The Color Purple

    Today on my way to work I read two of my three articles for the week. One was a poem. The author of the poem described several inanimate objects of this world that bring her happiness. The stanza's included flowers and colors and places. I believe some happiness can be derived from objects. In fact as I was reading the poem my mind went back to the day I was running in my neighborhood and there were many brilliant colors to look at and enjoy. There were a lot of bushes with purple flowers along the stem. The purple color that specific day was so brilliants it was no longer just a color to me. I felt gratitude deep in my soul for the beauty created for me. My testimony that this earth was created for me was strengthened that day by a color. I agree with the author that color can contribute to happiness.

Oops, I did forget.

     I love that I get to take two classes. I love that I am learning. I love what I am learning. At midpoint I question myself. I ask myself why I am pushing myself when a degree will not help me professionally. I question if I can maintain the pace required. Then I lose focus, miss a couple of posts for my practicum and think I should just give up. Then I remind myself of the good lessons I have learned that are shaping my soul. Then I think about how much I am learning about happiness from this practicum. Then I pick myself up by the boot straps and keep looking forward, knowing I will be happy in the end that I did.

Oops! I almost forgot...

     Amy left this evening. It was so much fun to have her and Benson here for 3 days. Benson is a happy baby, always smiling. I think Jesus was talking about him when he said we need to be as little children to enter the kingdom of God.
     It is late, early morning tomorrow for work. I did get Folder A in Personal Finance finished except for the quiz. Tomorrow I will get reading and Folder B finished. Tomorrow will be a great day!

Sunday February 23,2014 Practicum Review

Mosiah 2:41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and ^ahappy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are ^bblessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out ^cfaithful to the end they are received into ^dheaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.

Article 1 Happiness Through Service  by President Monson
     Happiness comes through serving our Heavenly Father and our fellowmen. God bless you, my brothers and sisters in all your incomings and outgoings. May you have peace in your hearts, may you have tranquility in your homes, and may you have the Spirit of the Lord, Jesus Christ in your souls. 

Article 2  Because He Came  by President Monson  Christmas Devotional
     Scrooge is such an unpleasant soul that his name has become a universally accepted term for a mean or miserly person. Scrooge is shown what he once had in his life, what he has in the present, and what his life will be if he remains on the path he has thus far chosen. He is able to recognize the error of his ways. He learns that happiness can come to us if we will forget self and worldly gain, concentrating instead on helping others and learning to embrace the love of family. 
     President Monson reviewed the story of The Mansion. The Spirit of Christmas is the Spirit of Love and of generosity and of goodness. It illuminates the picture window of the soul and we look out upon the world's busy life and become more interested in people than in things. Because He came to earth, we have the perfect example to follow. As we strive to become more like Him we will have joy and happiness in our lives and peace each day of the year. It is His example which, if followed, stirs within us more kindness and love, more respect and concern for others. Because He came there is meaning to our mortal existence. 

Article 3  Church News   Viewpoint: Choosing and Achieving Happiness  by Elder Joseph B Wirthlin
     "We must heed the voice that tells us that Heavenly Father loves us and that as His children, we are of infinite worth and He wants us to be happy. Happiness is the purpose and design of our existence...Virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping the commandments of God lead to a happy life."  In this quote by President David O McKay he did not mentions material possessions, public acclaim, professional achievements or recognition in social circles. None of these in itself brings joy or true happiness.
     More than 2000 years ago, Aristotle suggested that everyone who lives has the same basic objective, to be happy.
     B+Abraham Lincoln said, "Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."  If we accept the premise that we can choose to be happy, we may surmise that much unhappiness is self-inflicted. William James, noted psychologist, said, "So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment.  For maximum happiness, peace and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude.
     A sure formula for achieving happiness is to live in conformity to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Doing anything contrary to his teachings brings misery, not happiness.
     We cannot buy or borrow happiness, and no one can give it to us. It is a reward we must earn through our own thoughts and actions.

Interview 1:  Amy Hoopes Wood  My youngest child, married with 2 children, member of the Church
On a scale of 1-10 Amy is a 10.
Top two contributors to her happiness are:
1. Her family
2. Her religion
Two situations that create happiness for her:
1. Long car rides with Eric her husband, where they can talk without interruption.
2. Special time spent with her daughter Penelope, they have very happy moments.
Most significant contributing factors to her happiness:
1. Amy said, "I choose to be a 10. I can't think of a happier time. I am visiting with my family without Eric and Penelope. I would be happier if they were here. I have have a pretty good perspective on life."
Advice for others:  Do research on happiness. Think about what makes you feel happy and do those things more often. Do gospel research on happiness to find out what happiness is. Restrict research to the prophets, apostles, and the scriptures.

Interview 2: Vicki Hubbard  We are in the same ward. We both work at US Bank Home Mortgage
On a scale from 1-10 Vicki is a 6
Two top contributors to her happiness are:
1. Family-they are the main drive to be better.
2. Loves her church responsibility as a counselor in the Primary presidency.
 Vicki said, "Everything else drags her down, her job, I am trying to improve my outlook."
Changes she can make to improve her happiness:
1. Improve her financial situation.
2. Continue progress on family goals, include family and relationships.
3. Has requested to be a visiting teacher to improve ward relationships, which is giving service.
Vicki said, "I feel like I am setting goals and taking steps to make relationships better.
Four happiest times or situations in her life:
1. When she got married.
2 When she had her children, 3 sons and 1 daughter.
3. When her sons received their mission calls.
4. When her kids have big accomplishments; when they have success or accomplishments.
Unhappiest events in life:
1. Current employment has too much stress.
2. Divorced from first husband.
3. Financial failure. Husband was a contractor. Tried to hold on to home and business for 3 years. In the end lost the battle.
4. Lived with her husbands ill parents, were their main caretakers. Received criticism and accusation form sisters-in-law. Took care of them until their death.
Advice for others: Make correct choices. Some things can't be helped. Make the best of what your have. Set goals. Have something to look forward to. You can't control everything, but you can control your choices.

This has been a good week. I had another sick day this week. I woke up with an earache in the middle of the night. I enjoyed my reading this week. We were assigned to read 3 Nephi 1-11. There is a division of the people, the church and the land just prior to and during the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I found a scripture that gives me hope that I am on the path which leads to eternal life. As I read the articles on happiness I recognized one of my hurdles is time. I have activities that I enjoy, that bring a smile to my face. While working and going to school I don't have time to do them. My family is on that list and I have had time with some of them this week. Amy came to visit with Benson for 3 full days. It has been so good to be able to chat like the olden days. Family definitely is at the top of my happiness chart.

February 22 Saturday Book of Mormon Reading Assignment

Scripture Activity 2: Gaining the Victory

Read 3 Nephi 3:12–26; 4:8–18. List five actions the Nephites took that led to victory over the Gadianton robbers. Explain in writing how we can apply these actions to our lives today.

1. Lachoneus, the governor, had the people pray to the Lord for strength in preparation for the time when the robbers should come against them.

2. Lachoneus had the women and children, and all their substance, their flocks and herds all gathered together in one place. Strength in numbers and brilliant strategy: "Lachoneus instructed his people to leave the deserted land "desolate" so the robbers would not be able to forage for food." 

3. Lachoneus had fortifications built round about them. The fortifications were of great strength. The armies consisting of both Lamanites and Nephites were set out as guards round about to watch and guard them from the robbers, both day and night.

4. Lachoneus taught them to repent and pray, as this is the only way they would be delivered out of the hands of the Gadianton robbers. In the manual it says, "Lachoneus had the people prepare spiritually. He reminded them of the safety of repentance. His people repented and prayed mightily unto the Lord. Thus they wisely prepared themselves both physically and spiritually for the imminent attack of their enemies."

5. Captains were appointed over the armies to command them should the robbers come. By tradition those that were appointed had the spirit of revelation and of prophecy. Their chief overall was Gidgiddoni and he was a great prophet and also the chief judge.

6. They listened to their prophet who warned them that they would not be delivered if they attacked. He told them they must gather and be prepared, not attack, and they would be delivered. 

7. They believed and followed Gidgiddoni by repenting, praying, and making preparations of war. 

8. They prayed for protection and when they robbers rushed upon them, they were prepared.

Ways I can be prepared:

1. Be a disciple of Christ. "The word disciple comes from the Latin [meaning] a learner. A disciple of Christ is one who is learning to be like Christ-learning to think, to feel, and to act as he does." Chauncy C Riddle

2. Gather with the faithful. This has two safety features. First, temples are built in areas where there is a concentration of saints. "There the faithful can enjoy the full blessings of eternity in a house of the Lord." Second, "stakes of Zion are for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole world." Elder Dallin H Oaks

3 Avoid pride. "Pride creates a noise within us which makes the quiet voice of the Spirit hard to hear. And soon, in our vanity, we no longer even listen for it. President Henry B Eyring Three steps of the pride cycle are pride, wickedness, and destruction, none are part of a happy place.

4. Be prayerful, consistently morning and night, at mealtimes, in times of distress, in times of prosperity. I am still learning to pray effectively. I want sincere prayers every time, but let my physical condition of to tired and I'm late for work in the morning clip some of my prayers short. Prayer is a work in progress. While I am praying, review my day and repent. 

5. Be sincere. Serve with my heart, not out of compulsion. Follow Jesus Christ in my words and actions which is the fortification I need to be strong in this day. Follow the prophet, read the words of the general authorities, make changes based on their words.

     I am using this as my post today. Amy and Benson are here. It is Amy's birthday tomorrow. I have spent several hours today doing homework and catching up with Amy. Being with her makes me happy. I am not doing any homework until Monday after she leaves. I want to enjoy her short visit. 

     As I was reading in the student manual I ran across this quote from Elder M Russel Ballard. He said, "When we hear the counsel of the Lord expressed through the words of the President of the Church, our response should be positive and prompt. History shows there is safety, peace, prosperity, and happiness in responding to prophetic counsel. I loved this quote from the reading. Happiness does not just happen; there is obedience and work.
     Amy is flying in tonight. I wish Penelope could have come. I am feeling a little sad for her. I am tired. I am falling asleep in the chair. When my assignments for this week are finished I will be exactly halfway through the Pathway yeah...Yipee!

Thursday February 20,2013

I woke up this morning and realized I did not write my daily blog about happiness. I was so sad. I had a perfect run, until yesterday. There are many things I have started in my life, then not finished. I have some self defeating tendencies. Right now my diet and exercise are in the on again off again pattern. I like to blame or defend my bad behavior with the excuse that school and work take all my time. I also use the phrase 'recognizing the problem is the first step to changing the problem.' I realize it is part of my quitters loop. That all being said, I missed a day, but know I will not be happy with myself if I don't keep up 100% going forward. I missed a day, but am committed to my project. Exercise and being fit contribute to my overall sense of well being. It is worth the sacrifice. I can do it.

Tuesday February 18, 2014

   Just when I thought I was headed towards health, I woke up with an earache. Having an earache takes me back to childhood and the many earaches I had. I remember them being so painful. I did not go to the doctor for treatment. I wonder if my ear drum burst, as I remember having the pressure suddenly relieved and liquid draining our of my ear. I also wonder if having ear infections cause hearing loss earlier and/or more pronounced with aging. I also remember the time I went sledding with Lorie Rains on one of the snowy days in Shelton, Washington. So much heavy snow, the power was out for a few days and of course no school either! I walked to Lorie's house and we spent a few hours in the heavy, wet snow. It was so fun. I think that was the time we went over the edge of the yard, down a few feet to the beach. Thank goodness the tide was out and we didn't land in freezing cold water. I landed on Lorie again thank goodness, as she was a little bigger than me. I hopped up laughing and she was slower getting up. Funny thing was, she sped us up causing us to fly off the end of the yard as she was trying to get off the inner tube hoping I would sail off the end by myself. So, the joke was on her. After a fun afternoon of snow and sledding, I made the long walk home. My clothes were wet. My hair was wet and my ears were hurting. By the time I got home, I had earaches in both ears. I lay on the couch, probably crying some and my dad came over and rubbed my ear. I remember his warm hand and I remember that it helped the pain in my ear lessen. I never like the pain of an earache, but an earache always takes me back to a day when I felt the love and concern from my father. Small acts of kindness create happy memories of a lifetime.

Monday February 17, 2014

     I worked today, on a Federal holiday. I get to use the day off next Monday when Amy is here for her surprise birthday! She called on her way home from Eric's sisters house and I almost let the cat out of the bag. That would not have made anyone happy. I talked to Penelope three times. She answers questions like, "how are you? and can  you sing me a song?"  I got to hear The Alphabet Song and Twinkle, Twinkle. She is getting big. I am glad Amy is willing to visit with her in-laws. It takes maturity to blend and be a part of the in-law side of the family. I pretty much didn't understand that, would like to hit the re-do button on that one. I am glad that for the most part my kids are much better at it than I was. I am determined to get more sleep tonight. I am signing off and that will contribute to my happiness tomorrow.
    I read 3.5 chapters of this weeks assignment. I think I have an idea for my first discussion board post. I also finished Folder A for Math, plus the quiz...On my way this week and this is the halfway point!

Sunday February 16,02014 Week 2 Practicum on Happiness

Scripture: 2 Nephi 2:25  Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.

Article One    Fun and Happiness by Elder Claudio R Costa
     There is no such thing as true happiness-only happy moments according to his friend. Many try to find happiness by having fun.
     Fun = play, pleasure, gaiety, merriment, source of enjoyment, amusement, to behave playfully, playful, often a noisy activity, and teasing.
     Happiness = contentedness, joy, delight, satisfaction. We can be part of the great plan of happiness that Christ has prepared for all of us, His sons and daughters. As we keep His commandments, we are blessed and come to know true happiness. We learn that true happiness lies in doing small things that build us up, that increase our faith and testimony. We can feel happiness every day in our lives through little things we do and we are fully happy as we keep the commandments of a loving God who cares about us.
     One of the factors that greatly increases our happiness is listening to the counsel of the living prophets who teach us in this church. The Book of Mormon is the word of God and it can lead us to the pathways of happiness.

Article Two  President James E Faust
      The many hours I have spent listening to the tribulation of men and women have persuaded me that both happiness and unhappiness are much of our own making.
     Joseph Smith: "Happiness is the object and design of our existence and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God."
     The Savior of the world taught us to seek that inner peace which taps the innate happiness in our souls.
     The enemies of progress and fulfillment are such things as self doubt, a poor self image, self pity, bitterness, and despair. By substituting simple faith and humility for these enemies, we can move rapidly in our search for happiness.    
     The assurance of supreme happiness, the certainty of a successful life here and of exaltation and eternal life hereafter, come to those who plan to live their lives in complete harmony with the gospel of Jesus Christ-and then consistently follow the course they have set.
     
Article Three  Happiness Now and Forever  Elder Richard G Scott
         Satan's program is to turn our interest to self. He wants us to become so engrossed in the attempt to satisfy personal appetites and desires that we lose the ability to distinguish truth from error. Such a course of life does not cannot, will not ever bring happiness.
     God did not put us on earth to be victimized by circumstances. He gave us a plan for assured success- his gospel-the perfect plan for happiness.
     We must learn to judge ourselves not by what we are, but by what, under the influences of the Lord, we may become, we do not have to measure our potential for success by our known capabilities alone. We can count on the power of God and its expanding influence on our lives. We can know that our ability and strength can be magnified to meet any challenge that confronts us.
      We always see guideposts in our life more clearly after we have passed them and have reached a higher vantage point. If we were more alert to the promptings of the Holy Ghost we would see them before we reach them and thereby be guided more effectively. This process requires self-master, self-control a, and a heart willing to change.
Salvation is an eternal goal we gain by a process of constant upward gain. Doubt is spiritual poison that stunts eternal growth.
     We prove ourselves by making numerous correct decisions without being absolutely sure; then come a greater knowledge and assurance, not before.
     Happiness is created. Love is at its center, its principle ingredients are sincere faith, true repentance, full obedience, and selfless service.
Interview One  Amanda Jo Hoopes  My daughter. child number 3. Lifelong member.
     On a scale of 1-10 Amanda rated herself as a 7.
    What she believes makes her happy:
1.  Being sealed to her husband Stephen. When Mand and Stephen were married, Stephen was not a member of the Church. He was baptized and a year later they were sealed in the Mesa Temple.
2. When she is laughing. No specifics other than the circumstances allow her to be laughing.  Manda has always been a happy child.
3. Any time she is spending time with family...no specific family member was mentioned.
Times when she has been the most happy:
1. She mentioned the birthday where she received a new bike. She followed clues in a treasure hunt and the bike was the prize at the end of the hunt. We captured her expression with a picture and it is priceless. She was so surprised and happy!
1. Body image holds her back. She would like to accept her size and appearance with less negativity.

Interview Two: Harvey Farrimond   My only brother, older than me by 5 years.  Baptized at 8, Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. Less Active
On a scale of 1-10  Harvey rated himself a 10.
     Three happiest events in  his life:
1.  After being totally blind for 4.5 months, Harvey underwent surgery to repair eyesight in one eye. After slow recovery his eyesight improved. He began counting the new items he was able to see each day. One day he called a friend and while on the phone telling her he was up to 35 new things he could see he saw another and another. At 37 he yelled out "Yippee, thank the Lord." He was on his way to improved sight.
2. After living his entire life in the beautiful, but rainy and overcast state of Washington he discovered he did not have Seasonal Affect Disorder. Last winter during his blindness, he realized he was not depressed during those winter months.
3. He has come to the realization that he is the richest man on earth. Not with financial success, but because of the many friends and people that love and care for him. He was told in a discussion with a psychologist that many rich people are miserable as they are concerned about their fortune being taken or stolen from them.
Asked if he has always been happy:
     His answer was a drawn out, "Noooo."  He then said after being married to his second wife, 15-18 years into it, he realized he was married to the wrong person. He said he was remodeling their home, trying to build their assets and realized his wife had a serious spending habit and he grew disenchanted. He quit working on their home.
Asked what he does to change or increase happiness in his life:
   Harvey said when he was married he would have to get away. He would walk his way through it.
   He also took the advice of a friend that suggested he make a five year plan. He made the plan. It has taken longer than 5 years to implement, but he is moving towards those goals.
Harvey has dealt with some depression and sought counseling for a period of 6 months. Linda his second wife passed away in November of 2012. He said the period of time he was most depressed was after Linda died he spent time in the VA hospital in connection with the loss of his eyesight. While in, they would not let him smoke. With so many other losses, his smoking is something he believed he had control of. The nurses would not allow him to smoke and he had a change of demeanor. The nurses mentioned to the psychologist and the psychologist made a visit to Harvey's room. In spite of all the issues, Harvey is a friendly person, always ready to make a new friend. During the conversation with the doctor, he was asked if he thought about hurting himself. Harvey had previously promised a friend that he would not commit suicide. His answer to the doctor was, "No, suicide is not an option."
     Harvey also told me why he never had children with Linda. Harvey was married to Pam, while she was still in high school and he had graduated. They had two children. After a bitter divorce and giving up his rights to the kids, he did not want to have any more children. He told me Linda had an abortion in high school and the doctor told her she should never get pregnant. Something in connection to the abortion would cause her to loose her life if she ever had a pregnancy. This was the first time he explained their childless marriage.


This has been a tough week, I am looking forward to the upcoming week as I am nearly over this cold and cough. I enjoyed the reading this week and continue to find gems as to what I need to work on to increase my happiness. The interviews have been interesting conversation with people in my life. At the end of this week, this semester will be halfway through. I can do this!


   

Happy Birthday to You!

    Today is Julie's birthday, she is 60. All my siblings are now 60 years old or more! I am the only one left in the 50's...it feels so good to be the youngest. As a kid I cried when my mother would call me the baby of the family. My brother called me a bawl baby and I didn't know the difference. Now I can celebrate being the youngest, under 60, as the baby of the family!
    I am writing my blog early today. I am picking Harvey up from Jamie's house to take him on his errands and maybe stop in to the Renaissance Fair. He will be my second interview this week on happiness. I know when I ask  him if he is happy on a scale of 1 to 10 he will give me a high number, probably a 10. He is not shy about his happiness. I do not understand his type of happiness. He has ruined his health. At 63 he is on the verge of needing to be placed in a care center. He is legally blind from his hard drinking and smoking. He can not walk through a store without the aid of a wheelchair. His idea of attending church is for the opportunity to "tell the people where 'he' has been." His only daughter will have nothing to do with him and his only son committed suicide about 5 years ago. After divorcing their mother he remarried and Linda passed away just over a year ago. He is allowing both his homes to go through foreclosure. He makes friends where ever he goes. He told me, "I know how to make friends, I just buy a few drinks, and have all the friends I need." My interview today should be very interesting. Update to follow tomorrow with my notes on the 3 articles I have read.  Another week coming to a close!
    This has been a tough week due to sickness. Next week will be a breeze...feeling well and looking forward to a visit from Amy!
   

Saturday Februay 15, 2014 Book of Mormon Week 5 Choice 3

Helaman 10-16

Ways the people of Nephi responded to the prophets:

V 2   Those that did not believe the words of Samuel the Lamanite threw stones and shot arrows at him to try to take his life. He was protected by the Lord and they were unable to harm him.

V 6   They went to their leaders the captains and asked that Samuel be captured, bound, and “away with him”.

V 15   They relied on their own strength and their own wisdom.

V 18   They doubted the words of the prophets concerning the coming of Christ.

V 20    They believed prophecy to be a wicked tradition handed down from their fathers, so they did not listen to their words.

V 20   They lacked faith, taught others to only believe what they could see with their own eyes, “for we cannot witness without own eyes that they are true.”

V 21   They were suspicious of their leader’s motives.

 V 22   Their hearts were full of foolish and vain imaginations.  They allowed Satan to lead them in their thoughts and actions. Satan led them to do iniquity through rumor and contention which promoted the people to have hard hearts against that which was good and that which was to come to pass.

Why the wicked part of the people responded to the prophets in those ways:

V 10   The people fought against righteousness as they remained in their pride and wickedness.

V 11   The people began to be more hardened in iniquity & did more that was contrary to the commandments of God.

V 15   The people began to harden their hearts. 

Ways I can avoid following the more wicked part:

1.       Avoid pride:  By definition President Ezra Taft Benson characterized pride in this way, “Pride is essentially competitive in nature. We pit our will against God’s. When we direct our pride toward God, it is in the spirit of ;my will and not thine be done.” As the Primary Chorister I get to sing with primary children every Sunday. One of the songs we sing is, I Will Follow God’s Plan For Me, which says I will hold fast to his word and his love. I believe by studying scripture, applying it to myself, then trusting in God’s plan for me and his love, I can overcome the human tendency to have pride.

2.       Avoid contention: Elder Russell M Nelson teaches that the “Scriptures repeatedly warn that the father of contention opposes the plan of our Heavenly Father. Satan’ method relies on the infectious canker of contention.” Contention is so easy! Being a peacemaker takes unselfishness and compromise.

3.       Avoid iniquity: Elder Richard G Scott taught about the conditions of repentance by quoting guidelines published in The Miracle of Forgiveness by President Kimball. Within this list of guidelines is the counsel to abandon sin, including the resolve not to repeat sin. “Abandonment of sin is an unyielding, permanent resolve to not repeat transgression. By keeping this commitment, the bitter aftertaste of …sin need not be experienced again.”  My plan it so avoid sin, both old and new.

4.       Develop a heart like his. I maintain a top ten book list. One of the books on my list is called A Heart Like His by Virginia Pierce. This book suggests to the reader the idea that we can develop a heart within ourselves like our Savior Jesus Christ. It is written with both inspiration and encouragement to live a better way. It is probably time for me to read again as a reminder.  Alma 5:26-28 asks if I have experienced a mighty change of heart and if I currently stand blameless before God? Have I repented through the blood of Christ? Am I free of pride? Then reminds me to prepare quickly as the kingdom of heaven is soon at hand.

So much to do. I will move forward from where I am today and make progress.

Every Day

Every day I look for reasons to be happy.
Every day brings reasons to be unhappy.
Every day I have moments where I am happy.
Every day I have moments where I am unhappy.
Every day I learn more about myself.
Every day I want less unhappy.
Every day I want more happy.
Again today
I had
both.

Another day...

    I have happy feelings tonight. I attended my gathering. I said the closing prayer, I helped 2 of the other students on a couple of the math problems, and I worked one of the problems on the board. I would love to find a job where I use or teach math. Math makes me happy. I love to get right answers. There is not interpretation, it is black and white. I also posted my second blog. It was based on Helaman 13:27-29. It so completely described our experience with wicked Rick Koerber. That was such a difficult time, yet as I wrote my post I was not crying or feeling hate wash over me. We learned a hard lesson, but we have moved on and continue to recover. He will get to pay for his sins, just as I will repent or pay for my own. Happiness comes from overcoming tragedy and sin.

February 12...Day 12?

    I am cracking myself up!  I have no idea what day I am on practicum wise, but I think the date is February 12. I stayed home from work with this sore throat, headache, and cough, cough, cough. So, it may not even be the 12th of February or the 12th day of the practicum, but it cracks me up that I think it is and I am sticking to this easy way of keeping track. It is a good thing no one is reading this...not noteworthy reading...but funny to me, because I am a counter. I inherited this from mom. Which leads to the question, "Did I inherit the obsession to count insignificant things or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?  Either way I am keeping track of the days of this practicum.
     By the end of the practicum I believe I will understand happiness, but I am not sure if I will know how to be happy. I am losing hope, but some of that may be because I am sick. All my reading keeps telling me the way to happiness is by living the commandments. So then I examine myself and take out the fine tooth comb to try to discover what I am doing wrong. I think about the lady at work that consistently doesn't do her share of the work. Which leads to my comments about her to another person. Could these comments be the root of my unhappiness. I don't think so. Do I need to change that action...of course. Tonight in my reading service was mentioned a couple of times. Other than giving service through my calling, I do not currently go out of my way to do service. But, the phrase, "The straw that broke the camels back" comes to mind. I am juggling school, work, a little bit of laundry and housework. Adding service to my schedule would disrupt the balance and send my life into a tailspin. I would thoroughly enjoy going about in a state of giving constant service, if only my working day didn't take up so much time.
    So my dilemma is...is there specific commandments I should focus on to be happy...or maybe my unhappiness a bad habit I need to change.

February 11, 2014 Day 11

    Today was a very normal day, other than my sore throat is worse and I am having a hard time doing my homework. I need a BYE, like sports teams get. A day off from responsibility. A day to rest and recuperate. Since body and mind are connected, when my body isn't happy my mind isn't either. And I don't mean in a grouchy way...just a lack of ability to write words. I am going to bed. Tomorrow will be better.

Monday, February 10, Day 10 Choose the Right

     This is the last thing I do before going to bed. I look back on my day and think about this happiness journey. Mondays always seem to bring a few hurdles to climb over. I had two files get kicked out of closing, which does not create any happy feelings. My coworker told me he wasn't going to work on the two files waiting to be reviewed, "in case we had second reviews get turned in." That makes no sense to me. If we are going to get slammed and can get work done before we get slammed, it seems only logical to get the work we have done, before we get slammed. So, I took both files and reviewed them. By the time I finished three more first reviews had been turned in. Like I have always said, just do the work!
     I read a happy quote in my personal management class information, then also two as I was reading scriptures. The last one I read is the one I am going to end on. Helaman 13: 38 ...and ye have sought for happiness in doing iniquity, which thing is contrary to the nature of that righteousness which is in our great and Eternal Head. Again not to self, happiness comes from living righteously, not chasing wealth or living in sin. It is all about choosing the right every time, every day.

Sunday February 9,2014 Day 8

      It always takes a week to figure out the best system. In relation to my practicum for my Book of Mormon class I have been trying to blog daily, read three articles, and interview 2 people at the same time I am finishing reading assignments and homework. I decided the best way to do my practicum is to blog daily what I learn and observe about happiness in general. On Sunday I will give the happiness scripture of the week, the 2 interview reports, and my notes from the three articles read.

Scripture: 4 Nephi 1:15-16    And it came to pass that there was no contention in the land, because of the love of God which did dwell in the hearts of the people.   And there were no envyings, nor strifes, nor tumults, nor whoredoms, nor lyings, nor murders, nor any manner of lasciviousness; and surely there could not be a happier people among all the people who had been created by the hand of God.

Two Interviews:
1. Brynn Mix-reported earlier this week
2. Jennifer Hoopes Mix. On a scale of 1-10 Jen gives herself an 8 most of the time, unless she is dealing with hard stuff in her life, then she is about a 4. which she said has been a lot of the time lately. (She is married, 4 daughters ages 6-13. She just started a masters program and started as a permanent substitute in a class of at risk kids in elementary school) I asked her what 3 things most contribute to her happiness and she said exercise, the Gospel, and relationships. I asked her to list one or more times that were the most happy in her life. She completed a marathon two years ago and that is at the top of her list. She worked hard to accomplish this goal and feels as though it was a pinnacle event in her life as she put so much in to it. She mentioned both wedding day and birth days of her daughters, but felt hesitant to list them as happiest days as so much apprehension surrounded those days. We were on our way to the temple as I asked her these questions and was cut short at our arrival at the temple. I would like to know her thoughts on what she could change in her life to increase and/or maintain her happiness.

Notes on Three Articles:
Article 1  True Happiness: A Conscious Decision   by Elder DeHoyos
     Happiness is the purpose of the gospel and the purpose of the redeeming Atonement for all men.
     We need to recognize that :wanting to" is the determining factor which leads us to lay hold upon the word of God and be happy. Perseverance in making correct decisions is what leads us to happiness.
     Happiness comes as a result of our obedience and our courage in always doing the will of God, even in the most difficult circumstances.
     Happiness is a condition of the soul. This joyous state comes as a result of righteous living.
     The prophet Joseph Smith stated, "Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.
     Nephi after 30 year journey to the promised land, "And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness."
     Life is good if we live in such a way to make it so. Believing, desiring, deciding, and choosing correctly are the simple actions that define an increase in happiness and an increase in the inner assurance that transcends this life.

Article 2   The Great Plan of Happiness  D&C and Church History Seminary Teacher Resource Manual  1993
     Boyd K Packer told teachers in the CES:  "A brief overview of the 'plan of happiness' if given at the very beginning and revisited occasionally, will be of immense value to your students. The essential components of the Plan of Happiness are:
PreMortal Existence
Spiritual Creation
Agency
War in Heaven
Physical Creation
The Fall and Mortality
Principles & Ordinances of the Gospel of Jesus Christ (first principles: Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, Confirmation)
The Atonement
Life beyond the grave
Spirit World
Judgment
Resurrection
     In the spirit world there is a serration between those who accepted eh gospel and kept the commandments and those who did not. As President Packer explained, "It is happiness, a paradise for the righteous. It is misery for the wicked."

Article 3  The Search for Happiness  by W Eugene Hansen
     I believe it is fair to say that most of us are influenced greatly in our daily lives by what we perceive will result in happiness for ourselves, as well as for others."
     The Founding fathers of our nation considered happiness to be of such importance that is twas ranked with life and liberty. An unalienable right., life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
   He tells of a survey where most people felt money was a significant part of happiness. Yet the author's research indicated that money alone seldom, if ever resulted in happiness.
    The words of William George Jordan:  Happiness does not always require success, prosperity, or attainment. It is often the joy of  hopeful struggle, consecration of purpose and energy to some good end. Real happiness ever has its root in unselfishness, its blossom in love of some kind.
     One of the most critical challenges mankind faces today is to recognize the difference between happiness and mere pleasure.
     Real joy and happiness come from living in such a way that our Heavenly Father will be pleased with us.
     In order to be happy there are lessons we must invariable learn while in this life. We can learn them with joy or sorrow.
     One cannot break God's commandments and be happy.

Summary:
     This has been a great week. I am changing my opinion concerning happiness. My favorite of the 3 articles I read was number 3. Elder Hansen also told a story about a young girl working all summer to earn enough money to buy a pair of shoes. After buying the shoes she shared them with her grandmother. The young girl wore the shoes to Sunday School in the morning and allowed her grandmother to wear them to Sacrament Meeting in the evening. Working hard and sharing bring happiness.

Day Seven...

     Today was a good day overall. I did homework and a little bit of housework. I did a happiness interview and will read an article as I go to sleep. I also went to the temple and picked Harvey up at the airport. Jamie and Ken are letting him stay temporarily at their house. I would have let him stay here. Bill will not let him. As Jen and I arrived in Maricopa we stopped at the John Wayne Parkway and Smith Enke intersection. When the light turned green Jen pulled into the intersection, then slammed on her breaks. A semi came barreling through the intersection going at least 50 miles an hour. If Jen had been distracted and not noticed it coming we would both be dead, along with the passengers in the other two cars that stopped with us. Not sure what the truck driver was doing, maybe realized he couldn't stop in time so he floored it. As I pray and go to sleep I will remember how happy I am to be alive. I will post my second interview information in the morning...it is so late and I am so tired.

Book of Mormon Week 4 Activity 1

Characteristics of a (Wo)Man of Christ:

Helaman 3:20-32

1.       Just and equal

2.       Keeps statutes, judgments, and commandments of God

3.       Does right in the sight of God, which would be always did right.

4.       Followed the example of his father.

5.       Prospered in the land, which means he received spiritual blessing and guidance.

6.       Multiplies and replenishes the earth.

7.       Honored parents, names sons after righteous parents.

8.       Teaches family the commandments. (they grew up in the Lord v 21)

9.       Does not participate in secret combinations which are fathered by Satan.

10.   Be a missionary. (thousands did join themselves unto the church v 24)

11.   Receive many blessings due to their righteousness.

12.   Pray to the Lord with sincerity of heart.

13.   Believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

14.   Read and be lead by the scriptures to overcome Satan.

15.   Be happy.  (rejoicing in the land of Zarahemla v 31)

16.   Feel peace and great joy.

Helaman 5:6-14

1.       Keep the commandments of God.

2.       Be a missionary, declare the commandments to others.

3.       Live up to the names we have been given, whether it be our own parents or grandparents or the name of Christ through baptism.

4.       Follow the example of those that are good, parents, teachers, bishops, prophets, Jesus Christ, etc.

5.       Build a reputation of being and doing good.

6.       Earn eternal life, which is a gift, by good works. Do not do good for boasting rights.

7.       Believe and remember that salvation only comes through Jesus Christ.

8.       Understands that the mission of Jesus Christ was to redeem the world.

9.       We are redeemed from our sins through repentance. We are not redeemed in our sins.

10.   Understands there are conditions of redemption through repentance.

11.   Testimony is built upon the rock of salvation, which is Jesus Christ.

12.   Has assurance the devil will not have power over them as long as their testimony is built upon Jesus Christ as their Savior.

13.   Kept a journal.  (They did remember his words.  V14 If they weren’t writing them down they would eventually forget.)

14.   Keep the commandments and are missionaries.

     Every day gives me the opportunity to improve my life. This list shows me the areas I have strength and weakness. I believe this list can be prioritized and the most important area for me to focus on is my faith in Jesus Christ and his atonement. In the student manual Elder Richard G Scott states, “There is no other way nor means whereby man can be saved, only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ.” As my actions towards and for others are hinged on my testimony of Jesus Christ I must put that at the top of the list.  Although it seems selfish to focus on my individual testimony Elder Russell M Nelson said, “Only as an individual can you develop a firm faith in God and a passion for personal prayer. Only as an individual can you keep the commandments of God. Only as an individual can you qualify for the ordinances of salvation and exaltation.” My plan to strengthen my testimony is first with humble and sincere prayer, morning and night, and a prayer in my heart during the day. It is easy, especially if I am tired, to pray without sincerity. I remind myself before each prayer to pray sincerely. That is working and I have noticed improvement. I believe journaling is connected to sincere prayer. As I write about my day and about my scripture reading I am able to clarify my thoughts and pray more specifically. With increased desire for faith in Jesus Christ as my Savior through scripture study and prayer my thoughts throughout the day are directed towards light and truth. I have increased feelings of happiness and less burden. I have also noticed a greater desire to obey the commandments with exactness and I am less inclined to complaining or anger. 

Friday, Day Six, Long Week

     I am so glad it is Friday and the end of the week. I have too much to do tomorrow, but at least I don't wake up to an alarm. I forgot to set my alarm last night, so Bill woke me up at 6:00. I looked out the window and Vicki was here to pick me up. That was not the best way to start the day. Within an hour of arriving at work Diana called Paul, Andrew, and I into the conference room to tell us the company had decided that there would be no increase in pay this year...boo hoo. I was hoping for a small raise to offset the inflation and taxes that keep eating away at our income. Again not good news. Bill was in charge of the High Priest dinner tonight. I did a little bit to help before and tried to be helpful setting up and cleaning up. Very successful event. Good turn out, too much food, and friendly conversation going on around the room. As I was helping clean up, Brother Crandall, the primary pianist told me he there was a change coming. As it turns out he was ordained a High Priest last Sunday and will be on the High Council soon. I love him as the piano player in primary. The piano player makes a huge difference. Three strikes in one day. Normally I would say something along the lines of, "I give up or It is too hard. Or my all time favorite, What am I doing wrong?" But I haven't and the reason why is because my happiness is dependent on my obedience to the commandments. I am not being punished and I can still choose to be happy.
     PS The Harvey project has been derailed. Harvey missed his transfer in Los Angeles and we haven't heard from him since. I have tried to call and he doesn't answer. Jamie has tried also. She called his friend Cathy and she also tried to call. Not sure what to do at this point. Do we call the police, hospitals, or just wait to hear from him.

Fabulous Five

Almost a week into my chosen practicum for my Book of Mormon class. Another day of feeling like I am headed in the right direction. Work and school today. Home for dinner and American Idol with Bill. It is late and I must get to sleep. I read Helaman chapter seven at work. I posted on the discussion board. I met with Amanda for a couple hours. I can go to sleep happy.

Day Four

     Today was a work day. I left work planning to go to Jamie's house to help her clean out a room for Harvey to stay in. She called in the middle of the morning to say she wasn't going to be able to get the room ready for him and he will need to go to a motel. Bill is still refusing to let him come to our house. We called him this evening and he is on the train, on his way here. Harvey makes me sad. I don't want him to be like this.
     I think about being happy a lot during the day. As I read the scriptures and try to improve myself, I feel less discouraged. Nothing has changed in my life. I still work in Scottsdale. I still get up too early. I would love my wages to be doubled. I have now read two of the three articles I plan to read this week. Both articles say the same thing: Happiness comes from obeying the commandments. In an article Happiness it is worded this way, "As we seek to be happy, we should remember that the only way to real happiness is to live the gospel. This has never been more true for me then when I went to see my brother after not getting together for many years. He was nearly unrecognizable, his face swollen, legally blind, shaky, needing help to get from room to room. I attribute the difference between us to our religious convictions which dictate our behavior. Alma 41:10 says, Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness.
    I held my first interview today. I have been afraid to strike up a conversation, not sure how to start. I will get comfortable as I complete a few. This interview was with Brynn, my eleven year old granddaughter. She is a member of the church, active family. I asked her on a scale of one to ten how happy she was most of the time. She said she was a 7-8. I asked her three things that make her the most happy. She listed, in this order: 1. Dance 2. Friends 3. Clothes.  I asked her what she changes when she is unhappy and she said she listens to music. The last question I asked her was what the happiest time in her life, so far. She said it was performing at the Holiday Bowl this past December and anytime she has been at Disneyland. This was an easy interview. I think Brynn will change her answers as she grows older, but for now she is a typical kid. I see her as cheerful most of the time. She is very helpful all of the time. She has confidence and is very sweet. I can use her as an example in my quest for happiness.

Day Three, Miracles do Happen

     Last night felt crushing as the Harvey project consumed time and space. After reading Helaman 3:35, Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation...I decided to fast and pray for a solution. I prayed to know if putting Harvey in a motel at $40 a night was the correct solution. I went to bed and slept peacefully through the night. I woke up to the alarm with a peaceful feeling. The crushing pressure of the night before, was no longer present. I prayed before taking my shower again asking for assistance with the decisions to be made. As I went through the day the feeling of peace did not leave me. The day went quickly and I did not feel the usual drive to eat. At one point I told myself that food is overrated!  Upon arrival at home I changed into my running clothes and headed out on my 3 mile run. The time I spend running is the best time of day. My body is working and that causes me to think more clearly. I often work out an aggressive feelings that have built up during the day. Also as I was run my thoughts turn to gratitude and testimony. Today I was again thinking how grateful I am for my healthy body. As I ran today I thought about what I would say in a testimony, if I was at testimony meeting. I thought about the incredible feeling of peace I have had all day. I believe this experience is what it feels like to lay my burdens at the Saviors feet and have him carry them for me. Too often I am begging for him so take away what I perceive as hard in my life or I want him to tell me what to do. In Psalm 55:22 it says, Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. By fasting and praying for confirmation of a solution I believe I felt the rest he promises when faith is exercised. I have felt a peaceful happiness in my heart all day, which is the kind of happy I am looking for.
   I read my first article on happiness last night as I went to sleep. I did not bookmark it and can't find it today!  Will be more careful so I can record the articles I red.

Day Two Blues

      Whenever I start a diet, day one is a shock, but I am full of enthusiasm for the changes taking place in my life. Then on day two I question what I have committed to and already want to quit. It is a crazy cycle I have to talk myself through. At work today I was on the look out for anything resembling cheer or happiness. Once I arrived home the phone calls and texts started up in connection with the Harvey project. I was determined to read part of my scripture assignment, but it was very difficult to feel the spirit. I read the talk Good, Better, Best on Sunday by Elder Oaks. In the talk he quotes the scripture that says, Come unto me, all ye that are heavy laden and I will give you rest. I am trying to be happy in the midst of crushing circumstances. In Helaman 3:34 it says the more humble part of the people suffered great persecution, and did wade through much affliction. Verse 35 says nevertheless the did fast and pray oft and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility. As I read fast and pray oft I wondered how often oft is? My desire is to do whatever it takes to feel the rest Jesus Christ can give me. I think I will be happy when I am there.

Happy is as happy does.

        Today is the first day of my practicum. My biggest worry is that I will forget to do it! Change always takes effort. Last Saturday Jen and I ran the Color Run in Tempe. We received two temporary tattoos in our goodie bag. The small one said The Color Run, which I applied to the top of my hand on the day of the race. The second one was bigger and it said...HAPPY, in bold black letters. As I've gone through the day today I thought about where to use it as a reminder. I thought about my arm and my leg. My arm would be obvious to me and a lot of other people, whereas my leg might not be obvious enough.
       As I listened in church today, I was heard the word happy a couple of times. As I read a couple of chapters in the Book of Mormon I read about contention and peace. At the end of the Super Bowl there was a lot of happy people and a lot of sad people. I also thought about questions I will ask my two interviewees.
      I had a couple of happy spontaneous moments today. One was when I bragged to my family members about the math test I aced last night after a lot of studying. I love to learn and love to get good grades. Knowing I do well on something gives me happy feelings. My work is stressful...I look for other peoples mistakes and get written up on a report when I miss those mistakes. I keep suggesting a report to keep track of our success in finding mistakes. I need to find a different job. The second happy feeling was when I apologized to my visiting teacher for being short with her on the phone. It took me three days to get the courage up and I apologized via text. I just knew I couldn't face her at church today without sending an apology. She was very kind and respond with a thank you. I am sincerely sorry and I won't feel awkward around her. Doing the right thing makes me happy.
     

What I want to remember to do:
1. Always give my best effort.
2. Do the right thing, even when it is hard.

Book of Mormon Practicum

I would like to practicum to include two parts. Initially I wanted to improve my journal writing. I am inconsistent at best when not assigned. As I was researching journal writing I noticed my patriarchal blessing and read through it. I was hoping to find a suggestion to write my life history or the mention of recording my life, but it doesn’t. Instead this caught my eye, “I bless you, dear daughter, with happiness. You are a worthy young girl. The Lord wants you to be happy, more happy than you have been at times.” Although no longer young, happiness is a chore for me. It is not my habit. Therefore, with permission I would like to keep a journal of the experiences and feelings of happiness I have. It will be beneficial to read articles about happiness and gospel living. I will look for and learn from other happy people.  I plan to write these feelings on my blog. I plan to learn the habits of journal writing and happiness at the same time.

                In a talk by Elder Benjamin de Hoyos of the Seventy we are taught that happiness is a condition of the soul. He said, “Life is good, if we live in such a way to make it so and happiness is the purpose of the gospel and the purpose of the redeeming Atonement for all men.  He then states that it is in “wanting to” that we can learn of God and be happy. 

                As I try to understand happiness I have looked at other people and have questioned if they were “born that way.” As with all others I have experienced difficult trials. I have kept a mental list of them so I can use when I need to defend or justify unhappy feelings. Then several years ago a widowed sister moved into my ward. Her husband had recently passed away. She was left with three sons to raise on her own. She had married her husband and moved here from Italy, so English was her second language. In her heavy Italian accented comments in Sunday School or Relief Society she reflected this tragedy in her life. Two years later her comments still reflected this tragedy. It was at this point I realized she was stuck and was in the habit of defining her life based on this experience. It was then that it clicked that I too was stuck and in the habit of defining my life by sad events. I believe happiness is not genetic, but learned and practiced. Again from Elder Hoyos in relation to happiness, this joyous state comes as a result of righteous living.   If I understand Elder Hoyes, righteous living brings happiness. I have the gospel and I am practicing my religion, so why am I so gloomy? 

                The Family Home Evening Resource Book states that a journal is a continuing record of meaningful experiences that affect our lives. We are therefore individually responsible to record the events of our lives. President Kimball said this, “Those who keep a personal journal are more likely to keep the Lord in remembrance in their daily lives” This aspect of journaling is a direct blessing for obeying the command to write our experiences in journals. A suggestion as to the actual writing was given by President Kimball, he said, “Your journal should contain your true self rather than a picture of you when you are ‘made up’ for a public performance. … The truth should be told, but we should not emphasize the negative.” Therefore journaling is a record of our experiences, helps keep the Lord in our remembrance, is a command, and should reflect our true selves.

            Two songs are sometimes combined together and it is called a mix up. My question is what happens when happy experiences are mixed up with journaling?

My plan is to

1.    Journal every day.

2.    Read 3 articles on the subject per week.

3.    Find and talk to 2 happy people every week. Report in my journaling who I talked to and what I learned from them.

4.    Look for the tender mercies of the Lord every day and include my discoveries in my journal writing.
5.    Pray for success in my practicum.

Book of Mormon Lesson 3 Activity 1

How to Prepare for Our Battle Against Satan

Alma 43:19-22,38  The Nephites had been prepared for war with shields and clothing to protect them during battle.

                                We protect ourselves from temptation through prayer, scripture study, and obedience.

Alma 43:23          Moroni sent men to communicate with Alma desiring that he inquire of the Lord if they go defend themselves against the Lamanites.

                                We can listen to and follow the counsel of the prophets.

Alma 43:26          The Nephites gathered together in battle to defend their lands, country, rights, and liberties.

                                We can exercise our right to vote, be involved in our communities to elect the best candidates and to enact laws that protect freedom and morality.

Alma 48:8-9        The Nephites fortified their cities by building forts and embankments. They placed extra men for protection at their weakest places.

                                We can                 fortify ourselves spiritually by reading scriptures, obeying commandments, serving others, etc. We can evaluate our weakness and double our efforts to improve those areas.

Alma 50:1            Between wars Moroni did not allow the people to stop making preparations for war. They continued to fortify all the cities against the Lamanites.

                                We are always obeying, praying, reading…even on the days we are feeling righteous. We do not take a break from strengthening ourselves, our testimonies, our resolve, our character…

Alma 59:9            Moroni sent reinforcements to the city of Nephihah as he recognized it is easier to retain the city than to fight to retake the city if it fell into the hands of the Lamanite.

                                A doctor once told me it is easier to keep weight off, than to take it off. As I exercise and diet to take weight off I recognize how true his words. It is so with any aspect of our lives. Any time we allow an action to become a habit , it is an uphill climb to remove the habit.

Understand the Enemy and His Strategy

Alma 43:7-8        Zarahemnah provoked anger within his followers against the Nephites with the intention to gain power over both his people and place the Nephites in bondage.

Alma 45:24          They grew proud because of exceeding riches. Did not walk uprightly before God.

Alma 46:8-10      Forgot God. Committed iniquity. Followed Satan. One wicked person has influence on others. Deceives through flattery. Desires to destroy the Church, liberty which is God given.

Alma 53:9, 60:15-16         Involved in iniquity and had dissension and intrigue among themselves. Unrighteousness within leadership and fighting within.

1.       Alma 60:23 & Alma 53:21

2.       Alma 53:21 This scripture states that because a certain group of men were taught to keep the commandments of God, they were men of truth and soberness. This scripture describes the two thousand stripling warriors. They had great faith and attribute their spiritual strength to the teaching of their mothers. I relate to this scripture from two angles. First, as a mother it is my desire that my children live lives of faith and pass their love of the gospel on to their children. My greatest heritage will be a righteous posterity. And second, as I mother it is first my responsibility to know what I teach to be true.  Elder Neal A Maxwell said it this way, “the mothers first had to know ‘it’ in such a way that the young men, observing them closely and hearing them(as is always the case with children observing parents), did ‘not doubt’ that their mothers knew that ‘it’ was true” (That My Family Should Partake [1974],58-59) Just as in placing the oxygen mask over ourselves first if the plane is in distress, I must know and live the gospel before I can teach and share with others.

Alma 60:23 I learned a life lesson last semester in my New Testament class. At the Last Supper Jesus told his disciples that one of their company would betray him. Upon hearing this, the apostles did not look suspiciously around at each other questioning which one would do the crime. Instead they asked the Savior, “Is it I?” From my point of reference, the Twelve are nearly perfect, now and then. My first thought was, why would they ask that? Surely they would know if they were involved in a plot to betray. Then when I put myself in their place and asked myself if I am capable of that sin or any other, I realized their humility in asking, “Is it I?”  I have used this question numerous times when I am in a situation where I am defending my behavior. If I simply ask myself, how I contributed to the situation, I have not yet had a time where I could have been more patient, more helpful, more sincere, etc and the negative situation may have been improved or eliminated. From this ongoing inner cleansing I am learning to be more Christ like. I believe I must improve myself first and most.

3.       A. Valiant for courage

B. Strong and active

C. True in all things

D. Sober

E. They were taught the commandments and kept them

F. Had faith in God

G. Did not fear death

H. Upheld liberty

I. Honored their mothers

J. Obeyed with exactness

K. Firm and undaunted

L. Protected by God as they fought with strength

M. Trusted in God

O. Prayerful and received answers to prayers

P. Remembered God from day to day and to keep His statutes continually

Q. Had faith in prophecy

R. Preserved them after receiving many wounds

The youth of today must be valiant just as the stripling warriors were. They must learn the commandments and follow them. They must follow the ways of the world in their standards. They must avoid pornography and addictive substances of all kinds. Those that set a goal to serve a mission and begin preparation at an early age will receive spiritual blessings.