18 November 2007: Visiting Teaching Conference

Today was our ward visiting teaching conference. Thanks to all the men who did their best to fill in for the women today so that as many of us as possible could attend our conference. We each received a nice booklet about visiting teaching that you could probably get a copy of by contacting Shirley Thornton. Here is the outline of our lesson today:

Dear Visiting Teacher:

*You are the chosen messenger of the Relief Society (presented by Karen Rees)
-Karen remembers the day in 1982 when her first son was born and her ward reported 100% visiting teaching for the month. Visiting teaching is very important to her, and that is a very happy memory for her because it means that each of the 200 sisters in her ward had received a visit.

*You are the link connecting each woman with her organization (presented by Shirley)
-For this part, each of us wrote our names on a strip of paper and we formed a giant chain out of all the strips.

*To the sick you are the angel of mercy (Jessica Edwards)
-Jessica had severe preeclampsia and had to have her baby delivered early. She was only able to go home with the baby from the hospital if she had help. Her family couldn't come, but a group of sisters from the ward came to her aid.

*To the shut-in you are the sunlight (Liz Hedquist)
-Liz visits a sister in our ward with MS who lives in a nursing home. She has told Liz that it is so wonderful just to have someone to talk to.

*To the bereaved you are sympathy and understanding (Karen Aungst)
-When Summer's dad passed away, Karen sent her a card saying that she was keeping Summer in her prayers. That meant a lot to Summer.

*To the lonely you are a friend in need (skit by Nan Mastie, Kesli Aiken & Telia Anderson)
-This skit was our comic relief. Nan played a woman who did not want to be visit taught. Kesli and Telia played her committed visiting teachers. After nearly a year of phone calls and unannounced visits, Nan finally invited Kesli and Telia in when they came to her door dressed in bathrobes and shower caps.

*To the inactive member you are a challenge; a call to duty (Andrea Richards)
-I read an email that my mother sent me about a less active sister that she visits:
"I visit teach Lisa L. and her college-age daughter Tara. Lisa was baptized as a child but doesn't know anything much about the church. She doesn't even know if she believes in God or life after death. When I first got her name, I could rarely reach her by phone, and she didn't return messages. Her husband and son look very scruffy, and some members refused to go to the home because they were afraid of the family. I found her husband a little strange, but more like possibly slightly brain-damaged (I found out later that he has a panic disorder). Her son was huge and silent and dressed all in black, with long black hair. (Think of an overweight Professor Snape.) However, they never seemed threatening to me.

"Over the course of a few years, though, Lisa warmed up to me, and we now have really enjoyable visits. One thing that happened is that her nephew, whom she raised as her own son, was killed in Iraq. I found out about it and offered to help with food. Her work took care of that, and she didn't really want help from the church. I told Bishop T., however, and both of us went to the funeral home (separately). I think that meant a lot to her and her husband. A couple of weeks later, I saw him in Winco, and he was very warm and friendly to me.

"Last Christmas, Lisa gave me a basket full of homemade jams. When my dad died last month, I sent a letter to the sisters I VT and explained why I had had to be out of town most of the month. Lisa sent me a sympathy card. It really touched me.

"Tara is also very friendly. She also knows basically nothing about the Gospel...but she is nice. Bill, the husband, always stays in the room while I visit, so he hears the message too.

"I have learned that I can find something in common with almost everyone I meet. Many times people aren't knowledgeable about their own church, or they have personal reasons for not coming. There are so many different reasons: they are shy, depressed, too busy and overburdened, offended, living against the principles of the gospel and not ready to change, not in the habit, unwilling to go against a spouse's wishes. But most people eventually like people who like them. I try to find something I genuinely like about the sisters I meet, and the relationship grows from there. Also, I remember that God loves each sister I'm asked to teach, and He wants me to share His love with them."

*To the doubtful you are the answer to her questions (Sondra Soderborg)
-Sondra talked about how her father can always tell if the people from church who come to visit him are there in order to get the visit checked off and say they did it, or if they have a genuine interest in him. As you can imagine, he responds very differently to these two types of visits. She emphasized how vital it is that we visit without a spirit of judgment...that we listen to the things people want or need to talk about, and not let ourselves be shocked by whatever they may say. She reminded us that it is not only the less active sisters that have doubts and questions about our faith, and that we all need people who can listen without judging.

*To the active member you are a reminder of her blessings (Julie Kincaid)
-Julie has noticed that visiting with her sisters makes her more aware of and grateful for her own blessings. We all have trials, but most of us would prefer to keep our own rather than trade with another. When we take the time to immerse ourselves in the life of another sister, it gives us some important perspective on our own situation.

*To all who know you, you are the symbol of love and devotion.


We were all served a delicious pumpkin dessert and some refreshing ice water...sorry you can't experience that electronically! We also received new visiting assignments, so if you weren't there you may want to contact Shirley to get yours.

Have a great week!

11 Nov 2007 SWK#22: Revelation: "A Continuous Melody and a Thunderous Appeal" by Shannon Allen

Today Shannon Allen taught Lesson #22 from the Spencer W. Kimball Manual on Revelation. She emphasized a number of statements from the manual. The first one she selected was from page 237:

President Kimball trusted in the principle of continuing revelation, declaring that it was “the very lifeblood of the gospel of the living Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”2 This trust, said Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “was clearly a part of the makeup of this very special man.”3 President Kimball took his responsibility as President of the Church seriously, knowing that he was the only person on the earth who was authorized to receive revelation for the Church. He testified: “I know that the Lord called me to this position. I know that there are greater prophets, perhaps, than I, but I wish to do all I can to carry forward the work of the Lord as he wants it done. Every night and morning I kneel and pray with deep sincerity that the Lord will inspire me and reveal to me the direction I should go and what I should tell the people of this Church.”4

I (Potato Girl) was impressed by the image of the prophet praying morning and night for guidance. I thought how helpful it would be in my life if I would pray this fervently for guidance in the various stewardships I've been entrusted with.

Shannon was a full-time missionary in Georgia, and frequently was asked about the issue of African Americans being denied the priesthood until the 1970s. She read us President Kimball's description of some of the preparation that went into receiving the revelation that it was finally time for all worthy male members of the church to have access to the priesthood and subsequent temple blessings:

“I knew that something was before us that was extremely important to many of the children of God. I knew that we could receive the revelations of the Lord only by being worthy and ready for them and ready to accept them and put them into place. Day after day I went alone and with great solemnity and seriousness in the upper rooms of the temple, and there I offered my soul and offered my efforts to go forward with the program. I wanted to do what he wanted. I talked about it to him and said, ‘Lord, I want only what is right. We are not making any plans to be spectacularly moving. We want only the thing that thou dost want, and we want it when you want it and not until.’ ”5

Shannon was particularly impressed that in spite of the social pressure on the church, and in spite of President Kimball's own fervent desire that the priesthood be extended to all worthy males, he wanted above all to do the Lord's will. She read:

“We had the glorious experience of having the Lord indicate clearly that the time had come when all worthy men and women everywhere can be fellowheirs and partakers of the full blessings of the gospel. I want you to know, as a special witness of the Savior, how close I have felt to him and to our Heavenly Father as I have made numerous visits to the upper rooms in the temple, going on some days several times by myself. The Lord made it very clear to me what was to be done. We do not expect the people of the world to understand such things, for they will always be quick to assign their own reasons or to discount the divine process of revelation.”6

Shannon asked us to raise our hands and talk about some of the things we think of when we hear the word 'revelation.' She told us that we often mistakenly think of it as something spectacular, something that we as individuals may not experiences. She said that as she prepared the lesson, she was struck by the importance of the act of seeking God's guidance. She read us this statement about the Father and Son's willingness to speak to us:

"Someone has said that we live in a day in which God, if there be a God, chooses to be silent, but The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints proclaims to the world that neither the Father nor the Son is silent. They are vocal and commune as proper and necessary, and constantly express a willingness, indeed an eagerness, to maintain communication with men."

God wants to be a part of our life, but we have to get on our knees and seek him.

She read us this statement:

"How presumptuous and arrogant for any man to say God is unapproachable, unknowable, unseeable, unhearable because that one himself has not prepared himself for the experience."

Shannon told us a story about the time in her life when she was trying to decide whether or not to go on a mission. She received an unexpected letter one day from a sister in the mission field that felt like an answer to her prayers for guidance. She prayed and asked god if this letter and the feelings she had reading it were indeed his answer for her.

She asked us how many times we should be getting on our knees in prayer each day. She asked us if we were relying on our own intellects to guide our lives without thought to what the Lord might want for us. She read this statement:

"It should be kept in mind that God cannot be found through research alone, nor his gospel understood and appreciated by study only, for no one may know the Father or the Son but “he to whom the Son will reveal him.” (Luke 10:22.) The skeptic will some day either in time or eternity learn to his sorrow that his egotism has robbed him of much joy and growth."

She concluded by reading this series of questions posed by President Kimball and challenging us to answer them on our own at home:

"Do you want guidance? Have you prayed to the Lord for inspiration? Do you want to do right or do you want to do what you want to do whether or not it is right? Do you want to do what is best for you in the long run or what seems more desirable for the moment? Have you prayed? How much have you prayed? How did you pray? Have you prayed as did the Savior of the world in Gethsemane or did you ask for what you want regardless of its being proper? Do you say in your prayers: “Thy will be done”? Did you say, “Heavenly Father, if you will inspire and impress me with the right, I will do that right”? Or, did you pray, “Give me what I want or I will take it anyway”? Did you say: “Father in Heaven, I love you, I believe in you, I know you are omniscient. I am honest. I am sincerely desirous of doing right. I know you can see the end from the beginning. You can see the future. You can discern if under this situation I present, I will have peace or turmoil, happiness or sorrow, success or failure. Tell me, please, loved Heavenly Father, and I promise to do what you tell me to do.” Have you prayed that way? Don’t you think it might be wise? Are you courageous enough to pray that prayer?"

SWK #21: "The Prophet Joseph Smith" by Sondra Soderborg

Dearest Sisters:

I have gotten so behind on our blog that I'm just going to start over. What follows is Sondra's handout from today's lesson. It is very similar to what she actually said. Enjoy!

Lesson 21: The Prophet Joseph Smith

November 4, 2007

President Kimball testified of Joseph Smith:

This young boy was entrusted with the greatest block of knowledge known to men. Remember, that spring morning not one of all the people in the world had absolute knowledge of God. There were many good people, but they had all walked in spiritual darkness these many centuries. But here was a boy who knew that morning in the grove in New York when the Father and Son came to him was perhaps the greatest revelation ever given to the world. (Manual p. 230)

The scriptures testify of Joseph Smith’s life: 2 Ne. 3:14-15. The words in Isaiah 29:11-12, 14 comforted Joseph and helped him understand his prophetic calling. He came to understand them at a very dark time in his life, when Emma, nearly dying in childbirth, delivered a son who lived only briefly, and Martin Harris told Joseph about the lost 116 pages of translation.

Joseph Smith had singular knowledge and responsibility. His claims and his work were audacious, and his burdens were at times almost unbearable. When he was allowed to show the plates to the witnesses to the Book of Mormon, Joseph’s mother wrote of his reaction:

He threw himself down beside [me] and exclaimed that “the Lord has now caused the plates to be shown to more besides myself.” “They will have to bear witness to the truth of what I have said, for now they know for themselves, that I do not go about to deceive the people … I feel as if I was relieved of a burden which was almost too heavy for me to bear, and it rejoices my soul, that I am not any longer to be entirely alone in the world.”

(Rough Stone Rolling, pp. 78-79).

Despite his unique position in the history of the world, his work could only go forward based on his righteousness and humility. David Whitmer describes Joseph challenged in an ordinary way, and unable to do his work without resolution:

One morning when he was getting ready to continue the translation, something went wrong about the house and he was put out about it. Something that Emma, his wife, had done. Oliver and I went up stairs and Joseph came up soon after to continue the translation, but he could not do anything. He could not translate a single syllable. He went down stairs, out into the orchard and made supplication to the Lord; was gone about an hour—came back to the house, asked Emma’s forgiveness and then came up stairs where we were and then the translation went on all right. He could do nothing save he was humble and faithful.

(Rough Stone Rolling, p. 77).

In the face of grave hardships that surrounded the early years of the church, Joseph suffered great harm and disappointment. In 1838, William W. Phelps, a high-ranking church leader in Missouri and the composer of some of our most important hymns, including “The Spirit of God, was excommunicated for disobeying counsel and using church money for his own purposes. His testimony at a trial helped put Joseph and other church leaders in prison. Two years later, on their way to Europe, two missionaries found him. With their encouragement, he wrote to Joseph asking forgiveness. Joseph Smith replied on July 22, 1840. His response, which demonstrates his commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ, said in part:

I must say that it is with no ordinary feelings I endeavour to write a few lines to you … at the same time I am rejoiced at the priveledge granted me. You may in some measure realize what my feelings, as well as Elder Rigdon’s & Bro Hyrum’s were when we read your letter, truly our hearts were melted into tenderness and compassion when we ascertained your resolves &c

It is true, that we have suffered much in consequence of your behavior—the cup of gall already full enough for mortals to drink, was indeed filled to overflowing when you turned against us: One with whom we had oft taken sweet council together, and enjoyed many refreshing seasons from the Lord “Had it been an enemy we could have borne it”

Believing your confession to be real and your repentance genuine, I shall be happy once again to give you the right hand of fellowship, and rejoice over the returning prodigal.

Your letter was read to the Saints last Sunday and an expression of their feeling was taken, when it was unanimously resolved that W.W. Phelps should be received into fellowship.

“Come on dear Brother since the war is past,

For friends at first are friends again at last.”

(Personal Writings of Joseph Smith, pp. 472-473).

William W. Phelps composed “Praise to the Man” after Joseph’s martyrdom.

Introducing Aubrey Potter

Our family just moved here from Utah so Casey could attend law school at Ave Maria. I have two boys, Ammon who is 4 and Hinckley who is 2. We are home all day together, and love to have friends over, so if anyone else is bored or lonely, our phone # is 929-2615. I graduated from BYU 5 years ago with a BA in English. I love reading and music--singing, dancing and playing the piano or guitar. I work from home after the boys go to bed as a tutor at tutor.com tutoring math and English. I'm a big fan of chocolate chip cookies, seven-layer bean dip, and game nights, so if anybody else has similar passions, come on over any Friday night and we'll party :)

Introducing Julie Savage

Hi my name is Julie Savage. I grew up as Julie Lovell in Pleasanton CA, and then Sacramento CA (with a couple years in Union City CA, Houston TX, and South Jordan UT). I have 4 brothers, one sister, and one partial foster brother. I am so close with all of my family. I went to Ricks college in the fall of 1999 with my sister, and graduated with my associates in graphic design. Spent a semester abroad in Paris with BYU, and then transfered to BYU in Provo. I graduated in 2004 with a Degree in Communications marketing and advertising. I love any kind of art, and I love doing things with my hands. I met my husband my senior year when he was the EQP and i got called to be the RSP. We kept the romance a secret from almost everyone until we announced we were engaged, We got married July 2004, and had our daughter June of 2006. Before she was born I did all of the marketing and advertising for a couple small businesses my husband started through college, and worked as the Human Resources associate for Convergys (anyone from provo might be laughing at me now) I have been at home with my daughter since June of 2006, doing freelance jobs here and there. I love my family, and I love the gospel. I am excited to be here in Ann Arbor, although I am already understanding the term law school widow!

Prez Says: Obedience

The Prez Says… Recently I listened to a sacrament meeting talk at the Hill Street Ward. Because the young man spoke thoughtfully and sincerely, I could see what was in his heart, and I was touched with how strongly he desires to be obedient to the Lord. I know that he must have a firm testimony of The 3^rd Article of Faith, “We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.” His dedication and devotion to obedience was inspiring and reassuring. It encouraged me to continue taking steps toward greater obedience.

Obedience is not blind faith, but rather is a choice to submit to the will of a loving Father. The fruits of obedience are endless, one of which is happiness. Alma 41:10 clearly teaches that “wickedness never was happiness,” and a life of obedience is a total rejection of the adversary. Obeying with exactness demonstrates valiance and consistently choosing the Lord’s side.

Whether in sacrament meeting talks or in our conversations with family and friends, it is important for us to share our experiences and our desires to be obedient. By doing so, we lift each other, we encourage each other, and we inspire each other to be obedient to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. And we demonstrate the way to achieve true happiness.

Support Your Local Blogger

This is a plea to my dear sisters to leave me some encouraging comments from time to time. We bloggers live for comments...they let us know that our words are reaching others, they make us feel connected, and they remind us that the time we spend writing into the void is worthwhile. Even if you have nothing to say, a simple comment like, "I read this post" would give me the inspiration to keep on keeping on. And any suggestions you have for how this blog might better meet your needs would be very welcome.

Welcoming More New Sisters

First of all, many weeks ago we welcomed Itzel Mostert to our ward, and somehow I have not mentioned her in this blog yet. I am so sorry! I think I was waiting to get a picture of her, but people are moving in so quickly now that school is about to start, I don't think I'll be able to get pictures posted of everyone right away.

Today we heard from the following new sisters:

1) Julie Savage, a friend of Jenny Peterson's, is here from Sacramento with her husband, who is starting Law School.

2) Sarah Francis has come to Ann Arbor to do a master's degree in social work while her husband goes to law school.

3) Tracy Oberholzer, from Harrison, Michigan, works in the pharmacy and hotel business.

4) Shannon Allen has moved here from Salt Lake for her husband to attend Law School.

5) Kesli Aiken, from Vista, California, is here while her husband does a master's degree in Russian and Eastern European Studies.

6) Michelle Eusebio is teaching at Gretchen's House while her husband does a master's degree in Math Education.

7) Brooke Rasmussen is here with 2 1/2 year old Lincoln and baby Tad while her husband does a master's degree in Public Policy.

I think I have done some serious misspellings in our new sisters' names, but as soon as I get more information (and pictures) I'll let you know. In the mean time, WELCOME TO ANN ARBOR!

26 August 2007 Lesson by Michelle Rackley: "Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer" by Elder Scott

Today's lesson, taught by Michelle Rackley, was based on Elder Richard G. Scott's April 2007 General Conference address "Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer."

Michelle began the lesson by talking about four different types of prayer. As an example of the first type, a prayer for forgiveness, she read us Enos 1: 2-8. For the second type, a prayer for guidance or truth, she read us the account of King Lamoni's father in Alma 22: 15-18. For the third type of prayer, a prayer of gratitude, she read us 2 Nephi 4: 18-25. For the fourth type of prayer, a prayer for comfort, she asked us to suggest some examples from the scriptures. The first example given was of Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane (see Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22).

Here are some of the great comments on prayer by various members of the class from the rest of the lesson:

-When my mother died it felt like the end of the world. I prayed a lot. I remembered that my mother had asked me not to grieve for her, and in time, I was able to focus on my happy memories of her.

-I was impressed when we read the scriptures in Enos and Alma that both men hungered for answers from God. If our desire is great, like theirs was, we are better able to follow through.

-I've found that my desires for good are stronger after trials and struggles which cause me to grow.

-Sometimes we need to pray to be sustained through ongoing trials that are not going away.

-For many years we struggled to get pregnant. I got to a point where I felt that I could not go on. I told my husband, and he said to me that we were not supposed to stop trying, that we would have a child of our own first, before we turned to adoption. I was angry at first, and felt that he didn't understand what I was going through. But as I prayed I received confirmation that what he had said was true and from God. I'm grateful for the guidance the priesthood can bring to our lives.

-Once I helped plan an activity for the graduating Laurels. For part of the activity, we asked the girls to spend 30 minutes saying a prayer of gratitude. I did this myself, and although I initially thought 30 minutes was a very long time, I had barely made a dent in the things I'm grateful for when the timer rang.

-There was a period of my life when I was a student at BYU when I felt an overwhelming sense of inadequacy. I had a Doctrine & Covenants teacher that I trust and admired, and I thought that she might be able to say something that would help me. I tried to talk to her after class one day, but was not able to tell her what I really wanted, and left disappointed. I went outside and prayed that if there was something she could say that would help me, the Lord would facilitate another meeting. Shortly thereafter, the teacher found me and we had a long talk, which left me feeling greatly comforted.

-I'm thinking about what Kathy wrote in her Prez Says column this week about being real with each other. When we are open and willing to share with one another what is really going on in our lives, we can bless each other. We can pray for each other.

-One day I was touched by the instruction to forgive found in conjunction with a description of prayer in Mark 11: 24-25. At the time I was feeling like nothing. I read this scripture and prayed. A feeling washed over me, and I said God, your son knows exactly how I feel. Please let him help me get over this. My Savior has been through what I'm going through. I know that he's real, that he's a person, a friend, a companion, and an adviser.

Michelle closed by reading John 17: 9, "I pray for them." She wants us to pray for each other, the way the Savior prays for us. She told us that she knows many people have been praying for her and for her family over the past several months. Her home has been filled with peace and love instead of discouragement and despair because of our prayers for her. God has filled her with peace and love every time she has gone to him in prayer.

SWK #16: The Sabbath--A Delight

I was out of town this week, and missed our lesson. Please feel free to leave your comments about it.

Prez Says: Be Yourself

The Prez Says… Marjorie Hinckley once presented a fireside at BYU where she captivated and delighted an audience of 12,000. At the conclusion of her remarks the audience jumped to their feet and gave her a standing ovation. She later remarked how surprised she was by the audience’s responsiveness. A friend told her, “Marge, they loved you because you were so relaxed and just yourself.” Sister Hinckley replied, “I couldn’t think of anyone else to be!”

Just being ourselves and honestly sharing the stories and lessons of our lives builds meaningful connections and true friendships. “When we risk sharing our real feelings, we develop relationships of understanding and trust. For we cannot really care or be cared for, love or be loved, understand or be understood, unless we are willing to open our treasures of time, substances, and self.” (Lloyd Newell, “May Peace Be With You”)

When we share how our lives really are, rather than trying to look like we always have it all together, it’s affirming and encouraging to others. When speakers tell personal stories the audience’s attention is riveted because honest stories and life lessons are meaningful gifts that can help everyone feel braver, stronger, less alone, and more capable of making it through life’s challenges.

This time of year brings many hellos and goodbyes in our ward. Let’s be as genuine, as relaxed, as open, as honest, and as real as Sister Hinckley was at the BYU fireside, and just be ourselves. By doing this we will build bridges of friendship and love that help us with our lives and that can span eternity.

Prez Says: Do Not Fear

The Prez Says… I spoke with someone this week who went into great detail about how many things he fears. He is afraid of his wife and mother dying, afraid of terrorist attacks, afraid that strangers who walk in his neighborhood may be criminals who will rob him, afraid of failing as he begins a new career, afraid that his home is losing value due to the declining economy, and his list went on and on. As I listened, I reflected on how blessed I am to have the assurance and peace that the gospel brings. The Savior promises, “If this generation harden not their hearts, I will establish my church among them…Therefore, whosoever belongeth to my church need not fear, for such shall inherit the kingdom of heaven.” (D&C 10:53:55)

Who hasn’t felt fear at times? Fear being made fun of, fear of failure, fear of the unknown, or of the present or future. Fear can hold us hostage, and comes from the adversary. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Tim. 1:7) Fear is the antithesis of faith. Being a member of the church isn’t insurance against bad or frightening things happening in our lives, but the gospel is a resource for us as we face the challenges of mortal life. We are never left alone or defenseless because we possess the gift of the Holy Ghost, who dispels all fear and brings peace to our hearts. The greatest security of all is promised in D&C 68:6, “Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you.”

Prez Says: Precious Principles of Truth

The Prez Says… When the Conference Center was dedicated, President Packer shared a parable to teach about the type of building that the Lord values most. A merchant seeking precious jewels at last found the perfect pearl. He had the finest craftsman carve a superb jewel box and line it with blue velvet. He put his pearl on display so others could share his treasure. He watched as people came to see it, and soon turned away in sorrow. It was the box they admired, not the pearl.

Our temples are breathtakingly beautiful, yet the buildings themselves are just boxes. It’s what occurs inside the temples that’s “the pearl.” When we enter The House of the Lord to perform sacred ordinance work, we undertake building our inner personal temples. We access power and light as we ponder, pray, and learn surrounded by the Holy Ghost. Read the dedicatory prayer for the Kirtland Temple in Section 109. Think about how you can see and apply this section from a very personal perspective. The very first word is “Thanks.” How appropriate for the Kirtland Saints, and for us! Verse 22 helps us understand that when we leave the temple we do so armed with the power of His name upon us, with glory surrounding us, and with access to the help of angels. Do we know how to gain access to this power?

More than 1000 people attended the dedication of the Kirtland Temple and were blessed to hear and ponder this revealed dedicatory prayer. Take a look at Section 109 and see if it doesn’t unearth some precious principles of truth that you can apply in your life as you continue to build and beautify your inner personal temple.

August 12, 2007 Lesson by Sondra Soderborg: SWK #15 We Should Be A Reverent People

Here is the handout Sondra passed out. It nicely outlines the main points of her lesson:

“We Should Be a Reverent People”

SWK #15

Reverence is “a feeling or attitude of deep respect love, and awe.” It is devotion to God. “It is one of the highest qualities of the soul,” because it involves “true faith in God and in his righteousness.” “True reverence involves happiness, as well as love, respect gratitude, and godly fear.”

Pres. Kimball considered reverence a way of life. There is a story in the manual of a time when he was visiting a meetinghouse. In the restroom, he threw away paper towels that were on the floor and cleaned the sink.

This example indicates that reverence is more than a feeling—it is practical, active, and confident.

Those are words that provide an approach to reverence that I want to focus on. It’s only been a few months since we had a sacrament meeting on reverence, and I’ve been thinking about reverence in our ward since then. One of the things Bishop Soderborg asked is that each of us take a more active role in creating a reverent environment in our Sunday meetings, and particularly in sacrament meeting. Our demographics create particular challenges for our ward.

Parents of young children:

• We’ve seen it all before—get past shame (flipping)
• Don’t be embarrassed if you need help
• Be practical and considerate in your choice of seats. If you know that for a certain week (months or years) that you’ll be taking children out, choose a seat that minimizes the disruption
• Don’t bring sick children to church--even though church is where we belong, we have to consider the whole community.
• Please take out disruptive kids quickly. Briefly try to comfort, but don’t wait if it isn’t working. Recently, I couldn’t hear the speaker when there was a particular roar of children, even though I was sitting in the fifth row back.
• Plan ahead: ask for someone to sit by you to help, like one of the youth or a person without young children to attend to. Ask someone to keep on eye on things, so that they’re prepared to step in when you need them. You can ask on your way in; it doesn’t need to be one more item on your list of things to do.

Parents of older kids:

• Continue to expect reverent behaviors

Anyone with free hands:

• Be confident about stepping forward to help. Do it in a spirit of love. You’ll have fun.
• Look around to see who might need support in that meeting—is there a parent alone with their children? Plan ahead helps with the self-consciousness of the moment.

Everyone:

• Arrive on time
• Visit outside the chapel (“The chapel is not dedicated to pharisaical piety where are found long faces, stiff formalities, or cold and barren silences, yet reverence for holy places, sacred purposes, and divine personages should always be found there.

2 New Sisters

Today we met two new sisters. First is Anne Bednar. She is recently married, and has come to Ann Arbor with her husband so that he can do a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior. She is a pediatric nurse, and is looking for a job.



Second is Laura Hall, mother of 7-month-old Felix, who has come to Ann Arbor for her husband to do a Master's degree in Business and Music. She is finishing up a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.

5 August 2007: Janie Ward teaching "Out of Darkness into His Marvelous Light" by Elder Hales

Today's lesson, taught by Janie Ward, was taken from Elder Robert D. Hales' April 2002 General Conference address: "Out of Darkness into His Marvelous Light."

Prez Says: Eliminate the Poison of Jealousy

The Prez Says… Do you sometimes struggle when others get special recognition? I spoke with a client this week whose best friend was hired for a well-paid professional job despite not having a college degree. Her past volunteer work convinced the employer that she was talented, capable and would be an asset to his staff. She didn’t even need to formally apply for the position. This was especially difficult for my client because she is struggling to pay for and complete college courses for the degree that is normally a prerequisite for the job her friend was given.

Jealousy and envy can be silent killers, extinguishing the companionship of the Spirit. The first step of jealousy is comparing ourselves to others. Comparisons result in either feeling better about ourselves (which leads to pride), or worse (which leads to jealousy that someone else has it better than we do.) Both conclusions can be deadly.

David’s slaying of Goliath brought the praise of many, and won him a spot of favor in Saul’s eyes—temporarily. The people sang and danced for joy, repeatedly chanting, “Saul has slain his thousands and David his ten thousands!” (1 Sam. 18:7) Saul became increasingly angry and jealous of David, and worried that the people would want David to be their king. Saul gradually became consumed with fear and jealousy, and this became his downfall. Saul is a tragic example of how jealousy can lead to self-destruction. (Read 1 Sam. 18-19)

When someone else is praised or blessed, let’s rejoice with them and dismiss thoughts of jealousy and envy. Being mindful of our own blessings and of the generosity of the Lord in our lives can eliminate the poison of jealousy.

29 July 2007: Combined RS/ Priesthood Meeting on Families

For our lesson today, the Bishop invited 4 members of our stake to come and talk to us about their experiences in the church as "non-traditional families." We heard from Cynthia Christensen, Katsuo Kurabayashi, Miran Forsythe, and Marilyn Roubidoux.

Prez Says: Testimony

The Prez Says… Because Carrie was in the Hill Cumorah Pageant this year, I had the opportunity to attend two evenings of the show, as well as to attend the closing sacrament meeting on the Hill Cumorah last Sunday. It was a very special experience to be in that sacred space, and it was amazing to be surrounded by 680 cast members who had been experiencing an intense spiritual high for 2 ½ weeks.

At the beginning of the Pageant experience, some seeds were planted in small pots. They had sprouted and grown over the 2 ½ weeks, but remained delicate and fragile. One of the sacrament meeting speakers said that now everyone was leaving the artificial environment of the Pageant, and returning to the real world, their real challenges and problems, and real life. He entreated them to take their sprouted seeds of testimony and to protect and keep them growing in their daily lives. He noted that “the Pageant is not truer than the everyday church in our real lives,” and that there is no such thing as a testimony of the Hill Cumorah Pageant, or of Relief Society, family home evening, or Primary. While these (and all of the programs of the church) are wonderful, they are simply vehicles to bring us closer to Jesus Christ. The only thing that we can truly have a testimony of is Jesus Christ. He lives, He heads this church, He selflessly atoned for all sin, He is the perfection of every attribute and teaches and invites us to be like Him.

Neal A. Maxwell said, “If one day every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ, why not do so now?” All things testify of Him. Luke 19:40 says that even the stones testify of Him. Let us stay clear and focused on how we can grow closer to and testify of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Why not do so now?

Introducing: Renee Mitchell

Here is the introduction that Renee wrote for herself:

Renee Mitchell was born November 17 th in 1969 in Detroit, MI, to Mary & Justice Mitchell. She is the 2nd daughter of three children. She had three children of her own: Javon and Donavon, her 2 sons, and a daughter, Jacquline. She moved to A2 to pursue an education in graphics design. Some of her interests are reading , knitting, quieting, creating art, and singing. Some of the simple things she enjoys are having a good laugh with family and friends and partaking in the beauty of God's creations. Sister Mitchell has been a member since October of 1992 and was baptized into The Detroit New Center Branch.

Favorites:
color: lavender
food: homemade mac & cheese
dessert: ice cream
t.v show: lost
hymn: In humility & Lord I will follow thee
scripture: I Nephi 3:7

22 July 2007 Michelle Rackley on "The Healing Power of Forgiveness"

Michelle Rackley taught our Sunday lesson on James E. Faust's April 2007 General Conference talk, "The Healing Power of Forgiveness". Elder Faust told many stories in his talk, but Michelle was especially touched by his account of the Amish community in Pennsylvania that freely forgave the family of the milkman who killed 5 of their daughters and then took his own life. Michelle shared the story of a family in California whose 11 year old daughter was abducted, raped, and murdered. The perpetrator was caught and put in jail. This family visited him in prison, and after he was beaten to death by fellow inmates, attended his funeral. 3 Nephi 1 describes the Nephite preparation for Christ's birth. Wicked members of the community were threatening to kill those church members who believed in a sign that would come to tell them of Christ's arrival across the sea. When the sign does appear, it causes many to repent and join themselves to the church (see verses 9, 15-17, 23). Can you imagine attending church with people who had planned to kill you?

Michelle told another story of two LDS boys who were leaders among their peers. In high school these boys got involved in drugs and alcohol, and many of the active LDS teens followed after them. The two boys eventually repented, served honorable missions, and married in the temple. But a number of the people who they influenced to stray never returned. Can you imagine how it would feel to be the parent of one of the children who had been permanently affected by this event, and to see the men who had started it all participating actively in the church, possibly in a priesthood leadership position? She related this to the story of Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah, reading from Mosiah 27 verses 8-10, 24, 28, and 32. Alma, who had led so many astray, went on to become the prophet.

The next example Michelle gave was of forgiving ourselves. For this she used the story of Joseph Smith when he allowed Martin Harris to take the Book of Mormon manuscript and then lost it. He was devastated when he heard that Martin had lost the manuscript. The angel took back the plates and the urim and thumim. But after a short time, during which Joseph sincerely repented, these things were returned, and Joseph received a message that God was pleased with him. If Joseph had not been able to forgive himself for this mistake, could he have finished the work of translating the Book of Mormon?

Michelle's final example of forgiveness was from 3 Nephi 8. This is the account of the natural disasters and destruction that took place in the new world at the time of the Savior's death. As Michelle put it, it was Hurricane Katrina times ten. She pointed out that this is an excellent example of forgiving life in general...bad things that happen to us that cannot really be blamed on anyone. We can choose to be bitter, or we can choose to have our hearts softened.

How does forgiveness work in your life? L.S.: forgiveness does not mean to reconcile, necessarily, but to let go and move on. With the help of the spirit, I've been able to let go, but that doesn't mean that I'm friends with that person anymore, because I don't trust them anymore.

S.T.: I like what L. said. But the Amish went out of their way to reach out to the family of the milkman. We don't know how to handle anger. But they didn't lash out at his family.

L.J.: It is a mystery why forgiveness is instantaneous for some people and takes so much time for others. Leave a space in your heart for forgiveness so that it can come in when the time is right. A man's whose whole family was killed by a drunk driver found the motivation to forgive because he wanted to be reunited with his family in the next life. Instead of saying I can't forgive, say I can't forgive right now, but I'm leaving a space for it.

L.J.: Not forgiving is too expensive. I don't want to pay the price of hanging on to the hurt.

J.E.: It is a personal transformation. I have a relative who doesn't like me. I forgive her, but I also find that I need to stay away from her.

S.T.: How do you teach people to forgive?

L.R.: I think we're born knowing how to forgive, but we unlearn it.

P.F.: A lot of it is what you see in your family. We all argue and fight at home. You can show your children right then how to make up after fighting. Are you going to use the silent treatment? Will you hold a grudge? Or will you apologize?

M.G.: Bearing testimony strengthens it. Forgiveness is similar...the more we do it, the better we get at it. Sometimes we want to forgive, but it is so hard. We can tell the Lord that we are trying, and he can help us.

S.S.: The life of Joseph Smith is a great example of forgiving (see D & C 3). He was betrayed again and again, and he says "I frankly forgave the man." He wrote a letter to W.W. Phelps after being betrayed, and forgave him.

Michelle: Nephi frankly forgives his brothers and they continue on their journey.

L.Q.: People can do things to me and I don't care, but when people hurt my family it is harder to forgive. Heavenly Father says we have to forgive, though. I have to stop dwelling on it.

L.J.: I try to remember how much I need forgiveness for my own shortcomings. We actually hurt and offend others, and we need forgiveness, so we shouldn't withhold it.

Michelle: To close, the Lord taught us to love our enemies. How do non-Christians view Christians? Christians are people who teach that we should return love for hate. Think of something you need to let go of. Do you want to? Can you? Can Christ help you? Christ's atonement makes it possible for us to forgive and be forgiven. Jesus taught us to love our enemies.

Prez Says: The Lives That Touch Ours

The Prez Says… President Hinckley stated, “All of us, in our various situations, are the result, largely, of the lives that touch ours.” Every day we are affected, for good or ill, by those whom we come in contact with.

One reason that I love to come to church every Sunday is that my contact with the members of our ward encourages and inspires me to live more closely to gospel standards. While none of us is perfect, I see your goodness and your efforts to do your best in your lives. I see your willingness to serve one another, and to encourage each others’ spiritual growth. At weekly meetings I see the strong testimonies, dedication, and love that our good Bishop and priesthood leaders demonstrate for every member of our ward.

I love associating with each of you. It is a blessing for me to be surrounded by your influence. It helps me navigate through the challenges and temptations of the world. It helps me to want to do and be better. In 1 Thessalonians 2:4, Paul says that he speaks, not to please men, but to please God. I am continually touched by your actions and decisions that please God and help me to keep perspective in the clamor of the world. Feeling the Spirit at our meetings grounds me, and helps me stay focused on the things that really matter. I am thankful to be touched by your testimonies and works, I am grateful to you for helping me along the way on my journey, and I love associating with each of you.

Four New RS Sisters

This Sunday we welcomed four new sisters to our Relief Society. I have pictures of three of them, and a tiny bit of information about them. Stay tuned for their self-introductions, which I will post when I get them. First, we met Renee Mitchell:

Many of us have been in the same ward with Renee in the past, and we are so happy to be reunited. She has three children, ages 20, 19 and 17.

Next is Annette Tang, who has moved here with her husband and 4 children, ages 5, 4, 2 and 3 months. They will be here for 6 years doing an oral surgery residency:


Third, Karri Smyer. Her huband has been here for about 6 weeks, so many of you might know who he is. They are here for 3 years for law school:


And last, but certainly not least, our very own Leslie Smith has turned 18 and joined us in Relief Society. I don't have a picture of her, because I think everyone knows what she looks like.

15 July 2007 SWK #14 "Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me" by Sondra Soderborg

Our lesson Sunday was taught by Sondra Soderborg from the Spencer W. Kimball Manual Chapter 14: "Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Before Me." Sondra still remembers the General Conference talk given by President Kimball "The False Gods We Worship" printed in the June 1976 Ensign. This was an important theme in his presidency. While preparing for this lesson, Sondra was impressed by a scripture in D&C 1:16. She felt that she needed to think about this verse during the youth conference trip to Palmyra. The phrase that jumped off the page when she read it was "walketh in his own way" and that this is equivalent to idolatry. She asked herself this question: "in what (small) ways am I interfering with my ability to worship God because of my willfulness?" She felt that with this question in mind, youth conference was a series of parables designed to answer that question for her.

First was the Parable of the Pants. Their youth conference "family" was assigned to go to the temple the first night. The youth were tired, and not particularly happy with dinner. One boys said "I'm not going." Sondra and Nathan wanted all of the youth in their group to go to the temple, so they sent him into the church with the others to change into temple-appropriate clothes. Minutes after the others had come out, this boy was still in the bathroom. Nathan went in after him, only to find him muttering to himself that he couldn't go to the temple because his church pants didn't fit. Somehow the wrong pair had been packed. Now that he was faced with the possibility of not being able to go to the temple, he realized that he wanted to go. He ended up wearing shorts with his church shoes, socks, shirt and tie, and was allowed to enter and participate in baptisms with the others. Sondra was struck by the realization that sometimes our willfulness gets in the way of what we actually want on a deeper level. She didn't particularly want to go to youth conference, but she knew that it was likely to be a good experience for her. When we stubbornly resist certain things, we can get in our own way of getting what we really want.

She didn't give a name to the second parable, but it could be the Parable of the Sacred Grove. Early on in the trip, they gathered their "family" to set goals together. Sondra had thought of some very concrete goals, such as taking responsibility for one's self, and keeping hands off others and their stuff. As she was explaining these goals to the group, a realization opened up in her mind that these temporal-seeming goals were in fact spiritual. She saw that without following principles of self-management, we limit our ability to feel the Spirit. As she tried to explain this to the youth, the Spirit was there, and led them to a discussion of more spiritual goals. One of the boys said that when they were in the Sacred Grove, they should have time alone, because it is a powerful spiritual place. Sondra felt herself clenching against this suggestion. When they go to the Grove, and they separated into small groups, she felt resistant. She had heard so many people talk about sacred experiences that increased their testimonies in the Grove, that having an experience like that seemed like a cliche, and she did not want to experience a cliche. But she did want to gain a stronger testimony of the restoration. Because she was thinking about this lesson during the trip, she was aware that her resistance to the Sacred Grove "experience" might be getting in her way. She was able to sense the temple-like atmosphere of that place, and was given a gift from the Spirit of a strengthened testimony of Joseph Smith that was very personal, not a cliche at all.

Being in Palmyra really helped her think about consecration and what it means to truly worship God. It struck her there that she is easily distracted by things that she spends time and energy on that really don't further the kingdom of God. She gives too much attention and respect to her own will [potato girl note: who doesn't?] She invited us to take a moment to think, what things are distracting you? Is there a false God in your life?

S.H. talked about how she read the lesson this week, and was struck by the story of President Kimball giving up his schooling to accept a calling in the Stake Presidency. She has recently decided to go back to school, and feels like this is the right decision for her, but worries about the time she spends away from her children. This week she's been really thinking about her true purpose and goals.

S.T. shared a story about her son-in-law, who was treated for cancer during the first year of his marriage. Shortly after the cancer went into remission, he and his wife decided to find a bigger house and start a family. Then he was called into the Bishopric. To accept the calling, he would have to give up his search for the new house he wanted. He decided that he could express his thanks to God for sparing his life by accepting the calling and staying in the tiny house.

Sondra told us that she has never been disappointed when she has made a choice that she thought the Lord wanted her to make. When we have chosen to serve the kingdom of God, we've been blessed so abundantly and miraculously. Trying to consecrate our lives is in fact an easier course. She referred us to this statement, which was on the board throughout the lesson:

"Because the exercise of faith has always appeared to be more difficult than relying on things immediately at hand, carnal man has tended to transfer his trust in God to material things."

Prez Says: Let Go

The Prez Says… One quiet afternoon an 18-month old girl was playing under the kitchen table. She suddenly let out a piercing shriek, followed by louder, wilder, eardrum splitting screams. Her mother dragged her out from under the table and looked her over. Her tiny fist, clenched in a death grip, was swollen twice its normal size. As her fingers were pried open, a wasp flew out. She had been stung multiple times because her instinct was to clutch her hand tightly because of the pain. She had not yet learned that wasps do more damage when held tightly than when hands are kept open.

I haven’t been bothered by a wasp lately, but I have been worried, anxious, and bothered about something. I have clenched the worry tightly inside, acutely aware of its accompanying pain and suffering, but not letting go of it. I’ve been afraid that if I let go, things won’t turn out the way I want them to. There’s a part of me that is certain that there is a way for me to control the situation and outcome. Like that toddler, it appears that I haven’t yet learned that more damage is done by holding on tightly than by letting go of my willful agenda.

Mormon declared, “And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.” (Words of Mormon 1:7) I know that God has a plan for each of us, and it is only by submitting and opening ourselves to Him that we can begin to realize His will for us. He knows us and our possibilities much better than we do. We can trust His loving omniscience. Such trust is not a singular decision or event, but is chosen and practiced throughout our lives. I recognize that I’ve been holding tight to a worry, and I see the folly of thinking that I know best about how things should turn out. I am letting go of this pesky “wasp” to put myself in the Lord’s hands. He fully knows what’s best for me.

8 July 2007

Sorry, Sisters...I attended Relief Society in Washington D.C. today. I sure missed you. Please write in if you made it to our lesson.

Prez Says: Land of the Free

The Prez Says… This past week we once again celebrated our nationhood, on the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Living in America is a blessing worth thinking about more frequently than on national holidays. There is no country that compares with the United States. America is a land of promise, a land of choice above all others, founded by good and noble men who were inspired by God. This land was not only founded by God, but preserved by Him. We owe our privileges and prosperity to God, and we have a responsibility to govern this land with righteousness. Proverbs 14:34 confirms that “righteousness exalteth a nation.”

More than 175 years ago, French historian and philosopher Alexis de Tocqueville visited America to observe and analyze why freedom was successful here. He reported, “Not until I went to the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” He noted that it was goodness and righteousness that bound the melting pot of American citizens together. America can be no stronger than the goodness of her people. John Adams said, “To be good and to do good is all we have to do.”

Freedom is not free. Each of us has the opportunity and responsibility to do good and to live righteously to keep America great. Let us never take for granted the blessing and privilege of living in this free country.

1 July 2007: Kathy Diehl on The Atonement

When we arrived in RS today, Kathy had already written this quote on the board, by Bruce Hafen:

"While no other success of ours can compensate for failures within or outside our homes, there is a success that can compensate when we cannot, after we conscientiously do all we can. That success is the Atonement of Jesus Christ, which can mend what for us is beyond repair."

Kathy began the lesson by talking about the Mackinac Bridge, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. It is the 3rd longest bridge in the world, and the longest suspension bridge. It is made of 42,000 miles of cable, and is 55 stories high. Before it opened, it could take as long as 24 hours waiting in line to get on the ferry that connected the upper and lower peninsulas. Several people died while making the bridge, but we usually don't think about how it was built. That is, unless we happen to be on the bridge during a storm. Then we might find ourselves wondering if it was really built to withstand the wind or the rain or the ice, and when it holds, we may think gratefully of those who designed and built it. Life can be like that...when it is smooth we don't give much thought to those who sacrificed before us, including the Savior. But in times of trouble, our minds are turned to Him.

Our theme for Relief Society this year is softening our hearts, and each of the presidency-discretion lessons, which are taught on the first Sunday of the month, is designed to help us think more about this theme. Thinking about the Savior and His atoning sacrifice helps to soften our hearts.

We can't talk about the atonement without mentioning the plan of salvation and the fall of Adam and Eve. Kathy grew up in the Catholic church, where it was clearly taught that if Adam and Eve hadn't transgressed and partaken of the forbidden fruit, we would all still be living in paradise. The restored gospel teaches us that Adam and Eve's decision, instead of being a mistake, was a necessary part of God's plan for us. Without their transgression, we would never have been born. What did Adam and Eve learn after they left the garden?

TB: They learned that parenting is really hard.
Kathy: They learned all about troubled families.
OT: They learned the power of obedience.
Kathy: They learned by experience along the way. Did they ever make mistakes? They weren't perfect, but they learned along the way.
SP: They had a long time to learn. They lived 800 years of so. I'm glad for how old I am because of all I learn each year.
Kathy: The fall gives us the chance to learn. The plan of salvation is developmental. Although Christ atoned for their sins, that did not mean that Adam and Eve got to go back to the Garden and to the way things were before.
TB: They learned the power of loneliness. There were no other adults for them to talk to. Eve had no other women to help her through childbirth. They were cut off from God. They felt such an intense drive to reconnect with God, and this opportunity was provided them by the atonement.
Kathy: They experienced life in God's presence, as well as life separated from His presence.

NM: One of my husband's ancestors died while working on the Mackinac Bridge. Because of that, crossing the bridge is a very meaningful experience for his family. It means something personal to them. The atonement needs to be personal for each one of us.
Kathy: Look at the word "one" embedded in the word "atonement." The atonement happens one person at a time. Adam and Eve learned about hard work, they learned about not having enough resources, they learned about conflict with children and each other. Sometimes we think that because of our problems we're not going to make it back to God's presence. But we are here on earth to have problems. Ether 12:27 tells us that God gives us weaknesses so that we can be humble, and that if we'll come to Him, He will help our weaknesses become strengths. If we are becoming more aware of our weaknesses, we're getting closer to God. Bruce R. McKonkie once said that a lot more people are going to make it to God's kingdom than we think. We just need to want that with all our hearts.

LQ: Small daughter called out to her from bed. She went in to her to comfort her and then asked, why do you call out? Why don't you just come to me? The small girl answered that she wanted to know that her mother was there and was listening to her. As L. went back to her room, she felt the Lord asking her, "why don't you just come to me?" She realized that even when she doesn't go to Him for help, He comes to her.

Kathy: What do we need to do to access the blessings of the atonement?
LJ: How do you get a relationship with the Savior, or with anyone? Through repentance. At times you can't create a sense of well-being for yourself, but on your knees in prayer, if floods your soul. Try to read and understand what happened when Christ atoned for our sins.
Kathy: What a blessing repentance is. How good it is to go to Him and pour out our hearts. Picture summer on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. How do you think those gardens got that way?
LH: When I'm out in my garden weeding, I think of Adam and Eve, and how they learned about "noxious weeds." It inspires me to keep weeding. I think a lot of weeding goes on at Temple Square.
Kathy: What happens to weeds if we mow them down? We need to pull them out by the roots. This is similar to repentance.

OT: A friend is having problems with her son. She says that she know the Lord won't let certain bad things happen to him. I want to help her understand that we need to repent, and get a clean opening, a connection with God so that we can really pray and find out from Him the truth of things.
Kathy: Faith does not protect us from bad things.
LS: The flowers on Temple Square receive individualized attention. I need to find my own answers to my personal questions and needs, not a general blanket answer for the whole church. I need personal instruction from God.

MR: Ryan Earp recently taught a lesson in Elder's Quorum about the atonement. He presented a scenario that he'd heard in a class at BYU. The professor said suppose you committed sexual sins before your mission, but repented and served honorably. Now you are engaged to a worthy young woman who asks if you've ever had problems with the law of chastity. What do you answer her? The BYU professor said the correct answer is to tell her no, you've never had a problem with that law. This is because you have repented and been cleansed by the Lord through the atonement, and it is as if that sin never occurred. This story has helped M. be more forgiving of the mistakes that she makes. She can tell herself that because of her sincere repentance and the atonement, it is as if those mistakes never happened.

Kathy: We often get caught up in the phrase "after all that we can do." How do we know when we have done all we can?
TB: I try to do it alone. But Jesus needs to be with us through the whole process. I recently tried to imagine him with me every step of the way, and I knew when I'd done all that I could do and could then turn it over to Him. We need to let go of our control-everything lives. Ask the Savior to walk with you from the beginning.
Kathy: It is scary to give up control. As I was preparing this lesson, it wasn't coming together. I got her today and it still didn't feel together. I don't like to feel out of control. But when we let go and let the spirit guide it is OK. The atonement compensates for more than just sin. It covers any kind of pain, difficulty, loneliness, disappointment, mistake, inadequacy. He bled from every pore for each person. There is no greater expression of love. As I think about the Savior, it does soften my heart.

Prez Says: Maintaining Good Relationships

The Prez Says… Last week I received an e-mail at work with the subject line screaming in capital letters, “YOU ARE DELINQUENT!” The manager who sent it wrote the entire message in caps, saying that “high level administrators” knew that my mandatory training requirement wasn’t done, that there had been repeated messages to do it, and that it had to be done by 5 p.m. or there would be “consequences.” I was out of the office that day, and replied that I had completed the requirement a month earlier, and that I had a full day of appointments and obligations. I said that if I could access the training site remotely I would redo it that day, but if not, I’d redo it the next morning before 8 a.m. The manager replied that getting this job task done took precedent over anything else I had to do in my life. I was offended, angry and upset for the next 2 days about being treated so insensitively. Ironically, the training topic was about restraint and seclusion of patients, which isn’t even applicable in my adult outpatient clinic setting. There was no quiz involved, just acknowledgment that the policy had been read. It was ultimately confirmed that I had completed the requirement over a month earlier, but an IT systems error hadn’t registered my completion.

I believe that there is no job task at work that is more important than the relationship between the supervisor and employee. It is essential that employees know that they are respected, cared about, and valued. Even difficult situations can be effectively resolved when approached with the goal of maintaining the relationship. When I have a boss (or leader) who is genuine regarding having a good relationship, I am more motivated.

Isn’t this true in all areas of life? There is no task, possession, or checklist that is more important than maintaining a good relationship with our family and others. Our greatest impact is in our personal relationships. We need to pay attention and listen carefully to those we supervise (or serve) as well as to those who supervise (and serve) us. We are to “increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men,” (1 Thess.3:12) and “be willing to communicate.” (1 Tim. 6:18)

This week I spoke with my manager and shared my thoughts about relationships being more important than job tasks. She has been a manager for only a year, and had never thought about this. She thanked me, said that she’d never send another e-mail like the offending one, and asked if I would be willing to meet with her periodically to discuss leadership principles. I agreed. I can share a lot about leadership principles—I learned them from my church leaders as they have taught and lived gospel principles.

Introducing Jessica J. Loftus Edwards

This past Sunday we were pleased to meet the newest member of our Relief Society, Jessica Edwards. Here is a short introduction she wrote for us:

"I was born in California and moved to Michigan when I was only a few months old. I received a scholarship to Wayne State University in Detroit and that is where I received my Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Physics. Yes, I am a geek. I met my husband in 2000 at an Institute class in Westland and he is also a local who served his mission in Argentina. We were married at the end of 2000 and had been living in Taylor, MI until our move here to Ann Arbor. We are expecting our first child, a girl, in the middle of October."

Welcome to Ann Arbor, Jessica (and husband, Mike)!

24 June 2007: Michelle Rackley teaches "The Tongue of Angels"

Our lesson today, taught by Michelle Rackley, was based on Jeffrey R. Holland's April 2007 General Conference address, "The Tongue of Angels." We started by spending a few minutes writing down silently any thought that came to our minds on a piece of paper. Then we labeled each thought as negative or positive. Michelle emphasized that no thought was neutral. Ask yourself, she said, if the thought leads you towards hope and faith, or anger and doubt.

Michelle then summarized some of the main points of Elder Holland's talk. He mentioned the power of our words. He encouraged us to speak more kindly. She read us this quote from the talk:

I love what Elder Orson F. Whitney once said: “The spirit of the gospel is optimistic; it trusts in God and looks on the bright side of things. The opposite or pessimistic spirit drags men down and away from God, looks on the dark side, murmurs, complains, and is slow to yield obedience.” We should honor the Savior’s declaration to “be of good cheer.” (Indeed, it seems to me we may be more guilty of breaking that commandment than almost any other!)

Then she told us that she wanted to focus her lesson on this part of Elder Holland's talk:

In all of this, I suppose it goes without saying that negative speaking so often flows from negative thinking, including negative thinking about ourselves. We see our own faults, we speak—or at least think—critically of ourselves, and before long that is how we see everyone and everything. No sunshine, no roses, no promise of hope or happiness. Before long we and everybody around us are miserable.

Our thoughts determine what we say, as well as our actions. In trying to think of examples of people from the scriptures who changed their negative thoughts into positive ones, Michelle remembered Nephi in 2 Nephi 4. She also thought of Joseph Smith's prayers in the Doctrine and Covenants. Both of these men were able to change their thoughts from despair to praise for God. Eric suggested that Michelle try to find examples of more ordinary people from the scriptures who weren't prophets, but who also succeeded in combating negative thoughts. she read to us an example of a group of ordinary people in Ether 6: 5-11

5 And it came to pass that the Lord God caused that there should be a ^afurious wind blow upon the face of the waters, ^btowards the promised land; and thus they were tossed upon the waves of the sea before the wind.

6 And it came to pass that they were many times buried in the depths of the sea, because of the mountain waves which broke upon them, and also the great and terrible tempests which were caused by the fierceness of the wind.

7 And it came to pass that when they were buried in the deep there was no water that could hurt them, their vessels being ^atight like unto a dish, and also they were tight like unto the ^bark of Noah; therefore when they were encompassed about by many waters they did cry unto the Lord, and he did bring them forth again upon the top of the waters.

8 And it came to pass that the wind did never cease to blow towards the promised land while they were upon the waters; and thus they were ^adriven forth before the wind.

9 And they did ^asing praises unto the Lord; yea, the brother of Jared did sing praises unto the Lord, and he did ^bthank and praise the Lord all the day long; and when the night came, they did not cease to praise the Lord.

10 And thus they were driven forth; and no monster of the sea could break them, neither ^awhale that could mar them; and they did have light continually, whether it was above the water or under the water.

11 And thus they were driven forth, ^athree hundred and forty and four days upon the water.

She asked us to picture ourselves on a road trip with all of our extended family, friends, and animals, for 340 days. Could you sing praises to God? When I feel myself passing through a tempest, she said, I spend my time asking God for help, not singing his praises. She also read us Alma 62:41

41 But behold, because of the exceedingly great length of the war between the Nephites and the Lamanites many had become hardened, because of the exceedingly great length of the war; and many were softened because of their ^aafflictions, insomuch that they did humble themselves before God, even in the depth of humility.

She asked herself if she would be the person who hardened her heart in the midst of a war, or if her heart would be softened.

To open the time for a discussion of how our thoughts have affected us at different times in our life, Michelle shared this experience of her own. On Tuesday, her son broke his leg. They didn't realize it was broken, and when the nurse came back in with the x-rays, they were shocked. Michelle was flooded with negative thoughts. As she walked across the hospital from her son's appointment to her own ultrasound, she remembered this lesson that she was preparing. She prayed that God would take away her negative thoughts. It didn't happen right away, but comforting, positive thoughts began slipping into her mind bit by bit over the next few hours. During the time of her purely negative thoughts, she could feel herself being snappy with the doctors and nurses, and she knew that it was only a matter of time before she turned on her husband and children. She told us that she knows a broken leg isn't as big a problem as many of the problems of sisters in our ward, but she hoped we would be willing to share with the class any experience, large or small, where our thoughts affected us.

S.S. was the first to speak. She told us about how her husband is one of eight children, and when she first learned of this, S. thought his mother must be crazy. When she met her, she couldn't believe how nice she was, and thought she must be faking it. S. found out that her husband's mother had made a covenant with God after her first few children were born that she would not raise her voice with her children, or say any negative things to them. S. could not believe that a person could do this, but her husband told her that his mother had indeed kept her promise to the Lord. S.'s initial reaction was to say to herself that yelling a lot at your kids is not that big of a deal. But when she hears her 7 1/2 year old emulating her, mothering her little sisters, and she raises her voice with them, S. can see that she doesn't want that for her family. She told us that she has been reading her scriptures and praying for help to not be harsh or nasty in her reactions to her children. She feels better about herself and her relationship with them. She can now see where her mother-in-law was coming from when she made this commitment to the Lord, and it gives her a direction to aim for.

Next, L.J. shared a strategy that worked for her. She has never been much of a little kid person, but she knew she wanted big kids, and thus had to start with little ones. She just told herself this over and over when her children were small (have to have little kids to get big kids), and it helped her get through her days.

P.F. told us that she struggles daily with negative thoughts. In her work, she is in front of people all day, and has to be so careful to not start down a negative path in her mind so that she can control what she says and does around her customers. She has made a commitment to study the scriptures in the morning before work. She has never been a very good memorizer, but the other day she found some scriptures that she really wanted to learn to help her with her negative thoughts. She was able to memorize 4 verses in 10 minutes, which is a miracle. Those 4 verses, as well as the words to a hymn that took her two months to memorize, repeated over and over, along with a constant prayer in her heart, help her get through the difficult moments.

Michelle responded by saying that during our Mother's Day musical tribute, she heard the song "I Feel My Savior's Love" and felt prompted to memorize that word to that hymn. She also mentioned the title of a book her mother had once read: "You Can't Afford the Luxury of a Negative Thought." She said that negative thinking actually causes physiological changes to take place in our bodies that are harmful to us.

S.S. said that when she feels tension at home and wants to yell she has been trying to break into song instead. Her children know the words to many primary songs, and singing these cuts the tension.

S.S. (#2) said in response to P.F. that she has felt a sweet feeling around her place of business and now she realizes that it was the Spirit brought by P.'s prayers and efforts. She also said that when she is having a hard week she reminds herself that in just a few days she'll be back together with her fellow saints on Sunday.

T.B. said that she beats herself up constantly. When she has a bad thought, she gets upset with herself for having it. She's learned that if she can embrace the thought, it helps her to deal with and move past it. She said that as a child she was surrounded by the darkness of her parents' unkindnesses toward her. As hard as she tries to change her thoughts today, their voices still echo in her head, dragging her down. She prays every day for help, but it is not enough.

To this, Michelle responded, "it is enough." She said that she had wanted to talk about exceptions. She told us that for those of us with backgrounds of abuse, or who struggle with depression and other mental illnesses, it is harder to fight negative thoughts. She said that in praying for a loved one recently, who struggles with untreated depression and bipolar illness, and can be unkind, she felt the Lord tell her that this loved one is doing everything He wants her to do, and that in His eyes she is just fine. Heavenly Father understands our struggles and the origins of them. She read us a quote by David O. McKay, who said that the thought in our mind right now is contributing to the shaping of our soul. How we think, Michelle said, affects how we look. We can become more beautiful by filling our minds with positive thoughts. Others will be more attracted to us, and feel that they are near their Savior when they are with us. She asked us to get out our papers where we had written our thoughts. She told us that for every negative thought on our paper, we should write a positive response to it. She thanked us for sharing our experiences with the class, and for baring our souls. She told us that God has given us the ability to change our negative thoughts through prayer and the Atonement so that we can be filled with light.