This is My Gift to You

Christmas 2011

My mother Stella, tucked her fifty dollar bill in her eyeglasses case for safe keeping. She made the two-mile trek downtown, on foot, with her two youngest children in tow, to do her Christmas shopping. My little sister Angie, sat safely in the stroller and I, just six years of age, grasped the stroller tightly for fear of getting lost. Mary, the oldest, was undoubtedly back home tending to my other older sisters, Irene and Nicki.

Fifty dollars would not go far in today's economy or perhaps even by most families standards in the late fifties, but it was all my mother had been able to tuck away, and, knowing Mom, she made great sacrifices to our budget to make this happen. The salary of an immigrant Merchant Marine was not abundant, but Mom and Dad found a way to keep us all clothed and well fed while providing a humble roof over our heads. Although we never had the privilege of owning a car, or experiencing what many refer to as "The American Dream"--a home of our own--we always knew that our family being together was what made our house a home. We always looked forward to those days when Dad was with us again, albeit a short visit.

I can only imagine the devastation and horror that my mother must have experienced when, while at Woolworth's five-and-dime, she discovered that her eyeglasses case was missing. She immediately made a diagonal dash at the light (which was customary practice downtown), back to Sav-on Drugs store to search for her Christmas money. It was never found. I don't know the rest of the story, but I never knew of a Christmas where we didn't seem to have an abundance under our tree (at least by our humble standards).

Year after year, on Christmas Eve, without her dear companion, John, by her side; our mother worked hard and seemingly (to us) tirelessly as she wrapped the presents, baked kourambiedes (Greek cookies), and made the necessary preparations for our Christmas dinner, all while her five daughters slept restlessly in their rooms. Exhausted, Mom would finally climb into bed in the early hours of the morning only in time to hear the children calling out from their bedrooms, "Mom, can we open presents now?" Putting us off as long as she could, she would finally realize that it was pointless to try to get some sleep.

Five darling dark-haired daughters, all cuddled together with their brown eyes closed and faces buried in each other, walked in a bundle of excitement toward the direction of the living room, waiting for that magical moment when we were finally allowed to open our eyes and see that first glimpse of the colorfully wrapped packages sprawled out on the floor beneath the well-lit tree. Then one, two, three, "Open your eyes!" and the squeals and joy began.

Years later, the circle of life was repeated as Paul and I, through the years, have watched the joy in the faces of first, his daughters and then our own sons, each Christmas morning. Our own family experience brought an added dimension of understanding the traditions of other countries as we celebrated "Christmas Around the World": creating themes for such places as Mexico, France, Hawaii, Italy, Hungary, Czechoslovakia (in honor of our son-in-law Jiri), of course Greece, and even a Rocky Mountain Christmas. Not soon to be forgotten, we also baked that year’s honored country's favorite cake for dessert, and sang happy birthday to Jesus!

As we have gone through many of life's challenges, I have become increasingly more aware of the significance of this time of year and my heart has turned from the enjoyment of the traditional gift giving to an awareness and understanding of the greatest gift that we have been given by a tender, loving Father in Heaven.

Intermingled with the gift of the Son and the Plan of Salvation, our Heavenly Father has blessed us with families. I have been so fortunate to have a mother who, by example, showed us the worth of sacrifice and serving others and expressing often, especially in her later years, her love for the Lord. I am grateful for a father who always showed love and concern for his wife, daughters, and even his family that he left behind in Greece, never to be able to see them again as he was never to return to his homeland. What examples of sacrifice and love for their family they were to us all.

Now, Paul and I find ourselves entering the world of "empty nesters" as Peter enters adulthood, attends college, and begins preparations for his mission for the Church. Although I personally never seem to be lacking of things to do, I find myself yearning for the years of raising little ones, homeschooling, nights watching with pride my sons at the dojo; and later, as teenagers, all four of us laying in our bed watching reruns of "Everybody Loves Raymond". Then the blessings (and concerns) that come from being parents are multiplied, upon the arrival of those angelic grandchildren. Thus the phrase that I coined earlier this year, "God understood the sadness of a mother's heart and just in time, created grandchildren."

I am reminded also of a poignant moment in time for my sisters and me, during my mother's 70th birthday celebration just six short years before her passing. There were so many great and wonderful tributes by her five daughters, son-in-laws and grandchildren, but the one moment that truly touched my heart was when my sister Nicki shared tributes from her children as she read aloud their most tender memories of their Yia Yia. Through tears and great emotion in her voice, Nicki then said, "This is my gift to you, Mom -- my children."

Now Mom, your trials and your sacrifices are not only being acknowledged by your daughters, but as mothers ourselves, have also been experienced firsthand in many ways in our own lives. Dad, we now understand that your desire to be home with your family was the ultimate sacrifice you gave us as your only way to provide life's necessities. We love you both, and we show that love as we go forward as we love and pray for our own children and grandchildren with the same dedication to them and the desires of our hearts for their lives to be blessed, as you had for us.

Through all the ribbons and the wrappings, the time and the resources spent, we remember not the individual gifts as much as we remember the memories, the warmth and the love that only a family can bring. I am grateful for this greatest gift that God has given us, by sharing His only begotten son so that we may be blessed with eternal life. Our experiences as a family, while here on the earth, are only a glimpse into the joy we will have as we become eternal families. In a similar expression that was spoken to Mom by my sister Nicki, I can imagine our loving Father in Heaven's desire to express His great love for us, by saying, "This is my gift to you, my child -- my son!"

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas filled with the joy of family, the warmth of the Savior's love, and peace that only the Gospel brings....

Heroes - (Ward Newsletter - October 2011)

I love children! I love their innocence, honesty and willingness to quickly forgive and forget. They exhibit remarkable faith, are uninhibited, love learning, and have big dreams and great imaginations. Through the years of raising my own sons and teaching little ones, I became increasingly more concerned with the amount of time that the boys, in particular, spent focusing on super heroes. At times I wondered if they could make the distinction between fantasy and reality. I therefore decided, when I was teaching preschool, that it was important enough to include a unit on heroes in my curriculum.

On the first day of our "Heroes" unit, the children were encouraged to dress up as their favorite hero. They were so excited! I allowed time for each one to share what they liked best about Luke Skywalker, Spiderman, or Pocahontas. They loved it!

The next day, we discussed the difference between "super heroes" and "real heroes". I was amazed at how attentive the young children were during our discussion. I asked if they could think of any real heroes. They shared many labels from Prophet, to police officer and firefighter. Then I added, "Your Bishop could be your hero, or maybe your father".

Little three year old Jackson quickly corrected me, "Oh, Sisto Monahr! My fathor can't be a heewoh. He doesn't have any powors." With eyes tearing up, I replied, "Oh Jackson! Your father has one of the greatest powers. He has the power of the Priesthood."

In general priesthood meeting, April 1976, President Spencer W. Kimball quoted Walter MacPeek: “Boys need lots of heroes like Lincoln and Washington. But they also need to have some heroes close by. They need to know some man of towering strength and basic integrity, personally. They need to meet them on the street, to hike and camp with them, to see them in close-to-home, everyday, down-to-earth situations; to feel close enough to them to ask questions and to talk things over man-to-man with them.”

President Boyd K. Packer shared the following: President Monson spoke of Gideon, a hero in the Old Testament. Gideon was chosen to lead the armies of Israel, thousands strong. But of them all, he chose only 300 men.

Gideon had an interesting way of selecting his recruits. When the men drank water at a stream, most “bowed down…to drink.” Those he passed over. A few scooped up water in their hands and drank, remaining completely alert. They were the ones chosen.

We live in a day of “wars [and] rumors of wars, and earthquakes in divers places.” As prophesied, “the whole earth [is] in commotion” and “Satan is abroad in the land.” He seeks to destroy all that is good and righteous. He is Lucifer, who was cast out of the presence of God. Against all of that, we have very positive feelings about what lies ahead.

Gideon’s small force succeeded because, as the record states, “they stood every man in his place.”

Elder Glen L. Rudd of the Second Quorum of the Seventy said, “I think heroes are everywhere in our Church. They stand out in a world of sin and unrighteousness. May God bless us to recognize them and follow their fine examples. Even more than that, may he help us to become heroes to others as we serve him.”

Like many of you, I was overcome with emotion with the announcement that we would soon be experiencing the "changing of the guard". How blessed we have been to have had at the helm of our ward, such wonderful examples of heroes and righteous men who honor their priesthood. To me, the organization of the Church is a testimony that we are in the hollow of His hands. As we tearfully say goodbye to our Bishop and his counselors, and the friendships that we have developed with each one of them, we cheerfully look forward to a fresh new trio of equally great “Priesthood Heroes”. We sustain you as those chosen by the Lord to carry on with his work. To you, we offer our love and support, adding prayers in your behalf to you and your families.

One Nation Under God - Defending Faith and Family (Sacrament Talk)

I would like to thank the youth (as directed by our great leaders) for taking the time on the Sabbath last week, to put up flags in memory of 9/11. I am personally grateful to you.

To my sons, and to the youth, many of whom I have taught -- and who have taught me -- both in my home and in the Church, I dedicate my talk.

One Nation Under God
In August of 1892, a Baptist minister by the name of Francis Bellamy, wrote the following:
"I pledge allegiance to my Flag and to the Republic for which it stands,
one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all"

In 1923, the National Flag Conference changed the Pledge's words, 'my Flag,' to 'the Flag of the United States of America.'

The words "under God" were added in 1954 by then President Eisenhower, who said this:
"In this way, we are reaffirming the transcendence of religious faith in America's heritage and future; in this way we shall constantly strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country's most powerful resource in peace and war."

Let me take the liberty of translating this important part of the pledge in my words:
AS LONG AS IT IS UNDER GOD,
WE SHALL BE "ONE" AS A NATION
THAT IS INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL!

We know that the discovery of the Americas was not an accident. The event had been foreordained in the eternal councils. Biblical prophesies make reference to this great land. The Book of Mormon tells of the Jaredites who were the first to come to America.

“And when they had set their feet upon the shores of the promised land they bowed themselves down upon the face of the land, and did humble themselves before the Lord, and did shed tears of joy before the Lord, because of the multitude of his tender mercies over them.

Lehi, was commanded by the Lord to depart with his family into the wilderness. In obedience to the Lord’s instructions, he left with his family and others. They too were instructed to build a ship and sail for the "promised land".

“And it came to pass that after we had sailed for the space of many days we did arrive at the promised land; and we went forth upon the land, and did pitch our tents; and we did call it the promised land.”

While in the wilderness Nephi was permitted to see in a vision the things that would transpire concerning the destiny of America—the "promised land". He "beheld a man among the Gentiles" and the Spirit of God came down and wrought upon the man. This man, we know, refers to Christopher Columbus, who was impelled by the Spirit of God to cross the ocean for the rediscovery of America, thus assisting in the furthering of God’s purposes.

Nephi saw in a vision also, the coming of the Pilgrims, who came to escape religious persecution. He foresaw the coming to America, people from many nations. As Nephi said, they did humble themselves before the Lord and “the power of God was with them."

Thus, the American colonies attained their independence and set up the government of the United States, all under the divine intervention of God in preparing this land for its divine destiny.

We pay tribute to those great men who accepted and met the incredible challenge to establish a constitution for the government of this so-called new land. That this too was divinely inspired, is attested by the word of the Lord as we read in Doctrine & Covenants, chapter 101:77 & 80, when he said,

“According to the laws and constitution of the people, which I have suffered to be established, and should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles;

“And for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood.”

No constitution on earth has endured longer than this one. It was and is a miracle. Both Washington and Madison referred to it as such. It is an inspired document written under the guidance of the Lord.

We believe that the Constitution was brought about by God to ensure a nation where liberty could abound and where his gospel could flourish. Joseph Smith said, “The Constitution of the United States is a glorious standard—it is founded in the wisdom of God—it is a heavenly banner.”

President Ezra Taft Benson said, "I reverence the Constitution of the United States as a sacred document. To me its words are akin to the revelations of God, for God has placed His stamp of approval on the Constitution of this land. I testify that the God of heaven sent some of His choicest spirits to lay the foundation of this government, and He has sent other choice spirits to preserve it."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, speaking of the Constitution stated, "Unpopular minority religions are especially dependent upon a constitutional guarantee of free exercise of religion....The importance of that guarantee should make us ever diligent to defend it. And it is in need of being defended. In my lifetime, I have seen a significant deterioration in the respect accorded to religion in our public life, and I believe that the vitality of religious freedom is in danger of being weakened accordingly."

In "Man's Search for Meaning", Dr. Viktor E. Frankl states,
Freedom is only part of the story and half of the truth.
The positive aspect of freedom is RESPONSIBLENESS.


Elder Oaks lists five points of the Citizen's Responsibilities:
1. Understand the Constitution
2. Support the law
3. Practice civic virtue
4. Maintain civility in political discourse
5. Promote patriotism

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution reads:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

In order to defend our freedom of religion, we need to understand that the Constitution protects religious freedom. It does not eliminate it.

"Separation of Church and State" does not appear in the Constitution and has been misquoted and misunderstood. The intent of the First Amendment was to keep government out of religion, not religion out of government

Author, David Barton writes:
"...without a public and official recognition of God, there is no hope of limited government, for rights come only from God or from man. If rights come from God, then we can require man to protect those rights... But if our rights come from man, then man is permitted to regulate or abolish those rights, and government’s power over our lives therefore becomes absolute and unlimited.".

The Founders understood that irrevocable limitations can be placed on government only when God is recognized as the source of our rights; they also understood that if we became complacent in our recognition of God as the center of our lives and government, then we would lose our liberties.

According to Jefferson, the only “firm basis” of our national liberties is a “conviction in the minds of the people” that our liberties are from God and that government cannot intrude into those liberties without incurring God’s wrath.

President George Washington said, "It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor."

President John Adams similarly urged, "The safety and prosperity of nations ultimately and essentially depend on the protection and the blessing of Almighty God, and the national acknowledgment of this truth is an indispensable duty which the people owe to Him."

To restore honor and restore America, we first must restore God to His rightful place in our own lives and thinking. We must then reintroduce those original principles back into the public arena, thus restoring the foundation on which our Declaration and Constitution were built and the only foundation which allows them to operate as intended.

It is time for us to re-embrace the truth of President Reagan’s warning that,"If we ever forget that we’re one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."

We must remember what the Lord told the Jaredites when they were first brought to this land:

“Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written.”

Elder N. Eldon Tanner said, "We are all a part of America’s future. Our job is to learn and benefit from the past and to go forward in righteousness, keeping the commandments of God. In this connection the prophet Lehi said,

“Wherefore, this land is consecrated unto him whom he shall bring. And if it so be that they shall serve him according to the commandments which he hath given, it shall be a land of liberty unto them; wherefore, they shall never be brought down into captivity; if so, it shall be because of iniquity; for if iniquity shall abound cursed shall be the land for their sakes, but unto the righteous it shall be blessed forever.”

We encourage our people to be good, loyal, law-abiding citizens for “We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.”

At the same time, it is also our duty to seek diligently for and support and uphold good, honest, honorable, and wise representatives to govern us."

Defending Faith and Family

President Gordon B. Hinckley, in his General Conference address in October 2001, following the tragedy of 9/11 stated:

"We are people of peace. We are followers of the Christ who was and is the Prince of Peace. But there are times when we must stand up for right and decency, for freedom and civilization, just as Moroni rallied his people in his day to the defense of their wives, their children, and the cause of liberty.

Now, brothers and sisters, we must do our duty, whatever that duty might be. Peace may be denied for a season. Some of our liberties may be curtailed. We may be inconvenienced. We may even be called on to suffer in one way or another. But God our Eternal Father will watch over this nation and all of the civilized world who look to Him. He has declared, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord”. Our safety lies in repentance. Our strength comes of obedience to the commandments of God."

In the Book of Mormon we read of the heroism of Moroni:
12 And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it—In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.
13 And he fastened on his head-plate, and his breastplate, and his shields, and girded on his armor about his loins; and he took the pole, which had on the end thereof his rent coat, (and he called it the title of liberty) and he bowed himself to the earth, and he prayed mightily unto his God for the blessings of liberty to rest upon his brethren, so long as there should a band of Christians remain to possess the land—
16 And therefore, at this time, Moroni prayed that the cause of the Christians, and the freedom of the land might be favored.
19 And when Moroni had said these words, he went forth among the people, waving the rent part of his garment in the air, that all might see the writing which he had written upon the rent part, and crying with a loud voice, saying:
20 Behold, whosoever will maintain this title upon the land, let them come forth in the strength of the Lord, and enter into a covenant that they will maintain their rights, and their religion, that the Lord God may bless them.
21 And it came to pass that when Moroni had proclaimed these words, behold, the people came running together with their armor girded about their loins, rending their garments in token, or as a covenant, that they would not forsake the Lord their God...

Let me address for a moment the parents and leaders. As stated in the Ensign, the Visiting Teaching message, September 2010:
Without nurturing, our rising generation could be in danger of becoming like the one described in Mosiah 26. Many youth didn’t believe the traditions of their fathers and became a separate people as to their faith, remaining so ever after. Our rising generation could likewise be led away if they don’t understand their part in Heavenly Father’s plan.

...And from our example, the rising generation can gain great hope and understanding—not just from the words we speak but from the way we feel and emanate the spirit of family.

As the Phoenix, may we ALL arise from the dust of complacency to defend our freedoms as put forth in the Heavenly inspired document, the Constitution of the United States of America, that we might be one nation under God, and as Moroni raise our banner of liberty to defend our faith and families. This, is my prayer. In the name of Jesus the Christ, God of this land, Amen.

A God of Miracles (Ward Newsletter - September 2011)

A common question often asked of people when reflecting on a moment in history is, "Where were you when...?" or "What were you doing when....?" My first experience with tragedy in our nation, was that fateful day of Friday, November 22, 1963; the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. I can clearly recall coming home from school to find my mother in front of our small black and white television set, seemingly unaware that I had even entered the room. I knew immediately upon looking at her face, that she had been crying. Suddenly, the folly of this young sixth-grader's school day, quickly dissipated.

Nearly thirty-eight years later, together with my own young sons (the oldest a sixth-grader himself), we experienced the horror of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. The images from that day are still so vivid in my mind, that it's difficult to believe that it was ten years ago. When we experience such implausible tragedies, we cannot help but wonder what might be next. Will it be worse? Now, with the tenth anniversary upon us, we may find ourselves speculating whether or not something is being planned by those who would seek to destroy us.

Ironically, in my search for this month's topic, I typed 9/11 into the search engine of www.lds.org and was directed to the following scripture: "But behold, I will show unto you a God of miracles, even the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and it is that same God who created the heavens and the earth, and all things that in them are." - Mormon 9:11 Let's tie this all together.

We are watching the unrest in the world economically, socially, and politically. The news is filled with an inconceivable increase of natural disasters; hurricanes, drought, floods, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis. We ponder our situation and maybe even fear what lies ahead, especially for our children, and even our grandchildren.

During a Sacrament meeting last fall, Bishop Olson provided the following counsel: We are in for RUF times ahead. We need to Read, Understand, and Follow. If we honor this, we will not have ROUGH times ahead.

In a recent conversation, he expounded, "For a long time I have felt that since injustice, disease, tsunamis, terrorist bullets, hard-heartedness, etc., will be present in the world, we cannot expect God to exempt us from confronting such. But if we really study the scriptures as counseled, and if we seek to understand things from the Lord's point of view (instead of through our own view of the world that is not always in alignment with the Lord's), and are obedient, we will meet every challenge, solve problems that are solvable and endure with the Lord's help those afflictions that are not taken from us. It is then we will realize that the Lord will sustain us in all trials (See D&C 122)."

More valuable counsel was given recently by President Webb during Stake Conference address on May 22, 2011. He shared that he had felt "a sense of urgency" that the members need to "get" the Spirit into their lives to be able to receive personal revelation. He explained that our attitudes must change in order for us to have an increase of spirituality. My personal favorite, "We must be SO close to the Savior that the Holy Ghost will bless us." He continued, "The Savior is eager to bless you with your particular needs. He is aware of You."

As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we know that our leaders are set apart to guide and direct us. To me, the messages of Bishop Olson and President Webb resonates loud and clear with what I am seeing transpire and what I am feeling in my own heart. As mentioned in last month's message, if we Prepare Every Needful Thing, we need not fear. Our source of strength comes from understanding the Gospel of Jesus Christ and getting Him, our Redeemer, down deep into our hearts (see January's newsletter). What a blessing we have in knowing that regardless of what lies ahead, the Lord will continue to bless us if we are faithful. We can hold fast to the rod, listen carefully for the Spirit to guide and direct us, and here it is...pray diligently for miracles and then watch them happen.

Let us continue with the powerful promises found in Mormon: (Chapter 9:21, 24-25, 28-29, 37)
"Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth. And these signs shall follow them that believe—in my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover; And whosoever shall believe in my name, doubting nothing, unto him will I confirm all my words, even unto the ends of the earth. Be wise in the days of your probation; strip yourselves of all uncleanness; ask not, that ye may consume it on your lusts, but ask with a firmness unshaken, that ye will yield to no temptation, but that ye will serve the true and living God. See that ye are not baptized unworthily; see that ye partake not of the sacrament of Christ unworthily; but see that ye do all things in worthiness, and do it in the name of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God; and if ye do this, and endure to the end, ye will in nowise be cast out. And may the Lord Jesus Christ grant that their prayers may be answered according to their faith; and may God the Father remember the covenant which he hath made with the house of Israel; and may he bless them forever, through faith on the name of Jesus Christ. Amen."

As we strive to live in this world, but not of it, it becomes a greater and greater challenge, perhaps even more so for our children. Bishop once said to the youth, "Just because it is normal, it doesn't mean that it's OK". We are surrounded with the "ways of the world" and what has become the "norm": seeing good as evil, and evil as good.

I am reminded of the words of a commercial, especially popular amongst the youth. We might be able to imagine the Lord saying to us, "Look at the world, now back to me!" We must not be ignorant of what is happening in the world. We cannot afford to live in a bubble. But if we continue to look to Him and diligently do our part to prepare in every way, including living worthily to receive personal revelation, then we shall not fear in any circumstance, and our faith will bless us, even with great miracles.

I have a very personal testimony that our Father in Heaven is a God of miracles. I have experienced many in my own life and I am certain, many that I am not even aware of. Let us all pray daily for the miracles that are needed in our lives, the lives of our families, our posterity, our friends and neighbors, our country and throughout the world. Then let us go forth with unwavering faith and obedience to our covenants, and then watch them happen!

My New Quote

"God understood the sadness of a mother's heart and just in time, created grandchildren." - Me

Organize Yourselves and Prepare Every Needful Thing (Ward Newsletter - August 2011)

When I was young, the "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer" as once described in a song, were enjoyed and very much appreciated after a year of hard work at school. As the summer came to an end however, I was excited and anxious to get back into a routine. I knew my life would soon return to order. I enjoyed getting my notebook for the new school year and all the accessories needed to help me be an effective student. My dividers were assigned according to class periods with subjects neatly written in the tabs. A few new items of clothing were purchased as needed and afforded in a household of five girls. I would diligently clean and organize my bedroom and make goals for the new school year. The day before school resumed, my friends and I made sure that we hit the beach one last time to add a fresh layer to our summer tan. In the day when slacks and shirts, dresses and skirts were still being worn to school, what to wear the first day was always of utmost importance so that we looked our very best.

As I now ponder this time of year and what it was about this experience that was so appealing to me, I can recall a principle that my father would speak of often in his charming broken English. He would often instruct his daughters on the importance of having a "system" in our home. The Greek word σύστημα (sýsti̱ma) can be defined as a condition of harmonious, orderly interaction. An organized and coordinated method; a procedure." Some synonyms for system include: organization, structure, method and order. His counsel had an impression on me even as a young child. As I have come to understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ, it resonates within me even more.

Pertaining to the new and everlasting covenant, the Lord begins by instructing the saints in the Doctrine and Covenants 132:3 to "Therefore, prepare thy heart to receive and obey the instructions which I am about to give unto you; for all those who have this law revealed unto them must obey the same." As a youth, I quickly learned by the consequences of my older sisters' actions, the importance of obeying the instruction of my father, much as the Lord has instructed us here, as a prerequisite to understanding the counsel that followed, and its importance.

He goes on to explain in verse 8, “Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion." A principle echoed by my own father which I believe helped prepared me to accept the gospel.

In section 88:119, we read: "Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God." Verse 124 provides important principles to assist us in our efforts to carry out His counsel: "Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; cease to find fault one with another; cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated." All excellent tools, gifts if you will, to help assist us while here upon this earth.

We currently find ourselves in a world where there is much turmoil and many individuals and families are facing great challenges in many areas of their lives. If you are like me, and I suppose this says something about my age, you can see that this is like no other time in our lives, or even in the history of our world. I often feel badly for our youth who perhaps have known no other way. This all feels like the norm to them.

The great blessings from technology and modern conveniences, also bring challenges of their own. Our life seems to be so fast paced that we may at times feel that we are spiraling out of control and want to figuratively get off this merry-go-round. We are going in so many directions. More and more women seem to find it necessary to work outside the home. Rearing a family in such an environment is often hectic and disorderly with everyone going in so many different directions, and times spent together are few and far between. There are so many more opportunities and activities available to our children than there were when I was growing up. How does a mother or father manage getting their children to soccer, dance, or whatever their chosen interest is, if more than one has to be in a different location at the same time? Often we can only survive by depending on others to assist through carpooling. The modern woman/man may believe that they are or at least need to be super human, but the reality is that it will eventually take a toll on our body, mind, and even our very soul. Soon we may find ourselves helpless as on a vessel in stormy seas, without a rudder.

How grateful I am for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and how everlasting the principles are if we but obey and apply them in our daily lives. As the Lord has mentioned, His house is not a house of confusion (nor chaos, I might add), but a house of order. That is the model we should hold up in our own lives and own families, whatever our individual situation is. We can better serve our families if we incorporate structure into our busy lives. In addition, an organized home and family also help to promote peace and love. Where there is no order, there is stress. Where there is stress, relationships are strained and even parenting becomes more difficult as we lose sight of the importance of coming from a place of love instead of fear and anger.

Another point that needs clarification is to understand the Lord's meaning when he says, "Cease to be idle." Oh, we are by no means an idle generation as stated above. What we are busy doing is what we need to ponder. Are those tasks benefiting the structure and order in our lives or drawing us further away from what needs to be done and those who need our love and support. While we all need a break from the drudgery of our daily routines, are we using that personal time wisely and in the most beneficial means for not only ourselves, but for our family as well and for the building of the Kingdom? Ask yourself if your actions are such that your mind and body are invigorated on a daily basis.

As the summer comes to an end and we have hopefully enjoyed bonding time with our friends and families, created memories, and found ways to rejuvenate our bodies and spirits, may we take the time to heed the Lord's counsel by putting our lives and families in order by organizing ourselves and preparing for every needful thing as it applies to us in our individual lives. This is my prayer.

A Tribute to the Brave and Their Families (Ward Newsletter - July 2011)

Early in April 2010, we opened our home and our hearts to our son and his family upon their return from a year of training at Defense Language Institute Foreign Language School in Monterey, California. Two months later, we said goodbye to John as he began his twelve month deployment to Iraq. His sweet wife and nine month old son remained behind. Has it been a challenge? Yes, for us ALL! Has it been an inconvenience? Perhaps at times. But what I want to share with you is this:

A young, pregnant wife with her small child, said goodbye to her husband not knowing the conditions in which he would live, the tasks that he would be assigned, nor what the outcome of his deployment would be.

I have observed a very strong and courageous young woman bear the burdens of raising a family alone in a home that was not her own, with a family that she had not been raised with. She endured many sleepless nights, illnesses of both child and dog, and numerous doctor and veterinarian visits. All alone in the hospital delivery room, she came close to the valley of the shadow of death to bring their baby into the world, not knowing if her husband would ever return to meet his daughter. She was determined to be self-sufficient and not to burden her in-laws, and other than a few times of being called upon to assist, she was just that!

She continued her solo adventure by searching for a home, signing documents, purchasing appliances, and with dignity endured the stress that comes from a move; including packing and making all the arrangements for movers, utilities, and such. Now, I observe her as she unpacks and organizes their new home. She waits however, on the major decisions of beautification so that he can contribute when he returns home from his deployment.

My son? Well, I have no knowledge of what he has had to endure other than the heat, perhaps food and drinking water and overall sanitary conditions, but most importantly, the separation from his family. Often people inquire about him, but there isn't much to report. How much CAN he share? Do we really want to know? The news becomes a necessary link to that part of the world of course, but also our worst enemy as we fearfully, and prayerfully watch, and wait for word that he is fine.

Like many of our soldiers, he is a dedicated family man. I know that he has suffered dearly being away from his sweet wife and very young children, and yet LIKE his brave wife, ne'er a complaint did he utter. His service to our country will more than likely go unnoticed to the general public. He, like most of our valiant men and women, is private and humble and does not desire attention at his graduations, promotions, or upon his return from deployment. They simply desire to do their jobs and return home safely to be with their families.

So, as I sit here in my now uncluttered home, cleaning and reorganizing, and spreading ourselves out now that there is an abundance of room, I ponder: What was our sacrifice, really? To be quieter in the home? To see clutter in several of the rooms? To give up the garage to their car, furniture and boxes? To have to schedule laundry days? To experience additional wear and tear on the home? To have to share my kitchen with another woman? Who truly had to make the greater sacrifice?

Over the past months, I have been blessed with an increased understanding of service: Service to GOD by serving others; Service to our FAMILIES, by being willing to share all that He has given us; Service to our COUNTRY, even if it means the possibility of the ultimate sacrifice.

As you and your loved ones celebrate the birth of our nation, I encourage you to remember those who have sacrificed much for our country...for you and for me, and for our posterity. Share this with your children and your grandchildren. Pray for, and if given the opportunity, thank a soldier or a veteran. Pray for and thank a spouse and the children that were left on the home front to bear all the daily burdens alone, all the while wondering....praying...and waiting for the day he is back in their arms and the family is whole. This is truly the land of the free, because of the brave.

God bless ALL our troops and those that love and miss them and sacrifice in our behalf as well. God bless AMERICA!

Down Into Our Hearts (Ward Newsletter - February 2011)

In February, our thoughts naturally focus on the affairs of the heart. Turning for a moment, away from the Hallmark connotations, I want to explore the more spiritual interactions of the heart.

Doctrine and Covenants 59:5 reads, "Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment, saying thus: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him."

What does it mean to love the Lord with all our heart, might, mind and strength? To answer this, we must first address the fact that "love" indicates that an action of some sort must be taken, for love does not conjure up images of passive behavior. Thus the second part of this scripture in which we are counseled to "serve him". Just how DO we serve Him? Verse 6 goes on to explain that we are to "love thy neighbor as thyself."

On the other hand, we are also taught that we will be judged by what is in our hearts, right? This may imply that no action is needed. Elder Marvin J. Ashton said, "When the Lord measures an individual, He does not take a tape measure around the person’s head to determine his mental capacity, nor his chest to determine his manliness, but He measures the heart as an indicator of the person’s capacity and potential to bless others. " (Hmmm...to "bless others"!)

He goes on to say, "Why the heart? Because the heart is a synonym for one’s entire makeup...The measure of our hearts is the measure of our total performance. As used by the Lord, the “heart” of a person describes his effort to better self, or others, or the conditions he confronts. (General Conference, Oct 1988) Again, effort takes action and to bless not only ourselves, but others.

One of my favorite comments by President Elder B. Eyring is the following: Speaking here of our dear Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, he said, "When I was responsible for teaching the gospel to our youth in our seminary programs across the world, he (the Prophet) had said, tapping his forefinger on my chest, “Hal, why don’t you do better in getting the gospel down into their hearts?”He knew that only when it was down in their hearts, as it was in his, would they be strong enough and brave enough to qualify for eternal life. He loved young people. He knew their weaknesses and the fierce opposition which they would face.

President Hinckley knew that God will steel and fortify us all as we choose to take the gospel down into our hearts. And he knew that the choice was made by consecrating all we are and have to follow the Master. (Ensign March 2008)

I believe that for us to truly love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, might, mind and strength we too must do better in getting the gospel down into our hearts and the hearts of our children, that God might steel and fortify us as we consecrate all we are and all we have to follow the Master. Then and only then can we fully understand the will of the Lord and how we can better serve Him, through our service to others.

Beginning Anew (Ward Newsletter - January 2011)

What visions come to mind when you ponder the word NEW? Newborns, a new home, a new car, new clothes or shoes, a new book, or maybe even a new place to visit? Most of these items conjure up pleasurable experiences, excitement, or simply awaken the senses. Is there anything sweeter to look at, smell, touch or listen to than a new baby? There's no comparison here to a newborn, but I personally also enjoy the scent of the printed pages of a new book. Don't we strive to keep our "things" in top condition for as long as we can? The moment we soil a shirt, ding a car or someone tramples on our newly laid sod, we are crushed or even devastated. It's ruined! It will never be the same again. We might even toss an item aside.

Let's reflect on the memories of our baptism for a moment? Being a convert, I was nearly thirty-three years old when I was baptized. I can still recall the sweet feeling I had as I came up out of the water--fresh, clean and NEW. There was absolutely no residue of my past transgressions left. I also can confirm that this bright, shining, new moment did not last very long. Much like new items that we purchase, the newness of that perfect moment also began to tarnish. Each New Year's Day, we begin with anticipation and excitement at the idea of starting fresh, a new beginning, a new heart. How often do we find ourselves failing to keep our goals or hold fast to our resolutions and commitments? We become discouraged and disappointed in ourselves, and often choose to give up instead of forging ahead in spite of our shortcomings or setbacks. We feel perhaps, that we have to wait a whole year before we can try again. Why do we do this? How can we keep ourselves from giving up.

Then the message to me was clear: Beginning anew doesn't just pertain to the New Year. If we break it down, we can apply it to a new month or week. Each week we have the opportunity of starting new by changing our hearts, asking for forgiveness, and partaking of the sacrament. Each week is filled with new days; each day, new hours and even minutes. Wow! We have an abundance of opportunities for starting over, starting fresh.

This year as we begin a new decade, we also have the privilege of studying the New Testament. In The Historical Context of the New Testament article in this month's Ensign, it reads: "The Greek words translated as "new testament" actually refer to a covenant, the new covenant the Savior extends to us through the Atonement." We know that it is through the Atonement of Christ that all mankind may be saved; therein lies the "good news". Through the Atonement, with the Lord by our side, we can begin anew...each year, each month, week, day, hour or even minute. How blessed we are this year to be able to study the New Testament and be given the opportunity to change our hearts and come unto Christ anew. For with Him there is hope, faith, and light. Where we fall short, he picks up the slack or as we hopefully have experienced, may even carry us.

President Thomas S. Monson shared in the April 2009 session of General Conference: " Too numerous to mention are the examples of all the individuals who have faced difficult circumstances and yet who have persevered and prevailed because their faith in the gospel and in the Savior has given them the strength they have needed."

It is my desire then that as we fail, and I know I will to one degree or another, that through our understanding of the Atonement our faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, that we will pull ourselves up and realize that we have another opportunity to begin anew with each moment, and persevere and prevail.