A Little Ginger

how to live in the world

2012-02-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

There were so many inspirational ideas that stood out to me in the Prophet's General Conference talk. 1. When we follow the Savior, live according to inspiration from the Spirit, and keep the commandments, joy and peace will be part of our lives. 2. The Holy Ghost cannot be with us during sinful or worldly activities. 3. To be in the world but not of the world, we need to pray. Heavenly

guardians of the hearth

2012-02-09T06:17:00.002-07:00

Mother With Praying Child by Johann G.M. von Bremen( 1813-1886) “You are the guardians of the hearth. You are the bearers of the children. You are they who nurture them and establish within them the habits of their lives. No other work reaches so close to divinity as does the nurturing of the sons and daughters of God.” Gordon B. Hinckley A while back I started to think that this part of my

better than prozac

2012-02-08T05:13:00.000-07:00

“Awake, my soul! … Rejoice, O my heart” 2 Nephi 4:28 Remembering Nephi’s example, I've learned what to do when discouraged. 1. Read, delight in, write about, and ponder the scriptures. "For my soul delighteth in the scriptures, and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children" 2 Nephi 4:15. 2. Consider and find joy in His revelations and creation. "

after the manner of happiness

2012-02-07T06:07:00.001-07:00

Laman and Lemuel plot against Nephi, as Nephi and those who will follow him prepare to flee into the wilderness with their tents, flocks, and belongings. They brought along the sword of Laban, the Liahona, and the Brass Plates (scriptures.) 2 Nephi 5 Laman and Lemuel became angry toward Nephi, because of his position in the family. In this traditional patriarchal society, the elder brother is

achieving eternal goals

2012-02-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

2 Nephi 4 Because he knew he was dying, Lehi counseled and blessed his children and grandchildren for the last time (2 Nephi 4:3–12). Yesterday during Sunday School, our teacher asked what counsel we would give to our posterity if we were close to death. I would counsel two things. First, the commandments of God are a gift to His children on earth to allow us to be happy on earth and lead us

What a gift for a mother!

2012-02-05T06:17:00.001-07:00

Sunday School...next weeks' reading includes 2 Nephi 3-5...the past week's lesson was about about the Atonement of Jesus Christ which, allows all to be “encircled about eternally in the arms of [the Savior’s] love” (2 Nephi 1:15). Also, it is a great blessing to be “free to choose” and strive to “choose liberty and eternal life” through Jesus Christ, “the great Mediator of all men” (2 Nephi 2:27

lift them

2012-02-03T05:55:00.000-07:00

"I hope my granddaughters will understand that Relief Society today is organized after a pattern of discipleship that existed in the ancient Church. When the Savior organized His Church in New Testament times, “women were vital participants in [His] ministry.” He visited Martha and Mary, two of His most dedicated followers, in Martha’s home. As Martha listened to Him and served Him

that is the goal

2012-02-02T06:50:00.003-07:00

When we hear or see false worldly ideas, we can remember the peaceful and reassuring truths Lehi shared. When the world says, 'There is no good or evil, because it is relative to each situation,' we know the truth. We were all given conscious or the light of Christ. “...men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil...” 2 Nephi 2:5. The test for me is simple: if the thing brings

one united whole

2012-02-01T06:44:00.000-07:00

2 Nephi 2:11–30 Lehi used the Biblical story of Adam and Eve to teach his sons about opposition 2 Nephi 2:15–25. Before they partook of the forbidden fruit: 1) They could act for themselves (2 Nephi 2:15–16), but they did not do good “for they knew no sin” (2 Nephi 2:23). 2) They did not have to till the ground in order for food to grow in the garden (2 Nephi 2:19; see also Moses 2:29).

accept and act

2012-01-31T06:01:00.001-07:00

2 Nephi 2:1–10 In his instructions and father's blessing to his young son Jacob, Lehi said, “by the law no flesh is justified; or, by the law men are cut off” 2 Nephi 2:5. Justification is reconciliation to God, when He forgives sin, declaring the repentant righteous and guiltless. When transgressing the commandments (the law), we become guilty and unclean. Since no unclean thing can dwell with

encircled

2012-01-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Like all great blessings from the Lord, Lehi's family “obtained a land of promise” by covenant 2 Nephi 1:5. If the people lived up to the commandments of God, the land would prosper and be safe from invading powers 2 Nephi 1:6–7, 9–10. If the inhabitants of the land reject the Savior, they also reject the blessing 2 Nephi 1:10–12. We know through the study of history, that this happened. Now this

sunny weather

2012-01-29T07:05:00.010-07:00

Sunday School...2 Nephi 1...the past week's study reminded me of the importance of faith and willing obedience. Praying For...Tyson and Nikki...safety, peace, happiness, and comfort for children all over the world...for leaders of nations to turn from following the wrong master...people of the world to accept and embrace the Prince of Peace Scripture Meditations...When I see the face of a child,

no neighbor is closer than one's spouse

2012-01-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

I have a funny story to tell about Sister Dalton. A few years ago, my daughter Emily and I attended Women's Conference at BYU. Emily and I waited until the lunch crowd was gone to buy our salads at the Marriot Center. As we were leaving the building, Sister Dalton walked in the same door. I didn't notice who she was but instead told her how lovely her suit looked. If you know me at all, you

Character of Christ

2012-01-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

Nephi was commanded by the Lord to keep a record of the people, which began what eventually became the Book of Mormon (1 Nephi 19:1–4). Nephi recorded “sacred things” in the hope “that perhaps [he] might persuade them that they would remember the Lord their Redeemer” (1 Nephi 19:5, 18). Everyone should record the sacred events in their lives. Although I don't have any such records of my

more like Nephi

2012-01-26T06:05:00.001-07:00

1 Nephi 18:5–25 I remember the first time I read this, when I wondered what is wrong with making merry? 1 Nephi 18:9. In this instance, the merry makers became rude, vulgar, and coarse. The Lord wants his children to make merry with dancing and singing. "Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him:

scarcely imaginable vistas

2012-01-25T06:30:00.002-07:00

Nephi 17:4–55; 18:1–4 All his life, Nephi lived by the words I will go and do the thing that the Lord hath commanded for I know that the Lord giveth no commandment unto the children of men save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them. Now the story leads us to the point, where the family reaches the ocean and must cross. I must admit, the

diligent and faithful

2012-01-24T06:32:00.002-07:00

1 Nephi 16; 17:1–3 To summarize, the sons of Lehi and Zoram married Ishmael’s daughters. It is not good for man to be alone. The purpose of the “Liahona” Alma 37:38 was a spiritual and literal compass 1 Nephi 16:10, 29. In order for the Liahona to work, the family needed to exercise faith and diligence 1 Nephi 16:28–29; Alma 37:40. When they were unfaithful and disobedient, it ceased to work

freeze and balk at beginning

2012-01-23T04:46:00.001-07:00

I just don't know what my problem is. I want to accomplish this goal but continually procrastinate. In its entirety, the readings totals less than 3 hours and is an interesting way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Probably, it is the same thing that grips each of the new scholars I mentor. They see the whole plan laid out before them and freeze. They can't conceive that it can be done and balk at

the second half

2012-01-22T06:00:00.006-07:00

Sunday School... for the coming week, study 1 Nephi 16-18 and Alma 37:38–46...last week we learned that God gives revelations to help us understand and navigate the future-we must choose between following Jesus or the adversary-promised blessings are available to all who follow Jesus... Praying For...Oakley and Kelsey...joy, safety, and peace for orphans, families, and others seeking truth and

Attitude-Believe-Courage

2012-01-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

Each month and sometimes even more often, modern-day prophets at the direction and inspiration of the Savior speak to the people of the world. President Thomas S. Monson gave the following words of hope and optimism in the January, 2012 Ensign. Personally, I'd like to follow God's prophet,who accentuates the positive, than all the dooms-day talking heads in the media and elsewhere. The world

changing my inner climate

2012-01-20T06:39:00.001-07:00

Five Things For Friday 1. Being Preparedness Specialist, I get to research and write about one of my favorite things, food. Yup, I've been obsessed with the acquisition, storage, preparation, and consumption of food for a long time. Now I have a captive audience with whom to teach everything I've learned. Anyway...I also get to make movies. Well...they are more like powerpoint presentations, but

undeniable witness

2012-01-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

"That is the genius of the Book of Mormon—there is no middle ground. It is either the word of God as professed, or it is a total fraud." Tad Callister "C. S. Lewis spoke of a similar dilemma faced by someone who must choose whether to accept or reject the Savior’s divinity—where there is likewise no middle ground: 'I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people

numbered among the house of Israel

2012-01-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

1 Nephi 14 In his vision, Nephi sees "the blessings promised to the Gentiles who remain faithful, the cursing that will come to the Gentiles who do not remain faithful 1 Nephi 14:1–7, and the ultimate victory of the Church of the Lamb of God over the great and abominable church." It will be a great day indeed to be "numbered among the house of Israel; and they shall be a blessed people

worth it

2012-01-17T06:59:00.004-07:00

In 1 Nephi 13 Nephi records another part of his vision, including the formation of the great and abominable church, the discovery and colonization of the Americas, the Apostasy and the loss of many plain and precious parts of the Bible, and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and the Restoration of the gospel. Nephi saw the formation of the great and abominable church, whose founder is

the pride and temptation arena

2012-01-16T06:35:00.001-07:00

1 Nephi 12 Nephi sees the future of his descendants and also those of his brothers. Some of the symbols in the vision of the tree of life, the mist of darkness, the great and spacious building, and the river of filthy water, foreshadowed the downfall of Nephi’s descendants. Prior to the Savior's visit to the Americans, the Nephites, Nephi and Sam's descendants, and the Lamanites, Laman and

with a smile on my face

2012-01-15T06:33:00.005-07:00

Sunday School...Next Weeks lesson is 1 Nephi 12-14...several ideas presented themselves in this week's lesson. We must commence upon the strait and narrow path (1 Nephi 8:22), catch hold of the iron rod (1 Nephi 8:24), cling to the rod with all our might (1 Nephi 8:24), and continually move forward toward the tree (1 Nephi 8:30). Also, The Holy Ghost can help us understand gospel truths

kinder, more purposeful manner

2012-01-14T06:33:00.001-07:00

All through the week, I listen to one talk over and over. While I attend to chores in the morning, I play the audio once or twice. I enjoy and am so thankful for the way the gentle words of the Lord's chosen servants calm me and direct my days in a kinder, more purposeful manner. I'm thankful Stephani ran with the inspiration to host this General Conference book club. It has to be the most

narrow or broad

2012-01-13T06:24:00.004-07:00

1 Nephi 8 "This stone, currently possessed by The Smithsonian, was discovered in the ancient Mesoamerican city of Izapa, in 1941, by archaeologist Matthew W. Stirling. The stone carving has been dated to the Preclassic Guillen Phase between 300 BC and 50 AD....it's hard to ignore the striking similarity it has to Lehi's dream of the "Tree of Life" found in 1 Nephi chapter 8. The tree

without my consent

2012-01-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

Lehi's vision included a rod of iron 1 Nephi 8:19–20, which represented the Word of God 1 Nephi 11:25; 15:23–24. Scriptures, teachings of prophets ancient and modern, and personal guidance of the Holy Ghost are the Word of God. Because it helps us choose the proper direction and keeps us in mind of the Savior, the word of God help us come unto Christ. When we feast upon the Word of Christ, we

the tree and the fruit

2012-01-11T05:12:00.001-07:00

Remember, Lehi saw the tree of life in a vision and discussed it with his family 1 Nephi 8:2. Lehi's son Nephi wanted to “see, and hear, and know” the vision 1 Nephi 10:17. Through his faith, diligence, prayer, and pondering, the Holy Ghost showed and taught him the things he sought. 1 Nephi 10:17–19; 11:1–6. Conversely, Laman and Lemuel’s did not seek understanding of their father’s vision 1

symbolic dreams

2012-01-10T05:49:00.003-07:00

Symbolic dreams and visions are not new, many being found throughout the scriptures. Many ordinary people have such dreams that concern only their own lives. Many Prophets and other chosen vessels of God had such dreams for certain groups of people. "King Nebuchadnezzar dreamed of a large statue man with each part made of a different material. A stone destroyed the image and became a mountain,

behind again...but with a real excuse

2012-01-09T03:07:00.011-07:00

As you will read below, all my time was used this week treating a severely ill person. I didn't read any of my Great Books entries so will scoot this week's readings onto next week. Shesh...I'm only a few weeks into this and already failing again. Sigh...I'll keep up my courage and keep trying. Project Joy...didn't believe the weather forecast of snow on Sat, because I had no pain in my hip or

Cayenne for Headaches and More

2012-01-08T09:17:00.002-07:00

The other day a reader asked me to clarify my comments about cayenne in the herbalist. Apparently her young son suffers from migraine headaches. First, I am required by the FDA preface my advice; it is for historical educational purposes only. I am not a doctor. I cannot diagnose disease nor are my ideas meant to treat any disease. Nevertheless, these ideas and herbal foods have been used

A Witness by President Henry B. Eyring

2012-01-07T14:24:00.001-07:00

Sometimes with all the studying and such, I get a bit mixed up. What exactly are the baptismal and other covenants? I know if I just keep trying and seeking His grace, I'll probably do OK. However, it was wonderful to hear an apostle of the Lord, Jesus Christ, remind me in such straightforward words. "First, we promised to become charitable. Second, we promised to become witnesses of God. And

Nephi's Courage

2012-01-06T06:54:00.001-07:00

1 Nephi 5 & 7 Ishmael and His Family Join Lehi 1 Nephi 7 J. Leo Fairbanks (1878-1946) Possibly, I would have reacted like Sariah and feared for the lives of my sons. Even though my children are in their 20s and 30s, I still worry about them. They are all in the forefront of my mind and prayers. When their four sons returned from their perilous journey to obtain the brass plates, Lehi and

polar opposites

2012-01-05T05:33:00.002-07:00

1 Nephi 3–4 Like I said yesterday, Lehi sent his sons back to Jerusalem to get the Old Testament and their genealogy. It turned out to be a length, dangerous assignment. Again Lehi's rebelious sons Laman and Lemuel complained that what their father asked was too hard. They didn't understand that it was a commandment from God. On the other hand, Nephi responded with a statement of full

would I, could I

2012-01-04T06:46:00.002-07:00

1 Nephi 1–2 Scripture study has become the central joy of my life. If I can't do anything else in a day, I study the word of God. Without this my Project Joy, and I dare say my whole life, would be meaningless. The Old and New Testaments of the Bible are my dear friends as is the Book of Mormon, my study focus this year. I know it is true, for I've taken the challenge of Moroni 10:4, sincerely

Throwing Poe and His Heart into a Volcano

2012-01-02T04:17:00.025-07:00

"The only people who achieve much are those who want knowledge so badly that they seek it, while the conditions are still unfavorable. Favorable conditions never come." C.S. Lewis We traveled and had holidays this week, but I actually accomplished my goal. I'm not being conceited but am simply very happy to take one step towards reaching this goal. Next Week's GGB, GBWW, and Bible reading

choose to change perspective

2012-01-01T07:21:00.005-07:00

Sunday School...For the coming week-1 Nephi 2–4...thoughts about the past week's readings... “I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect

I wish all my loved ones would watch this

2011-12-31T16:27:00.005-07:00

"We only have one chronic disease - and it's got multiple manifestations. Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, strokes, vascular dementia, and rheumatoid arthritis. They're nothing more than food-borne illnesses." Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., from his recent talk in Medina, Ohio I just finished watching this amazing 2 hour lecture, which was very inspiring.

The Choice to be Grateful

2011-12-29T06:20:00.001-07:00

Henry B. Eyring wrote a beautiful article about counting blessings, The Choice to be Grateful. My project joy is along this line, but he gave me plenty to think about and a challenge. "Let’s not just talk about counting our blessings—let’s do it! Write a list of 100 things you are thankful for—10 physical abilities, material possessions, living people, deceased people, things about nature,

unique clarity and power

2011-12-28T07:26:00.001-07:00

“What we get from a book, especially a sacred text, is mostly dependent on what we take to its reading—in desire and readiness to learn, and in attunement to the light communicated by the Spirit of the Lord” (Dallin H. Oaks, Ensign, May 2006, 77). Each year as the new year approaches, many stop and examine their lives. They look at their health and happiness. They think about their finances

Getting It Together

2011-12-26T07:43:00.001-07:00

Well....once again I'm almost done. Oh, but I have great excuses this week. As enjoyable as it was, traveling and the Christmas Holiday took lots of time. Now that I'm home again....not really....there is always going to be something; I can excuse my life away or....Like this week we are hosting Games and Gabs with empty-nesters, doing Grins and Fins with our grands, and celebrating our 30th

Christmas Edition

2011-12-25T06:03:00.001-07:00

Sunday School...because it is Christmas, Sunday School is cancelled. I always spend time with Luke 2 on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Also I like to recite The Living Christ. Focusing less on commercialism and more on Christ has made a huge difference. Jesus is my Savior and King, and that's all that really matters. Praying for...Lori and Gracie...peace on earth and good will toward men (

careful

2011-12-22T11:48:00.000-07:00

This morning we went to the grocer to get a few organic veggies and fruits so we could actually eat. Yah, it's hard to eat empty dishes. Anyway, I'm a sucker for magazines. However, since I began my plant-strong way of eating, most magazines are not my cup of tea anymore. But, Vegeatrian Times put out a special edition of soups and stews. Because I eat soup or stew nearly every day of the week,

Whew!!!

2011-12-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

Genesis 1-3-The Creation and the Fall never cease to praise God. The command to fill the Earth with children is good and right. Population control is a policy of the Adversary. I revisit the idea of Evolution and never cease to be amazed that anyone could believe such rubbish. “The time has come for a fresh look at the evidence Charles Darwin used to support his evolutionary theory, along with

ready--set--ready--set--false start

2011-12-19T06:18:00.001-07:00

I'm embarrassed to say, I didn't get through much of the list last week. Yes, Yes, I read some. Sure, Sure, I have excuses and could enumerate a few. However, as I tell my students, I need to arrange myself better and be more committed. Nevertheless, reading deep works is a little difficult, when you can't keep your head of the pillow. Excuses, Excuses! Anyway, I'm going to pretend last week was

feeling joy and happiness

2011-12-18T08:05:00.002-07:00

Sunday School Lesson...We finished our study of the New Testament. What a delightful time it has been. Typically, the last couple sessions of Sunday school each year are spent on the Christmas story. Before Christ’s birth, the angel Gabriel visited Mary. "And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name

look up to hear the singing

2011-12-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

I'm reporting on two talks this week that I feel go together marvelously. Taking part in the on-line General Conference Book Club, I was challenged to study these talks together. This brought me much joy and comfort and hope.