Trust is the ransom of the heart.
The note’s demands sought, gathered by time,
Are enormous and firm.
It is the price by which friendship is bought.
This cost is a piece of the soul.
That part of self named, to another once given,
Misplaced or not,
Can be rejected but never reclaimed.
Take care where the soul is spent.
Whether lost or acquired, there are few greater costs.
Next to life and love,
Few gifts are thought higher.
Trust stretches the capacity to be.
It makes love stronger, and the strength of will deeper.
When it is shared,
The depth of one’s hope lasts longer.
Faith is required to give trust away.
With confidence sure in rewards not yet gained,
Despite risk of loss,
Trust is the power of more.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Obstacles, Eclipses, Glasses, and Trust
Some of the obstacles were easier to negotiate than others. With help, most had been pretty doable. The last one however, I had to manage alone or not at all. I had to conquer my fear.
The tower for the zip line at the end of the COPE course was only 25 feet tall. I say “only” because 25 feet didn’t seem like so much from the safe position of the ground. I started to change my mind about that once I had climbed a third of the way up the precarious tower. The previous obstacles had required the help of friends to get through. I was alone on this one. As I climbed the next 10 feet with very little to hold on to, I started to question my sanity. Making it to the top wasn’t easy, but I did it. Overcoming my fear of heights was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. (Mind you, this was before I hiked Angels Landing in Zion National Park.) I was scared. I was worried about being scarred. And that moment seemed very, very hard.
It was the last step that made all the difference, much like when you lose something important and you find exactly what you are looking for in the last place you think to look. This expression always sounds a bit odd because you have to find what you are searching for in the last place, or it wouldn’t be the last place. Yet to the one searching, it doesn’t diminish how challenging it was to get there. It doesn’t decrease the anxiety of the moment just before you find your solution. Success seems just out of reach until, suddenly, there it is, right in your hand. How is it that the obvious can be so astonishing sometimes?
I stood at the edge of a small platform looking down at the ground below. I felt far away from the earth and there was very little that kept me there. I had two choices before me – turn around and climb back down, or jump. In my hand I held a slack strap that was attached to a pulley on a zip line. I had positioned the strap around the seat of my pants. The strap was not large, but seemed sufficient to hold me. The problem was that everything was tight except the distance between me and the zip line. There was way to much give in the rope. I would pull and there was no resistance. There was no assurance for me that the zip line would actually keep me from falling because I couldn’t test it out, not until I jumped. It was an illusion. There was so much slack, and not enough support, that I might just be jumping to the ground without any protection at all.
Grappling with my reasons to go back, I felt silly. I knew others had done this without any problem. I had watched them. The memory seemed more distant than did the ground because it was my turn, not theirs, to put everything on the line. I had to risk my own fear and trust in my support system to carry me. I debated. I stood, I looked, then I jumped.
For a few brief seconds I experienced free fall. There was still no resistance to my gravity as I fell toward the ground. Then I caught. It wasn’t more than a foot or two when the strap between me and the pulley went taught and I began to move forward and not just down. As I picked up speed, I had a new exhilarating feeling of movement. The air blew against my face and I was carried safely down the length of the line away from the tower.
The resistance of the strap really changed my attitude. I felt safe. Though I was moving downward, there was enough force pulling me upward that my drop was a gradual descent. My support took me to a new place, one that rewarded my trust. Everything depended on my slack strap and the connection with the zip line.
Looking back at the experience, there were two factors that seemed to complicate things for me. Like I could have predicted, the whole ordeal wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Still, getting there was a different matter. I realized afterward that I was afraid of what I could see, and I was afraid of what I didn’t know. Sometimes the evidence right in front of us obscures our vision of more important things. Other times we can’t see clearly what is happening. Both factors tend to promote fear. In this situation, I felt out of control, and that can make life seem harder than it really is.
As a kid, I remember one occasion in elementary school when we scheduled a solar eclipse. I thought it was a rather convenient position for the moon to be in for an astronomy lesson. The moon supposedly was going to block the sun for us so we went outside to watch. I was a little disappointed. I scarcely noticed a change in daylight and it didn’t seem like the moon blocked very much.
I remember my teacher clearly telling us not to look at the sun because its brightness would damage our eyes. She said we could look at the sun as long as we used some special glasses for that purpose. I remember looking through the protective film that would block the harmful rays and I noticed that it was very dark. That seemed odd at first until I held the film up to the sun and found that I could still see its brightness.
The apostle Paul described this phenomenon similarly. There are some things that we can see and some things that we cannot, but at a future place in time, the faithful will have a perfect knowledge. Regarding this he said, “But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. … For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (1 Corinthians 13:10, 12) Paul was referring to a different Son, with even greater brightness than the sun that gives us light.
I don’t know that Paul was necessarily telling us to look through dark glass to see better. Rather he described our vision of things as they really are. A dark lens may eclipse our view of things right in front of us because we do not have enough light to see by. That same lens may also allow us to see things that we might not otherwise realize. It really depends on what you are looking for, and how you look at it.
As a condition of this mortal life, each of us has a protective film or veil that is placed over our minds. It may seem a bit unfair because it eclipses our memory of our lives before we came to this earth. This veil also blurs our understanding from time to time and causes us to feel as though we were in a cloudbank or a dense fog. Our lack of vision in this condition could be termed a different type of eclipse where our vision is obstructed almost completely. However, when we turn to the Son, we begin to make sense of things that we may not understand otherwise.
Whether our vision is obstructed so we cannot see, or that we see so clearly the things in front of us that they become obstacles for our faith, vision problems are a common part of life. It is this reason that the Lord tells us where to look for guidance. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7) Too often our own understanding will blind us, not because it is too bright, but because it will eclipse the light of the Son.
The prophet Isaiah described what will happen for those who prefer their light to the Lord Jesus Christ’s. “Behold all ye that kindle fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks, walk in the light of your fire and in the sparks which ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand—ye shall lie down in sorrow.” (2 Nephi 7:11) “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Nephi cautions us against eclipsing the light of Christ, or at least attempting to do so. Speaking of the Lord, he says, “He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion. Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity, which charity is love. And except they should have charity they were nothing.” (2 Nephi 26:29-30) There is a big difference between sustaining the priesthood and upholding priestcrafts, and it all comes down to intent. We may not be able to block the light of the Son any more than the moon in a lunar eclipse, but an attempt to focus someone’s attention on us instead of the Son can be very damaging to them. This may cause us, and the one who is deceived to both “lie down in sorrow.”
Like the example with the zip line, I may find circumstances in life to be very fearful. If I am standing on a small landing or platform with no apparent place to go without jumping or retreating, it is best to check my connection with the zip line. If that connection represents my connection with God, an upward force that will keep me safe, I had better make sure that connection is good before I do any jumping. If I can ascertain in advance that the connection is strong, regardless of how scary things may be around me, then I can trust that I will be okay. I can trust Him because his connections never fail. God always keeps His promises and fulfills his oaths. If I am willing to jump when that connection is strong, I may free fall for a brief moment, but I know He will carry me to a much better place.
One of my favorite examples of trust recorded in the Book of Mormon is with the prophet Nephi in the Book of Helaman. This example is significant to me, not only because it describes the faithfulness of God and the blessings that come when we trust in Him fully, it also describes the blessings that can be ours once God can trust us in return. It is his connection with God that I admire. I hope to someday earn His complete trust by following His ways and adopting His thoughts.
After Nephi had been accused by the people and the judges of being a false prophet, and after refuting their claims by proving that their chief judge had been murdered by his brother on the judgment seat, Nephi attempted to return home for some rest. However, the Lord had other plans for Nephi. The voice of the Lord came to him and said, “Blessed art thou, Nephi, for those things which thou hast done; for I have beheld how thou hast with unwearyingness declared the word, which I have given unto thee, unto this people. And thou hast not feared them, and hast not sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments. And now, because thou hast done this with such unwearyingness, behold, I will bless thee forever; and I will make thee mighty in word and in deed, in faith and in works; yea, even that all things shall be done unto thee according to thy word, for thou shalt not ask that which is contrary to my will.”
The Lord trusted Nephi because he put the will of God before his own. He was willing to keep his commandments without fear of losing anything. And because he would not ask for anything that was contrary to the commandments, God could trust him completely.
For me, the prophet Nephi became a very powerful example in my life. Had he chosen to follow selfish desires, he would have attempted to eclipse the light of the Savior. He would have become an obstacle rather than a help. Because he chose to follow God with exactness, God chose him as His prophet and seer, and Nephi became the lens by which we can learn the will of God. It is through His prophets that God speaks His will to us. It is through His prophets that we can see clearly through the veil of unbelief. His servants the prophets will help us to see beyond the obstacles of our faith. Most importantly, they will help us to make sure our connection with God is strong and secure.
I am grateful that God continues to lead His children by living prophets. I am grateful for that connection to God that enables me to do the right thing, even when it may be frightening. I know God will carry us to a better place when we are willing to yield to the subtle and quiet promptings of the Holy Ghost. He will help us overcome any obstacle when we do not eclipse Him with our own desires and interests, but instead do our best to see clearly with the glasses He has provided. The glasses may seem dark, and the veil may seem impenetrable, but I trust that this is not the case. It is merely an illusion to test my faith. I know God is as close as we allow Him to be, and He is ready to carry us home.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
The tower for the zip line at the end of the COPE course was only 25 feet tall. I say “only” because 25 feet didn’t seem like so much from the safe position of the ground. I started to change my mind about that once I had climbed a third of the way up the precarious tower. The previous obstacles had required the help of friends to get through. I was alone on this one. As I climbed the next 10 feet with very little to hold on to, I started to question my sanity. Making it to the top wasn’t easy, but I did it. Overcoming my fear of heights was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. (Mind you, this was before I hiked Angels Landing in Zion National Park.) I was scared. I was worried about being scarred. And that moment seemed very, very hard.
It was the last step that made all the difference, much like when you lose something important and you find exactly what you are looking for in the last place you think to look. This expression always sounds a bit odd because you have to find what you are searching for in the last place, or it wouldn’t be the last place. Yet to the one searching, it doesn’t diminish how challenging it was to get there. It doesn’t decrease the anxiety of the moment just before you find your solution. Success seems just out of reach until, suddenly, there it is, right in your hand. How is it that the obvious can be so astonishing sometimes?
I stood at the edge of a small platform looking down at the ground below. I felt far away from the earth and there was very little that kept me there. I had two choices before me – turn around and climb back down, or jump. In my hand I held a slack strap that was attached to a pulley on a zip line. I had positioned the strap around the seat of my pants. The strap was not large, but seemed sufficient to hold me. The problem was that everything was tight except the distance between me and the zip line. There was way to much give in the rope. I would pull and there was no resistance. There was no assurance for me that the zip line would actually keep me from falling because I couldn’t test it out, not until I jumped. It was an illusion. There was so much slack, and not enough support, that I might just be jumping to the ground without any protection at all.
Grappling with my reasons to go back, I felt silly. I knew others had done this without any problem. I had watched them. The memory seemed more distant than did the ground because it was my turn, not theirs, to put everything on the line. I had to risk my own fear and trust in my support system to carry me. I debated. I stood, I looked, then I jumped.
For a few brief seconds I experienced free fall. There was still no resistance to my gravity as I fell toward the ground. Then I caught. It wasn’t more than a foot or two when the strap between me and the pulley went taught and I began to move forward and not just down. As I picked up speed, I had a new exhilarating feeling of movement. The air blew against my face and I was carried safely down the length of the line away from the tower.
The resistance of the strap really changed my attitude. I felt safe. Though I was moving downward, there was enough force pulling me upward that my drop was a gradual descent. My support took me to a new place, one that rewarded my trust. Everything depended on my slack strap and the connection with the zip line.
Looking back at the experience, there were two factors that seemed to complicate things for me. Like I could have predicted, the whole ordeal wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Still, getting there was a different matter. I realized afterward that I was afraid of what I could see, and I was afraid of what I didn’t know. Sometimes the evidence right in front of us obscures our vision of more important things. Other times we can’t see clearly what is happening. Both factors tend to promote fear. In this situation, I felt out of control, and that can make life seem harder than it really is.
As a kid, I remember one occasion in elementary school when we scheduled a solar eclipse. I thought it was a rather convenient position for the moon to be in for an astronomy lesson. The moon supposedly was going to block the sun for us so we went outside to watch. I was a little disappointed. I scarcely noticed a change in daylight and it didn’t seem like the moon blocked very much.
I remember my teacher clearly telling us not to look at the sun because its brightness would damage our eyes. She said we could look at the sun as long as we used some special glasses for that purpose. I remember looking through the protective film that would block the harmful rays and I noticed that it was very dark. That seemed odd at first until I held the film up to the sun and found that I could still see its brightness.
The apostle Paul described this phenomenon similarly. There are some things that we can see and some things that we cannot, but at a future place in time, the faithful will have a perfect knowledge. Regarding this he said, “But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. … For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (1 Corinthians 13:10, 12) Paul was referring to a different Son, with even greater brightness than the sun that gives us light.
I don’t know that Paul was necessarily telling us to look through dark glass to see better. Rather he described our vision of things as they really are. A dark lens may eclipse our view of things right in front of us because we do not have enough light to see by. That same lens may also allow us to see things that we might not otherwise realize. It really depends on what you are looking for, and how you look at it.
As a condition of this mortal life, each of us has a protective film or veil that is placed over our minds. It may seem a bit unfair because it eclipses our memory of our lives before we came to this earth. This veil also blurs our understanding from time to time and causes us to feel as though we were in a cloudbank or a dense fog. Our lack of vision in this condition could be termed a different type of eclipse where our vision is obstructed almost completely. However, when we turn to the Son, we begin to make sense of things that we may not understand otherwise.
Whether our vision is obstructed so we cannot see, or that we see so clearly the things in front of us that they become obstacles for our faith, vision problems are a common part of life. It is this reason that the Lord tells us where to look for guidance. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7) Too often our own understanding will blind us, not because it is too bright, but because it will eclipse the light of the Son.
The prophet Isaiah described what will happen for those who prefer their light to the Lord Jesus Christ’s. “Behold all ye that kindle fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks, walk in the light of your fire and in the sparks which ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand—ye shall lie down in sorrow.” (2 Nephi 7:11) “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Nephi cautions us against eclipsing the light of Christ, or at least attempting to do so. Speaking of the Lord, he says, “He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion. Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity, which charity is love. And except they should have charity they were nothing.” (2 Nephi 26:29-30) There is a big difference between sustaining the priesthood and upholding priestcrafts, and it all comes down to intent. We may not be able to block the light of the Son any more than the moon in a lunar eclipse, but an attempt to focus someone’s attention on us instead of the Son can be very damaging to them. This may cause us, and the one who is deceived to both “lie down in sorrow.”
Like the example with the zip line, I may find circumstances in life to be very fearful. If I am standing on a small landing or platform with no apparent place to go without jumping or retreating, it is best to check my connection with the zip line. If that connection represents my connection with God, an upward force that will keep me safe, I had better make sure that connection is good before I do any jumping. If I can ascertain in advance that the connection is strong, regardless of how scary things may be around me, then I can trust that I will be okay. I can trust Him because his connections never fail. God always keeps His promises and fulfills his oaths. If I am willing to jump when that connection is strong, I may free fall for a brief moment, but I know He will carry me to a much better place.
One of my favorite examples of trust recorded in the Book of Mormon is with the prophet Nephi in the Book of Helaman. This example is significant to me, not only because it describes the faithfulness of God and the blessings that come when we trust in Him fully, it also describes the blessings that can be ours once God can trust us in return. It is his connection with God that I admire. I hope to someday earn His complete trust by following His ways and adopting His thoughts.
After Nephi had been accused by the people and the judges of being a false prophet, and after refuting their claims by proving that their chief judge had been murdered by his brother on the judgment seat, Nephi attempted to return home for some rest. However, the Lord had other plans for Nephi. The voice of the Lord came to him and said, “Blessed art thou, Nephi, for those things which thou hast done; for I have beheld how thou hast with unwearyingness declared the word, which I have given unto thee, unto this people. And thou hast not feared them, and hast not sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments. And now, because thou hast done this with such unwearyingness, behold, I will bless thee forever; and I will make thee mighty in word and in deed, in faith and in works; yea, even that all things shall be done unto thee according to thy word, for thou shalt not ask that which is contrary to my will.”
The Lord trusted Nephi because he put the will of God before his own. He was willing to keep his commandments without fear of losing anything. And because he would not ask for anything that was contrary to the commandments, God could trust him completely.
For me, the prophet Nephi became a very powerful example in my life. Had he chosen to follow selfish desires, he would have attempted to eclipse the light of the Savior. He would have become an obstacle rather than a help. Because he chose to follow God with exactness, God chose him as His prophet and seer, and Nephi became the lens by which we can learn the will of God. It is through His prophets that God speaks His will to us. It is through His prophets that we can see clearly through the veil of unbelief. His servants the prophets will help us to see beyond the obstacles of our faith. Most importantly, they will help us to make sure our connection with God is strong and secure.
I am grateful that God continues to lead His children by living prophets. I am grateful for that connection to God that enables me to do the right thing, even when it may be frightening. I know God will carry us to a better place when we are willing to yield to the subtle and quiet promptings of the Holy Ghost. He will help us overcome any obstacle when we do not eclipse Him with our own desires and interests, but instead do our best to see clearly with the glasses He has provided. The glasses may seem dark, and the veil may seem impenetrable, but I trust that this is not the case. It is merely an illusion to test my faith. I know God is as close as we allow Him to be, and He is ready to carry us home.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Reasons to Love
"The trouble with the world and the trouble with you and me is that we don't love each other enough. And if we do, we don't bother to show it, or we don't bother to say it. If the world is to know love, it has to be in your heart and in mine. And the Lord can fill our hearts with love if we will just go to Him."
- Marjorie Pay Hinckley (1911-2004)
I love this quote by Marjorie Pay Hinckley. Just before she passed away at the age of 92 nearly six years ago, Sister Hinckley was still a very attractive woman. She attracted the hearts of many because of the way she radiated love. She had a presence of strength, resolve, and happiness that are worthy of emulation. Sister Hinckley understood the power of love and how it can bless the lives of many, including those she did not know.
Today my heart is full of more feelings than thoughts. If I can take advantage of Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to reflect on the gift of love, perhaps you will be able to appreciate a small portion of what I am feeling.
****
How many slams in an old screen door?
Depends how loud you shut it.
How many slices in a bread?
Depends how thin you cut it.
How much good inside a day?
Depends how good you live 'em.
How much love inside a friend?
Depends how much you give 'em.
- Shel Silverstein (1930-1999)
There is a certain selfish part of me that is prone to wait for love before giving any away. In the hope that I may discover how much I mean to someone else, I wait for them to demonstrate their love first. Oh, how often understanding is blinded by fear. Regarding the adage that love begets love, I have learned that when I am quick to give love I don’t have to wait long for it to return in abundance. Shel Silverstein reminds me that a friend has so much more to give me when I refuse to wait.
****
“Love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired.”
- Robert Frost (1874-1963)
Love may be realized in a variety of ways. This power may exist romantically between two individuals. It may also be equally sought for by a parent or child of the other. The desire for friendship outside of a family relationship is also very compelling. But perhaps the greatest need that we may have is to feel the love of God. While hearts may be broken by others, the Lord promises us comfort. “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” (Proverbs 8:17)
“Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find….” (Doctrine & Covenants 88:63)
****
Themes
The strong desire for love is one
that few do not possess.
While often felt, the common theme
is not regarded less.
Without this love, a single heart
feels vacant and alone.
A heart that yearns may fast be stopped
when one holds back their own.
But when one feels and fills a need
for love the heart desires,
that man or woman then can fuel
a thousand glowing fires.
****
There is a great difference between love unfeigned and desire unrestrained. The prophet Alma said to his son, Shiblon, “see that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love….” (Alma 38:12) This would suggest that love is much more than desire. It is exhibited by control and restraint. The absence of such control reflects a shadow of love only, one that is not complete or perfect.
****
“And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail – But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.” (Moroni 7:45-47)
****
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:34-35)
I will be eternally grateful for the sacrifice that Jesus made for me. I know He lives. I know the things He taught are true, and I will continue to follow the path that He provided that I may be worthy to return to His presence and that of the Father. I hope to change my life so that I may love as He loved, and live as He lived.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
- Marjorie Pay Hinckley (1911-2004)
I love this quote by Marjorie Pay Hinckley. Just before she passed away at the age of 92 nearly six years ago, Sister Hinckley was still a very attractive woman. She attracted the hearts of many because of the way she radiated love. She had a presence of strength, resolve, and happiness that are worthy of emulation. Sister Hinckley understood the power of love and how it can bless the lives of many, including those she did not know.
Today my heart is full of more feelings than thoughts. If I can take advantage of Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to reflect on the gift of love, perhaps you will be able to appreciate a small portion of what I am feeling.
****
How many slams in an old screen door?
Depends how loud you shut it.
How many slices in a bread?
Depends how thin you cut it.
How much good inside a day?
Depends how good you live 'em.
How much love inside a friend?
Depends how much you give 'em.
- Shel Silverstein (1930-1999)
There is a certain selfish part of me that is prone to wait for love before giving any away. In the hope that I may discover how much I mean to someone else, I wait for them to demonstrate their love first. Oh, how often understanding is blinded by fear. Regarding the adage that love begets love, I have learned that when I am quick to give love I don’t have to wait long for it to return in abundance. Shel Silverstein reminds me that a friend has so much more to give me when I refuse to wait.
****
“Love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired.”
- Robert Frost (1874-1963)
Love may be realized in a variety of ways. This power may exist romantically between two individuals. It may also be equally sought for by a parent or child of the other. The desire for friendship outside of a family relationship is also very compelling. But perhaps the greatest need that we may have is to feel the love of God. While hearts may be broken by others, the Lord promises us comfort. “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” (Proverbs 8:17)
“Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find….” (Doctrine & Covenants 88:63)
****
Themes
The strong desire for love is one
that few do not possess.
While often felt, the common theme
is not regarded less.
Without this love, a single heart
feels vacant and alone.
A heart that yearns may fast be stopped
when one holds back their own.
But when one feels and fills a need
for love the heart desires,
that man or woman then can fuel
a thousand glowing fires.
****
There is a great difference between love unfeigned and desire unrestrained. The prophet Alma said to his son, Shiblon, “see that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love….” (Alma 38:12) This would suggest that love is much more than desire. It is exhibited by control and restraint. The absence of such control reflects a shadow of love only, one that is not complete or perfect.
****
“And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail – But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.” (Moroni 7:45-47)
****
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:34-35)
I will be eternally grateful for the sacrifice that Jesus made for me. I know He lives. I know the things He taught are true, and I will continue to follow the path that He provided that I may be worthy to return to His presence and that of the Father. I hope to change my life so that I may love as He loved, and live as He lived.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Wonderful Equations
I have some fond memories of practicing my times tables in elementary school. I don’t know that math was my favorite subject (it always took a back seat to art), but the work came fairly easy to me. I remember taking timed quizzes with a sheet of paper, a clear transparency piece of plastic, and a felt tip pen. I thought the pens were cool. The sheet of paper had a large set of small equations. The transparency was placed over the paper to write the answers that could easily be cleaned with a small tissue. Then we could take the same quiz over and over until we had mastered the problems.
The initial concept of multiplication was difficult only when it was new. From there the math got better and better. The more I learned, the more it became easier and more powerful. Understanding banished fear and replaced it with confidence. I was no longer reciting trivial information for a quiz. My new understanding allowed me to use mathematics to figure out solutions.
Following multiplication I learned division, fractions, decimals, and percentages. I advanced to algebra and found that I enjoyed the more complex math problems with variables. It was fun to see that there was more than one way to solve a problem and still arrive at the same solution. I learned that equations were constant and didn’t change. If they did change, it was usually me that was wrong, not the problem. An equation, simply put, is the combination of some number of things that equals or equates to something else. If the comparison between two things is not equal, it is not an equation. Such a comparison is said to be false, or not true.
Not quite as true to my studies as I should have been, I remember one occasion in intermediate school where I got into trouble. The concepts we had been studying in algebra were very clear to me and I felt like I could move a little faster. So I spent my time in class pushing ahead with upcoming assignments (yet another example of my preference for speed.) Things were going well until I got to a concept that I didn’t understand. I went to my teacher and explained my confusion. Perhaps I shouldn’t have been, but I was a little surprised by his reaction.
“I don’t want to teach this twice,” he said. “You will have to wait until the class catches up if you want me to explain this.” He may have been hurt that I wasn’t paying attention to his lessons, and rightfully so. Being a bit deflated, I took his suggestion to heart and decided to wait. In the meantime, I pulled out my deference to art and began to draw pictures during algebra. The problem came when the class did catch up and I no longer had any interest in redirecting my attention. After all, I was having a great time. Why spoil things? You can imagine that the lack of work, and interest, in the second half of the quarter didn’t do anything to help my grades. In fact I almost didn’t pass. I think it was the worst grade I ever had.
Another poor grade came in college while taking calculus. By that time, I had mastered algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Unfortunately there were a different set of odds against me. I had just gotten engaged to my lovely bride; it was April and I had spring fever; my class was first thing in the morning and wasn’t very appealing; and lastly, I had a teacher that I didn’t relate to very well.
My calculus teacher was actually a TA, or a teacher’s assistant. I’m sure he knew his stuff very well, but I had a hard time receiving the baton in the relay of information. Class usually consisted of him writing extremely long equations, one after another, on a chalk board for us to copy. Once in a while he would turn partially toward the class and ask, “Any questions?” When there were no questions, he would resume his notation on the board. Those were not wonderful equations for me. Somehow I got through it and look back at that time with a different fondness, just not for the equations or the class.
Since that time, I have discovered some wonderful equations that are worth noting. Different from most equations, they don’t make a lot of sense mathematically. Yet they have been very important discoveries in my life, and they do equate quite well. Take a look.
Equation 1: 1 x 1 = 7
Equation 2: 1 + 1 = 1000
Equation 3: 2 = 1
Equation 4: 1 + 1 + 1 = 1
At this point, you are probably wondering just how much I learned about math in school, and who passed my grades. Granted, I have taken some liberties here. The equations might actually be written differently if you are orthodox in writing mathematical expressions. But these equations help me state my point clear enough.
Equation 1 represents my family. My wife and I were married and decided to have children. We started with the addition equation of 1 + 1 = 2 and traded it for multiplication. We ended up with five more. You could also argue that 1 + 1 + 5 = 7, but that is too straightforward. Five couldn’t have happened without 1 x 1, which in this case does not equal 1. This particular equation has been one of the most significant of my life. I love my wife dearly, and we love our children. I often say, “My family is my profession, and my occupation just supports it.” I profess this equation wholeheartedly. It has brought me so much happiness, and keeps multiplying. If I were to substitute words for numbers, I could also say that family times love equates to happiness. I’ll let you be the judge for your own family equation.
Equation 2 represents friendship. Consider what happens when two people who think alike combine similar ideas. The result can be a thousand new ideas that are a thousand times stronger than the ideas of one person alone. I am starting to see a new equation that involves exponents, but I’ll let you use your own creativity to write that one. When ideas, feelings, and experiences are shared between friends, each one makes a connection. Each connection makes a friendship exponentially stronger. That is the power of exponents and friends.
Equation 3 represents revelation. It takes two things to receive one confirmation of truth, a pure heart and a clear mind. Thus 2 = 1, or 1 + 1 = 1. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith, “Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation….” (Doctrine & Covenants 8:2-3) Receiving inspiration in only one place does not follow the equation. If the equation changes, it is usually me that is wrong. I am grateful for inspired checks and balances.
Another example of this equation is marriage – two people who become one in many, many ways. Consider the instruction that followed the Biblical creation of the world. “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) When a husband and wife become one, not only physically, but mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and in every way possible, they become a very strong “one.” The stronger the relationship, the greater potential there is for happiness.
Equation 3 can also be used to describe the people of Zion. “And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them.” (Moses 7:18) When our hearts and minds – the instruments for revelation – are one with God, we find true unity. Few things can compare in beauty as a soul that is one with God.
The final equation, number 4, is the most significant of those I have listed. It is a variation on Equation 3, but it is more complete. For me it represents perfect unity between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
While they are one God, each has a different role. God, our Father, is the almighty being whom we worship. He grants us blessings and answers our prayers as we pray in faith in the name of His Son. Through Jesus Christ, the Father created all things. He created us in His image.
Jesus Christ was born on this earth to take upon Him our transgressions and redeem us from both sin and death. As we exercise faith in Him, His teachings, and His sacrifice, it is possible for us to return to the presence of the Father. Because Jesus paid the price for our sins, He is also our advocate with the Father.
The apostle John recorded the teachings of Jesus regarding His role and the role of the Father. It is because of their unity that we can have perfect faith in Jesus. He said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.” (John 5:19)
“Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.” (John 8:28-29)
“I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.” (John 5:30)
“And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6:40)
Jesus demonstrated perfect unity with the Father by submitting His will to
Him. Jesus did only that which He was taught, and He did so for His Father’s Glory. In so doing, Jesus became the Father. He was given the power and authority of the Father, and His atonement allowed us a resurrection and rebirth spiritually. By subjecting His will to the Father, Jesus became one with Him. Before making His eternal sacrifice, Jesus prayed to the Father that all this might be done so that we might also become one with Him.
To make this possible, Jesus taught that He and the Father would send us the Holy Ghost to teach us. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:26)
“But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me….” (John 15:26)
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” (John 16:13-14)
Because the Holy Ghost, like the Son, does nothing but the will of the Father and the Son, we can trust Him completely. He will guide us and show us the way. As we submit to His promptings, the Holy Ghost will teach us how to submit our will to the Son, thus submitting our will to the Father. This is the only way for us to return to God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, which is one eternal God.
Here then is the beauty of a new equation. 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 1. When we are willing to yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and become a saint through the atonement of Christ, we become one with God. Then, each time we successfully reach out to others and encourage them to believe in God, have faith and repent, and then submit their will to God, we add another 1 to the left side of the equation. It is the will of God that all of His children be one.
Just as my math took a back seat to my interest in art – or the things I valued more – so should we put our own interests on the back seat in deference to the things of God. There is no other way for us to become one unless we are willing to do what Jesus did. The initial concept may be difficult when it is new, but as we practice we will have greater confidence in our ability to follow God. Fear will be replaced with understanding. Practicing the same quiz over and over will help us to master the problem.
There are some mathematical equations that always make sense on paper. They look right and they are logical. Other equations may not make sense during a time of trial or temptation, but they are still real. If we trust in these wonderful equations – particularly those that are designed to make us one with God – then our efforts to do so will equate to lasting happiness. God will not let us down, and He will not lead us astray. He is always willing to help us with our math if we let Him.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
The initial concept of multiplication was difficult only when it was new. From there the math got better and better. The more I learned, the more it became easier and more powerful. Understanding banished fear and replaced it with confidence. I was no longer reciting trivial information for a quiz. My new understanding allowed me to use mathematics to figure out solutions.
Following multiplication I learned division, fractions, decimals, and percentages. I advanced to algebra and found that I enjoyed the more complex math problems with variables. It was fun to see that there was more than one way to solve a problem and still arrive at the same solution. I learned that equations were constant and didn’t change. If they did change, it was usually me that was wrong, not the problem. An equation, simply put, is the combination of some number of things that equals or equates to something else. If the comparison between two things is not equal, it is not an equation. Such a comparison is said to be false, or not true.
Not quite as true to my studies as I should have been, I remember one occasion in intermediate school where I got into trouble. The concepts we had been studying in algebra were very clear to me and I felt like I could move a little faster. So I spent my time in class pushing ahead with upcoming assignments (yet another example of my preference for speed.) Things were going well until I got to a concept that I didn’t understand. I went to my teacher and explained my confusion. Perhaps I shouldn’t have been, but I was a little surprised by his reaction.
“I don’t want to teach this twice,” he said. “You will have to wait until the class catches up if you want me to explain this.” He may have been hurt that I wasn’t paying attention to his lessons, and rightfully so. Being a bit deflated, I took his suggestion to heart and decided to wait. In the meantime, I pulled out my deference to art and began to draw pictures during algebra. The problem came when the class did catch up and I no longer had any interest in redirecting my attention. After all, I was having a great time. Why spoil things? You can imagine that the lack of work, and interest, in the second half of the quarter didn’t do anything to help my grades. In fact I almost didn’t pass. I think it was the worst grade I ever had.
Another poor grade came in college while taking calculus. By that time, I had mastered algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Unfortunately there were a different set of odds against me. I had just gotten engaged to my lovely bride; it was April and I had spring fever; my class was first thing in the morning and wasn’t very appealing; and lastly, I had a teacher that I didn’t relate to very well.
My calculus teacher was actually a TA, or a teacher’s assistant. I’m sure he knew his stuff very well, but I had a hard time receiving the baton in the relay of information. Class usually consisted of him writing extremely long equations, one after another, on a chalk board for us to copy. Once in a while he would turn partially toward the class and ask, “Any questions?” When there were no questions, he would resume his notation on the board. Those were not wonderful equations for me. Somehow I got through it and look back at that time with a different fondness, just not for the equations or the class.
Since that time, I have discovered some wonderful equations that are worth noting. Different from most equations, they don’t make a lot of sense mathematically. Yet they have been very important discoveries in my life, and they do equate quite well. Take a look.
Equation 1: 1 x 1 = 7
Equation 2: 1 + 1 = 1000
Equation 3: 2 = 1
Equation 4: 1 + 1 + 1 = 1
At this point, you are probably wondering just how much I learned about math in school, and who passed my grades. Granted, I have taken some liberties here. The equations might actually be written differently if you are orthodox in writing mathematical expressions. But these equations help me state my point clear enough.
Equation 1 represents my family. My wife and I were married and decided to have children. We started with the addition equation of 1 + 1 = 2 and traded it for multiplication. We ended up with five more. You could also argue that 1 + 1 + 5 = 7, but that is too straightforward. Five couldn’t have happened without 1 x 1, which in this case does not equal 1. This particular equation has been one of the most significant of my life. I love my wife dearly, and we love our children. I often say, “My family is my profession, and my occupation just supports it.” I profess this equation wholeheartedly. It has brought me so much happiness, and keeps multiplying. If I were to substitute words for numbers, I could also say that family times love equates to happiness. I’ll let you be the judge for your own family equation.
Equation 2 represents friendship. Consider what happens when two people who think alike combine similar ideas. The result can be a thousand new ideas that are a thousand times stronger than the ideas of one person alone. I am starting to see a new equation that involves exponents, but I’ll let you use your own creativity to write that one. When ideas, feelings, and experiences are shared between friends, each one makes a connection. Each connection makes a friendship exponentially stronger. That is the power of exponents and friends.
Equation 3 represents revelation. It takes two things to receive one confirmation of truth, a pure heart and a clear mind. Thus 2 = 1, or 1 + 1 = 1. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith, “Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart. Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation….” (Doctrine & Covenants 8:2-3) Receiving inspiration in only one place does not follow the equation. If the equation changes, it is usually me that is wrong. I am grateful for inspired checks and balances.
Another example of this equation is marriage – two people who become one in many, many ways. Consider the instruction that followed the Biblical creation of the world. “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) When a husband and wife become one, not only physically, but mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and in every way possible, they become a very strong “one.” The stronger the relationship, the greater potential there is for happiness.
Equation 3 can also be used to describe the people of Zion. “And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them.” (Moses 7:18) When our hearts and minds – the instruments for revelation – are one with God, we find true unity. Few things can compare in beauty as a soul that is one with God.
The final equation, number 4, is the most significant of those I have listed. It is a variation on Equation 3, but it is more complete. For me it represents perfect unity between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
While they are one God, each has a different role. God, our Father, is the almighty being whom we worship. He grants us blessings and answers our prayers as we pray in faith in the name of His Son. Through Jesus Christ, the Father created all things. He created us in His image.
Jesus Christ was born on this earth to take upon Him our transgressions and redeem us from both sin and death. As we exercise faith in Him, His teachings, and His sacrifice, it is possible for us to return to the presence of the Father. Because Jesus paid the price for our sins, He is also our advocate with the Father.
The apostle John recorded the teachings of Jesus regarding His role and the role of the Father. It is because of their unity that we can have perfect faith in Jesus. He said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.” (John 5:19)
“Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.” (John 8:28-29)
“I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.” (John 5:30)
“And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6:40)
Jesus demonstrated perfect unity with the Father by submitting His will to
Him. Jesus did only that which He was taught, and He did so for His Father’s Glory. In so doing, Jesus became the Father. He was given the power and authority of the Father, and His atonement allowed us a resurrection and rebirth spiritually. By subjecting His will to the Father, Jesus became one with Him. Before making His eternal sacrifice, Jesus prayed to the Father that all this might be done so that we might also become one with Him.
To make this possible, Jesus taught that He and the Father would send us the Holy Ghost to teach us. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:26)
“But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me….” (John 15:26)
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” (John 16:13-14)
Because the Holy Ghost, like the Son, does nothing but the will of the Father and the Son, we can trust Him completely. He will guide us and show us the way. As we submit to His promptings, the Holy Ghost will teach us how to submit our will to the Son, thus submitting our will to the Father. This is the only way for us to return to God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, which is one eternal God.
Here then is the beauty of a new equation. 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 1. When we are willing to yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and become a saint through the atonement of Christ, we become one with God. Then, each time we successfully reach out to others and encourage them to believe in God, have faith and repent, and then submit their will to God, we add another 1 to the left side of the equation. It is the will of God that all of His children be one.
Just as my math took a back seat to my interest in art – or the things I valued more – so should we put our own interests on the back seat in deference to the things of God. There is no other way for us to become one unless we are willing to do what Jesus did. The initial concept may be difficult when it is new, but as we practice we will have greater confidence in our ability to follow God. Fear will be replaced with understanding. Practicing the same quiz over and over will help us to master the problem.
There are some mathematical equations that always make sense on paper. They look right and they are logical. Other equations may not make sense during a time of trial or temptation, but they are still real. If we trust in these wonderful equations – particularly those that are designed to make us one with God – then our efforts to do so will equate to lasting happiness. God will not let us down, and He will not lead us astray. He is always willing to help us with our math if we let Him.
http://saltypockets.blogspot.com/
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