Spiritual Sunday: A Brother Like That

One of my favorite Christmas stories is "A Brother Like That." I love the message and how it inspires me to be a better person, to be a brother like that. 

Paul received an automobile from his brother as a Christmas present. On Christmas Eve when Paul came out of his office, a street urchin was walking around the shiny new car, admiring it.

"Is this your car, Mister?" he asked.

Paul nodded. "My brother gave it to me for Christmas." The boy was astounded. "You mean your brother gave it to you and it didn't cost you nothing? Boy, I wish..." He hesitated. Of course Paul knew what he was going to wish for. He was going to wish he had a brother like that. But what the lad said jarred Paul all the way down to his heels.

"I wish," the boy went on, "that I could be a brother like that."

Paul looked at the boy in astonishment, then impulsively he added, "Would you like to take a ride in my automobile?"

"Oh yes, I'd love that."

After a short ride, the boy turned and with his eyes aglow, said, "Mister, would you mind driving in front of my house?" Paul smiled a little. He thought he knew what the lad wanted. He wanted to show his neighbors that he could ride home in a big automobile. But Paul was wrong again.

"Will you stop where those two steps are?" the boy asked. He ran up the steps. Then in a little while Paul heard him coming back, but he was not coming fast. He was carrying his little crippled brother. He sat him down on the bottom step, then sort of squeezed up against him and pointed to the car. "There she is, Buddy, just like I told you upstairs. His brother gave it to him for Christmas and it didn't cost him a cent. And some day I'm gonna give you one just like it...then you can see for yourself all the pretty things in the Christmas windows that I've been trying to tell you about."

Paul got out and lifted the lad to the front seat of his car. The shining-eyed older brother climbed in beside him and the three of them began a memorable holiday ride.

That Christmas Eve, Paul learned what Jesus meant when he had said: "It is more blessed to give..." 

I know sometimes it's hard to be a brother like that. It's easy to say, "I don't have a brother like that, so why should I be like that?" But the fact is, we do have a brother like that, Jesus Christ. I hope we can all  keep him in our hearts these next few days as Christmas is upon us. Merry Christmas!  

Spiritual Sunday: New and Everlasting Covenant

A few days ago, I was reading in Ezekiel and came across ". . . I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant . . ." (37:26) the footnote for "everlasting covenant" was for the Topical Guide "New and Everlasting Covenant" and it got me thinking. I've never realized what exactly the New and Everlasting Covenant is. It's something I've just felt like I missed out on. Everyone else seemed to get it, so I figured there was something wrong with me. I never wanted to ask and be embarrassed, but on the flip side if it was something nobody knew, then the teacher would be embarrassed. And if it's something no one knows but everyone knows nobody knows (you still with me?) then asking would still be awkward. So I never asked and just figured I never knew and couldn't ever know. 

But I'm older now, and took research into my own hands. If it was listed in the Topical Guide, would it be listed in the Bible Dictionary? The answer is no. So I returned to the Topical Guide and looked at some of the related scriptures. They didn't clear anything up, but they did give me two ideas. 

1. Any promise the Lord makes is both new and everlasting. It is new when he makes it and everlasting because He, we, and the covenant are all eternal. My reasoning is that the different times it is used in the scriptures are mostly different. In the case of Noah and the ark, God promises to never again flood the earth: "And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth." (Gen 9:16)  There is no other promise where God promises to not flood the earth. He's already promise that; He can't promise it again. So it stands to reason that any more covenants He makes would also be new and everlasting. 

2. The New and Everlasting Covenant is the sealing, or binding, power of the priesthood. So often we hear "the new and everlasting covenant of [eternal or celestial] marriage" (D&C 131:2). D&C 132:19 also implies it's celestial marriage. Ergo, because of the power of the Melchizedek priesthood, we are able to sealed, and that is the new and everlasting covenant.  

I wasn't satisfied with my two ideas though. Could it be that simple and straightforward? Could I really figure it out by myself? I needed more "proof" so to speak. I needed someone to spell it out for me. 

Don't laugh, but I turned to Google. I wanted to know the church's stance on it, of course, but I also wanted to see what other religions thought. The phrase is in The Bible, even the Torah portion, so Christians and Jews should have something to say about it. The first page of Google was basically LDS sources; other religions almost see it as two separate covenants, which was unhelpful. It just didn't seem right. Other religions also vaguely referred to Jesus as The New and Everlasting Covenant himself. Other of the top Google results were from anti-/former LDS sites. Most of them think it refers to polygamy (from the D&C scriptures, I'm sure) or is taking away from the remembrance and importance of Jesus Christ as the New and Everlasting Covenant himself. 

The logic for Jesus as the New and Everlasting Covenant is that God made a covenant, the "old covenant," with the Jews. Jesus fulfilled that promise, law, covenant, and became the "new covenant" and because he is eternal, also everlasting. 

The first site I found was a BYU site written by D Cecil Clark (of whom I've never before heard and Google was unhelpful), who posits: 

The new and everlasting covenant is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The sum of all gospel covenants that God makes with mankind is called "the new and everlasting covenant" and consists of several individual covenants, each of which is called "a new and an everlasting covenant." It is "new" when given to a person or a people for the first time, and "everlasting" because the gospel of Jesus Christ and Plan of Salvation existed before the world was formed and will exist forever (MD, pp. 479-80).

Baptism, marriage, and all other covenants from God necessary for salvation are new and everlasting (D&C 22:1;45:9;66:2;132:4-7). Holy covenants have been introduced anew in each of the dispensations of the gospel from Adam to Joseph Smith, and have been available whenever the gospel of Jesus Christ has been upon the earth. Therefore, these covenants are spoken of as everlasting. Covenants of salvation and exaltation are everlasting in the sense also that once entered into they are forever binding and valid only if they are not broken by transgression.

All covenants between God and mankind are part of the new and everlasting covenant (D&C 22;132:6-7). Thus, celestial marriage is a new and an everlasting covenant (D&C 132:4) or the new and everlasting covenant of marriage. Some covenants, such as baptism, have force in all dispensations. Other covenants are made for special purposes in particular dispensations; circumcision as a sign of a covenant is of this type (MD, p. 479). The same eternal covenant conditions may be established through other ritual signs at other times.

Okay. That makes sense. But what else is out there? Who else thinks that? lds.org gives us a similar, yet more succinct, answer. "The fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ (D&C 66:2). It is new every time it is revealed anew following a period of apostasy. It is everlasting in the sense that it is God’s covenant and has been enjoyed in every gospel dispensation where people have been willing to receive it. The new and everlasting covenant was revealed again to men on earth by Jesus Christ through the prophet Joseph Smith. It contains sacred ordinances administered by priesthood authority—such as baptism and temple marriage—that provide for man’s salvation, immortality, and eternal life. When people accept the gospel and promise to keep God’s commandments, God covenants to give them the blessings of his new and everlasting covenant."

Alright, I'm starting to get my answer. I can get that. It's the what everyone thinks put together. It's Jesus, the priesthood, every time the Lord makes a promise, it's the whole gospel. That makes sense. That's simple. (Why do I not like the simple answers? The church is full of them!) So I was right, partially. I was just incomplete. But now I know what exactly the New and Everlasting Covenant is. 

I'll let D Todd Christofferson (Quorum of the Twelve) close for me. The video sums it up quite nicely. I especially like the idea that it is "newly restored in each dispensation."

text of video: 

The scriptures speak of the new and everlasting covenant. The new and everlasting covenant is the gospel of Jesus Christ. In other words, the doctrines and commandments of the gospel constitute the substance of an everlasting covenant between God and man that is newly restored in each dispensation. If we were to state the new and everlasting covenant in one sentence it would be this: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Jesus explained what it means to believe in Him: "Now this is the commandment [or in other words, this is the covenant]: Repent, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized in my name, that ye may be sanctified by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless before me at the last day" (3 Nephi 27:20). (Ensign, May 2009)

But here's more "proof" if you need it, plus they're nice quotes:

Joseph Fielding Smith (while in the Quorum of the Twelve)

What is the new and everlasting covenant? I regret to say that there are some members of the Church who are misled and misinformed in regard to what the new and everlasting covenant really is. The new and everlasting covenant is the sum total of all gospel covenants and obligations. (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:156)

Now there is a clear-cut definition in detail of the new and everlasting covenant. It is everything—the fulness of the gospel. So marriage properly performed, baptism, ordination to the priesthood, everything else—every contract, every obligation, every performance that pertains to the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise according to his law here given, is a part of the new and everlasting covenant. (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:158)

Bruce R. McConkie (Quorum of the Twelve)

"The new and everlasting covenant" is the fulness of the gospel, and the gospel is the covenant of salvation that the Lord makes with men. It is new because it has been revealed anew in our day; it is everlasting because it has always been had by faithful people, not only on this earth but on all the earths inhabited by the children of our Father. (Brigham Young University, 6 November 1977) 

[Doesn't McConkie's read similar to lds.org?? :)]

Spiritual Sunday: Jonathon Napela

Today in Stake Conference, our Stake President spoke of an awesome man in LDS history, Jonathon Napela, and I couldn't help but try to learn more about him and share with all of you. 

One of the earliest coverts in Hawaii, Napela was a prominent member of his society and became an important member the church and helped George Q Cannon translate the Book of Mormon into Hawaiian. 

A stand-out story from the stake president's talk told of a time when Napela and Cannon prayed for good weather for an outside meeting. Cannon started to worry that the weather would not hold and began to make preparations to move the meeting inside. Napela was confused at Cannon's actions and asked him, "Did we not pray for good weather?" The meeting was held outside and the weather was not an issue. 

Napela was also instrumental in the missionary efforts in Hawaii. He taught his language to Cannon, who returned the favor. Napela offered to open his home to all incoming missionaries and teach them the language and the customs of his people before they began to teach and serve. He was setting the stage and planting ideas for missionary training, for the MTC. 

What stuck out most to me of the tales of the life of Napela was his devotion to his dear wife, Kitty. She contracted leprosy and was to be quarantined for the rest of her life. Napela applied to go to the leper colony with her. He said he was devoted to his wife and had promised before God that he would be with her "til death do us part." Though death would surely come soon, he could not abandon his wife, he could not break his promise. He was allowed to go into quarantine with his wife. In the leper colony he still taught the gospel and presided over the saints there. Eventually, Napela, too, contracted leprosy and after six years in the colony preceded his wife in death. 

Learning about Napela today was so neat. I had an abstract knowledge that the church grew early and strong in Hawaii, but I was not familiar with the people or the stories. I had never heard of Napela before, and his story touched me. He was a good strong man, devoted to his wife and his God. He is an inspiration. 

Spiritual Sunday: General Conference

This weekend was the 182 Semiannual General Conference for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Here's some of my favorite parts from today (not direct quotes, just kind of highlights and my thoughts).

Boyd K Packer

• We all make mistakes, what is important is fixing our mistakes and repenting of them.
• Our message [as members of the church] is one of Faith, Hope, and Jesus as our Savior.

Jeffrey R Holland

• I always forget how little knowledge Jesus's disciples had upon his death. Elder Holland reminded me of how limited their knowledge was in the gospel, especially as we understand it today. 
• Elder Holland told the story of the disciples after Christ's death and their return to fishing. It was a similar experience to when Christ first called them to serve. Once the disciples realized Christ was resurrected, they were once again called to serve him. 
• Jesus asked Peter, "Do you love me?" three times, reminding him of experiences just days before. "Then feed my sheep!"
• Will God ask us the same question upon our meeting? 
• Love equals loyalty; if we love God, we are loyal to Him. 
• Christ's death was the beginning of Christianity, not the end. 
• The call is to come and stay true. The Lord expects our love at every stage of our lives. 
• Am I feeding His sheep? 

President Thomas S Monson

• Don't dwell on the negative, take a step back and find the positive.
• "Men are that they might have joy"
• Never postpone a prompting! 
• Allow yourself to be an instrument in the Lord's hands
• The opportunity to be a blessing in the life of another often comes unexpectedly.

Robert D Hales

• What does it mean to be a Christian? 
• Elder Hales retold the story of the disciples, but as an example to quickly return to the Lord after leaving him and receive his blessings. 
• Feed His sheep! 
• "The Savior will make us adequate to his work"
• "Through His love and grace we can become more Christian Christians"
• Am I a good Christian? 

If you watched conference, what was your favorite part? What did you learn? 

When the Black Girl Sings

Bil Wright's When the Black Girl Sings tell the coming of age story of an adopted young black girl. Adoption is the texture, rather than the storyline, but the novel does deal with important issues such as race, religion (but it isn't preachy!), having to make choices, and growing up. 


While well written and teaching a good lesson, When the Black Girl Sings didn't really appeal to me. It just didn't pull me in. I didn't identify with any of the characters. I think I only recommend it to kids who are faced with the same issues the novel deals with. 

The Year of the Flood

 "So, if you were making the world, you'd make it better?" I said. Better than God, was 

what I meant.  All of a sudden I was feeling pious, like Bernice.  Like a Gardener.  

"Yes," he said. "As a matter of fact, I would."

The Year of the Flood is slated as a sequel to Oryx and Crake; it's really more of a companion novel in my mind. It follows the forward-backward/past&present structure, as well as time frame, of Oryx and Crake with different characters. The Year of the Flood wraps up the cliffhanger of Oryx and Crake, which was very good. It's interesting, however, that when I read Oryx and Crake I wanted it to end one way, but with The Year of the Flood I wanted a different ending, luckily the one Margaret gave me!  

The characters of The Year of the Flood belong to a religious group, almost a cult, called "God's Gardeners." The story is told from multiple points of view of women from the gardeners. I found these characters much more relateable than Jimmy and Crake. Possibly because of their gender. Possibly because of the way it was written. Possibly because they are more relateable. However, the storyline was not as exciting as Oryx and Crake, (because I already knew what was coming?)  but I really like and recommend this novel!

Read on!

Hong Kong: Kowloon

For our last day in Hong Kong we went out to Kowloon to go to the temple.

It was amazing. The interior was very simple and elegant. It was the

perfect blend of the LDS church and Chinese feel. We did a session in Cantonese, 

so I had to wear the headphones, but that actually helped me learn a lot more.

It was a really neat experience!

If you look really hard you can see Moroni in the background! 

Lunch! 

That evening we took another lovely, winding bus ride up to Victoria Peak 

to look at the skyline. It was awesome and a great way to end our trip!

mmmm. . . fuzzy hair!

Hong Kong at night!

Church in Tsing Yi

For Sunday we had planned to go to the LDS church on the island, but I had one of my wicked migraines, so Cass let me sleep in. Once I felt like a human, we headed over to the closest church near us in Tsing Yi. We didn't know the meeting schedule so had to wait a while for the international ward and just hung out at the church. 

The ward we went to was mostly full of Philippina sisters. It's very common for women from the Philippines to leave there families, come to Hong Kong, and work. I never realized how close the Philippines is to Hong Kong, but you can see how close they are here: 

Some women even had babies back in the Philippines! Babies that they never get to see! But here they were, working so hard in Hong Kong, mostly raising other people's children. And they were the friendliest ladies ever! 

I haven't felt so welcome in a ward for a very long time. I think almost every single woman in that ward came up to introduce themselves. I was blown away by their kindness and testimonies. If we ever move to Hong Kong, that's  the ward I want to go to. Those ladies were an amazing example to me. 

Sing You Home

Jodi Picoult's latest, Sing You Home, is controversial, same as any other Jodi book.

It deals with miscarriage, IFV, stillbirth.

Divorce.

Embryos as property or people. 

Lesbians.

Religion.

It's all over the place, but so very much together. Jodi was asked why she mixed the topics together, and she said she couldn't see doing them apart. They belonged together.

And in Sing You Home, they most certainly do. 

As always, I feel a little hesitant in recommending Jodi; she's a little risque for the conservative type. I, however, found this one to be not too extreme or explicit.

And, of course, I loved it to death.

Read on!  

Spiritual Sunday: Attitude of Gratitude

I am not a very grateful, or thankful, person. In fact, sometimes I make fun of other people for being grateful. I'm a hater; you know that [and sometimes, it's just cheesy, or borderline pathetic. Admit it. I'm right]. But I'm trying to be better. I found some of these quotes which help me understand the importance of being grateful.

"Gratitude is a mark of a noble soul and a refined character. We like to be around those who are grateful. They tend to brighten all around them. They make others feel better about themselves.They tend to be more humble, more joyful, more likable." Joseph B Worthlin

"Mercies and blessings come in different forms--sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, 'Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things' (D&C 59:7). All things means just that: good things, difficult things--not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy. This is another evidence of His love." Bonnie D Parkin

"We need to be more grateful. It's one of the marks of strong character, to have a feeling of thanksgiving and gratitude for blessings that are ours. We need more of that spirit in our homes, in our daily associations, in church, everywhere. It's so easy to cultivate the spirit of appreciation." Ezra Taft Benson

In that spirit, here's my cheesy list of things I'm grateful for:

• My family, near and far. I'm grateful to have Cass as I husband. I'm grateful to have been raised by my parents, who are always showing their love for me. I'm grateful for my brothers and sisters, my  grandparents, my uncle and cousins. I'm grateful for Cass's family, who has welcomed me whole-heartedly.
• My jobs, both of them. They can be a struggle at times, but I am so grateful to be employed, and to be working while doing what I love. Teenagers can be a pain, but every so often it's worth it to work with them. And ya'll know how I'm addicted to dance.
• Books, my other addiction.
• Cassidy's job. Cass's job has been such a blessing, providing us with income and free board while still allowing him to take 18 credit hours. Life would be so much harder without.
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know, sometimes I'm a hater. But I'm trying. And the church really has been a blessing in my life. And I'm so grateful that Cass and I will get to be together for all eternity. 

How about you? What are you grateful for? 

Spiritual Sunday: Visiting Teaching

I've been thinking all day about what I wanted to blog about today and nothing seemed quite right, til I remembered what I had done earlier this week. I did my visiting teaching! I don't really enjoy visiting teaching because I have a hard time talking to people I don't know very well and I just don't have much experience with it in general. Luckily, my companion is a member of the Relief Society Presidency, and she has been just great at arranging the visits and helping the conversation flow. This month it's my turn to do the lesson and I was really nervous; I had never done it before.

Wednesday came around and it had just been a rough day for me in general. I really did not want to go visiting teaching. I wanted to change into my jammies and watch tv and drink diet coke and eat junk food. But I told Dani I would go visiting teaching with her. And I went. 

The message this month is "If We Do Not Doubt" by Julie Beck. She discusses the stripling warriors and how 

“If they did not doubt, God would deliver them” (Alma 56:47).

saying:

“We do not doubt our mothers knew it” (Alma 56:48).

 She encourages us to strive to be like these mothers, so that our children, too, will not doubt we knew it. She concludes with

Latter-day Saint women who recognize that their strength comes from the Lord’s Atonement do not give up during difficult and discouraging times. As covenant keepers, we excel at upholding, nurturing, and protecting children and youth so that one day we might say of this rising generation, “Never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all” (Alma 56:45).

 Even though Sister Beck didn't say it, I think it's also okay to take out of this message that even as women, we can be as the warriors too. We can emulate both the warriors and the mothers. It takes all types of courage.

Dani and I discussed this message with our sister and I really had a great time. We were able to just talk about our lives, which isn't something I get to do with other girls very often. And I left with a smile on my face. I didn't want to go visiting teaching, but I'm glad I did. It totally changed my attitude, and it wasn't the message that did it.  

Spiritual Sunday: Jeffrey R Holland

Jeffrey R Holland is one of my favorite general authorities to listen to at general conference. He was set apart in 1994, so I don't really remember a time when he wasn't a GA. He spoke at a stake conference of ours around this time, and Mom broke the rules and took us up to meet him after. He gave Michael a kiss on the cheek! 

Interestingly enough, he got a BA in English before started teaching Institute. He also has two Masters and a Ph.D. I think he's absolutely amazing.

My favorite talk of his is The Other Prodigal. He really speaks to me, and it was nice to hear things from a different perspective. Here's a lovely snippit or two:

"He forgets for a moment that his faithfulness has been and always will be rewarded."

"But the older brother lives in some confinement, too. He has, as yet, been unable to break out of the prison of himself. He is haunted by the green-eyed monster of jealousy. He feels taken for granted by his father and disenfranchised by his brother, when neither is the case."

 And best of all:  

"How can we overcome such a tendency so common in almost everyone? For one thing, we can do as these two sons did and start making our way back to the Father. We should do so with as much haste and humility as we can summon. Along the way we can count our many blessings and we can applaud the accomplishments of others. Best of all, we can serve others, the finest exercise for the heart ever prescribed. But finally these will not be enough. When we are lost, we can “come to ourselves,” but we may not always be able to “find ourselves,” and, worlds without end, we cannot “save ourselves.” Only the Father and His Only Begotten Son can do that. Salvation is in Them only. So we pray that They will help us, that They will “come out” to meet and embrace us and bring us into the feast They have prepared."

In my life, especially growing up, it was so easy to align myself with The Prodigal Son's Brother, to find myself jealous of others and the attention they get. I always thought of this poor brother, this hard worker, who was continuously ignored, and I wondered when he would get his party, his fattened calf. But he already gets it all. Those who remain righteous get their reward, and those who return get theirs. Elder Holland ends by telling us that God loves each of us, regardless of the baggage we carry, and I have come to learn this for myself. Being happy for others does not diminish me or my work. And who are we to deny others the blessings of heaven? Should we all not want all to succeed?

And this is why it is my favorite talk. It came at a point in my life when I really needed to hear it, and it is still valuable today.  It is a good reminder to not place myself above others, nor judge them. I hope you all can give this talk a look and enjoy it as I have.  

What do you think? How does this apply to you?  Does this apply to you? 

Modest is Hottest

"I find the whole concept of being ‘sexy’ embarrassing and confusing. If I do an interview with photographs people desperately want to change me - dye my hair blonder, pluck my eyebrows, give me a fringe. Then there’s the choice of clothes. I know everyone wants a picture of me in a mini-skirt. But that’s not me. I feel uncomfortable. I’d never go out in a mini-skirt. It’s nothing to do with protecting the Hermione image. I wouldn’t do that. Personally, I don’t actually think it’s even that sexy. What’s sexy about saying, ‘I’m here with my boobs out and a short skirt, have a look at everything I’ve got?’ My idea of sexy is that less is more. The less you reveal the more people can wonder. - Emma Watson

I've seen this around on facebook the past few days, with the added caption of "Modest is Hottest" and it kind of drives me crazy.  She never said "Modest is Hottest" and is truly talking about something much different: being her own beautiful self.  This also reminded me of a subject I've been meaning to write about and haven't yet. So here we go.

Here's the thing: "Modest is Hottest" is a huge contradiction. 

mod·est  (mdst)

adj.

1. Having or showing a moderate estimation of one's own talents, abilities, and value.

2. Having or proceeding from a disinclination to call attention to oneself; retiring or diffident. See Synonyms at shy¹.

3. Observing conventional proprieties in speech, behavior, or dress.

4. Free from showiness or ostentation; unpretentious. See Synonyms at plain.

5. Moderate or limited in size, quantity, or range; not extreme: a modest price; a newspaper with a modest circulation. (emphasis mine)

Hot
	1) Having extreme sexual attractiveness. (emphasis mine).

See? How can one be "unpretentious" or "not extreme" in any area while also "having extreme sexual attractiveness"? Modest, ergo, cannot be hottest! And in practice, aside from the linguistic contradiction, this is a problem. Women are told to dress modest to detract attention from males. But if we are hot, are we not attracting their attention as well? So we cover up to be modest and keep those easily swayed men at bay. And then, in being modest, we become the hottest, directly attracting the attention of those same men! What's a girl to do? How can you keep yourself from being a sexual object? For in being modest, you are hottest, which is directly correlated to being sexy and a sexual object of lust.

Another problem I see in this: only women are told "Modest is Hottest." If you were to see two teenagers walking down the street, both in shorts and a tank top, one a boy and one a girl, who is immodest? The girl. They're showing the same exact thing. 

In my experience, I have generally heard men, or boys, saying this phrase. Men are telling women what to do, how to dress, in order for men to find them "hot." Why do women have to dress for men? Can they not dress the way they want? Yes, sometimes covering up is much more sensual than a naked body. But that is something entirely different. There is a beauty to being yourself, that's what Emma Watson is talking about. Not that modest is hottest.  Yet now women are throwing around this phrase that their modest clothes are what makes them so hot. Clearly they are more righteous and more deserving of male attention.

I also have a problem with the young-ness of people bantering about this phrase. I know I was told it once in high school; we went to parent-teacher conferences (rather, my mom did and I went to the basketball game) after dance class and I was in a tank. The tightness of the tank and my dance pants were not the problem. My "undeniably sexy" shoulders were the problem. The boys were the first to say it, but an older sister of one of the boys also chimed in. I couldn't help but think she was jealous as she was a little overweight and I was at my prime. Couldn't they mind their own business? I was promptly given a shirt to wear. And I was wearing appropriate clothes for dance class. I was showing the same amount of skin, or less, than the girls we were watching play basketball. Where was I wrong?

"Modest is hottest" needs to be disbanded from our current jargon. It is a contradiction. It is harmful. And it is  relegates women to being consistently and solely sexual beings.  Aren't we done with that?

Spiritual Sunday: An Intro & Disclaimer

After General Conference this past weekend, I've been thinking. And I want to join the conversation on Mormons, on spirituality, on religion, on the history of my people. So I'm going to start including this as a facet to my blog. I'm not sure what this means exactly, but I look forward to writing about my beliefs and my experiences. And if this turns you off, just skip these posts :)

Prophet of Yonwood

The Third Book of Ember, The Prophet of Yonwood, is a prequel, well over 100 years prior to The City of Ember and in the town of Yonwood. A young girl, Nickie, is visiting Yonwood with her Aunt to clean up and sell her great-grandfather's home. Yonwood is the home of a prophet who has seen terrible visions of the future -- war -- and is now in a comatose state. The town is all aflutter trying to follow the visions, trying to follow God, as the verge on fanaticism. They are accusing sinners left and right, and adding new "commandments from God" every time the comatose prophet mumbles something. 

This book was okay. It just wasn't what I was really expecting. It was nothing like the other two books, even for a prequel. And to be honest, I found it pretty irrelevant. It covers the space of a few weeks and then in the last chapter it gives a mini epilogue of sorts for the characters. And then, in one sentence, it is linked to Ember. Maybe in reading the fourth book everything will tie together. I'll let you know!

Lost Boys

So I was pretty excited to read this book. It's by Orson Scott Card; I've enjoyed other works of his. He's a pretty good guy. Whatevs. And this is what it says on the back:

"As Stevie retreats into himself, focusing more and more on a mysterious computer game and a growing troop of imaginary friends, the Fletchers' concern turns to terror...And as evil strikes out from the most trusted corners, it's suddenly clear: Stevie's next on the list."

I thought I would love this.

I love creepy books. Ya know, ones that mess with ya. Nothing terrible. Mostly along the lines of Jodi Picoult. 

And then I find out the characters are Mormon. Kind of annoyingly Mormon. They keep having religions discussions throughout the book. And then they give us their formula for how they get new callings. Puke.

And the wife is terribly whiny. She's pregnant and has three other small children. From what I understand that's hard. I also understand that I was the same age as the oldest in the book when my Ma had baby number four. And I don't remember my mom being unable to make dinner or being unaware of what was going on in my life. Yet the wife in this book was totally unable to fulfill her homemaking duties, and is often whining to her husband that he should just quit his job and come home. 

And the book is a bunch of padding & fluff -- lots totally irrelevant to the actual  plot. I just kept waiting for the real story to happen.Waiting and waiting and waiting. 400 pages of waiting!

And then the ending is just terrible. It was almost too real in the emotions and the possibility of my children [who are far off in the future!] being hurt or taken. But at the same time, it was totally ridiculous and impossible. [Spoiler: Ghosts, Spirits, Apparitions, Whatever you want to call it, OF THE DEAD CHILDREN. I didn't buy it.]

And I felt totally creeped out and couldn't sleep. 

I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK UNLESS YOU LOVE CREEPY BOOKS. Like, HORROR books full of irrelevant fluff. 

I think this is probably Card's worst work ever. I haven't read everything he's ever written, but I have read a fair sample, and this is a fair assessment. 

Also, I apologize for my ridiculous use of bold. I kind of feel like a teenage girl right now.

Facebook & Famous Relations

{{So there is this app on facebook that shows you your famous [and famous Mormon] relations. And if your facebook friends have enabled this app & are related to you as well, that will also show up! Here are some of my famous relations, but for your convenience///reading pleasure, I have limited the Mormon relations to 6th cousins, because I have a ton of 8-10th Mormon Relations since all of Utah is related!}}

• David Haight, 3rd Cousin
• Gordon B Hinkley, 6th Cousin
• Spencer W Kimball, 5th Cousin
• George Albert Smith, 6th Cousin

  

Other Famous Relations

• Susan B Anthony, 5th Cousin
• Emily Dickenson, 7th Cousin
• Walt Disney, 7th Cousin
• Thomas Edison, 7th Cousin
• Eli Whitney, 4th Cousin
• Orville & Wilber Wright, 6th Cousin
• Mark Twain, 7th Cousin

 

Who are you related to? And If you do the app, 

see if you're related to me!

Does Revelation from God Exist Today?

                Many people have a problem with our church’s belief, and practice, of modern day revelation through a prophet of God.  The problems are about its existence, doubt that God speaks to prophets, confusion of when and if the prophets speak from God. Yet revelation is part of the very foundation of our church. Our church’s founder, Joseph Smith, had a great many things revealed to him throughout his lifetime, and this revelation has followed the prophets through today. This is explained in Article of Faith 9, which states “we believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.” Our church would not exist without modern revelation, yet many today do not believe it is still happening or have problems with its legitimacy.

                 Many of the revelations given to us, through God’s prophets, are simply not as earth-shattering as in the past, but they are still present.  When many think of revelation, they think of the large revelations made early in the church. But we already know of the blessings of the temple.  We already have the Book of Mormon. And we do not need to flee across the country to escape persecution. We do not need, or receive, the earth-shattering revelation of days past, but that does not mean it doesn’t exist.  If we are to believe that God does not give us modern day revelation, which is to believe that he has never given revelation, for all revelation is modern to those it is given.  To say God does not speak now means that he has never spoken. That is simply not true. How could anything in The Bible or The Book of Mormon be true if God does not speak? How could this church be true if God does not speak? And really, why would He not speak to us? He is our father and He loves us. It stands to reason that he speaks to us today, through both the Holy Ghost and his prophets. He has given us revelation as a gift to help us learn and grow.

                Our leaders today rarely make the claim of speaking with God’s authority; it comes off as council or strong advice, but this does not mean it is not revelation from God.  President Ezra Taft Benson has told us that “the prophet does not have to say ‘Thus sayeth the Lord’ to give us scripture.”  The prophet, by simply speaking as the prophet, is speaking the word of the Lord.  His word is revelation and law, same as any scripture.  Brigham Young speaks of this same truth, stating “I have never yet preached a sermon and sent it out to the children of the men that they may not call scripture.”  And so, as you see, our prophets are receiving revelation for us, they just do not need to present it as such.  When you think of the most current revelation from our prophets, what do you think of? Can you think of a time when the prophet has said “Thus sayeth the Lord?” I cannot. But what about the Proclamation to the Family? Or the Proclamation to the World? Are they not examples of modern day revelation? I think they’re revelation, as well as recent conference talks. We have another General Conference coming up soon.  I encourage you to listen for revelation from the prophet and general authorities.

                The same thing goes for when we ask for and receive personal revelation. It, too, does not have to be earth-shattering.  It is important to remember that the spirit reveals to us with the still small voice, it does not always even speak with words. President Ezra Taft Benson tells us: “The scriptures record remarkable accounts of men whose lives changed dramatically, in an instant, as it were: Alma the Younger, Paul on the road to Damascus, Enos praying far into the night, King Lamoni. Such astonishing examples of the power to change even those steeped in sin can give confidence that the Atonement can reach even those deepest in despair. But we must be cautious as we discuss these remarkable examples.  Though they are real and powerful, they are the exception more than the rule.  For every Paul, for every Enos, and for every king Lamoni, there are hundreds and thousands of people who find the process of repentance much more subtle, much more imperceptible.  Day by day they move closer to the Lord, little realizing that they are building a godlike life.  They live quiet lives of goodness, service and commitment. They are like the Lamanites, who the Lord said, ‘were baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost and they knew it not’.” I would reckon that many of you have had experiences like these.  It often has felt to me in my life more a confirmation by the Holy Ghost than a revelation.  But this is simply another way that God reveals things unto us, and we rarely recognize it as such. I hope that all of you will realize that just because you haven’t had an earth shattering revelation or conversion story does not mean your testimony is not as true and as valid.  It has been confirmed by the Holy Ghost just as surely as if an angel came to you at your bedpost.

                Many also feel that a problem with modern day revelation is that it is not new; we are continually receiving the same council.  However, we will continue to receive this same council until we heed it.  We must be worthy to receive, and understand, the new revelation.  Why would God give us new information if we will not listen, as our track record says? Elder J. Golden Kimball agrees with me in this, saying that members will hear the same talks at conference so long as they are living the same sins.

                Occasionally when new council is given, especially in the earlier days of the church but today as well, it can seem, or actually be, contrary to laws we have been living before.  This was likewise the case when Jesus fulfilled the Law of Moses. Another example of this is with Official Declaration 2, which opened the priesthood to all worthy men that they may be extended “all of the privileges and blessings which the gospel affords.”  Some folks had problems with Official Declaration 2, especially given prior statements from prophets and general authorities which were laced with prejudice. Yet those days were to come to an end.  Bruce R McConkie counseled the saints to “forget everything that I have said, or what President Brigham Young or President George Q Cannon or whomsoever has said in days past that is contrary to present revelation.  We spoke with a limited understanding and without the light and knowledge that has now come into the world. . . . We get our truth and our light line upon line and precept upon precept.  We have now added a new flood of intelligence and light on this particular subject, and it erases all the darkness and all the views and all the thoughts of the past.  They don’t matter any more . . . it doesn’t make a particle of difference what anybody ever said” prior to current revelation. This likewise applies to us now. Should President Monson receive and release revelation that is contrary, or even seems contrary, to what we think or what we have previously heard, we are to know that he is speaking as God’s mouthpiece.  If we have followed the Lord’s commands and gained a testimony of the current prophet, if we have sustained him, then we know that he speaks from the Lord, and we should not doubt.  That being said, it is okay to doubt and to pray for reassurance or our own testimony, if we need it. But we should also remember that “the Lord will never permit . . . any . . . man who stands as President of this church to lead you astray.  It is not in the programme.  It is not in the mind of God,” as Wilford Woodruff stated. We can trust our prophets, and we can trust their revelations.

                God still gives us revelation today, and it is a gift from Him. He has spoken to his people since the beginning of the earth and will continue to speak for the duration of this existence.  He speaks through his prophets and through the Holy Ghost. He can give earth-shattering revelation or speak with the still small voice of the spirit. But He does speak, and when the prophets speak, it is through him.