final chapter, John states “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:” Without doubt, the Celestial Kingdom is incomprehensibly more amazing than I can possibly imagine or describe.

The idea of the Celestial, Terrestrial, and Telestial Kingdoms is something so well known to me, that I never expected to experience so much shock and insight from reading section 79. For the early saints it was a more radical shift, but even for me this was a whole new idea. I know that God wants me to come home. “Home” is so wonderful, so amazing, so truly awesome, that I will always be grateful for the simple fact that God is trying to help me come home.

Tree Hugging, the Lord's Way

2009-11-24T15:58:00.000-08:00

The Lord created our world. It is His hand that gave us all that is on it. As human beings, especially now, we often debate the proper way to care for the earth. It is our responsibility, and we generally recognize that. However, I think that this section, if read properly, can guide members in how to conduct their treatment of the environment.
Actually, before He gives instruction on how to treat the earth, God dictated other commandments. They are oft repeated requests: love others, keep the sabbath day holy, keep your eye single to His glory. All these are precursor commands. Before we are given any sort of authority over the earth, we must be faithful children of our Father. He has given us this land, and if we follow Him, we will be more inclined to treat it right and more worthy of the gift.
Once we have qualified to use the earth, we are told that it has been given to us for two purposes: "to strengthen the body and enliven the soul." Basically, if we love the Lord, we can use the earth in whatever way it improves our lives. Limitations are set by the seasons. All the fullness of the earth is ours, and we are to use it.
We are given the direct command to not use the earth to excess or by extortion. As in so many other areas, our use of the earth should be in moderation. If we don't use it at all, than we aren't improving the earth or our situation on it. God wants us to progress, so that's a problem. At the other end, if we use the earth wantonly without a thought about caring for it, we will spoil our gift. Though there is enough and to spare, we show our Father that we are responsible stewards by being careful with what we have.
I'm from the Pacific Northwest. The native land of tree huggers. This direction helps me see where I fit in with them and with the water wasters of the rest of the country.

Shadows in the Paint

2009-11-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

I had wanted to revisit the Types and Shadows exhibit, but as my daily life continued to build towards finals into one round of non-stop studying or brainless slacking, the opportunity continued to evade me. I was thrilled to find out that not only was I required to go, our class was going to be given a tour.

The first thing I realized is that not all the displays are great. At least not for everyone. The girl with the bread really wasn’t that impressive in my mind. After having it explained, I saw the idea behind it, but it never connected. But then moving onto the beautiful picture with the glass of water, I kept getting the feeling that there was more than I could see. The glass was so clear and so close to reach. But at the same time, it was so far away. The woman in the background was experiencing exactly what I was feeling. Her face looked like she wanted the glass so desperately, but just couldn’t get to it.

The other picture I really liked was the Prodigal Son painting of the table. I spent a good 10 to 15 minutes standing there and ignoring everything, trying to understand the picture. I still don’t get it all, but I got the most general, overall idea of it. It fascinated me how, if I removed the middle panel, the other two would fit together. To me it seemed to say that I will be shaped by all my experiences, good and bad. My life will be changed by all my actions. But I don’t need to experience all the bad things to have a complete life. It was a beautiful illustration of how life is changed by experience. I am planning some time during break, or just before Christmas to go back just for that painting. It really deserves more attention than I was able to give it.

Overall, I thought the exhibit was beautifully put together. Although I didn’t connect with all the images at first, or even second view, I can see how much deeper the meaning of each one goes. I am going to spend time looking at the art when there is no one talking to me. Despite how insightful and enjoyable the tour was, I also wanted some time to just allow the feelings to resonate with me. The spirit was easily felt when I got lost in the feelings of the art.

The Things You Learn from Accounting 200

2009-11-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

I was reading some articles for today's accounting assignment, and I am really enjoying it. Today's articles are very interesting, especially from a technological standpoint. One is about how wireless networks benefit a company, another is about supercomputers helping predict sales. The end of that second article greatly amused me.

Marketers at one retailer use the technology to find relationships between products purchased by a customer in a single shopping trip. "They found that if someone in a Midwestern city buys disposable diapers at 5 p.m., the most common thing he'll buy next is a six-pack of beer," says Thomas Blishok, an NCR vice president. So to boost snack sales, the store put a kiosk of chips near the diaper aisle. "Sales of snacks in that time period went up 17%."

So, I found this today. I'd forgotten about it. I just took the second exam (93!!!!) and so find this extra funny. Enjoy.

Parallel Lines

2009-11-10T13:03:00.000-08:00

As I sit here, contemplating the similarities in the Old Testament and early LDS exoduses, I am finding it hard to put into words. Although I'm not an artistic person, sometimes I am very visual. And this is just one of those times that I need a picture to help me. Like we discussed about the Types and Shadows exhibit, images can convey more than words ever could. Since the parallels between the situations fascinate me, I am going to show you some amazing Photoshop work that helps me make sense of what was going on.

Yeah, I sorta like Photoshop. The map starts at the top in bondage. This can also show spiritual bondage to Satan, not just physical bondage to mortal enemies. Then the followers of God wandered in the wilderness. They come to the mountain of the Lord, which is either an actual mountain (Sinai) or the temple in Kirtland. The best escape from spiritual bondage is found in the temple. This is followed by more wilderness wandering. It ends finally in the Promised Land, or Deseret/Utah. These lands are both mountainous regions. In them rests both living water and dead, salty water. We must personally come to Celestial safety and our eternal promised land. Right now, I think I'm in a wandering stage. Probably the one just before the mountain of the Lord, since I haven't been endowed in the temple yet. It's interesting how much time is spent in wandering because much of life really is just small progress from one stage to the next. Basically wandering. As long as I wander in the correct direction, I know I will eventually reach my eternal promised land.

Framework of Revelation

2009-11-03T22:15:00.000-08:00

Section 42 of the Doctrine and Covenants teaches a myriad of important principles. However, I consider the framework it provides to be it's greatest contribution to the saints. The framework is not only that which it lays out in commandments and instruction, but even in the way it came to be.

Through revelation, Joseph Smith found answers to many questions. It can be difficult to realize that this applies to me as well. Reading Section 42 in the Joseph Smith Papers, I saw the questions Joseph and other leaders asked. These questions were the guiding force that spurred the revelation. Gathered together, church leaders considered the situation of their followers. Prayerfully, they decided which questions they needed answers to. They then turned again to the Lord, and asked those questions. Not only did they receive answers to those precise questions, other topics that were related, and important to God, were addressed. Later, the questions were removed, because the answers were what the church needed. However, seeing the questions teaches me that I can ask specific questions and faithfully expect an answer, if it is the question I need to ask.

The answers themselves also provide an important framework. Although many of them are time sensitive commands about the move to Ohio, the concepts are vital to saints of all ages. The section summary simplifies the content into this framework. Although I usually skip the summaries, I really like this one for the reason that it lays out the framework in simple terms, and I can then look for exactly what I am searching for more clarification on. I can see it in context, and then delve in deep.

1-10, The elders are called to preach the gospel, baptize converts, and build up the church;
Elders, like "my boys" (yes, I do call them that) from freshman year, are called to spread the good news of Christ. Throughout all of time, the Lord has relied on his faithful servants to go "unto all nations, kindreds, tongues and people" (1 Nephi 5:18). From Paul, the greatest missionary, to 19 year old boys of today, elders always have, and always will, be called to go forth to preach, baptize, and build. Since coming to BYU and meeting young men who want to go on missions, I have gained a new appreciation and testimony of missionary work. This is an eternal concept, and is outlined first in section 42.

11-12, They must be called and ordained, and are to teach the principles of the gospel found in the scriptures;
This is now the "how" to accompany the initial "what." Elders aren't just random volunteers who decide a mission would be fun, and promptly buy a plane ticket and start preaching. Although all members can be missionaries, those who are to dedicated their lives to the cause for a time must be called of God and ordained by the proper authority. The whole process of mission papers and calls shows how this is still in affect today.

13-17, They are to teach and prophesy by the power of the Spirit;
Continuing with "how" missionary work is to be carried out, the Lord explains how those called are to deliver their message. It won't just be a memorized schpeel that the missionary personally connects with. The Spirit must be present and very involved in teaching. Even in church this is important. I know I connect best with different teachers. But I can get something meaningful from any lesson in which both me and the teacher have the Spirit with us. Since investigators may not yet understand the Spirit, and definitely don't have the gift of the Holy Ghost given after baptism, the missionary must teach by the Spirit to make sure it is there.

18-29, The saints are commanded not to kill, steal, lie, lust, commit adultery, or speak evil against others;
The basic commandments that God has expected of His children for all time are reiterated. It's basically the 10 commandments in the language of the early saints. This is a reminder that just because we have the restored gospel, and all sorts of new revelation, we still need to follow the original commands of God.

30-39, Laws governing the consecration of properties are set forth;
Honestly, I don't think I could live the law of consecration. So reading this always makes me feel a bit overwhelmed. But at the same time, they show how all will be cared for in God's kingdom. Also, even though the full law of consecration is not currently in play, we use these same principles to govern tithes and offerings. It's really important to see what we are striving towards. For me at least, it's motivation to be more generous and grateful in the paying of tithes and offerings. I see why we do it, and what the Lord's final plan is.

40-52, The sick are to be healed through administrations and by faith;
Like the reminder of eternal commandments, this is a reminder that healing is still a miracle that comes through faith. The priesthood is one channel for healing, but faith is intrinsic to the action.

53-60, Scriptures govern the Church and are to be proclaimed to the world;
I have begin to grow in my testimony of scripture reading. These verses discuss how foundational to the church the scriptures are. Not only are they vital to the church, but they are to be proclaimed to all the world. This illustrates that the scriptures must be very important. They aren't just a supplement to church. If someone doesn't accept the Church, God seems to imply that if they have the scriptures, they will still be better off.

61-69, Site of the New Jerusalem and the mysteries of the kingdom shall be revealed;
I think I've said it before, but I'll say it again. I'm fascinated by prophesies about the end of time. Although it's just a promise for future knowledge, this gives me great hope and comfort. It shows that God does have a plan, and when we need to know the next part of it, we will be told.

70-73, Consecrated properties are to be used to support the Church officers;
Honestly, I didn't know that this was still in play so much. I knew that when the church was first formed, the leaders were supported monetarily, and I assumed that the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve probably had some sort of support in place. However, in class, we've talked about how all General Authorities at a certain level and above receive equal stipends. This makes so much sense to me. I am a business girl, and I totally see why the Lord would think that this is the proper way to do it. It will encourage modest and provident living. Also, it reinforces the idea that God's kingdom is always the same. He will always support his people, even economically.

74-93, Laws governing fornication, adultery, killing, stealing, and confession of sins are set forth.
After laying out His plan for His people, God explains the laws that govern this. Justice and Mercy both exist. Neither will rob the other. God says in what circumstances judgment is to be executed, and when mercy is to be extended. Although we are not to be a judgmental people, we must support God's law, and know when punishment is His will. This gives a good starting point from which our leaders may work.

I personally love it when someone gives me an outline. This is the Lord's outline about His plan which He is giving to me and his other children. It is a blessing to know this much about the expectations we are to live with.

Movies I want to see again

2009-11-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

Soooo... totally supposed to be writing a post for D&C. I'll do that in a minute. First, I need to make a list of movies I've been wanting to re-watch for a while.

Aladdin
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Ever After
Beauty and the Beast
Emma (never seen it, wanna see it)
Lord of the Rings
Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving
MASH
Lion King
Pocahontas
Mulan
Bourne

Ok, now that this is out of my system, I can go write my homework post! :D

Crandall Museum

2009-10-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

So, last week I got a chance to go to a really interesting off-campus museum. I have gone to most of the on-campus ones, but this was really exciting, since it was "far away." Not that is was really far, but the Crandall Museum is on Center Street in Provo. And I don't have a car. Hence, it's normally way too far for me. My friend Ben drove Ari and I though, so all was good.

Being a bit of a history geek, I really enjoyed watching the development of printing. We started in Gutenburg's time. They had this MASSIVE press and showed us how to use it. They even cast a piece of type. It cooled crazy fast! They poured in burning hot printers' metal into the cast, and almost instantly it was solid.

The second room was probably my favorite. It was shown to us by Ben Franklin. He told us his history. How he became a printer, his love story with his wife, and many of his contributions. As I've said before, I love seeing the story of the people behind history. This was a great insight into who Ben Franklin, the grandfather of our country.

On top of hearing Ben Franklin’s history, we learned a bit about the physical process the Constitution and Declaration of Independence underwent. The Declaration was written, edited, reworked, ratified, and then signed. Then, it was rushed to the printer’s, late at night. By morning, several copies had been printed and were distributed throughout the colonies. The speed of the process was astounding. Plus, it was all done in secrecy. When we had been told this story, we were told to touch the type set that was in the press. It was type set molded from the same punches that formed the original letters for the first printing of the Declaration of Independence. To touch something that close to history was moving and exciting.

Our final stop on the tour was in a room the same size and shape as that in which the first copies of the Book of Mormon were printed. The room contained a pres s that was an exact replica of that original press for the Book of Mormon. It was really cool. We had seen how the presses had gotten smaller and more precise, but other than that, this press was basically the same as that which Guttenburg had invented. We looked at the type for the first few pages, and saw stacks of pages, 2,000 high, just as they would have been when the original printing happened. We even got to see how the books were bound.

At the end, we got to see a linotype machine and the ink rollers that replaced the old fashioned beaters. Those were both cool. The rollers were what I usually imagined when I thought of old-fashioned presses. The linotype machine was also awesome. It was like a massive, old type writer. Except, instead of putting words on paper, it put words on metal! That was super crazy.

The entire experience was wonderful. It made me happy to know that they are going to expand, and then have all the missionaries in the MTC come through the tour. I think it’s a worthwhile experience that all students who have the chance should take. I would not hesitate if I had another chance to visit. The one drawback is that it cost a ton if you don’t go with a group. So find a group, and have fun!

Gathering the Future

2009-10-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

Gathering. It's an interesting word. What exactly does a gathering imply, particularly the gathering of the saints in the last days? Does it just mean we all end up in the same place? Or do we all come for the same reasons? And do we really gather to one place? It seems like everyone in the church has a very firm belief in their own particular view of the gathering. The major difference is whether we will all be gathered to Missouri or will be gathered in our own stakes around the world. Honestly, I don't care about that. I will follow the spirit and the prophet, and end up where I personally need to be.

Right now I need to be at BYU. For many members, this is part of the gathering. We come here to find friends within the church and grow in faith. I know that my testimony has grown exponentially for my time here. My first year was just acclimating to the idea of a gathering of saints. And then it exploded. My knowledge from classes first year started to really sink in and everything suddenly became real! This is my place right now in the gathering. I grow and increase in faith from this opportunity. As I take full advantage of my short time here, I will be prepared to head into the world for the next stage in my gathering.

My Personal Role

2009-10-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday was probably my favorite day of D&C so far. We spent the entire hour dedicated to discussing Section 25, the revelation to Emma Smith. Usually the discussion is "Emma was a great woman who collected our hymns. Why are the hymns important?" I was surprised by a verse-by-verse analysis. It was the most intense and enlightening lesson I have heard in a long time.

The first point we discussed was the reality of the phrase “my daughter.” God is our father. He is not a distant father; He is very intimate and personal. My spiritual growth over the past six months has focused on the idea that my Heavenly Father loves me, personally and sincerely. I gained a greater witness that God cares deeply for his children.

I noticed Emma was promised an inheritance in Zion, which has helped me when I’ve wondered if women will get to create worlds of our own in the Celestial Kingdom. I love using my imagination, and I want the chance to create worlds. I believed I would have that chance if I wanted it, and if I honored my covenants. But the promise to Emma made it clear that I will have “worlds without number.”

“Elect lady” then took on a new meaning to me. Every elect lady has a calling in the home. While men are the providers and protectors of the family, women are nurturers, comforters, and peace-makers. No matter how much I love my dad, my mother was my warmest fire in the coldest winter. Emma was exactly who Joseph needed. She was his home. Without her, Joseph would have fallen at the first blow.

The Lord takes a special interest in Emma, to show her what she’s capable of, and encourages her to act as scribe and teacher. As Joseph translates, Emma is given authority to record the holy words, helping her to realize her own special mission. Her authority is closely connected to his, providing an image of the relationship God intends for husbands and wives. She also is told to exhort the church. God recognizes that she understands the scriptures and has the capability to expound and teach them effectively. She will be guided by the spirit, and given the same authority of any male teacher. I love that Emma got to be both a loving companion and an ordained servant in the work. Emma’s life provides a message of hope that, as a woman, I am highly capable of learning and teaching.

Along with encouraging Emma in her pursuits, the Lord assures her that she will be supported by Joseph. Where I am in life, I can understand the relief this encouragement would provide. I am trying to make some major decisions about the direction my life will take. Will I be able to keep a job? What if I get married, will I be able to graduate? Would a degree in a field I love truly benefit me? Not only does God support the righteous desires of His daughters, He also expects His sons to support them in achieving their dreams. I will not only be able to follow my dreams, I won’t have to do it on my own.

I know that God loves me. He loves all of His daughters. This divine love will not leave me without support. I know that I have a very real and important purpose here, and that I am capable fulfilling it. My Father in Heaven will help me to come Home.

Doomsday Tapes

2009-10-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

Ok, fine, I guess this has almost nothing to do with the doomsday tapes. But seriously, those things were cool. Theorizing about the future is always cool. Not necessarily accurate, but definitely interesting. In the Book of Mormon though, we see some very accurate prophesying about the distant future. A few simple verses in 1 Nephi tell of the founding of America, in very accurate detail.
In vision, Nephi sees one Gentile, across the many waters from his brethren, who is set upon by the Holy Spirit of God. This man crosses the many waters and is followed by more Gentiles. They drive Nephi's brethren before them and scatter them across the face of the land. Soon, Gentiles are collected upon the promised land.
The next phrase is what really caught my attention: "I beheld that their mother Gentiles were gathered together upon the waters, and upon the land also, to battle against them." Often, the country which owns a colony is called a mother country. Nephi sees these "mother countries" gathering together on the land and the sea. They are gathered against their children colonies. The Gentiles in the colonies have become humble before the Lord, and are given His power with them. Because of this, they are able to fight back and keep their land of promise for themselves.
Reading this long past the time in which the prophesy was fulfilled, I can see the accuracy and meaning behind it. The words which Nephi uses not only portray the historical and physical happenings of the revolution, but also the moral and emotional repercussions and meanings of those actions.

Tools of a Missionary

2009-10-05T22:28:00.000-07:00

With all my guy friends going on missions, it's not surprising that I see the Lord's point very clearly when He emphasizes the importance of the Articles and Covenants in section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants. Within this precise and condensed section are all the basic keys needed to establish and run a congregation of Christ's true church. From a short history of the church, to the specific jobs of different priesthood positions it covers all the basics.
The start is the history of the church including God's instructions to Joseph. Not only is this historical context, it also has some very strong foundations stones for testimonies. Following this is what the Lord expects of those who read, and what He will do to those who reject the message.
Next come the basic tenants of the church. What we believe, why we believe it, and how much we rely on God and His great plan. A summary of the atonement also is laid out in this area.
Finally the duties of the priesthood leaders and of the congregation of faithful saints are listed. Specifics include the manner in which to preform baptisms, and the line of authority amongst the leaders.

The Greatness of Leadership

2009-09-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

My mom will be happy to read this. She loves David McCullough’s John Adams. Actually, she just likes David McCullough’s books. I read a selection of the book for American Government class. This selection was titled “Colossus of Independence.” Since I’m not actually in the class, I sort of did the assignment backwards, and read the piece after watching the movie. But it didn’t matter; both were still very vivid illustrations of the events surrounding the birth of the Declaration of Independence.

In high school, and even college, history classes, the emphasis is often on the overall movements and themes of a time, rather than on the specific people who were the driving force behind these movements. I enjoyed spending time focusing on one man who led the energy of revolutionary America into a tangible document and action.

John Adams not only worked with congress to formulate the idea of a full break with England. McCullough vividly paints a picture of a man who knew what the inevitable action would be and led the country to the point of decision. Watching the movie, I saw his realization of the unavoidable outcome turn into realization that he would have to act as the catalyst toward this outcome.

Overall, I really appreciated this insight into a man who did so much for our country. I wish we studied the people rather than the process more often. This sort of glimpse into an influential life shows how we too can become great. It is normal every day people who change the world. John Adams was a poor author. Thomas Jefferson was a weak speaker. These men had great weaknesses, but they became great leaders. Now I really want to go read more biographies and come to understand what makes leaders truly great. First on the list: John Adams by David McCullough.

A Marvelous Work

2009-09-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

“A marvelous work.” Such an interesting phrase.

In the LDS church, we use it so frequently I sometimes doubt we actually comprehend what it means. This is not a phrase coined by men; rather, it came into use through divine inspiration and revelation from God to men. In my view, this sheds a whole new light on the phrase.

God created so many wondrous things. Mountains, oceans, children, birds. There is so much grandeur in the creations of the Almighty, that it seems quite a high standard to be considered “marvelous” in His sight. The greatness of the world is not referred to as “marvelous” as far as I am aware. Instead, a small, simple book, the Book of Mormon, is termed “marvelous.” When looking at this comparison, it throws a vivid vision of what the Book of Mormon means in an eternal perspective.

Without the Book of Mormon, the works of God would falter and the plan would not progress. Without the Book of Mormon, the world would be a waste. Without the Book of Mormon, there would have been no Restoration as we know it, and the church of the devil would reign. Without the Book of Mormon, all else is empty of meaning or eternal purpose. Therefore, the Book of Mormon is truly “a marvelous work.” It not only is a strong point in its own right, it is also the piece of the plan that ties it all together.

When God declares that “a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men,” He is not merely saying that the Book of Mormon is important to the plan. He is saying that it is pivotal and vital to the plan of eternal salvation. When I see the Book of Mormon from this perspective, it is no wonder that the declaration of its imminent emersion into the world is repeated so often in the early chapters of the Doctrine and Covenants.

I’m skimming back over the chapters where this declaration opens the revelation. In section 4, the overall theme is missionary work, in section 6 as well, along with instruction on revelation. These two themes dig deeper into how the Book of Mormon can become a pivotal force in the history of the world. As missionaries spread the gospel, they bring the Book of Mormon to nations and multitudes that had previously not had this knowledge or source of comfort. We all understand this pretty well. But when it’s put in conjunction with the verses about revelation, a new meaning unfolds.

When combined with revelation, the Book of Mormon is not just a source of knowledge and comfort; it also becomes a source of power. The power of the priesthood is explained to us through the Book of Mormon, as are gifts and talents possessed by all. These gifts and talents, if used in a righteous manner, become a power to those who wield them and for the benefit of those they are used for. All who come in contact with someone who has prayerfully studied and understood the Book of Mormon will be changed for the better. This power is the life-changing force that God was anticipating when he declared “a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men.”

The Confusing Thing About Roommates

2009-09-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

They may seem harmless. Or even worse, wonderful. They may also seem like a terror. Who knows! Don't let the first few weeks decide anything for you. Give it a month or two. Then accept what it is. You can't change them, you can only change you. If you aren't doing anything wrong, don't let them affect who you are as a person. Just try to get along. If you both do your best, it will work out.

And if it doesn't.... well, don't forget that this will only be one year, or semester of your life! Next year, it will be better. Don't allow one moment of now envelope and doom your forever. You have eternity to have fun and wonderful companions in a dorm, apartment, or home. The hard times right now will teach you something that will make you better. I promise. It's happened to me, and it still will. Every year, I'll grow a little more, and hopefully someday that eternal roommate will show up, and I won't have to worry about this again!

Connecting the Verses

2009-09-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

Currently I'm in several religion classes. I'm taking Doctrine and Covenants with Ari and we are taking from Brother Holzapfel. Once a week, I go to a special studies class on Revelation taught by Brother Draper. Finally, for my students, including Book of Mormon. The story about the 116 pages is a wonderful illustration of how God uses all his resources to keep his plan on track. Lessons from all 3 classes connect to this, and were constantly coming to mind as I read.

After Martin Harris lost the pages, God's first revelation to Joseph reassures him that "The works, and the designs, and the purposes of God cannot be frustrated, neither can they come to naught (D&C 3:1)." This pairs with a command God gave to Nephi, centuries earlier, to explain how and why he prepares his plans to be fail-safe. Anciently, Nephi wrote and Mormon retained through abridgments not one, but two records of the early Nephite and Lamanite history.

For God to have this ability to back up his plans, he has to have perfect knowledge of time to come. In the Book of Revelation, the script is in a surreal time because God sees what was, what is, and what will be in one eternal now. This does not mean agency is non-existent; it simply means that God sees where our agency will lead. In D&C 5:32, God tells Martin Harris what will happen if he fails to humble himself. This does not mean that Martin will choose that path, it only means that God knows the outcome of the choice.

Reading this, and seeing the connections makes it clearer to me what D&C 3:2 means. "For God doth not walk in crooked paths, neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left, neither doth he vary from that which he hath said. therefore his paths are straight, and his course is one eternal round." God travels in a straight and narrow path, but that path encompasses the complete and "eternal round" of all time. He creates His plans within the framework of this path, then puts them into action in a world that exists in all time. We, the people who walk this path, only see a moment of now, and a sliver of what was, but our lives play into the eternal glory of all that is, was, and is to come. Although we cannot see it, God's plan is interlaced everywhere, and what may seem like a small choice (keeping two records) may create a major difference in some other time (a second version kept uncorrupted).

African Slavery - An Insight

2009-09-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

In American Government with my Freshman Academy, we were given this prompt to blog about. Imagine that you live in Africa and have been captured by a slave trader and are being shipped across the Atlantic. Write a 500-750 word personal narrative on recording what your thoughts and experiences might be along your journey. As I read it, I almost decided to NOT blog along with my students. Then I told myself that I don't care if it's hard, it'll be good for me. I tell myself that sort of thing a lot, and I almost never regret it.

My mother is gone. And my father. I pray they are safe at home. My little brothers and sisters are safe. All except one. I was told to take them to safety when the white men were seen. But the littlest girl, she is only 3, was not with us. I went to look for her, and that is when they got me. I do not know what is happening at home. I only know I am in this empty ship, and cannot see because of the dark. Others are here too, but not many. Only a few of us will suffer.

It has been days now. More and more people have been brought. The food gets less by the day, and sometimes I don't get any because I am so far back in the pack. They have taken all our clothes. That way they fit more of us in. I cannot move. I hurt all over. Men and women crowd around. When no one fit anymore, the white men closed the lid. We don't get out. We can't. Under us, the water rolls, and I can tell that we are now sailing. I do not know where we are going, only that no one ever comes back from wherever it is.

The crowding is less. Not by much, but they throw the dead over the side. Each body gone gives us room. And we don't eat, so there is no more desire to move. But I still hate it. The old woman beside me is dead. The white men have not noticed yet, and she stinks. I will not say anything though. If I draw any attention to myself, I do not know what they will do. Maybe whip me, or worse. I might even be killed if they are in a bad mood. Who knows, maybe that is a better option then this life. I am lucky to be on the top level. I was on the bottom at first, but I snuck up higher a few meals ago (I cannot count days, I rarely see light.) Now I can breathe just a bit more. But we are more likely to be hit for the slightest sound.

Finally we are out. Naked, chained in rows, we sit on the deck. I do not know what will happen now, but it can never be as horrible as what I just left. I would prefer anything to the living hell of that ship. I'll never sail again.

Blog Renovation!!!

2009-09-10T16:41:00.001-07:00

I've been considering making some major changes to my blog, and I now have motivation. For my work at Freshman Academy, I attend class with my students. One of their classes is led by Dr. Holzapfel, my D&C professor. He asks his students to keep a weekly blog relating to what they learn in class. Therefore, I will be posting for D&C. At the same time, I will try to post for my students' American Government class as well.

At the same time, I will try to talk about what it's like living off campus, and being an experienced college student at BYU. It clearly talks about my perspective, but I want to try to help other students succeed. Right now I live in an all-girls apartment just below the hill south of campus. It's a very different experience from the dorms, but I think it's pretty fun. As the year goes on, I will talk about what's hard, what's easy, and such not in my life.

Oh, and I'm totally going to make a new layout and style too!! Super fun! :D

Wow...

2009-04-05T15:08:00.000-07:00

I don't even know what to say. General Conference is always powerful. But every year I learn to pay more attention and take more away. Unlike some people claim, it doesn't always bring me peace. I am so stressed, physically, mentally, and emotionally, that I don't think anything will help anymore. The best I can hope is that by applying what I heard, I will be able to pull through.

So much is changing again. I am starting to get used to change. Ever since I got here, just as I get comfortable with life, it changes. I came, and settled in, and then all the big challenges of first semester hit me. Then I got a boyfriend, which I never expected. And then I went home for Christmas, but it didn't feel like home. Then I came back, and was in a different room and new classes. Then I broke up. And now everyone is getting ready to leave and move on. I am not sure I am ready to move on. College moves to fast to allow much time to enjoy the now.

I don't have regrets very often. And this isn't really a regret. I just sort of wish that I had tried to take life slower. It might not have worked, it wasn't always moving at my timing. But it would have been nice. Oh well... nothing I can do, and life is good. So I will move on anyway. I have homework to do and grades to maintain. If I can make it through this semester, I will be fine.

Almost Done!

2009-03-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, there is almost no time left at school. This has been a great year. Not easy. Not always fun. But always wonderful. Every hardship I dealt with was so worth it. And obviously the fun times were great! But now the year is almost done. Last year, I couldn't even imagine what college would be like. And now I just want to do it all again. There are things I wish I had done differently, but most everything has been just right.

At some point, I think I will post a more detailed outline of the year. I am often very cryptic. I have hurt enough people by being blunt, that I am struggling to find a balance. But, I would love to summarize my whole year.

But for right now, I wanted to spew (I like that word) about a conversation I had the other day. One of my friends is really into the power of social networking. She and my dad could have a great chat about Web 2.0. She uses her blog to clarify our religious beliefs and is really involved on the online discussion about that. Her blog is really meaningful. I wish I had a meaningful blog.
What I have going right now is good. It's a great way to let my friends know what is happening in my life. But I would like to contribute to my world. That has been something I have always wanted to do.

I wouldn't change this blog. It really is just to let you know about my life. But what would my other blog focus on? I don't have much religious knowledge. I am sad to admit that, but I don't feel that my understanding is adequate to help others. The same with politics. Not only do I not know much, but I don't want a political blog. But what could I do? Maybe an advice blog? Or a story blog? Or I could make a couple and keep them all updated. Comment and give me suggestions! I really don't know what to write about.

Dance Sport was Amazing!!

2009-03-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't competed in anything for over a year now. I had forgotten how great it feels. When I did Tae Kwon Do, I knew my ability, and it was so fun to, well, show off. Over the past year, I have to admit that I have not done much interesting. At least in the performance world. But I loved it. It's weird. You have something, and when it leaves, you miss it at first, but you get used to it. And then, suddenly, you get another taste. That's when you really feel what you lost. But I am lucky, my taste is just the first in a whole meal.
Today was BYU Dance Sport. For my dance class, I got extra credit to perform. So I decided I would. I didn't even tell my parents. It was no big deal. I practice a lot, and was excited, but it wasn't a huge deal. And then, last night, I was packing my bag, and I realized how fun this was going to be. I thought "I'll get to do this a couple times a year. Neat!"
But today, I realized I wanted more than that. It was amazing! I got cut on the first Cha Cha heat, and the second Swing heat, but I wanted to keep dancing. I already knew I loved dance, but I had always just constrained myself to social, and never expected to perform. But now, I want to perform. I want to practice for hours to look that good. To feel that good.
This morning was so great! :D I loved it, and I will keep doing it.

The Quote Wall Totally Rocks!!

2009-03-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

So, we have this quote wall in my room. Anything highly repeatable, out-there funny, or beyond awkward is at risk to end up on it. Last night, or more like this morning, Ari, Katie and I counted up the total number of quotes. It was exactly 100! It is such an achievement. I doubt anyone else collected 100 quotes in less than a semester. Especially as funny/awkward as these.

At the end of the semester, we are going to post a large number of them online. Right now I just want to give you a teaser taste and mention a couple of my favorites. Sorry, but I won't explain them. Email me or call or something if you just need to know, and I might tell you.

Did you think your pants would just climb off??

Guys, I kinda wanna get married right now.

I'm going to hang up in 3... 4... oh, wait.

I was totally half-indenting to get up!

Alright. So there you have it: your first sample of the infamous quote wall. I really just felt the need to celebrate the 100th quote. It really is an accomplishment.

Ghosts

2009-02-28T15:02:00.000-08:00

I really don't want to be rude or immature. But let me just put this one out here: why do people from the past have to come and bring up past problems for no apparent reason? It is really hurtful. Just let it go already!!! I didn't do anything. You were a pain beyond all comprehension. And now you are getting mad at me about it?! Just leave me alone. I don't want you haunting me for life.

I'm Sick and Tired

2009-02-21T09:30:00.000-08:00

Very literally in fact. I have a horrible cold, and never seem to get enough sleep. 8 hours 3 nights in a row didn't do anything for me, and now that I am sick, it takes me way too long to do my homework, and so I sleep even less.
All year, I have worked hard at staying healthy. Lots of girls caught something last semester, and I avoided it. But then February came. I always get sick in February. I was a fool for thinking I could avoid it. Despite fighting it, and trying to convince myself and others I am fine, I really can't claim that.
Can I just have a day off from life? Take all my tests and do my assignments in a couple of days? Please? That's the problem with being sick at college: the professors have so many students that there isn't much they will do for one student who gets sick. It really sucks, but I guess I'll just keep working.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, great, you want to be sweet and romantic. I totally understand. I like that sort of stuff. I love flowers. I love getting dressed up fancy for a dance. I love being with someone I like (but I have never done that on Valentines day, it is always several someones, which is good too).
BUT... This just gets a little silly. Thanks, but I don't know why we still hand out valentines like 4th graders. I like homemade ones better. You thought about me, and didn't pay anything into the insane commercial side of the holiday.
And everyone hands out chocolate. I love chocolate, but I am trying to be healthy, lose weight and look good. Chocolate doesn't do much for that. Sadly, I have to admit that I did buy candy to share with my friends. But I am keeping it in my room so they can have as much or as little as they want. Come on, this is one day that makes me at least very self-conscious of my looks. All these adorable couples are walking around, and I am all by myself. Apparently I need to do something. Guys just don't ask girls like me out. I don't know why, they just don't. So then I eat chocolate and feel worse. That doesn't make sense. Anyone want to come eat a bunch of Hershey Kisses? I don't want them. Give me flowers any day.
And then there is just the, I don't know... expectation, that Valentines brings. What if you like someone, but that doesn't matter because it just won't work? We feel Single Awareness Day worse than anyone. Or you just don't have a crush so you just don't care? Everyone keeps bringing it up and I am sure at least some of them think "why?!" I mean, come on!!
And finally, for those who have a Valentine, don't you agree that the huge commercial emphasis on the day makes it harder to enjoy? Who needs expensive gifts? Can't you just go to some free activity, just the two of you? If I were in that situation, I would be happy with dinner at the Cannon, the housing dance (for free) and an evening watching a movie. Maybe just us, maybe with some friends. So, if you have dining plan, that adds up to $0.
So why do we all need to spend a bunch of money? To shove the holiday in everyone's face so that some big companies can make money.
OK, I have now joined all the other bloggers who are probably posting about the same thing online today. So that was totally pointless. I just didn't want to put this on FB, cuz I don't want to offend all the adorable couples at BYU. Especially the lobby couples. They're cute; like puppies; and other small animals. :D

As Time Goes On

2009-02-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

There are turning points in life. Sometimes you see them coming, other times you realize it when they arrive, and other times it is not until after the fact that you know the significance of an experience.
Graduation was one. I saw that coming. I had no idea what it would lead to, but I knew that life would change. The next week, I began my first job (making bank, I might add) and truly left high school behind.
Moving to college was another turning point I anticipated. Throughout my life, I have been a home-body. Quite out of character, therefore, was my excitement. I was excited to have more freedom, a roommate, a new life.
Roommate, yeah... I didn't see that one coming. It was quite an experience, but that is all that needs saying. I knew, right in the middle of it all, that this would affect my life deeply.
Then there are things I look back at, and realize the huge impact they have had. The most trivial is Harry Potter. With my family, I am a huge fan. I love speculation, and being part of that experience was spectacular. It has shaped my interests and thought processes deeply. I still love speculation, but now I put that passion to deeper, and somewhat more applicable uses (doomsday tapes anyone?).
Then there are all the other turning points I am too lazy to list. Some hurt really bad. Others are really fun. Whatever it is, a turning point makes a change in not only my life, but in my personality. Just like everyone I meet shapes me, everything I go through changes me. I am grateful for everyone of these changes. No matter how hard it was, it made me learn something. I am a better me because of every turning point in my life.

Missionaries Rock!!!

2009-02-04T11:07:00.000-08:00

I was so surprised and pleased to see Graham today! He is going into the MTC in a few hours. I was just in the Wilk, and said hi to Jasper and Sean. They were both like "Hey Clarissa. Look, it's Graham!" At first I was a bit confused, and then I turned around. He looked so sharp and ready to go, in his suit and tie. It was amazing to see my home teacher preparing to go serve. He will be amazing.
This was a real blessing to see him. I have been having a really rough week, and it was inspiring to see him. His parents were with him, and he is ready to go. Two years in Paraguey (I think that's right)! Just thinking of missionaries makes me happy, but seeing a friend leaving is even better. Thanks to all you guys who are going out to serve. You rule!!

Third Tries a Charm

2009-02-02T15:26:00.000-08:00

I tried to write this 3 times now. I can't do it right. Ben already made 2 posts. So I can do it too. I want to write something, but not on facebook where people I don't know read it all the time.
Ben and I broke up. He was acting weird all day, and then he brought it up. It's for the very best reason: his mission. He does need to get ready, but this is still so hard. I don't like sticking my emotions online, so that is all I'll say. I just thought I should record it. I did write in my journal for like 1/2 hour earlier today. Don't know where to go from here... I never had a boyfriend, so I have never broken up before. Plus, I never saw my friends break up. So this is all new. Huh...

What I Think about American Heritage

2009-01-26T15:06:00.001-08:00

I am bored. And I tired. And don't think I have enough posts on here. I am actually going to email you friends of mine to let you know I have a blog. I need to look at my old posts. I can't even remember what I have written.
Anywho... Since a new semester has started, I thought it would be fun to write a bit about each of my classes. I am in American Heritage right now. I almost posted my notes, but then realized that it didn't make sense to anyone but me. We are talking about the commerce clause from Article 1 of the Constitution. More specifically, we are discussing the case US vs. Lopez, 1995. We are debating whether or not the commerce clause is a valid argument for the gun-free school zone federal law. The court ruled that the commerce clause was being read to broadly, and the federal government did not have a hold on this case.
There, those actually are effective notes. I really like this class. It is easy to be distracted, and some of the reading is way to long in my opinion, but overall it is great. We discuss current events and the founding of America at the same time. Like we talked about Obama to understand who qualifies as a "person" under the Constitution in our days and when the constitution was established.
We have two text books, The Constitution: A Biography by Amar and The Thirteen American Arguments by Fineman. I love the Fineman book. Amar's is very interesting, but also very long and slow. Fineman takes a wide view and makes his discussion of hot debates very useful and understandable. So I reccomend both of them if you like history or politics. But if you don't have much time, Fineman's reads much more quickly.
I might post again later. I want to share the joy of my dorm with everyone. And sorry to everyone I forgot to tell about that. Most no one knows I have this. But I want to change that. So yeah... Talk to you later! :D

Boycotting Facebook

2008-12-10T21:04:00.000-08:00

No one will read this until the point is gone, but I wanted to write this anyway. Some of you won't find out I have a blog until I get home, and the only person who knows I have a blog is the one who came up with the boycott idea.
Now Ben didn't call it a boycott exactly. He just said he wasn't getting on Facebook until after finals. I thought that was a brilliant idea. So I have not logged on since Sunday, and now it is Wednesday. Only one week left, but I am enjoying this so much. Maybe I will stop checking Facebook during the week. Or make certain hours everyday "log off hours" where I don't get on, no matter what. That would be good.
Basically, I am already done with almost all my homework for the semester, and will have tons of study time this weekend. I feel so productive!

Ben was right.

2008-11-27T20:28:00.001-08:00

I never planned on doing much with this. I just wanted to have one. For no reason...
But Ben said I would start using this blog now that I have it. I guess so.
Tomorrow I am going shopping. I love Black Friday. Sadly, I will be going by myself. First time ever. All by myself. Like the rest of this week has felt like. I did hang out with Ari yesterday, and went to Anne's today, but the evenings have been really lonely. Especially last night and tonight. I wish my friends would come back early. I miss them. I used to love being alone. I didn't think three days with fewer people would be a problem. I thought tomorrow would be the only hard day. Black Friday was always a day I spent with my dad, hours just the two of us. But after living so long with so many people, it feels so much lonelier. If it wouldn't make me feel guilty, I would ask people to come home early. But since no one reads this it doesn't matter... I am talking in circles and not making sense. Maybe I will actually go do homework...

Umm.. yeah...

2008-11-21T23:39:00.000-08:00

Well, Ben had a blog. And I tried to comment on it, and it said I was signed into "Blogger." I then realized Blogger is owned by Google. And I have gmail... so I decided I might as well just get a blog. I probably won't post very often. I just want to say I have a blog. Sorta random, I know. Most likely, I will forget to update or even let people know I have this. It seriously is "just cuz I can." Whatever. :D