I wonder if ethics/morality has always been as hot an issue as it seems to be right now. There are so many scenarios on my mind resulting in bewilderment. I sincerely wish I could sit down with a group (not too large) of people, all of different backgrounds and political opinions to talk it out, hopefully peacefully although there would likely be strong emotions in the process. I'm glad there are people who stick up for females who have been misused, sexually or otherwise. I am also glad there are people who stick up for people, no matter their station in society, who have been accused without proof. I am not glad that too many will listen to opinions given by celebrities and get very upset over statements made to generate support-whether political or financial or greater fame. I am not glad that too many people are willing to jump on bandwagons and react due to prior judgments made about general categories of people (gender, political leanings, envy, personal experiences that may or may not even be the same) screaming and carrying signs stating obvious general statements.I am not glad that some people will "stand by their man" no matter what he or she has done, wanting to claim only the good without being willing to admit the bad.
The world is very open and available these days which is a good thing and a bad thing. I'm grateful that dictators, immoral leaders or celebrities, and those motivated by any criminal intent can no longer hide- at least not for long. Witnesses can cry from distant, strictly controlled regions of the world and get attention. In some cases, threats can be distinguished simply by openly informing the public. On the other hand, when someone chooses to take advantage of a willingness to speak and act out against wrongdoing, they only have to insinuate an action taken by someone at some time in their life, even if repented of. I am in no way trying to promote a limit to justice. If a murderer is caught 50 years later, there should certainly be a severe consequence paid. On the other hand, if a person did something stupid, even reckless when young and has done their best to repent, never doing the wrong deed again, they should not be vilified. How can anyone who has committed a crime ever get beyond it? How can ex-cons ever get a job? I believe in justice, but also mercy.
I don't want to focus on just one area of morality. I actually determined to compose this blog due to the aftermath of Hurricane Florence. I don't want to single out any one person or try to judge anyone, my quandary is mostly- what would I do?? What would I do in the place of any survivor? What would I do in the place of government or private agencies that have to put policies in place? There are funds available to those who have experienced loss. There are insurance claims left and right, many being denied due to large deductibles (chosen by insured who were trying to save on monthly expenses) or to a fine print exclusion for their situation. ( I understand that insurance companies need to make a profit to survive.) There are people who rush in to "help"- some sincere and others hoping to take advantage of desperate people. I am aware of personal situations of people who lost everything but their lives and whatever they had with them. Their way to make a living has been destroyed. They no longer have a home and no place local to spend long periods trying to "get back on their feet", small business owners whose property and inventory is all gone. On the other hand, there are people who may have been fairly inconvenienced but they haven't really experienced a major loss. On the other hand, there are those who were quite well-to-do before the hurricane (or other disaster) and may have "lost" a considerable amount of money worth of property but have no difficulty "surviving"- only being able to live according to their custom of lifestyle. It will just take a little time for them to make enough money and buy enough stuff to recover. This has caused me to reflect on another difference between socialism and capitalism. I believe people should be able to work hard to "get up in the world" and chase their dreams. On the other hand, I believe having property all over the world, several cars, and worldly goods beyond even the imagination of someone in parts of Africa, South America, Asia, island nations etc, is a bit over the top. Why should someone make billions of dollars(more than most people would even know how to spend) a year when there are people who have nothing? How should a billionaire be stopped or even limited from making more money? On the other hand, why should someone who could work and is unwilling or unable due to personal bad choices (drug addiction comes to mind) expect someone else who is working hard to support themselves and their children to give them a hand-out?
I really wish I could have a sincere, caring discussion about how to recognize the right and wrong in every situation. I look forward to gaining wisdom. I think it will take eternity.
Wednesday, October 03, 2018
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Cruel or benevolent??
Many of us have had the experience of being a child "allowed" to go on an errand with grown-ups or getting to stay up late to watch a movie or play a game with grown-ups. The one major requirement was good behavior. If we behaved like a child, we would not be allowed to be with the grown-ups. From their point of view, it would ruin the atmosphere of peace and enjoyment to have to be harsh and discipline a child. There is also the circumstance of someone who has been rebellious and disobedient having a very different perspective of an authority figure from someone who has been honest and obedient. Whether it's a sullen teenager getting grounded because they missed curfew or an adult who has broken a law or disregarded an ordinance being charged by a law enforcement officer, we tend to want to claim the authority figure as "mean" or "unfair". On the other hand, someone who is being robbed welcomes a law officer and a child being bullied welcomes an adult who intervenes.
God is the ultimate authority figure and can be adored or feared. He created (through Jesus Christ who is a member of the Godhead) beautiful roses, but also put thorns on them. He created the awesome tigers who can be frighteningly fierce. He created the lovely, calming waves that lap a beach which can turn into storm surge or tsunami, destroying everything in its path. Words of God from very long ago: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.... Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. (Ex 20:4-6) So, is He cruel or benevolent? Many people cite the Old Testament as proof of God's powerful judgments, remembering the cruel way people were treated. (Some of those incidents were examples of the barbarism of the people of the time themselves. There were royalty that had some education but most of the people who lived thousands of years ago were totally uneducated. They were superstitious and violent, especially toward anyone deemed to be an "enemy".) A more thorough study of God's words reveals His character. From the words beautifully put to music: 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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:16,17) You can even hear the sorrow in His words, just like a parent grieved when having to punish a loved child: And thus did I, the Lord God, appoint unto man the days of his probation- that by his natural death he might be raised in immortality unto eternal life, even as many as would believe; And they that believe not unto eternal damnation; for they cannot be redeemed from their spiritual fall, because they repent not; For they love darkness rather than light, and their deeds are evil, and they receive their wages of whom they list to obey. (D&C 29:43-45) The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. (Jeremiah 31:3) For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Proverbs 3:12) And therefore will the Lord wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you; for the Lord is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him. (Isaiah 30:18) Then we have the mortal Jesus's simple statement: If ye love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:15)
The prophet Lehi, in the book of 2Nephi in the Book of Mormon, gives a very clear explanation of the necessity of "opposition in all things" lovingly to his son Jacob that God has preserved for us to read. We can't know happiness without experiencing sorrow. We can't understand sweet without having tasted bitter. God loves us more than we can comprehend. He doesn't want to control us so He gave us free will to make our own choices. He won't shield us from consequences because He wants us to learn from our own experience. He gives us warnings and explanations, but we have to choose to listen. I don't doubt His fairness and love.
God is the ultimate authority figure and can be adored or feared. He created (through Jesus Christ who is a member of the Godhead) beautiful roses, but also put thorns on them. He created the awesome tigers who can be frighteningly fierce. He created the lovely, calming waves that lap a beach which can turn into storm surge or tsunami, destroying everything in its path. Words of God from very long ago: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.... Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. (Ex 20:4-6) So, is He cruel or benevolent? Many people cite the Old Testament as proof of God's powerful judgments, remembering the cruel way people were treated. (Some of those incidents were examples of the barbarism of the people of the time themselves. There were royalty that had some education but most of the people who lived thousands of years ago were totally uneducated. They were superstitious and violent, especially toward anyone deemed to be an "enemy".) A more thorough study of God's words reveals His character. From the words beautifully put to music: 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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:16,17) You can even hear the sorrow in His words, just like a parent grieved when having to punish a loved child: And thus did I, the Lord God, appoint unto man the days of his probation- that by his natural death he might be raised in immortality unto eternal life, even as many as would believe; And they that believe not unto eternal damnation; for they cannot be redeemed from their spiritual fall, because they repent not; For they love darkness rather than light, and their deeds are evil, and they receive their wages of whom they list to obey. (D&C 29:43-45) The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. (Jeremiah 31:3) For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Proverbs 3:12) And therefore will the Lord wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you; for the Lord is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him. (Isaiah 30:18) Then we have the mortal Jesus's simple statement: If ye love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:15)
The prophet Lehi, in the book of 2Nephi in the Book of Mormon, gives a very clear explanation of the necessity of "opposition in all things" lovingly to his son Jacob that God has preserved for us to read. We can't know happiness without experiencing sorrow. We can't understand sweet without having tasted bitter. God loves us more than we can comprehend. He doesn't want to control us so He gave us free will to make our own choices. He won't shield us from consequences because He wants us to learn from our own experience. He gives us warnings and explanations, but we have to choose to listen. I don't doubt His fairness and love.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Patriotism and sorrow
I just finished reading a book about one of the "founders" of the United States of America, John Adams. The author, David McCullough, did a tremendous job researching, compiling lots of letters and other documents then writing an interesting, smooth flowing narrative of Adams' life. I got a real feel for the struggle it was to establish this country for the opportunity of freedom, especially of religion. There were as many differing opinions as there were people as to the best way to deal with England's dominance and establishing a new country with laws that would serve so many different people way into the future. Those who participated in the inception of the federal government sacrificed so much. They often spent years apart from loved ones in places they would rather not have been. They often were not recognized or appreciated for their efforts. I finished the book with a great appreciation for the efforts of those like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, etc and a renewed feeling of gratitude for having been born in a time and place to reap the benefits provided by the efforts and sacrifices of so many before me.
Then, today, Russ and I went to Indianapolis to the Eiteljorg Museum containing history, art, and information about American Indians and the West. As I learned more about how the natives of this country were pushed out of their homes by Europeans desperate for a "new land" to establish the free country of which I have been feeling so proud, I felt incredible sorrow. They were treated so unfairly. But as I ponder it, how could it have gone any other way? Was there any way the hundreds of people who were attempting to flee the injustices dealt them in established nations could have found a place to call their own without displacing other people from the homes where they were peacefully living? It makes me think of the thousands, even millions, of current refugees. Where can anyone go?? Truly, in the words of the familiar Christmas song, "There is no peace on earth I said"!! Whether we refer to a religious group, a gender group, a political group, an ethnic group- we humans tend to separate ourselves into "us" and "them" resulting in disconnections, hatred, anger, resentment, prejudice, war, genocide. What can we do??!!
At the risk of being too repetitious, Christ and His Gospel are the ONLY way to have peace. As long as people treat other people poorly, we cannot have peace. The only alternative is to live as Christ has shown and commanded. I am grateful to be a natural born citizen of the United States of America. I am grateful to those who suffered so that I can be free and comfortable. I can never repay them. I am even more grateful for my Savior, for His example and atonement. Continuous attempts to "find a solution"- a treaty, a system of government, budget balancing, retribution- will NEVER succeed because people NEVER change. Every generation thinks they have a new idea which is never anything new. Every generation thinks they just have to work harder, fight more victoriously, be bigger and tougher and more clever so things will work out to their advantage. I wish I could explain to every human being that the Gospel- the "good news"- is the answer, the only answer.
Then, today, Russ and I went to Indianapolis to the Eiteljorg Museum containing history, art, and information about American Indians and the West. As I learned more about how the natives of this country were pushed out of their homes by Europeans desperate for a "new land" to establish the free country of which I have been feeling so proud, I felt incredible sorrow. They were treated so unfairly. But as I ponder it, how could it have gone any other way? Was there any way the hundreds of people who were attempting to flee the injustices dealt them in established nations could have found a place to call their own without displacing other people from the homes where they were peacefully living? It makes me think of the thousands, even millions, of current refugees. Where can anyone go?? Truly, in the words of the familiar Christmas song, "There is no peace on earth I said"!! Whether we refer to a religious group, a gender group, a political group, an ethnic group- we humans tend to separate ourselves into "us" and "them" resulting in disconnections, hatred, anger, resentment, prejudice, war, genocide. What can we do??!!
At the risk of being too repetitious, Christ and His Gospel are the ONLY way to have peace. As long as people treat other people poorly, we cannot have peace. The only alternative is to live as Christ has shown and commanded. I am grateful to be a natural born citizen of the United States of America. I am grateful to those who suffered so that I can be free and comfortable. I can never repay them. I am even more grateful for my Savior, for His example and atonement. Continuous attempts to "find a solution"- a treaty, a system of government, budget balancing, retribution- will NEVER succeed because people NEVER change. Every generation thinks they have a new idea which is never anything new. Every generation thinks they just have to work harder, fight more victoriously, be bigger and tougher and more clever so things will work out to their advantage. I wish I could explain to every human being that the Gospel- the "good news"- is the answer, the only answer.
Saturday, September 22, 2018
Embracing inabilities
The title I chose for this post is a little strange. I treated a pair of local missionaries to dinner last evening and had a conversation about abilities. We were talking about my husband's calling as ward choir director and that I appreciated their willingness to join in singing. One of them, I'm sure trying to be positive but noticing my absence at choir, said something about it being great that I write music. I explained that I have sung all my life and loved it, even thinking I might have a career in music at one point. However, I discovered a couple of years ago that one of my vocal cords is paralyzed. (I have likely been managing with only one functioning vocal cord since thyroid surgery in 1974. For years I have been able to "compensate", not even aware that was what I was doing, but as I get older, I have had difficulty singing, sometimes having absolutely nothing come out! Most of the time I cannot control vibrato, but that's common as people get older and NONE of our muscles are as controlled. A lot of the time, it hurts a little to sing, like I'm straining. I found out that you can actually "blow" a vocal cord if you strain enough. So I have given up singing rather than risk losing the use of my one cord.) The elder expressed sympathy for my plight. A thought came to mind that, although I can't use one of the "talents" I was given (by God- I only used and developed it), I have been able to enjoy music, play piano and recorder, and write some. He likened it to people losing a sense and compensating with further developed other senses, like deaf people noticing things more or blind hearing more than sighted people. I agreed and realized that those compensations happen because we pay more attention, develop more focus on other areas.
I talked to Russ earlier today, telling him about the conversation with the missionaries, and it occurred to me that a loving Father might even build in some "losses" for us, not to make our lives miserable but to nudge us to broaden our awareness and increase the abilities we develop. If someone is given a natural balance and agility to be an excellent gymnast, should they mourn for their remainder of their life when they reach a point in natural aging that they can no longer perform as they once did? Should I just sit, depressed, every time the choir sings, especially a song I love and have sung before? What would be the point in that?? I don't know whether God "purposely" let me lose my voice, despite my ignorant insistence at continuing to sing for years with only one vocal cord. But, I think it's a bit of a miracle that I have sung for nearly 45 years with only one vocal cord! It's time for me to focus on something else. I actually enjoy cleaning. At one point I cleaned "professionally" with a friend and we were really good. We were sought after and paid well. However, cleaning the way I clean is very hard work and I now have arthritis in my hands which limits how much scrubbing I can do before my hands just don't work and definitely hurt. So, I have to limit how much cleaning I do, only doing it at home or for friends or family. I am being nudged toward considering other past-times. I am determined NOT to just spend time doing jigsaw puzzles (which I love) or reading books (which I also love) because those, to me, are simply leisure activities- selfish relaxation for after the work is done and something worthwhile has been accomplished. There have been times when I was recovering from surgery or really sick and I spent large portions of time watching tv or playing games because it was all I was up to and I just couldn't sleep 24 hours a day.
So, it may take some effort on my part to reach beyond my "comfort zone" or "think outside the box", but God gave me a fairly healthy body and capable mind so I will find things to do, even if they are different from what I have "always done". I will not mourn; I will not spend hours complaining. Remind me of this if you hear me whine......................
I talked to Russ earlier today, telling him about the conversation with the missionaries, and it occurred to me that a loving Father might even build in some "losses" for us, not to make our lives miserable but to nudge us to broaden our awareness and increase the abilities we develop. If someone is given a natural balance and agility to be an excellent gymnast, should they mourn for their remainder of their life when they reach a point in natural aging that they can no longer perform as they once did? Should I just sit, depressed, every time the choir sings, especially a song I love and have sung before? What would be the point in that?? I don't know whether God "purposely" let me lose my voice, despite my ignorant insistence at continuing to sing for years with only one vocal cord. But, I think it's a bit of a miracle that I have sung for nearly 45 years with only one vocal cord! It's time for me to focus on something else. I actually enjoy cleaning. At one point I cleaned "professionally" with a friend and we were really good. We were sought after and paid well. However, cleaning the way I clean is very hard work and I now have arthritis in my hands which limits how much scrubbing I can do before my hands just don't work and definitely hurt. So, I have to limit how much cleaning I do, only doing it at home or for friends or family. I am being nudged toward considering other past-times. I am determined NOT to just spend time doing jigsaw puzzles (which I love) or reading books (which I also love) because those, to me, are simply leisure activities- selfish relaxation for after the work is done and something worthwhile has been accomplished. There have been times when I was recovering from surgery or really sick and I spent large portions of time watching tv or playing games because it was all I was up to and I just couldn't sleep 24 hours a day.
So, it may take some effort on my part to reach beyond my "comfort zone" or "think outside the box", but God gave me a fairly healthy body and capable mind so I will find things to do, even if they are different from what I have "always done". I will not mourn; I will not spend hours complaining. Remind me of this if you hear me whine......................
Friday, September 21, 2018
God's government
There are opinions being offered these days as to the benefits of socialism vs capitalism. It was suggested to me that God's idea of justice is more like capitalism. So I looked up some scriptures and this is what I have found:
Socialism: dictionary definition- the political and economic theory of social organization that advocates the means of production, distribution and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole. (Isaiah 58:6,7) Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is is not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to they house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? From which we can see that God would prefer that we give meat to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked and take in the stranger as Jesus explained through his parable of the "King" praising those on his right hand followed by "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." More recently we have (D&C 42:30, 55) And behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of they properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them....And if thou obtainest more than that which would be for they support, thou shalt give it into my storehouse, that all things may be done according to that which I have said. Clearly the Lord wants us to be generous, not greedy with our worldly wealth. He wants us to share what we have. However----------
Capitalism: definition- an economic and political system in which a country's trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit, rather than by the state. Paul especially was concerned about expectations of generosity. (2 Thess. 3:10) For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. Also (Romans 2:10) But glory, honour, and peace to every man that worketh good which is a bit out of context. He's really talking about that we should expect to receive that which we have earned, blessings for good choices. David says something similar (Psalms 62:12) Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy; for thou renderest to every man according to his work. This "work" is a reference to performing good works rather than simply a physical labor. However, the principle is the same, as in (D&C 130:18,19) Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much advantage in the world to come. Then, very clearly stated (D&C 42:42) Thous shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer.
So, what exactly IS the Lord's way of running a "government"? The clearest explanation describes the city of the ancient prophet Enoch. All the people had made covenants and lived righteous principles to the extent that (Moses 7:18) And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them. He explains in Malachi 3:10 how they are to do this Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, said the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Further a prophet said, as a spokesman for God (Mosiah 18:28) And thus they should impart of their substance of their own free will and good desires toward God ....and to every needy, naked soul. It isn't about a powerful government that forces people to do something. It isn't about judgement and withholding things from people who don't perform. (D&C 137:9) For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts. The Lord's government is very specifically NOT about forcing any of us to do anything. Yes, we do have to suffer consequences for whatever our choices may be but we are the ones who make the choices. We give because we are grateful and want to share. We help others and share because we love God in all His goodness and we love our brothers and sisters with the kind of love Jesus showed when He willingly gave His mortal life. Whatever kind of government is chosen by humans for political entities is only temporary and will never work. Why? Because the natural man is greedy, power hungry, prejudiced, and unkind. It doesn't matter what constitution or laws or weapons are involved. The only way to permanent peace and "equality" is God's way- free choice by people who have repented (changed) to the extent their hearts are pure and they are willing to do their share of any work to do. Unfortunately, that isn't going to happen in any current nation- in Europe, in Asia, on any island, or even in the good old free United States. Until Christ returns, people repent, and Satan is bound, we will just have to individually live the best we can in choosing charity: the pure love of Christ.
Socialism: dictionary definition- the political and economic theory of social organization that advocates the means of production, distribution and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole. (Isaiah 58:6,7) Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is is not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to they house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? From which we can see that God would prefer that we give meat to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked and take in the stranger as Jesus explained through his parable of the "King" praising those on his right hand followed by "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." More recently we have (D&C 42:30, 55) And behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of they properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them....And if thou obtainest more than that which would be for they support, thou shalt give it into my storehouse, that all things may be done according to that which I have said. Clearly the Lord wants us to be generous, not greedy with our worldly wealth. He wants us to share what we have. However----------
Capitalism: definition- an economic and political system in which a country's trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit, rather than by the state. Paul especially was concerned about expectations of generosity. (2 Thess. 3:10) For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. Also (Romans 2:10) But glory, honour, and peace to every man that worketh good which is a bit out of context. He's really talking about that we should expect to receive that which we have earned, blessings for good choices. David says something similar (Psalms 62:12) Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy; for thou renderest to every man according to his work. This "work" is a reference to performing good works rather than simply a physical labor. However, the principle is the same, as in (D&C 130:18,19) Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much advantage in the world to come. Then, very clearly stated (D&C 42:42) Thous shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer.
So, what exactly IS the Lord's way of running a "government"? The clearest explanation describes the city of the ancient prophet Enoch. All the people had made covenants and lived righteous principles to the extent that (Moses 7:18) And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them. He explains in Malachi 3:10 how they are to do this Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, said the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Further a prophet said, as a spokesman for God (Mosiah 18:28) And thus they should impart of their substance of their own free will and good desires toward God ....and to every needy, naked soul. It isn't about a powerful government that forces people to do something. It isn't about judgement and withholding things from people who don't perform. (D&C 137:9) For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts. The Lord's government is very specifically NOT about forcing any of us to do anything. Yes, we do have to suffer consequences for whatever our choices may be but we are the ones who make the choices. We give because we are grateful and want to share. We help others and share because we love God in all His goodness and we love our brothers and sisters with the kind of love Jesus showed when He willingly gave His mortal life. Whatever kind of government is chosen by humans for political entities is only temporary and will never work. Why? Because the natural man is greedy, power hungry, prejudiced, and unkind. It doesn't matter what constitution or laws or weapons are involved. The only way to permanent peace and "equality" is God's way- free choice by people who have repented (changed) to the extent their hearts are pure and they are willing to do their share of any work to do. Unfortunately, that isn't going to happen in any current nation- in Europe, in Asia, on any island, or even in the good old free United States. Until Christ returns, people repent, and Satan is bound, we will just have to individually live the best we can in choosing charity: the pure love of Christ.
Tuesday, September 04, 2018
Identifying perfection
I have no idea whether anyone reads these or if they are just words floating in cyberspace- but I finally had a thought I felt worth trying to share.
To set up the concept, I will share a couple of brief experiences. When we were preparing to sell the first home we owned (several decades ago), the decision was made that the outside needed to be a different color. It didn't need painting for maintenance, just to attempt to make it look more "attractive" to potential buyers. Money was spent that we couldn't really afford and precious hours spent to paint it all. Then.......... within a very short time after we sold it, the house was painted by the new owners a different color. So much for our idea of what was attractive.
As we were out for our morning walk, we passed a new house under construction. Russ commented on the floor joists that were composites, not old-fashioned wood pieces. In discussing the pros and cons: firefighters have to work fast when newer buildings burn because the glue in the composite wood used burns much faster and hotter than even old, dried lumber, however, the old lumber often had irregularities like twists and knots and bends that made it more difficult to work with them and resulted in less "perfect" construction.
I was pondering the definition of "perfection". Human ideas of perfection are defined by each individual- "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" and are limited in creation. For instance, efforts to create the "ideal" flower or vegetable, usually result in sterile plants which may ship well or be a more attractive color or size or be resistant to insects or other damage, but can't reproduce themselves and often don't taste as good. Efforts to create animals through breeding often result in problems for the animals. Not only do the desirable traits get reproduces, but also the undesirable traits get carried on. Also, efforts to "clone" have all kinds of undesirable results. Admittedly, more time and further research may clear up some of these problems but what I have thought about is how we have such a long way to go to be as wise as God- the original CREATOR.
Last century, a man named Adolf Hitler thought he knew the best way to clean up humanity resulting in a "superior race". He had an image in his mind of the "perfect" human. There were probably people who would agree with his image, then and even now. But I think the majority of people consider his idea of killing off all the "imperfect" humans to be barbaric. Recently there was a movie connected to the Marvel comic heroes about a being who thought it was worth destroying lives on multiple planets in an effort to avoid wars, diseases, and overcrowding. I can't help but consider the people I know personally who would be considered less than perfect because of physical, emotional, or mental disabilities or even less than "model" physical attributes. Russ has always wished he was taller. I have wishes I could be more petite. What is perfect and should we strive through surgery, makeup, cloning, or "weeding out"- pursue a more "perfect" human race??
God knew when He created molecules and combined them with DNA to guide development that there would be great diversity- in all living things. There are living things that succumb to disease or injury thereby making them "less perfect" but there are also living things that are just the way they were originally slated to be. Are they mistakes? God doesn't think so. He chose to make everything so widely varied. He doesn't just love and accept the daisy with the "perfect" number and size petals or the sheep with the perfect wool or eyes or ears. He also doesn't just love those of His children who are lovely and kind and smart and capable and talented. Why do we feel that everything and everyone has to be so alike, so "ideal"? We might become much more like our Father in Heaven and His Son if we try harder to see the beauty in "imperfection". When Christ admonished us to be "perfect even as He is perfect", He wasn't referring to our size, shape, talents, or intellects. He wants us to be perfect in love- especially loving people no matter what they look like or can do or how they talk. Granted, He abhors evil. But people aren't inherently evil even if they sometimes choose evil words or actions. It's appropriate to dislike choices, just not people. We can defend ourselves when necessary, but not attack. We can prefer horses to cows or lilies to roses. We definitely should prefer good to evil.
To set up the concept, I will share a couple of brief experiences. When we were preparing to sell the first home we owned (several decades ago), the decision was made that the outside needed to be a different color. It didn't need painting for maintenance, just to attempt to make it look more "attractive" to potential buyers. Money was spent that we couldn't really afford and precious hours spent to paint it all. Then.......... within a very short time after we sold it, the house was painted by the new owners a different color. So much for our idea of what was attractive.
As we were out for our morning walk, we passed a new house under construction. Russ commented on the floor joists that were composites, not old-fashioned wood pieces. In discussing the pros and cons: firefighters have to work fast when newer buildings burn because the glue in the composite wood used burns much faster and hotter than even old, dried lumber, however, the old lumber often had irregularities like twists and knots and bends that made it more difficult to work with them and resulted in less "perfect" construction.
I was pondering the definition of "perfection". Human ideas of perfection are defined by each individual- "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" and are limited in creation. For instance, efforts to create the "ideal" flower or vegetable, usually result in sterile plants which may ship well or be a more attractive color or size or be resistant to insects or other damage, but can't reproduce themselves and often don't taste as good. Efforts to create animals through breeding often result in problems for the animals. Not only do the desirable traits get reproduces, but also the undesirable traits get carried on. Also, efforts to "clone" have all kinds of undesirable results. Admittedly, more time and further research may clear up some of these problems but what I have thought about is how we have such a long way to go to be as wise as God- the original CREATOR.
Last century, a man named Adolf Hitler thought he knew the best way to clean up humanity resulting in a "superior race". He had an image in his mind of the "perfect" human. There were probably people who would agree with his image, then and even now. But I think the majority of people consider his idea of killing off all the "imperfect" humans to be barbaric. Recently there was a movie connected to the Marvel comic heroes about a being who thought it was worth destroying lives on multiple planets in an effort to avoid wars, diseases, and overcrowding. I can't help but consider the people I know personally who would be considered less than perfect because of physical, emotional, or mental disabilities or even less than "model" physical attributes. Russ has always wished he was taller. I have wishes I could be more petite. What is perfect and should we strive through surgery, makeup, cloning, or "weeding out"- pursue a more "perfect" human race??
God knew when He created molecules and combined them with DNA to guide development that there would be great diversity- in all living things. There are living things that succumb to disease or injury thereby making them "less perfect" but there are also living things that are just the way they were originally slated to be. Are they mistakes? God doesn't think so. He chose to make everything so widely varied. He doesn't just love and accept the daisy with the "perfect" number and size petals or the sheep with the perfect wool or eyes or ears. He also doesn't just love those of His children who are lovely and kind and smart and capable and talented. Why do we feel that everything and everyone has to be so alike, so "ideal"? We might become much more like our Father in Heaven and His Son if we try harder to see the beauty in "imperfection". When Christ admonished us to be "perfect even as He is perfect", He wasn't referring to our size, shape, talents, or intellects. He wants us to be perfect in love- especially loving people no matter what they look like or can do or how they talk. Granted, He abhors evil. But people aren't inherently evil even if they sometimes choose evil words or actions. It's appropriate to dislike choices, just not people. We can defend ourselves when necessary, but not attack. We can prefer horses to cows or lilies to roses. We definitely should prefer good to evil.
Friday, August 10, 2018
The art of conversation
I have said it before and I reiterate- we're all different. So, how do we manage to treat each other with respect, maybe even kindness? Starting with the act of conversation, there are ways to encourage the progression of it and ways to create turmoil in either or both parties. An essential aspect of healthy, beneficial conversation is LISTENING. ( Ecclesiastes 3:7 a time to keep silence, and a time to speak) By that, I don't just mean pausing in your speech to let the other person mention another thing about which you can either prove them wrong or use as a springboard to a long monologue to display your enviable knowledge and experience.
I think a good way to explore conversation is to first find commonalities. When someone brings up something, if you first let them know you actually heard what they meant (unless you need to ask a question to clarify) then encourage them by finding something in the subject that you can relate to. There are some who feel that disagreeing will somehow "spark" conversation. I think that what it does is create tension and, ultimately, destroy further peaceful conversation. There are some who feel compelled to constantly try to impress others by never-ending tales of their own accomplishments and great knowledge. That can only cause others to feel inadequate or, at best, envying which certainly isn't uplifting.
I'm sure there are plenty of books and articles containing suggestions as to how to carry on meaningful conversations. For me, I look to the One who has all wisdom and knowledge:
Cease to contend one with another; cease to speak evil one of another. (D&C 136:23)
Agree with thine adversary quickly.. (Matt 5:25)
Therefore, strengthen your brethren in all your conversation, in all your prayers, in all your exhortations, and in all your doings. (D&C 108:7)
And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek out of the best books words of wisdom, seek learning even by study and also by faith..(D&C 109:7)
Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees....Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord .. (Hebrews 12:12,14)
Do all things without murmurings and disputings. (Philippians 2:14)
Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. (Romans 14:19)
That's probably enough to get the point across. I look forward to Zion, here or in the eternities. I look forward to spending forever with good people where we all love, edify, and instruct each other, sharing encouragement and wisdom without competition. I love to learn and I love to teach. I love to encourage others and I love to feel encouragement from others.
I think a good way to explore conversation is to first find commonalities. When someone brings up something, if you first let them know you actually heard what they meant (unless you need to ask a question to clarify) then encourage them by finding something in the subject that you can relate to. There are some who feel that disagreeing will somehow "spark" conversation. I think that what it does is create tension and, ultimately, destroy further peaceful conversation. There are some who feel compelled to constantly try to impress others by never-ending tales of their own accomplishments and great knowledge. That can only cause others to feel inadequate or, at best, envying which certainly isn't uplifting.
I'm sure there are plenty of books and articles containing suggestions as to how to carry on meaningful conversations. For me, I look to the One who has all wisdom and knowledge:
Cease to contend one with another; cease to speak evil one of another. (D&C 136:23)
Agree with thine adversary quickly.. (Matt 5:25)
Therefore, strengthen your brethren in all your conversation, in all your prayers, in all your exhortations, and in all your doings. (D&C 108:7)
And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek out of the best books words of wisdom, seek learning even by study and also by faith..(D&C 109:7)
Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees....Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord .. (Hebrews 12:12,14)
Do all things without murmurings and disputings. (Philippians 2:14)
Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. (Romans 14:19)
That's probably enough to get the point across. I look forward to Zion, here or in the eternities. I look forward to spending forever with good people where we all love, edify, and instruct each other, sharing encouragement and wisdom without competition. I love to learn and I love to teach. I love to encourage others and I love to feel encouragement from others.
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