in for the long haul

34 years ago today, I married my best friend and sweetheart. He's still my best friend and sweetheart. Though we move a little slower and our faces are moving south, we love each other more deeply today than when we were cute and perky.

good better best

Praying For...love and joy for children all over the world...also received an answer to a private prayer that was different than I wanted; it changes everything. I must choose best over good and better...although it is sometimes hard, it is vital to listen to Heavenly counsel and follow the will of God. Years ago I rationalized away inspired counsel with devastating results, so have learned the hard way to always listen, go, and do the things which the Lord commands.

Ponderization..."The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him," Psalm 28:7.

Sermon of the Week...Behold Thy Mother by Jeffrey R. Holland, is a inspiring comparison between the love of the Savior and the love of a mother. Maybe if I had come to this world perfect like my dear Savior, I could have been a better mother.  But I am not perfect; my failures had disastrous consequences. With my experiences in mind, I wish I could open the eyes of young parents. We have such a short time with them and no second chances. We simply must put aside selfish pursuits and selfish reactions in favor of devotion and charity if we are to build a strong family and lead children into the arms of Jesus Christ.

Cucina Fresca...I think I inherited my Dad's noodle addiction. At my favorite Thai restaurant, I always order steamed vegetables, steamed noodles, chili sauce, and peanut sauce. I found it extremely easy to duplicate with Annie Chun's Brown Rice Pad Thai noodles and plenty of yummy veg. Peanut sauce recipes abound so I won't post one here. It's also a good meal with brown/red rice.

Garden Gate...because of the three nighttime freezes this week, I had to cover my mango trees. I plan to get the big mango in the ground during the coming weeks, because I almost fell off the ladder covering that potted monster.

Doctor Ginger, Medicine Woman...nope not a real doc but a student of natural and nutritional healing. After decades of obsessing with food and weight, I am throwing out my scale. Eating plant foods all these years, I've learned a great lesson. The scale is not a true measure of one's fatness or lack thereof, but it can exacerbate eating disorders. When I exercise and drink plenty of water, I gain muscle weight in proper places and the wrinkles on my face fill out...but belly fat melts away. When I eat fatty foods, I gain chub and belly weight. When I count calories, a deprivation mindset for sure, I lose muscle mass and water well before any fat comes off...so I look wrinkly, old, stooped, and pudgy before the skeletal look kicks in. Excluding added fats and animal products in favor of beans, grains, starchy veggies, greens, other veggies, and fruits, weight is distributed correctly. So....the conclusion of my one person study is this...Eat a diet of totally satisfying starches such as grains, beans, and starchy veggies with plenty of greens, other veggies, and fruits but devoid of added oils and animal products. Drink lots of water and exercise gently 30-60 minutes six days a week. Oh wait! Didn't Dr. John McDougall say the same thing? “The list of health problems I think it would very hard to live with is SO much longer than the list of foods I previously thought I couldn’t live without” Merrill Alley.

This week I read Dr. Gregor's new book, How Not to Die. While I think the title is silly, the material inside is interesting, important, and backed up by scientific studies. One little tidbit that is helping my family is the use of ginger root for migraines. One family member suffers constantly. According the the research he found, ginger root powder in water works as well as expensive migraine medications. Even though I only had fresh ginger root, I made a concoction with a bit of honey and water in the magic bullet. My guinea pig skeptically sucked it down. Within 15 minutes or so, he felt a marked reduction of the pain. I gave him a second dose, which ended the headache for a time with zero side effects. We repeated this procedure again and again over the last week with similar results. Dry powder didn't work as well for him. At first he didn't like it much, because it is a pretty strong concoction. After the a couple doses, he now loves it. While this doesn't address the cause, it allows him to function better; the cause is being addressed, too.

Teaching Little Children...this week I presented Language Works independent phonogram work to 12 of my readers at school (three are either not past the first pink work or were on vacation). Amazed at their excitement and success, I watched them patiently wait for a turn to do another set (there is only one set of each work in a Montessori classroom to teach the children patience). In effect, I took myself out of their learning picture, as they only need to show the booklet to any teacher or aid to discover the sound of the phonogram. With that information in place, the self-teaching materials give them plenty of practice reading and writing words with the particular phonogram. One little boy didn't do so well, because he didn't pay attention during initial instruction. After a reminder lesson, he accomplished the work with accuracy and joy. They are especially proud of the little booklets they make for each phonogram but a little frustrated that they must leave the learning journal at school. These kindergarteners can complete the whole program by the end of the year if they complete three phonograms per week. If this happens, reading will be solidly in place before look-say, pseudo-phonics can stifle their reading abilities. What this program accomplishes used to be the first semester of first grade, I know because I have my old first-grade, 100% phonetic reading program on my library shelf. Today, this is considered third-grade level. Isn't that horrendous! Plus, 4 and 5 year olds have been using this work in some American Montessori schools for 27 years. Anyway, our next group of four-year-olds, will be ready to begin this work in a couple weeks but at a much slower pace. If they attend the school during their kindergarten year, they will leave with a complete phonetic toolbelt.

I had a serendipitous teaching moment during cubs this week. The outgoing leader took the us to a gingerbread house display, which was enjoyed by all. In the car on the way home, we all talked about our various Christmas traditions. One little boy grew from quiet to sullen until he finally said. 'I hate it when people talk about things I don't know about. I get so jealous.' I explained the jealousy was a form of the sin envy, which Heavenly Father commanded us against. Further I pointed out that everyone has some cool stuff in their lives, and we shouldn't get angry and jealous because others have different cool stuff from us. 'Be happy for them, and be happy for yourself.' After this brief soapbox, I asked him to tell us the cool stuff his family did at Christmas. Visibly happier, he told us of traveling to snow country each year to play and pajamas on Christmas Eve and several other things.

Puppy Prattle...our favorite game to play with Dash is hide and seek. One of us runs off to  hides in a part of the house, while the other one keeps her attention. Then the hider whistles. She looks and looks until she finds us. Usually it's within seconds, but sometimes she has a little trouble. Anyway, we all love this.

it's what we do

A few days ago, I told the mother of one of my Primary students about my discussion with the kids in the class. Do you remember? One little boy asked me if I ever get mad. I answered thusly. From time to time, most people have feelings of anger, sadness, rejection, or fear. However, it's what you do with those feelings that counts. If you allow yourself to hit or or kick or yell or fight or throw a tantrum because of your feelings, it is called contention. Jesus told us, contention is from Satan. Choosing to act out with contention, you choose to follow Satan. I know I don't want to follow Satan. It is better to talk things out if you can or walk away if it's not possible to talk it out. You always have a choice whether you are going to choose contention or choose to forgive and forget.

The mother was highly offended and pointed out that even the Savior got angry. She totally missed the point. First, I didn't say we shouldn't get angry, but that we shouldn't act out in anger. Second, the Savior was justified because the temple was being defiled and blasphemed. Third, no person on Earth has ever been as pure as Jesus. None of us can claim to spank without anger. I further illustrate this point by words from prophets and apostles.

"I don’t believe that children need to be beaten, or anything of that kind. Children can be disciplined with love. They can be counseled—if parents would take the time to sit down quietly and talk with them. Tell them the consequences of misbehaving, of not doing things in the right way. The children would be better off, and I think everyone would be happier.

My father never touched us. He had a wisdom all his own of quietly talking with us. He turned us around when we were moving in the wrong direction, without beating us or taking a strap to us or any of that kind of business. I’ve never been a believer in the physical punishment of children. I don’t think it is necessary.

I have never accepted the principle of “spare the rod and spoil the child.” I will be forever grateful for a father who never laid a hand in anger upon his children. Somehow he had the wonderful talent to let them know what was expected of them and to give them encouragement in achieving it.

I am persuaded that violent fathers produce violent sons. I am satisfied that such punishment in most instances does more damage than good. Children don’t need beating. They need love and encouragement. They need fathers to whom they can look with respect rather than fear. Above all, they need example.

I recently read a biography of George H. Brimhall, who at one time served as president of Brigham Young University. Concerning him, someone said that he reared “his boys with a rod, but it [was] a fishing rod” (Raymond Brimhall Holbrook and Esther Hamilton Holbrook, The Tall Pine Tree: The Life and Work of George H. Brimhall, n.p., 1988, p. 62). That says it all.

It is not by the whip or the rod that we can make obedient children; but it is by faith and by prayer, and by setting a good example before them. If you know what to do, you can correct the child without violence.

Chastening may be necessary, … but parents should govern their children by faith rather than by the rod. Although it is written that, “The rod and reproof give wisdom; but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame [Proverbs 29:15],” and, “He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes [Proverbs 13:24];” these quotations refer to … wise and prudent corrections. Children who have lived in the sunbeams of parental kindness and affection, when made aware of a parent’s displeasure, and receive a kind reproof from parental lips, are more thoroughly chastened than by any physical punishment that could be applied to their persons (DNW, 7 Dec. 1864, 2).

Instead of being behind with the whip, always be in advance, then you can say, “Come along,” and you will have no use for the rod."

Margorie Pay Hinckley said, “You don’t teach a child not to hit by hitting.”

Brigham Young said, "Use no lash and no violence against them."

“What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same,” Doctrine and Covenants 1:38.

It's what we do with our anger that matters. I started out as a very angry person who spanked her children. The outcome was not what I dreamed of for my family. With our last children, I tried to use kind, calm communication and had better results. Not perfect by any means, but much better.

I found all these quotes on the internet: Brigham Young, Parental Responsibility, At Home With the Hinckleys, Save the Children, Gordon B. Hinckley

Letter to our granddaughter on her 8th birthday

Because we have a service group here and have had family all week, I post the card I sent S this week for her birthday.

Happy Birthday S!

This is one of your most important birthdays. You will arrive at the age of accountability. When you choose to get baptized, you promise to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ, always remember Him, keep His commandments, and serve Him to the end. That means you aren't ashamed to be known as His follower and do the best you can to follow His example.

Have you ever heard someone say this? "It's my life; I can do what I want?' This is both true and false. Free agency allows us to choose, but all choices have consequences. Choices affect everyone in a person's family, their friends, their future spouse and children, their ability to support their family someday, and their progression in the next life. Choosing the right gives the best possible outcome.

Very little is said about Jesus' childhood and youth in the scriptures, however, the apostle Luke thought it would be important for all children learn about Jesus' early life. God inspires apostles and prophets to teach the things He wants His people to learn. Children who read the scriptures can learn to understand their duty as children. "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." Luke 2:52

Let's break down this commandment. Increase=to grow or become more. Wisdom=acting with good judgment to avoid evil and choose the right. How can you fulfill your duty to increase in wisdom? Study the scriptures and pray daily with your family and privately.

Stature=attaining full height and good health. Daniel of the Old Testament is a good example of this. "He was chosen to attend the special school of the King, which included meat and wine and dainties. He and his 3 friends begged an experiment. For ten days, they ate nothing but pulse (whole grains, beans, and vegetables) and drank nothing but water. At the end of the trial, they looked better and appeared healthier than all the others, so they were allowed to continue. At the end of three years, they were brought before the king; among all the students none were found like Daniel and his three friends. In all matters of wisdom and understanding, the king found them ten times better than his wise men. A great parallel with a promise is given in our Word of Wisdom. "All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them," Doctrine and Covenants 89:1821. Each of these promises was fulfilled in behalf of Daniel and his friends," Paraphrased from N. Eldon Tanner, April 1979. To be like Daniel, don't tease your parents for junk, but ask for and eat good food, drink lots of water, play outside instead of sitting around, and use your brain instead of watching TV.

Favor=kind disposition, good manners, proper habits, and happy countenance. Of course you know what it means to be well behaved; that's good favor. How is finding favor with God the best way to find favor with man? People like people who are well behaved. Jesus taught us to love others, be nice and patient, or in other words to be well behaved. Jesus also taught us to love our neighbors. Your family members are your most important neighbors. When we throw tantrums or fight with people in our family, we don't find favor with man or God. "For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another," 3 Nephi 11:29.

The other commandment given directly to children supports the first. "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth," Ephesians 6:1-3. Parents know what is best for children, because they have more experience. Obeying helps you be safe.

Many of these commandments are difficult. However, you can depend on your parents and Heavenly Father to help you accomplish difficult things. When they ask you to play outside, eat good food, be good, or study hard, the commandment really comes from Heavenly Father. Nephi and Lehi explain this. "...the Lord hath commanded me that thou and thy brethren shall return to Jerusalem....behold thy brothers murmur, saying it is a hard thing which I have required of them; but behold I have not required it of them, but it is a commandment of the Lord. Therefore go, my son, and thou shalt be favored of the Lord, because thou hast not murmured...I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them...when my father had heard these words he was exceedingly glad, for he knew that I had been blessed of the Lord." 1 Nephi 3:1-8.

I suppose this birthday card is different than others you receive. S, we believe there is nothing more important than our earthly missions. That is why Heavenly Father sent us here. No, you don't have to be crazy perfect, but keep in mind the commandments to children as you go about living life: pray, study scriptures, love learning, eat properly, obey your parents, be kind, avoid contention, smile, be happy, and stand up for Jesus. CU Soon! LYL! P&G

clap along if you feel like weirdness is ok

Praying For...Quinn, our ninja boy. He is so funny and earnest and happy. I pray that he will of course be happy, healthy, safe, and know Jesus. I pray that the world will be a safe place for him to grow up or at least he can escape most of the evil that surrounds him. I pray that his parents will know the best way to nurture his special spirit to guard against rebellion. I pray that the leaders of nations will cease using religion or anti-religion as a weapon against their people. I pray that religious persecution will cease, allowing people to worship and believe how, where, and what they may according to the dictates of their consciences. I pray that communities will unit in the protection of children.

Jesus' Word..."A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city." Proverbs 18:19 I so want to become a hermit, because I can't seem to turn around without unintentionally offending someone.

Cucina Fresca...I made a delicious version of Savory Griddle Cakes from Dr McDougall's Advanced Study Weekend but still need to do some tweaking to the recipe. His recipe included olives, which are on my sometimes don't agree with me list. I put them in my recipe and decided they detracted from the flavor. His recipe recommended a red pepper sauce that we didn't think was too wonderful. Either basil or cilantro should be good herbs to try with a possible addition of fresh thyme or oregano. A chopped salsa of tomato, herbs, garlic, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, and green onions will be much better than the pepper sauce I'm thinking. This is where I'm at so far.

1 1/4 c oat milk (reduced by a couple T from McDougall recipe because the batter was a bit thin)
1 T fresh lemon juice
1 c fine cornmeal
1/3 c brown rice flour (Up by a couple T from McDougall's recipe for the same thin batter problem)
2 t non-aluminum baking powder
½ t baking soda
dash salt
1 c frozen corn kernels, thawed
1 c grated zucchini
½ c chopped green onions
2 T chopped pimiento, well drained
2 T chopped fresh cilantro

This would also be good as a sweet recipe. Keep the corn and zucchini, but replace the onions, pimiento, and cilantro with berries. Top with a more berries and a teaspoon of maple syrup...we have a new yummy brunch recipe.

Pen and Brush...a young girl I tutor is making some progress. As I often do with young people that need help with penmanship, I give her drawing lessons from a series, Draw Write Now. It's been some time, since I used these books; I forgot how much I liked them. The instructions are simplistic and don't teach shading and all that, but they are fun. So I've been drawing again with these tutorials, but adding the shading and so forth. However, I'm into colored pencil again. Likely, I'll watercolor again, when I can ignore my phone again in a few months. Being interrupted in the middle of a painting ruins it.

Teaching Little Children...I am taking full advantage to love my little class, since that time is swiftly drawing to a close. I am considering keeping a couple of them as honorary grandchildren and putting them in my grandchild of the week rotation. I'm having great success working with my two newest tutoring students. They are challenging but are so earnest and honest in their pursuit of knowledge. The young man is learning to read at a rapid pace. After I gave him the story of Ben Carson and then William Kamkwamba, he has changed his mind about scholarly work. He has decided he can be smart if he wants. I teach reading with Alpha Phonics among other things as I know phonics to be the best way to learn this skill. During our sessions, we read a few lessons. Then I assign homework to be read with a parent or older sibling that is a good reader. This boy surprised me and is on lesson 50 after only 4 sessions together. Likewise with math, he's learning multiplication quickly. The little girl is trying hard too, working at a comfortable pace. We have so much fun together.

Garden Gate...the new tomato I planted is going crazy in my sultry attic greenhouse. Actually, everything except the cilantro loves the heat and humidity up there.

Sound of Music...the ukulele is so much fun and so easy...still, there is a lot to learn to get good at it. Getting good isn't really my goal. I simply love to sing and play for fun. I mustn't let the joy of the uke overshadow my love of violin. It would be easy to do, since proficiency on the uke is nearly guaranteed compared to the violin.

Crowning Glory...thankfully my hair grows fast...It's just past my shoulders now. The no-poo baking soda and vinegar is working well. Since it's shorter, my hair looks much fuller. Without all the WEN product weighing it down, it is bouncier, too. Hopefully, I've finally figured out how to care for my greying hair now very wavy hair. Grey hair is so much different than regular hair. Wavy-curly hair has a whole set of issues that never come up with straight hair. I am sort of obsessed with hair and notice other people with lovely locks everywhere. I'm always complimenting people on their hair, which Emily says is a weird fetish. Don't we all have weird things about us? Clap along if you feel like weirdness is ok!

God sent me here

Praying For...Tyson...that he will of course be happy, healthy, safe, and feel the love of Jesus Christ. We got new pictures of the children from this family. They are growing up to be strong and beautiful. I pray that designing men will be thwarted in their efforts to dominate the West and its economy with their nutrition and medical misinformation. I pray that this beautiful grandson can grow up in light in truth of the Word of Wisdom and other gospel principles. I pray that the hearts of leaders of nations will soften towards liberty and light. I pray that if only for today the children of the world can fee safety, freedom, and full in the belly.

Jesus Word..."Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul...teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Deuteronomy 11:18-19 Full of hope and comfort, this scripture sings to me. Actually, all scripture does that but especially ones about children. I love to read the Holy Scriptures and every time I do. The Spirit starts to whisper in my heart a testimony that they're true. Search," Ponder, and Pray are the things that I must do. The Spirit will guide and deep inside I'll know the scriptures are true."

Cucina Fresca...no, I haven't invented anything new this week either. We continue to eat veggie packed beans and grains dishes with salads and fruit on the side. But....I thought I would relate a conversation I had with one grandchild last time I saw him. The parents were out of town, and I was sitting with them. As usual, I made plant strong food. So we wouldn't have food tantrums, I used my experience in with positive child psychology. The first meal I made was quinoa with black beans, corn, cabbage, tomatoes, onions, sweet peppers, chili powder, cilantro, and hot peppers--sorta Mexi quinoa stew. Anyway, these children had never eaten quinoa. Since the youngest one wants to be a ninja when he grows up, I explained that in South America quinoa was reserved for only Inca Warriors. He wanted to know more. Inca warriors were sort of like Japanese Ninjas. We looked up Japan and South America on a map then made a batch of Inca Warrior Quinoa. Everyone loved it. Two days later, when leftovers were the choice after a long day of museum hopping, the children chimed up for quinoa. Other ninja dishes that made a big splash were Katona Noodle Goulash, Ninja Veggie Sushi, and Sikh Potato Curry. They loved the leftovers for lunch on the weekend. Later, the parents texted for the recipe. But the funny part is this. The third day we were making our third type of Ninja food, when the little boy tilted his head and stated/questioned. So....the only food you can eat is Ninja food? I said, yes, I'm Ninja Nana. I know karate and am going to chop you. Then I proceeded to chase the kids and chop in slow motion. Everyone knows that Nana's move slowly even when they know the best karate moves. It was a hoot. I love little kids.

Garden Gate...I bought a tomato start and several culinary herb starts at the farmer's market yesterday to plant in my attic garden. We plan to bring the garden with us when we leave.

Sound of Music...working on several finger picking patterns for ukulele. As with guitar, I don't enjoy strumming as much as picking. Violin is coming along again. The humidity makes my violin pegs very tight in their tuning holes. Yikes!

Pen and Brush...in the evening before bed when everything slows down, I've found the perfect time to draw and paint. Before I tried to do it in the morning. Interruptions and such made the experience less than relaxing. It's ever so much better than reading the news on the internet. I've come to realize the news will never change as evil in the world builds. It's depressing. So I choose to quickly scan the news for real information, then turn it off and celebrate all the good in the world. People everywhere are mostly good people that sometimes reach out and make a difference. No, humans are not perfect but most of us try to be good and kind. So I create my little bits of art to add beauty of a sort to the world instead of participating in depression and despair of the news and war mongers.

Movement...I think I'm 99% mended. The other day, we took my old and new Macs to the Apple Store to get the data transferred. It took hours. Without anything to occupy our time we walked and walked around the mall. I detest malls. Anyway, I was surprised that the noise and stress didn't make me sick. That's one victory. Although I was pretty sore at the end of the day, I suffered no ill effects the next day. I had energy to go out and work on the farm. That's victory two. Hurray. I am mending. Foam rolling message, yoga/ballet/physical therapy stretching, dumb bell and isometric strengthening, and daily long walks in the forest are doing the job. God sent me here that I might be healed. It's working!

Crowning Glory...a few weeks ago, I went for a hair cut. They cut off about 18 inches when I only wanted a foot. Instead of still long, layered hair that I asked for, I ended up with a shoulder length bob. Oh, well, hair grows. Anyway it gave me a chance to ditch WEN. I loved WEN products for my hair, but somehow they didn't like my scalp. Since I'm allergic to all shampoos, I've gone back to baking soda and vinegar. Before I had to go through a phase of grease ball hair. This time instead of going no-poo it on dirty hair. I started washing it daily on clean hair. After two weeks I slowed this to every other day. Without the grease ball, I was never tempted to go back to WEN. My scalp thanks me as does my pocketbook. I also use less baking soda, diluting it in two cups of water, messaging it into my scalp, and combing it through my hair. It is much less drying than the way I used to do it with dry powder. I still have shiny, bouncy hair and don't spend $100 a month on product. But I won't keep a shoulder length blunt cut. Sure glad my hair grows fast. However it really was a blessing, since it allowed all my new growth to blend in and grow out with my other hair. Oh, yes, the new growth is further proof that my health is back.

less of a hermit

"We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel," Article of Faith 3.

Covenants made during the ordinance of baptism include always remembering Him, taking His name upon me, and keeping His commandments. One way to keep these covenants is to bear one another's burdens that they be light, Galatians 6:2 and Mosiah 18:8.  Another is to reach out in fellowship, 1 John 1:3. In the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we take these commandment literally and seriously.

Each month the sisters of the church go two by two to visit assigned sisters. I visit three such assigned sisters. When taken seriously as an assignment from Jesus himself, the program works miracles. Sometimes women are too shy to tell about their trials and needs. Sometimes others are lonely, sad, depressed, or struggling in other invisible ways. Visiting at least monthly, the sisters grow to know each other intimately instead of the more casual relations developed attending church and other meetings. During these visits, we talk about our lives, discuss gospel principles, and discover possible needs. I've been a visiting teacher continuously for 32 years and love it.

Today, I'll visit three women to discuss ideas I learned while studying Bonnie Oscarson's sermon, Sisterhood: Oh, How We Need Each Other. Not only does visiting teaching help the sisters visited, it helps the visiting ones, too. Specifically, it helps me be less of a hermit and less lonely. As a little girl, I accompanied my mother on visits to relatives and friends all the time. Although this is a bit different, it gives me a much needed social outlet. Finally, visiting teaching allows me to keep my covenants and participate in the work of building up the kingdom of God.


“…we all have burdens to bear and burdens to share. An invitation to bear one another’s burdens is an invitation to keep our covenants,” Linda K. Burton.


“When you love, watch over, and serve others in small and simple ways, you are actively participating in the work of salvation, God’s work, “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man,” Carole M. Stephens.

fill in the gaps and erase the slate

"We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel." Article of Faith 3

Jesus Christ came to earth as a mortal man, lived a perfect life, and died for all people. His suffering and death are the Atonement. Jesus rose from the dead and came alive, which He called resurrection. Because of these things, we can live again with Heavenly Father IF we strive to obey His commandments (laws) and repent when we fail.

Saved means to be resurrected and have the opportunity to live with Heavenly Father again. Some ordinances are baptism, confirmation, and the sacrament. The gospel is the good news or plan of happiness that Heavenly Father designed.

"And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you," Luke 22:19-2.

Some say I am not a Christian, because I believe Jesus and Heavenly Father require my devotion to the commandments and ordinances of the Gospel. These people are under the mistaken belief that I think I can save myself through my works. This is not the case. I know full well that without the Atoning Grace of Christ, I would have been lost to the devil long ago. I also know that my Heavenly Father designed a plan for me to become the best person I am capable of being through faith, free will, devotion, and repentance. Everyone on earth gets the free gift of resurrection from Jesus Christ. However, not all get to dwell with Him in Heaven. For this He requires that I do all I can to do my very best. After that He'll fill in the gaps and erase the slate if I repent.

as I went along

So I sort of got side tracked with my Articles of Faith study. So...I'm going to attempt to get back to it. Likely, I'll go off on some rabbit trail again. But that's just the way my mind works.

"We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression," AOF 2.

Deuteronomy 24:16...Each of us is accountable for our own choices and their consequences.

2 Corinthians 5:10...Each of us will be judged by Jesus for the good and bad things we did on Earth.

Doctrine and Covenants 93:38...Repentance through the Atonement returns us to innocence.

Doctrine and Covenants 101:78...Our agency or freedom to choose makes us accountable. God won't force us to be good.

As a young person searching for truth and the church I wanted to join, I never believed the doctrine of original sin. People on Earth don't go to jail for the misdeeds of others in a just society (except by evil design or terrible mistake.) When I consider conscience or the light of Christ always telling people right from wrong, I can't believe my Father in Heaven would condemn me for the deeds of someone four thousand years ago. That is why I believe I am only liable for my own sins. I have to say it's a good thing, because my mistakes are many on their own. Each decision has a consequence, good or bad.

I once had a conversation with a couple of my grandchildren. As is traditional in many LDS-Christian homes, we read scripture together at family scripture/prayer time. Their questions were many and deep. We discussed sin and repentance. One granddaughter confusedly asked how to repent. That's when I gave her my formula. Each night before I say my prayers, I think back through my day. Did I make any mistakes? Of course each day I have done things I'm not pleased about. During my private, personal prayer, I tell God about it and ask for forgiveness. I also make plans to ask forgiveness of any injured party. I'm taking the advice of a great scientist and man of God, Henry Eyring.

"My father...talked to me during the nights as he approached death. He spoke of joyous reunions that were coming soon in the spirit world. I could almost see the bright sunlight and the smiles in that place of paradise as he talked about it with such assurance. At one point, I asked him if he had some repenting to do. He smiled. He chuckled softly as he said, “No, Hal, I’ve been repenting as I went along.” Henry B. Eyring, The Power of Teaching Doctrine, April 1999

This explanation was good enough for a young child. Someday, those little ones will be old enough to learn more about the consequences and repentance process for more severe sins like adultery, murder, and other horrible acts. Since I believe childhood should be full of innocence, there is plenty of time to learn those things as they mature. Since I'm not the parent, I probably won't be the one teaching those things.

sisters

Today, my companion and I have appointments to visit teach our assigned sisters. Women in my church go out at least once a month in pairs to teach, fellowship, and lift other sisters. During these visits, we teach an assigned gospel centered lesson, published in our Ensign magazine. This month the theme is self-reliance.

"Self-reliance is the ability, commitment, and effort to provide for the spiritual and temporal well-being of ourselves and of our families.

As we learn and apply the principles of self-reliance in our homes and communities, we have opportunities to care for the poor and needy and to help others become self-reliant so they can endure times of adversity.

We have the privilege and duty to use our agency to become self-reliant spiritually and temporally. Speaking of spiritual self-reliance and our dependence on Heavenly Father, Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has taught: “We become converted and spiritually self-reliant as we prayerfully live our covenants—through worthily partaking of the sacrament, being worthy of a temple recommend, and sacrificing to serve others.”

Elder Hales counseled us to become self-reliant temporally, “which includes getting a postsecondary education or vocational training, learning to work, and living within our means. By avoiding debt and saving money now, we are prepared for full-time Church service in the years to come. The purpose of both temporal and spiritual self-reliance is to get ourselves on higher ground so that we can lift others in need.”

From the Scriptures

Matthew 25:1–13; 1 Timothy 5:8; Alma 34:27–28; Doctrine and Covenants 44:6; 58:26–29; 88:118

From Our History

After the Latter-day Saints had gathered in the Salt Lake Valley, which was an isolated desert, President Brigham Young wanted them to flourish and establish permanent homes. This meant the Saints needed to learn skills that would allow them to become self-sufficient. In this effort, President Young had great trust in the capacities, talents, faithfulness, and willingness of the women, and he encouraged them in specific temporal duties. While the specific duties of Relief Society sisters are often different today, the principles remain constant:

1. Learn to love work and avoid idleness.
2. Acquire a spirit of self-sacrifice.
3. Accept personal responsibility for spiritual strength, health, education, employment, finances, food, and other life-sustaining necessities.
4. Pray for faith and courage to meet challenges.
5. Strengthen others who need assistance.

What Can I Do?
1. How am I helping the sisters I watch over find solutions to their temporal and spiritual needs?

2. Am I increasing my spiritual self-reliance through preparing for the sacrament and sacrificing to serve?"

pure joy

 God, the Father, loves everyone on earth unconditionally. This is an interesting and difficult concept/character trait to understand and implement. In recent years, several relatives sunk into dementia from alzheimer's. Who they once were that made them lovable disappeared. Where they still worthy of love without their dynamic personalities or elegant ways? God would say yes, but some of us had a very hard time with it. That is until we learned to look past what was lost and see the person as a child of God.

The Greeks call unconditional love agape as opposed to eros (sexuality) or phileo (friendship.) When people get married, they often eros and phileo, but agape must be developed. It is gentle, kind, patient, long-suffering, serene, and unselfish. When sickness, affliction, poverty, or other afflictions occur, they say. 'Come what may and I'll love it.' It's easy to love people who are lovable, but what about the unlovable. Those afflicted with alzheimer's are often unlovable. Godly love does just that.

This idea could easily end divorce. If we love our spouse not because they deserve it, not because we have tons in common, not because we enjoy intimacy, not because life is going great, but because we see them as God's children with amazing eternal potential, we love unconditionally. No, we don't stand for abuse, but that's another subject. Intimacy and happiness are ever so much more fulfilling when based on unconditional love; it doesn't look around and say what's in it for me. If we learn to love as God loves, divorce will seem like an odd idea but serving them will be pure joy.

celebrate and cheer

"...love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame." Song of Solomon 8:6

"Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy [jealousy)?" Proverbs 27:4

Jealousy come in two forms. That from true love and that from envy and covetousness. Heavenly Father has been said to be a jealous God, Deuteronomy 4:24, Ezekiel 36:5, meaning He loves us fiercely and desires our sanctification and devotion [commitment]. Envy and coveting are sins spoken agains in the commandments.

Sadly, jealously from envy and covetousness is all too common even within families. It's fueled be selfishness and leads to contention, James 3:16, James 4:1-2.

We see this with Cain, Sarah, Joseph of Old, Jesus' accusers, and in today's news. We all know it happens in our own families, churches, or communities, when one enjoys leisure or possessions or praise that another didn't get. It doesn't have to be that way! Love is not compatible with hate, envy, aggression, or selfishness. With charity [pure love of Christ] we can put selfish self-seeking aside and celebrate the victories and blessings of our loved ones and friends. We give up comparing our weaknesses with their strengths. Instead we become their biggest fans, their cheerleaders.

sweetness

"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city," Proverbs 16:32.

It's that old lemon and apple thing again. When the pressure is on am I sour or sweet? Matthew 12:34

Stress is alleviated by being in the best health possible. Therefore, showing love to someone includes taking care of my own health: exercise, nutrition, leisure, and rest.

"And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order," Mosiah 4:27. Managing time seems important as well as is nurturing/teaching the spirit through scripture reading.

Don't quarrel. Be charitable and forgiving. Put on the character of Christ. Colossians 3:12-14

Pray for strength. Philippians 4:6-7

Become a family team. It isn't health for one person to do all the work, while the others lounge on the couch. Exodus 18:17-23

Don't be gluttonous in any pursuit. Proverbs 25:16-23

Take advantage of the Sabbath to renew spiritually and physically. Mark 2:27

Pride and selfishness are the root of being easily provoked. Jesus was neither and therefore easily held his temper. His loving example teaches us that love is the root of patience, kindness, and sweetness of action as opposed to holding prideful grudges and acting out of selfish irritation/anger.

the verb love

"How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee," Psalm 139:17-18. Loving thoughts precede loving actions. Thoughtlessness is the enemy of loving relationships.

to love unconditionally

Romans 12:10 In this self-examination, I discover I'm more selfish than I'd like to admit. Philippians 2:1-4 Even as I serve others, my imagination runs wild. 'They will be so happy because of my wonderfulness. They will love me even more.' Yikes! I love serving, but do I do so to seek happiness or praise or something for myself? Do I seek my own? 1 Corinthians 13:5 My motive is to be loved, but that isn't a pure motive. Instead it should be to love unconditionally. Will I ever get this right!

reflections

Praying For...Tyson, my 5-year-old, firecracker grandson...peace if not between nations then in the hearts of men...the softening of the hearts of leaders of nations...

Meditations of Jesus..."Verily, verily, I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might aknow concerning the truth of these things. Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?" Doctrine and Covenants 6:22-23 Sometimes in the midst of trial, it is hard to remember answers to prayer and personal revelation. But God is ever good and helpful. I read again this verse last week, when preparing for Sunday School. My mind was flooded with previous answers to prayers and my path seemed perfectly illuminated. 

Bibliophilia...Sent Tyson a copy of How Do You Lift A Lion, which I hope he will enjoy as much as he did How To Dig A Hole To The Other Side Of The World. Saturday, I spent a delightful afternoon browsing Barnes and Nobel and saw one or two possibilities that I'm considering. Sadly, I hear they are downsizing the retail end of their business. 

Dr. Ginger Medicine Woman...OK, I don't really fit into the herb healer world. I am no hippy, but that's OK. I can learn all sorts of interesting things from people of different belief systems. Right now I'm taking a very interesting herb mentor class on herbal first aid from a man named Seven Song. I've learned quite a bit. Thankfully, he seems to keep the learning focused mainly on herbs.

Cucina Fresca...Carmel Apple Cake

1 lb. mejool dates, pitted and flattened
2-3 large gala or fuji apples, thinly and horizontally sliced
juice and zest on one large orange
½ t. cinnamon

Juice orange and mix in zest. Dip each apple slice in orange juice and sprinkle with cinnamon. Press a layer of dates on the bottom of a 7-inch spring form pan. Add a layer of apples. Continue layering, ending with dates. Place a piece of parchment on top along with a plastic bag of rice or beans for weight. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Un-form and decorate with colorful dried fruits or fresh raspberries.

Duds...got two super-cute, cotton, summer skirts I found severely marked down at Down East. Because I'm short they will work wonderfully for me but would be too short for a tall girl. Strangely, one was marked slate black but is dark brown. There is no way that brown is any sort of black. No problem...I'll have fun wearing them in warmer weather with sandals this summer.

Brush and Pen...I had such fun last week painting conversation hearts. This week I'll paint something boyish for Tyson's card. Hopefully, I'll find more time for this favorite activity.

Garden Gate...Well...sad to say my micro-greens experiment has been a horrible moldy failure here in the NW. Thankfully, though, I can grow all manner of sprouts on the window sill.

Biophilia...even from in a third floor walk-up micro-condo, I can enjoy the beauties of nature. I have a tiny south facing window in my kitchen. The other day I spied a little hummingbird flitting about the parking lot. Much to my delight, it landed on a branch of a tree directly across from this window, where I spent a happy few minutes watching until he flew away. Perhaps, I'll attempt to capture his cute little self for my watercolor journal.

changing my inner woman

Mountains to Climb Henry B. Eyring, October 2012 All quotes unless otherwise noted come from this sermon. "Many of you are now passing through physical, mental, and emotional trials that could cause you to cry out as did one great and faithful servant of God I knew well. His nurse heard him exclaim from his bed of pain, “When I have tried all my life to be good, why has this happened to me?”" I've asked this question at various times in my life but have since learned that all my experiences are for my good even if they are hard to bear. This is the same idea that god taught Joseph Smith Doctrine and Covenants 122:7-9

I could go on to list my heart breaks and such, but another person would likely list other things more drastic. The point is that everyone has stuff to deal with; we simply don't know the whole of the sufferings of others. One of my trials mirrors those of Dr. McDougall below. However, his problems were more severe and quick to bring him to his knees.


 


AND Jesus suffered more than ANY of us, when he took on all the pains and sins of the world. Are we better than HE? Doctrine and Covenants 19:15-19

The real question should be, 'How can I remain strong in the face of adversity and trial?' "Choosing the right consistently whenever the choice is placed before us creates the solid ground under our faith...Those choices, hundreds in most days, prepare the solid ground on which our edifice of faith is built. The metal framework around which the substance of our faith is poured is the gospel of Jesus Christ, with all its covenants, ordinances, and principles...serving God and others persistently with full heart and soul that turns testimony of truth into unbreakable spiritual strength...Trouble itself can be your way to strengthen and finally gain unshakable faith."

Faith and forgiveness beget miracles even if those miracles are only a changing of the inner man. Ether 12:6-9 Ether 12:18

"With faith in the Savior, you can repent and plead for forgiveness. There is someone you can forgive. There is someone you can thank. There is someone you can serve and lift. You can do it wherever you are and however alone and deserted you may feel." Trials and repentance seem a tedious journey. Again why is it necessary? "In Their perfect love for you, Heavenly Father and the Savior want you fitted to be with Them to live in families forever. Only those washed perfectly clean through the Atonement of Jesus Christ can be there...If we have faith in Jesus Christ, the hardest as well as the easiest times in life can be a blessing. In all conditions, we can choose the right with the guidance of the Spirit. We have the gospel of Jesus Christ to shape and guide our lives if we choose it. And with prophets revealing to us our place in the plan of salvation, we can live with perfect hope and a feeling of peace. We never need to feel that we are alone or unloved in the Lord’s service because we never are. We can feel the love of God. The Savior has promised angels on our left and our right to bear us up."

While I can't say I am always thankful for my trials while in the midst of them, I can look back and see the growth that came from them. For this I am grateful.

ye shall not fear

Those who believe and witness for Jesus, don't fear the future. No matter what God has in store, it can be looked upon as a blessing. Living life to its fullest or returning to life with the Father, we embrace these choices. Of course, Apostles of the Lord say these things much more eloquently than I. Today, I studied a sermon from Russel M. Nelson given nearly 20 years ago, when he taught this comforting lesson.

"We who tarry here have a few precious moments remaining “to prepare to meet God.” (Alma 34:32.) Unfinished business is our worst business. Perpetual procrastination must yield to perceptive preparation. Today we have a little more time to bless others—time to be kinder, more compassionate, quicker to thank and slower to scold, more generous in sharing, more gracious in caring.

Then when our turn comes to pass through the doors of death, we can say as did Paul: “The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” (2 Tim. 4:6–7.) We need not look upon death as an enemy. With full understanding and preparation, faith supplants fear. Hope displaces despair. The Lord said, “Fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.” (Doctrine and Covenants 101:36.) He bestowed this gift: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27.)

As a special witness of Jesus Christ, I testify that He lives! I also testify that the veil of death is very thin. I know by experiences too sacred to relate that those who have gone before are not strangers to leaders of this Church. To us and to you, our loved ones may be just as close as the next room—separated only by the doors of death.

With that assurance, brothers and sisters, love life! Cherish each moment as a blessing from God. (Mosiah 2:21.) Live it well—even to your loftiest potential. Then the anticipation of death shall not hold you hostage. With the help of the Lord, your deeds and desires will qualify you to receive everlasting joy, glory, immortality, and eternal lives."

From experience I know that life is fleeting, that we know not the hour nor the day when we will be called to leave mortality. For this reason, we should take care to cherish our loved ones and be a little kinder to all we meet. Let's not put off important things for those of little or no eternal reward. 

no other compensation

I learned about the Beardsley family, watching the original Yours, Mine, and Ours with Lucille Ball,
a movie I liked so much I bought a copy.
Later, I read the book about the real family, Who Gets The Drumstick, which I also recommend. 

Although it was the hardest thing I ever did, I loved raising my children. I learned very many lessons and experienced much tribulation and trial along this path. Nevertheless, it was filled with joy. I highly recommend mothering a large brood of children to anyone willing to put family first. If we don't put our children [and husbands] first, it is possible that someone else may without the best interest of the family in mind step in and do it for us with dire consequences.

"You have nothing in this world more precious than your children. When you grow old, when your hair turns white and your body grows weary, when you are prone to sit in a rocker and meditate on the things of your life, nothing will be so important as the question of how your children have turned out. It will not be the money you have made. It will not be the cars you have owned. It will not be the large house in which you live. The searing question that will cross your mind again and again will be, How well have my children done? If the answer is that they have done very well, then your happiness will be complete. If they have done less than well, then no other satisfaction can compensate for your loss." unless otherwise noted all quotes in this post will come from Your Greatest Challenge, Mother and Great Shall be the Peace of Thy Children, Gordon B. Hinckley, October 2000

Since we all have weaknesses and commit sin, I'm not sure I did a stellar job as a mother. This makes me every grateful for repentance. However, my heart was in the right place, doing the best of which I was capable. I tried as hard as I knew how and let nothing stand in the way of my role as a mother and made my family my biggest priority. Cooking meals, welcoming friends, driving and driving, keeping a comfortable clean home, teaching skills, praying and hoping, loving and accepting, arranging for wholesome recreation, and helping with school work, I worked as hard as any corporate executive about 16 hours a day. Hopefully, the following proverb will prove accurate, as I believe it will. "Teach your children when they are very young and small, and never quit. As long as they are in your home, let them be your primary interest."

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Prov. 22:6).

Another wise saying reads, “As the twig is bent, so the tree’s inclined” (Alexander Pope, Moral Essays, vol. 2 of The Works of Alexander Pope, Esq., “Epistle I: To Sir Richard Temple, Lord Cobham” [1776], 119; line 150).

"Teach [your children] to pray [and study the scriptures]...None of us is wise enough to make it on our own. We need the help, the wisdom, the guidance of the Almighty in reaching those decisions that are so tremendously important in our lives.

"Encourage [your children] to develop good friendships. Open your homes to the friends of your children. If you find they have big appetites, close your eyes and let them eat. Make your children’s friends your friends." Gordon B. Hinckley, October 2000 My SIL was confused, when her oldest child aged 4 or 5 was being influenced by older children in their condominium complex. Asking her mother for advice, she was in turn asked a question. Would you let your child play with a rattle snake? After my SIL related this advice to me, it was always my guiding light. If the child encouraged good in my child, I encouraged the friendship and vice versa. "Warn your children against those with poisonous fangs who will entice them, seduce them with easy talk, then injure and possibly destroy them."

"Teach [your children] to value education." “The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth,” Doctrine and Covenants 93:36. "There rests upon the people of this Church [and all Christians] a mandate from the Lord to acquire learning. It will bless their lives now and through all the years to come." Recently, I read an article about Tennessee lawmakers, who want to cut welfare benefits if children don't make progress in school. There was a terrible outcry that this would increase hardships for parents and children who are already facing difficulties. I was reminded of Ben Carson's mother, who had no skills, could not read, and was quite ill; yet she insisted that her sons memorize their times tables and read 2 books weekly and write reports on them in addition to assigned homework. They were poor and facing hardships, but she made the difficult choice to turn off the tv and require that her children progress. Then she learned how to read herself. Ben progressed from FFFF to AAAA and later became a pioneering brain surgeon. His brother likewise excelled in his chosen field. Poverty, lack of skill, nor business provide no excuse to parents for shirking this responsibility.

"Teach [your children] to respect their bodies." “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are,” 1 Cor. 3:16–17. Graffiti (tattoos), vandalism (excessive piercing), and neglect (gluttony, overworking, and sloth) of the body is no different than the same done to the temple of the Lord; are we not His temples? “ A tattoo is graffiti on the temple of the body...The Church discourages tattoos. It also discourages the piercing of the body for other than medical purposes, although it takes no position on the minimal piercing of the ears by women for one pair of earrings.”

"Teach [your children] to stay away from drugs, [alcohol, and other mind altering substances] as they would the plague...These illegal substances will take away their self-control, will seize upon them to a point where they will do anything, within or outside the law, to get another dose." I've seen first hand the destruction to families, when a member chooses to use drugs. Often it destroys the user but also tears apart everyone else connected to the user.

"Teach [your children] to be honest." I was taught to frame one's words to spare the feelings of others. While I never considered this lying, some of my children did. Because they believed I committed lies of omission and felt they could not trust me, this caused a terrible breach for some time. Now, I adopt another way of saving the feelings of others. If I don't have anything nice to say or if saying the truth would deeply injure another, I try to say as little as possible or nothing at all. "Small lying leads to large lying, and the prisons of the nation are the best proof of that fact." 

"Teach [your children] to be virtuous." Teach them to respect the virtue of others, not allow anyone to tarnish their precious and beautiful virtue, and dress modestly so as to proclaim a commitment to virtue. "Our Heavenly Father placed within us the desires that make us attractive to one another, boys and girls, men and women. But with that urge must be self-discipline, rigid and strong and unbending."

"Teach [your children] to look forward to the time when they may be married in the house of the Lord as those who come to the altar free from taint or evil of any kind." “When people are married, instead of trying to get rid of each other, reflect that you have made your choice, and strive to honor and keep it, do not manifest that you have acted unwisely and say that you have made a bad choice, nor let any body know that you think you have. You made your choice, stick to it, and strive to comfort and assist each other” (Deseret News, 29 May 1861, 98).

Shakespeare Sonnet 116

Let me not to the marriage of true minds
Admit impediments. Love is not love
Which alters when it alteration finds,
Or bends with the remover to remove.
O no, it is an ever-fixèd mark
That looks on tempests and is never shaken;
It is the star to every wand'ring bark,
Whose worth’s unknown, although his height be taken.
Love’s not time’s fool, though rosy lips and cheeks
Within his bending sickle’s compass come:
Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,
But bears it out even to the edge of doom.   
If this be error and upon me proved,   
I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

Why should I treat my body like a temple?

Daniel 1:3–21 Daniel followed the commandments of God to respect his body and so should I.

"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s." 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Because I want the Holy Ghost to dwell within me, I should provide the best dwelling place possible.

"And the spirit and the body are the soul of man. And the resurrection from the dead is the redemption of the soul." Doctrine and Covenants 88:15-16 My body and soul are integral in my eternal progression.

"The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us." Doctrine and Covenants 130:22 If I am created in His image and He has a glorified immortal body, isn't it logical that my body will be of some use even beyond the grave. I must treat my body with reverence instead of filling it with destructive albeit delicious dainties.

"The condition of the physical body can affect the spirit. That’s why the Lord gave us the Word of Wisdom. He also said that we should retire to our beds early and arise early, that we should not run faster than we have strength, and that we should use moderation in all good things. In general, the more food we eat in its natural state and the less it is refined without additives, the healthier it will be for us. Food can affect the mind, and deficiencies in certain elements in the body can promote mental depression...Rest and physical exercise are essential, and a walk in the fresh air can refresh the spirit. Wholesome recreation is part of our religion, and a change of pace is necessary, and even its anticipation can lift the spirit." Ezra Taft Benson, October 1974

"I think that another reason why I have very splendid strength for an old man is that during the years we have had a cafeteria in the Utah Hotel, I have not, with the exception of not more than a dozen times, ordered meat of any kind. On these special occasions I have mentioned I have perhaps had a small, tender lamb chop. I have endeavored to live the Word of Wisdom, and that, in my opinion, is one reason for my good health." Heber J. Grant, April 1937

"If each of our bodies is a temple, some of us have temples that look as if the maintenance crew retired three years ago; the noble spirits that inhabit them deserve a better place to dwell...we can make our lives better and teach our families valuable habits through regular exercise. We have ample reason to recognize the care of our physical bodies as a spiritual obligation," Ensign, Sept 1990.

"She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms." Proverbs 31:17 “…retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.” Doctrine and Covenants 88:124

Now that February is here, I've moved on to another topic, The Plan of Salvation. Latter-day Saint Christians have a different view of the body than other Christians. We believe that our bodies and spirits will be reunited after the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. "The resurrection consists in the uniting of a spirit body with a body of flesh and bones, never again to be divided. The resurrection shall come to all, because of Christ’s victory over death. Jesus Christ was the first to be resurrected with His physical body." LDS.ORG Just as He showed the way we should be baptized and how to conduct our lives, He showed us that resurrection includes the physical body. Luke 24:42–43, Luke 24:39, Luke 24:39–40, John 20:25–29

The following is a wonderful conversation between two modern medical doctors that believe our temples were designed to be healthy given the proper foods. The things they say are in keeping with modern revelation on this matter. "The Word of Wisdom is a law of health revealed by the Lord for the physical and spiritual benefit of His children. On February 27, 1833, as recorded in section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord revealed which foods are good for us to eat and which substances are not good for the human body. He also promised health, protection, knowledge, and wisdom to those who obey the Word of Wisdom." LDS.ORG