THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • MARCH 2007

COVER STORY: Relief Society Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment around the World, p. 14

Faith and Families: An Apostle’s Counsel, p. 36 Hope and Rebuilding after the Hurricanes, p. 46 MAY NOT BE COPIED NOT MAY We Are the Clay in His Hands, by Julie Rogers “O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand” (Isaiah 64:8). MARCH 2007 Contents VOLUME 37 • NUMBER 3

Preparing 62 physically and mentally should begin at least two years before a full-time mission.

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • MARCH 2007

COVER STORY: Relief Society Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment around the World, p. 14

Faith and Families: An Apostle’s Counsel, p. 36 Hope and Rebuilding after the Hurricanes, p. 46 4 14 ON THE COVER MESSAGES FEATURE ARTICLES Benevolence: Through Love Serve One Another, by Avard FIRST PRESIDENCY Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment around Fairbanks. This bas-relief is found MESSAGE 14 the World CONNIE D. CANNON on the Relief Society Centennial The Gift of Compassion Relief Society sisters have caught the vision of what home, Campanile at the base of the PRESIDENT THOMAS S. family, and personal enrichment meeting can be: a place Nauvoo Bell on Temple Square. 4 MONSON where women of all ages can strengthen their faith in Jesus Let us open the door of our Christ, socialize, learn, and be uplifted. hearts that the Savior—the living example of true com- The Parable of the Tomato Plant passion—may enter. 20 CHERYL YOUNG I had little hope for the two-inch tomato sprout, but I under- VISITING TEACHING estimated its potential and worth. MESSAGE Listening to and Having Faith in God’s Timeline 57Following the 22 CATHERINE EDWARDS Promptings of the Spirit I had hoped to be married by now. I realize, though, that God’s timeline for the important events in my life differs from the timeline of many others. 30 46

Joshua’s Walls Storming Back 26 CINDY GRITTON 46 NORMAN C. HILL AND RICHARD M. ROMNEY The faint sliver of hope that our son’s progress was simply A year and a half after Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, delayed faded away. Now the word autism became part of Latter-day Saints in the Gulf Coast area of the United States how we understood Joshua. continue to face the future with faith.

Forgiving Oneself Questions and Answers 30 ELDER D. CHAD RICHARDSON 58 I have difficulty distinguishing between promptings While Satan uses our refusal to forgive ourselves as a means of the Spirit and my own personal feelings. How can I tell of enslaving us, the Savior beckons us forward with the the difference? promise that we can become free from the chains of sin. Missionary Health Preparation Hailstorm 62 DONALD B. DOTY 34 STEPHEN L. KNIGHT Careful physical and mental health preparation is essential With the storm just minutes away, we were totally helpless. for young adults who are preparing to serve missions. Ours was a desperate plea for Heavenly Father’s mercy and protection. DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL? Faith and Families The Ensign welcomes submissions that show the gospel of Jesus ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON 36 Christ at work in the lives of Latter-day Saints, especially articles Unshakable faith in the Lord enriches married life and with personal experiences and gospel insights. This month we invite love. Faith in Him increases one’s very capacity to love. you to describe how you make Easter a Christ-centered season. Limit submissions to 500 words, and label them “Easter. ” Send them by Coming into the Fold April 13 to [email protected] or Ensign Editorial, 50 E. North Temple Three members recount trials of faith and the Street, Room 2420, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3220, USA. Include your name, 42 address, telephone number, e-mail address, and ward and stake (or branch strengthening blessings of membership in the Church. and district). Writers’ guidelines: Visit the link in the lower-right corner of the Gospel Library page at www.lds.org. Due to the volume of submissions, we cannot acknowledge receipt. Authors whose work is selected for publication will be notified. If you would like your manuscript, photos, art, or other material returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

2 MARCH 2007 VOLUME 37 • NUMBER 3

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS The First Presidency: Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust Quorum of the Twelve: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, David A. Bednar Editor: Jay E. Jensen Advisers: Gary J. Coleman, Yoshihiko Kikuchi, Gerald N. Lund, W. Douglas Shumway Managing Director: David L. Frischknecht Editorial Director: Victor D. Cave Senior Editor: Larry Hiller Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg Managing Editor: Don L. Searle 22 54 Assistant Managing Editor: LaRene Porter Gaunt Senior Editors: Linda Stahle Cooper, Michael R. Morris, Judith M. Paller USING THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS Assistant Editor: Melissa Merrill Trusting the hand of the Lord. Editorial Staff: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, LESSONS FROM LATTER-DAY SAINT Monica L. Dickinson, Jenifer L. Greenwood, Think about an event in your life THE NEW TESTAMENT VOICES R. Val Johnson, Adam C. Olson that didn’t happen as you 68 Editorial Intern: Erin Marie Pitcher Jesus Christ, the A long-lost pen pal, decades Senior Secretary: Christy Banz thought it would—or when you Publications Assistant: Sally J. Odekirk 11Bread of Life of waiting, the universal thought it would. Read “Having ELDER WONG YONG KO language of the Spirit, and Marketing Manager: Larry Hiller Faith in God’s Timeline” (p. 22), Managing Art Director: M. M. Kawasaki The miracle of the loaves success despite skepticism. Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen and consider times you have and fishes is more than an Senior Designers: C. Kimball Bott, RANDOM Colleen Hinckley recognized the hand of the Lord ancient story. It teaches us Design and Production Staff: in your life. that through the Savior all 72 SAMPLER Cali R. Arroyo, Collette Nebeker Aune, Effective budgeting, kind Thomas S. Child, Eric P. Johnsen, Being self-reliant in can receive eternal life. Jane Ann Peters, Randall J. Pixton, words, teaching with music, Scott Van Kampen emergencies. After reading “My Burden Is Light” remembering ancestors, Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick “Storming Back” (p. 46), think 54 ELDER PAUL V. and gifts of the Spirit. Distribution Director: Randy J. Benson about emergencies you might JOHNSON © 2007 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.The Ensign (ISSN face. Go to the Food Storage Each of us faces challenging NEWS OF THE 0884-1136) is published monthly by The and Preparedness link on trials, but each of us also has 74 CHURCH Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, www.providentliving.org, and access to the Atonement to UT 84150-3220, USA. Periodicals Postage click on Emergency Preparation help us through the difficult Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah. GOSPEL TOPICS IN THIS ISSUE To subscribe: By phone, call 1-800-537- to learn how you might be more times and to bring peace 5971 to order using Visa, MasterCard, self-reliant in an emergency. and joy into our lives. Activation, 42 Hope, 20 Discover Card, or American Express. Adversity, 20, 34, Jesus Christ, 4, 11, Online, go to ldscatalog.com. By mail, 46, 54 30 send $10 U.S. check or money order to Preparing for missionary work. Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Agency, 22 Knowledge, 14 Lake City, UT 84126-0368. After reading “Missionary Health Atonement, 54 Love, 30 Preparation” (p. 62), discuss the To change address: Send both old and Book of Mormon, Marriage, 36 new address information to Distribution reasons that physical and mental 68 Missionary Work, Services at the above address. Please allow preparation for missionary service Communication, 72 62, 68 60 days for changes to take effect. Compassion, 4, 46 Music, 72 The Ensign can be found on the Internet at are just as vital as spiritual prepa- Conversion, 68 New Testament, 11 www.lds.org, under Gospel Library. ration. In family home evening, Disabilities, 26 Obedience, 57 Text and visual material in the Ensign may talk about ways your family might COMING IN APRIL Divine Worth, 20 Peace, 54 be copied for incidental, noncommercial Look for articles on: Faith, 4, 11, 22, 26, Prayer, 26, 34, 58 church or home use. Visual material may make these kinds of preparations. not be copied if restrictions are indicated 34, 36 Preparation, 46, 62, in the credit line with the artwork. Copyright • How feeling joy and feeling the Family, 36 72 questions should be addressed to Intellectual Family History, 72 Relief Society, 14 Property Office, 50 E. North Temple Street, Holy Ghost are interrelated. Family Home Repentance, 30 Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3011; e-mail: [email protected]. Evening, 72 Service, 4, 46 • One woman’s decision to place Forgiveness, 30 Single Adults, 22 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt motherhood before her career. Health, 62 Teaching, 72 Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Holy Ghost, 57, 58, Temptation, 36 Canada Post Information: Publication • The power of example. 68 Testimony, 42, 68 Agreement #40017431

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 3

FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

The Gift of Compassion

BY PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON stands, on a gentle rise of ground, a mature First Counselor in the First Presidency American elm tree—the only nearby tree to few years ago I had the opportunity survive the destruction. It is appropriately to preside at a regional conference and affectionately named “The Survivor Tree.” A in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. As I In regal splendor it honors those who sur- enjoyed the sweet spirit which prevailed dur- vived the horrific blast. ing the conference and the wonderful hospi- My host directed my attention to the tality of the people, I reflected upon how the inscription above the gate of the memorial: community’s spirit of compassionate help We come here to remember those who had been tested in the extreme on April 19, were killed, those who survived and 1995. On that day a terrorist-planted bomb “But a certain those changed forever. destroyed the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Samaritan . . . had May all who leave here know the impact Building in downtown Oklahoma City, taking compassion on him of violence. 168 persons to their deaths and injuring . . . and bound up May this memorial offer comfort, strength, countless others. his wounds . . . and peace, hope and serenity. Following the conference, I was driven brought him to an to the entrance of a beautiful and symbolic With tears in his eyes and with a faltering inn, and took care memorial which graces the area where the voice, my host declared, “This community of him.” Now, as Murrah building once stood. The day was and all the churches and citizens in it have then, Jesus would dreary and rainy, which tended to underscore been galvanized together. In our grief we say to us, “Go, and the pain and suffering that had occurred on have become strong. In our spirit we have do thou likewise.” this spot. The memorial features a 400-foot become united.” (122-m) reflecting pool. On one side of the We concluded that the best word to pool are 168 empty glass and granite chairs, describe what had taken place was compas- BY WALTER RANE, COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF CHURCH HISTORY AND ART; PHOTOGRAPH BY BUSATH PHOTOGRAPHY BUSATH BY PHOTOGRAPH AND ART; RANE, COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM CHURCH HISTORY WALTER BY in honor of each of the people killed. These sion. My thoughts turned to the musical play are placed, as far as can be determined, Camelot, written by Alan Jay Lerner and where the fallen bodies were found. based on a novel by T. H. White. King Arthur,

THE GOOD SAMARITAN, THE GOOD SAMARITAN, On the opposite side of the pool there in his dream of a better world where people

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 5 would share an ideal relationship one with another, said, his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving as he recalled the purpose of the Round Table, “Violence is him half dead. not strength, and compassion is not weakness.” “And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the Strength in Compassion other side. A stirring account which illustrates this “And likewise a Levite, when he was at statement is found in the Old Testament the place, came and looked on him, and of the Holy Bible. Joseph was espe- passed by on the other side. cially loved by his father, Jacob, which “But a certain Samaritan, as he occasioned bitterness and jealousy journeyed, came where he was: and on the part of his brothers. There fol- when he saw him, he had compassion lowed the plot to slay Joseph, which on him, eventually placed Joseph in a deep pit “And went to him, and bound up his without food or water to sustain life. wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set Joseph was extricated from the pit by a pass- him on his own beast, and brought him to ing caravan of merchants, sold for 20 pieces an inn, and took care of him. of silver, and placed eventually in the house Joseph could have “And on the morrow when he departed, of Potiphar in the land of Egypt. There the dealt harshly with his he took out two pence, and gave them to young man prospered, for “the Lord was brothers for the callous the host, and said unto him, Take care of with Joseph.”1 and cruel treatment he him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, After years of plenty in Egypt, there fol- had earlier received when I come again, I will repay thee.” lowed years of famine. In the midst of this lat- from them. However, he Well could the Savior say to us, “Which ter period, when the brothers of Joseph came was kind and gracious now of these three, thinkest thou, was neigh- to Egypt to buy corn, they were blessed by to them. bour unto him that fell among the thieves?” this favored man—even their own brother. No doubt our response would be, “He Joseph could have dealt harshly with his that shewed mercy on him.” brothers for the callous and cruel treatment Now, as then, Jesus would say to us, he had earlier received from them. However, he was kind “Go, and do thou likewise.”3

and gracious to them and won their favor and support with Jesus provided us many examples of compassionate con- BE COPIED NOT MAY CHURCH, ADVENTIST COURTESY OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ANDERSON, HARRY BY these words and actions: cern. The crippled man at the pool of Bethesda; the woman “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with your- taken in adultery; the woman at Jacob’s well; the daughter selves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before of Jairus; Lazarus, brother of Mary and Martha—each repre- you to preserve life. . . . sented a casualty on the Jericho road. Each needed help.

“And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity To the cripple at Bethesda, Jesus said, “Rise, take up thy IN ADULTERY, THE WOMAN TAKEN in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.”2 bed, and walk.”4 To the sinful woman came the counsel, Joseph exemplified the magnificent virtue of compassion. “Go, and sin no more.”5 To help her who came to draw During the meridian of time, when Jesus walked the dusty water, He provided a well of water “springing up into ever- BY MICHAEL T. MALM; MICHAEL T. BY pathways of the Holy Land, He often spoke in parables. lasting life.”6 To the dead daughter of Jairus came the com- Said He: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to mand, “Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.”7 To the entombed 8 Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of Lazarus, “Come forth.” JOSEPH OF EGYPT,

6 The Savior has always shown unlimited Our Jericho Road esus provided capacity for compassion. One may well ask the penetrating question: us many On the American continent, Jesus appeared These accounts pertain to the Redeemer of Jexamples to a multitude and said: the world. Can there actually occur in my own of compassionate “Have ye any that are sick among you? life, on my own Jericho road, such a treasured concern. The crippled Bring them hither. Have ye any that are lame, experience? man at the pool of or blind, or halt, or maimed, or leprous, or I phrase my answer in the words of the Bethesda; the woman that are withered, or that are deaf, or that are Master: “Come and see.”10 taken in adultery; afflicted in any manner? Bring them hither We have no way of knowing when our privi- the daughter of and I will heal them, for I have compassion lege to extend a helping hand will unfold Jairus; Lazarus, upon you. . . . before us. The road to Jericho that each brother of Mary and “. . . And he did heal them every of us travels bears no name, Martha—each one.”9 and the weary traveler needed help. sat dejectedly. Out who needs our help may be one unknown. “In the Temple Square Hotel restaurant, I sat of the corner of Genuine gratitude was expressed by the dejectedly. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a I my eye I saw a writer of a letter received some time ago at couple approach my table. ‘Are you all right, couple approach my Church headquarters. No return address was young man?’ the woman asked. I raised up, cry- table. ‘Are you all shown, no name, but the postmark was from ing and a bit shaken, related my story and the right, young man?’ Portland, Oregon: predicament I was in then. They listened care- the woman asked.” “To the Office of the First Presidency: fully and patiently to my nearly incoherent “Salt Lake City showed me Christian hospi- ramblings, and then they took charge. They tality once during my wandering years. spoke with the restaurant manager, then told “On a cross-country journey by bus to me I could have California, I stepped down in the terminal in all I wanted to Salt Lake City, sick and trembling from aggra- eat there for vated loss of sleep caused by a lack of necessary medication. In my headlong flight from a bad situa- tion in Boston, I had completely forgotten my supply. ILLUSTRATIONS BY MICHAEL T. MALM MICHAEL T. BY ILLUSTRATIONS five days. They took me next door to the hotel desk and got visits at Edna’s facility. She would welcome me with a me a room for five days. Then they drove me to a clinic and cheery smile and take me to the living room where a saw that I was provided with the medications I needed— number of the patients were seated. truly my basic lifeline to sanity and comfort. I always had to begin with Jeannie Burt, who “While I was recuperating and building was the oldest—102 when she died. She had my strength, I made it a point to attend known me and my family from the time the daily Tabernacle organ recitals. The I was born. celestial voicing of that instrument On one occasion Jeannie asked with from the faintest intonation to the her thick Scottish brogue, “Tommy, mighty full organ is the most sub- have you been to Edinburgh lately?” lime sonority of my acquaintance. I I replied, “Yes, not too long ago have acquired albums and tapes of the I was there.” Tabernacle organ and the choir which I “Isn’t it beautiful!” she responded. can rely upon anytime to soothe and but- Jeannie closed her aged eyes in an tress a sagging spirit. expression of silent reverie. Then she “On my last day at the hotel, before I became serious. “I’ve paid in advance for resumed my journey, I turned in my key; and I extol those who, my funeral—in cash. You are to speak at my there was a message for me from that cou- with loving care and funeral, and you are to recite ‘Crossing the ple: ‘Repay us by showing gentle kindness to compassionate concern, Bar’ by Tennyson. Now let’s hear it!” some other troubled soul along your road.’ feed the hungry, clothe It seemed every eye was upon me, and That was my habit, but I determined to be the naked, and house surely this was the case. I took a deep more keenly on the lookout for someone the homeless. He who breath and began: who needed a lift in life. notes the sparrow’s fall Sunset and evening star, “I wish you well. I don’t know if these are will not be unmindful And one clear call for me! indeed the ‘latter days’ spoken of in the scrip- of such service. And may there be no moaning of the bar, tures, but I do know that two members of When I put out to sea.11 your church were saints to me in my desper- ate hours of need. I just thought you might like to know.” Jeannie’s smile was benign and heavenly—then she What an example of caring compassion. declared, “Oh, Tommy, that was nice. But see that you practice a wee bit before my funeral!” This I did. For Those in Need At some period in our mortal mission, there appears At one privately owned and operated care facility, com- the faltering step, the wan smile, the pain of sickness— passion reigned supreme. The proprietress was Edna even the fading of summer, the approach of autumn, the Hewlett. There was a waiting list of patients who desired chill of winter, and the experience we call death, which to live out their remaining days under her tender care, for comes to all mankind. It comes to the aged as they walk she was an angelic person. She would wash and style the on faltering feet. Its summons is heard by those who have hair of every patient. She cleansed elderly bodies and scarcely reached midway in life’s journey. Often it hushes dressed them with bright and clean clothing. the laughter of little children. Through the years, in visiting the widows of the ward Throughout the world there is enacted daily the sor- over which I once presided, I would generally start my rowful scene of loved ones mourning as they bid farewell

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 9 to a son, a daughter, a brother, a sister, a mother, a father, may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”13 or a cherished friend. In a very real way, the Master speaks to us: “Behold, I From the cruel cross, the Savior’s tender words of stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, farewell to His mother are particularly poignant: and open the door, I will come in to him.”14 “When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple Let us listen for His knock. Let us open the door of our standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, hearts, that He—the living example of true compassion— Woman, behold thy son! may enter. ■

“Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And NOTES from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.”12 1. Genesis 39:2. 8. John 11:43. 2. Genesis 45:5, 7. 9. 3 Nephi 17:7, 9. Let us remember that after the funeral flowers fade, the 3. See Luke 10:30–37. 10. John 1:39. 4. John 5:8. 11. Lines 1–4. well wishes of friends become memories, and the prayers 5. John 8:11. 12. John 19:26–27. offered and words spoken dim in the corridors of the 6. John 4:14. 13. Psalm 30:5. 7. Mark 5:41. 14. Revelation 3:20. mind. Those who grieve frequently find themselves alone. Missed is the laughter of children, the commotion of teenagers, and the tender, loving concern of a departed IDEAS FOR HOME TEACHERS companion. The clock ticks more loudly, time passes more slowly, and four walls can indeed a prison make. After prayerfully studying this message, share it using a I extol those who, with loving care and compassionate method that encourages the participation of those you teach. concern, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and house The following are some examples: the homeless. He who notes the sparrow’s fall will not be 1. Prepare paper hearts for each family member. As you unmindful of such service. relate examples of compassion from President Monson’s message, invite family members to think of people in need Havens of Peace and how they could show compassion to them. Have them In His compassion and according to His divine plan, write their ideas on the hearts. holy temples bring to our Father’s children the peace 2. Retell several of the examples of compassion from the which surpasses understanding. article. Ask the family to ponder the following questions: Who Under the leadership of President Gordon B. Hinckley, is my neighbor? Whom do I know right now who could be the number of new temples constructed and under con- blessed by my compassion? What can I do to help this per- struction staggers the mind to contemplate. Heavenly son? When can I start? Conclude by reading the final two Father’s compassionate concern for His children here on paragraphs of the article and challenging the family to con- earth and for those who have gone beyond mortality mer- sider ways to put into action a plan for compassion. its our gratitude. 3. After relating a few accounts from the article, ask for Thanks be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for His the common theme. Show a picture of the Savior, and testify life, for His gospel, for His example, and for His blessed of His compassionate hand in your own life. Challenge family Atonement. members to strive to follow the example of the Savior in giv- I return in my thoughts to Oklahoma City. To me, it is ing the gift of compassion. beyond mere coincidence that now a temple of the Lord, in all its beauty, stands in that city as a heaven-sent beacon to mark the way to joy here on earth and eternal joy hereafter. Let us remember the words from the Psalms: “Weeping

10 LESSONS FROM THE

NEW TESTAMENT Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life BY ELDER WON YONG KO Of the Seventy

hen Jesus Christ was Why did He ask on the earth, He per- Philip this question W formed many miracles when “he himself such as turning water into wine, knew what he would healing the sick and disabled, and do” (John 6:6)? Perhaps even raising Lazarus from the dead. The He wanted His disciples to fully miracle witnessed by the largest audience was recognize that they could not feed that many likely the feeding of the 5,000 with five loaves people with the money and time given to and two fishes. This miracle is described in all them. If the vast multitude was to be fed, it four Gospels (see Matthew 14:13–21; Mark would require a miracle. Jesus taught the 6:34–44; Luke 9:12–17; John 6:5–14). Let us Then the disciples brought the food one people not to focus examine some of the details of this miracu- boy had, the only food available to them: five on physical bread, lous story and discuss why it is relevant in barley loaves and two small fishes. I like to but to seek for much our day. think that perhaps this boy was hungry but more important saved the food for his great Teacher instead of bread: “Labour not The Savior’s Compassion worrying about himself. This might have con- for the meat which The Savior performed this miracle because tributed to the great setting of the miracle. perisheth, but for of His compassion for the people. Mark that meat which wrote that as Jesus looked over the crowd “And They Sat Down in Ranks” endureth unto of people eagerly listening to His words, He Jesus Christ deliberately accomplished one everlasting life, “was moved with compassion toward them, more task before performing the miracle: which the Son of because they were as sheep not having a He commanded His disciples “to make all sit man shall give shepherd” (Mark 6:34). He was aware that down by companies upon the green grass. unto you.” “the day was now far spent” and that, being And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, in “a desert place” (Mark 6:35), the people and by fifties” (Mark 6:39–40). Why did He did not have access to food. ask the people to sit down like this? Certainly Yet Jesus withheld His power to perform He wanted to ensure that the process of the miracle for a time, deciding to test His dis- distributing food was orderly. Elder Bruce R. ciples first. He asked Philip, “Whence shall we McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the buy bread, that these may eat?” (John 6:5). Twelve Apostles adds to our understanding: BACKGROUND © PHOTOSPIN BACKGROUND ENSIGN MARCH 2007 11 esus fed more “There was nothing informal or unorganized performed. He may have wanted to ensure than 5,000 about our Lord’s planning or performance. that there were no arguments about the Jpeople with only The assembled hosts were seated in a system- number of people who participated in this five loaves and two atic way by companies and in ranks. His great miracle. fishes—a divine act. beneficence was not promiscuous largess The number of people in the crowd was He declared Himself scattered to a mob. Rather he was providing actually more than 5,000 because women and the “bread of life”— necessary and otherwise unavailable food to children were not counted. Therefore, many a divine teaching. an inquiring congregation of hearers. Then more than 5,000 people were miraculously too, there was to be no question left in any- fed with the five loaves and two fishes. one’s mind as to what actually took place. After the Savior took the five loaves and The apostles were to distribute the loaves fishes, “he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and fishes in an orderly way, treating all with and brake the loaves” (Mark 6:41) and then fairness and impartiality.”1 gave them to His disciples to pass to the In addition, I believe that—as with people. They then distributed the fishes. Philip—the Lord wanted the people The people did not take just a little food, to notice just how vast the multi- worrying about a shortage. Instead, they tude was when the miracle was took “as much as they would” (John 6:11) and “did all eat, and were filled” (Mark 6:42). Jesus gave further instruction after per- forming the miracle. He told His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost” (John 6:12). The disciples gathered 12 baskets of food! It was clear that by His power Jesus per- formed the miracle. The account in the book of John ends with this comment: “Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world” (John 6:14).

Spiritual Nourishment The story does not end there. All of these events were only BY HARRY ANDERSON, COURTESY OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ANDERSON, HARRY BY a prelude to what the Savior taught afterward. He per- formed this miracle in a dra- matic way so the people clearly understood that He ADVENTIST CHURCH, MAY NOT BE COPIED; PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRISTINA SMITH, POSED BY MODEL POSED BY CHRISTINA SMITH, BY BE COPIED; PHOTOGRAPH NOT MAY CHURCH, ADVENTIST has great power, and they THE FEEDING OF FIVE THOUSAND,

12 were thus better prepared to accept His Relevance in Our Day teaching—which was so much more Today, some may think the miracle important than eating the loaves and of the loaves and fishes is only an the fishes. ancient story and is not relevant in our A short time after performing this day. In so doing, they miss the point miracle, Jesus taught the people not to of this miraculous story and do not focus on physical bread but to seek for understand the significance of the much more important bread: “Labour “bread of life.” not for the meat which perisheth, but Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the for that meat which endureth unto ever- Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, lasting life, which the Son of man shall “In our contemporary success and give unto you” (John 6:27). sophistication we too may walk away The people were confused about nowing that Jesus from the vitally crucial bread of eter- what He said. Their minds were still on Christ is the Bread nal life; we may actually choose to the loaves they had eaten. They could K of Life—the way by be spiritually malnourished, willfully not understand the meaning of the term which all can receive eternal indulging in a kind of spiritual “bread of life.” life—we have an important anorexia.”2 Jesus declared, “I am the bread of responsibility. We should seek The Bible Dictionary explains that life: he that cometh to me shall never to help people come to Him. miracles are “an important element hunger; and he that believeth on me in the work of Jesus Christ, being shall never thirst” (John 6:35). not only divine acts, but forming also a part of the He continued to explain: “I am that bread of life. . . . divine teaching” (732; see also Guide to the Scriptures, This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that “Miracle,” 165). The miracle of the loaves and fishes is a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread a good example of this definition. Jesus fed more than which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this 5,000 people with only five loaves and two fishes—a bread, he shall live for ever” (John 6:48, 50–51). divine act. He declared Himself the “bread of life”—a Some people murmured because of His saying. They divine teaching. thought they knew Jesus, son of Joseph the carpenter. Knowing that Jesus Christ is the Bread of Life—the way They forgot the power by which Jesus had performed such by which all can receive eternal life—we have an important a great miracle. Many chose to leave Him. Jesus asked His responsibility. We should seek to help people come to Him Twelve Apostles, “Will ye also go away?” (John 6:67). Peter and partake of His word, like the people who were filled answered with a testimony that was powerful in its simplic- with the loaves and fishes. Our friends may not know they ity: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of are hungry in spirit. They may try to consume many things eternal life” (John 6:68). to satisfy their spiritual hunger, and as a result, they may Even though the Savior had prepared the people well feel frustrated and lost. Let us help them know how they for being taught His divine nature and mission, they still can be spiritually filled—by coming unto Jesus Christ, the did not understand the significance of the miracle or of Bread of Life. ■ Jesus’s teaching that He is the Bread of Life. But the Twelve, led by Peter, assured Him of their testimonies. NOTES 1. Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols. (1966–73), 1:344. This must have given the Lord great comfort. 2. “He Hath Filled the Hungry with Good Things,” Ensign, Nov. 1997, 65.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 13 Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment the W around orld Left: Relief Society sisters in the San Miguel de Allende Ward, Celaya Mexico Stake, perform a cultural dance they learned at a home, family, and personal enrichment activity. Right: As part of an enrichment meeting and activity in the Mont St. Hilaire Ward, Longueuil Québec Stake, sisters learn how to grow sprouts—a healthy addition to their diet.

Left: Out of a desire to build self-reliance, Relief Society leaders in a Salt Lake City, Utah, singles ward asked the elders quorum to teach sisters how to change a flat tire and check the oil in their automobiles. Left: Sister Adelma M. Linhares sews for a service project in her São Paulo, Brazil, ward. This enrichment activity LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN CARLOS SANTOYO; TOP RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH BY LAURENT LUCUIX; ABOVE: PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRISTINA SMITH; RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH BY ANA CLÁUDIA OLIVEIRA; BACKGROUND © DYNAMIC GRAPHICS, INC. benefited public hospitals in the area.

BY CONNIE D. CANNON Relief Society General Board

place “where hearts and hands are joined together in four times a year. One of these four meetings com- A a safe, relaxed, and enjoyable environment” is how memorates the March 17, 1842, organization of the Bonnie D. Parkin, Relief Society general president, Relief Society. In addition to ward or branch meetings, describes home, family, and personal enrichment meeting. It the stake or district Relief Society holds one or two is a place where women of all ages can strengthen their faith enrichment meetings each year. One of these enrich- in Jesus Christ and learn parenting and homemaking skills. ment meetings is held in conjunction with the annual It is a time when sisters can socialize, learn, and be uplifted. broadcast of the general Relief Society meeting in Since January 2006, when the new guidelines for home, September. family, and personal enrichment went into effect, Relief Society sisters around the world have caught the vision Enrichment Activities of what this program can be. The ward or branch Relief Society also offers activities for groups of sisters with similar interests. Enrichment Meetings In doing so, Relief Society leaders respond to the needs Instead of monthly meetings, ward home, family, and and wants of the sisters to determine what activities personal enrichment meetings for all sisters are held to offer.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 15 and Personal , Family, Enrichm Home ent Meetings

n quarterly enrichment meetings, Relief Society sisters come! Close to 350 sisters poured into the chapel on a Ican “feel a sense of belonging as they participate in windy, rainy evening. They stood and poured their hearts activities that build spiritual strength, develop personal out to each other in magnificent testimonies of applying skills, strengthen home and family, and exercise charity the principle of kindness in their lives. As the sisters left through service,” says Sister Parkin. “In these meetings the building an hour and a half later, they expressed with CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: PHOTOGRAPHS BY SERGIO DÍEZ, DANNY SOLETA, ADRIAN LEYVA, AND CHRISTINA SMITH SOLETA, SERGIO DÍEZ, BY DANNY PHOTOGRAPHS FROM TOP: CLOCKWISE bonds of sisterhood are strengthened, new and less-active words and tears that they had felt the love of the Lord members are fellowshipped, and missionary opportunities and were so very grateful they had come.” abound.” In another stake, Relief Society president Mickie Neslen Following are examples of what stakes and wards have realized that financial security helps strengthen families. She done for their home, family, and personal enrichment and the stake presidency prepared a stake home, family, and meetings. personal enrichment meeting that traveled from ward to One ward celebrated the founding of Relief Society with ward. It began with a spiritual lesson on finances. Afterward, a program they called “Sisterhood, a Tapestry of Love.” It the sisters were invited to visit five different stations with was based on the talk given by President James E. Faust, 15-minute presentations by knowledgeable sisters: Second Counselor in the First Presidency, at the general 1. “Budgeting” featured various ways to keep track of and Relief Society meeting in September 2002.1 After dinner, manage money with notebooks, envelopes, or software. eight sisters shared their experiences and thoughts on 2. “Money-Saving Tips” consisted of simple ways to save what Relief Society meant to them as a place for learning, money each day. making eternal friendships, enjoying sisterhood, and 3. “Finances for Kids” demonstrated a variety of ways to offering service. teach finances to children, including interactive games. One stake enrichment meeting focused on build- 4. “Preparing for the Future” reviewed information about ing faith in Jesus Christ with a sharing of testimonies. disability insurance, assisted living, nursing care, and Stephanie Wilkey, stake Relief Society president, writes: other retirement concerns. “We had felt inspired to have a home, family, and per- 5. “The Cost of Credit” pointed out the dangers of debt sonal enrichment meeting based on one of the principles and how to avoid it. of charity: kindness. It took every bit of faith we had to follow the promptings we had received as a presidency to These enrichment meetings helped educate and carry through with this idea. My counselors assured me strengthen the sisters in many important ways.

that the sisters would come and that they would stand NOTE and speak to us of the things of the heart. Oh, did they 1. See “You Are All Heaven Sent,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2002, 110.

16 “We need to laugh together,” says one Relief Society sister in the Juniper Ward, Lancaster California Stake. “It balances out my life just to be with the sisters at home, family, and personal enrichment meetings.”

Right: Among the Relief Society activities in the Makati Second Ward, Makati Philippines Stake, was a presentation on how to prepare virgin coconut oil.

Left: Because Elvira Garza of the San Fernando First Ward, Valle Hermoso Mexico Stake, Above: In the Parleys Sixth Ward, Salt Lake Parleys loves home canning, she was Stake, a recently returned mission president and his the perfect choice to teach the wife teach a weekly class using the Preach My process at a home, family, and Gospel manual. Sisters and couples who attend personal enrichment activity. improve teaching skills, which helps make them better parents and missionaries.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 17 Below: Sisters in the Jardines Ward, Mexico Left: Each July City Ermita Stake, study the scriptures the Mexico City together. Chapultepec Stake holds classes that teach basic skills. The sisters choose one class to attend from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day during the week. Here sisters learn to cut hair.

Left: After a spiritual lesson in the Odessa Tsentralny Branch in Ukraine, Relief Society sisters attend a class on storing food products safely. Below:

Skilled hands sew a tote bag at a ISRAEL ANTUNES BY PHOTOGRAPH RIGHT: BOTTOM MIRIAM NERY; BY PHOTOGRAPH LEFT: ; BOTTOM home, family, and personal enrichment activity in the Votorantim Ward, Sorocaba Brazil Barcelona Stake.

Above: Relief Society sisters around the world, such as these in Brazil, learn home decorating skills. TOP: PHOTOGRAPHS BY ISRAEL GUTIÉRREZ AND COURTESY OF THE RELIEF SOCIETY GENERAL PRESIDENCY; CENTER: PHOTOGRAPH BY MARINA LUKACH BY CENTER: PHOTOGRAPH ISRAEL GUTIÉRREZ AND COURTESY OF THE RELIEF SOCIETY GENERAL PRESIDENCY; BY PHOTOGRAPHS TOP:

18 and Personal , Family, Enrichm Home ent Activities

ard or branch home, family, and personal In Nigeria, learning how to bake bread did more W enrichment activities are less structured than the than teach an important skill. A sister in the Ikot Ekpene quarterly meetings. They can be organized by Branch, Nigeria Uyo Mission, says enrichment activities specialists, under the direction of the presidency. At first, changed her life. She explains that after her baptism and the concept of activities seemed challenging to some lead- confirmation she had stopped attending church. Then ers. But as they have assessed the sisters’ needs, counseled a Relief Society sister invited her to an enrichment activ- with priesthood leaders, and prayed for inspiration, they ity where they learned how to make soap, a commodity have come up with good ideas and developed confidence. difficult to come by in the distant village where she Some successful ideas include learning do-it-yourself home lived. At another activity she learned to bake high-quality repairs, marriage enrichment classes, study groups using bread, which was not available close to her home. Her Preach My Gospel, bringing lunch to shut-in sisters, and a enthusiasm has continued as sisters gather regularly support group for sisters with infertility challenges. to bake bread for their homes and for the sacrament “I wondered how this new program would bring sisters on Sundays. together if we met in smaller groups, but I was willing to In Mexico, interested sisters learned some methods try it,” writes Richelle Pearce of the Shadowbrook Ward, for cutting hair. For many, learning this money-saving skill Kaysville Utah South Stake. “I make bread a couple of helped their families financially. times a week, so after making the proper arrangements, In one singles ward, Relief Society leaders asked the the Relief Society leaders invited anyone who was inter- elders quorum to teach the Relief Society sisters how to ested to come to my home for an activity. change a flat tire and check the oil in their automobiles. “The next Thursday five sisters showed up at my This not only helped build self-reliance among the sisters, door. They were from all different stages of life: one but it also provided an opportunity for these young single new mother, one working mom, one senior sister, and members to socialize with each other. two with large families like mine. What happened over How, then, are the new guidelines for home, family, the next two hours was a testimony to me of the inspira- and personal enrichment being received by Relief Society tion of this program. The sisters not only learned how sisters? They are being welcomed in many areas with to grind wheat and make bread, but they also talked, faith, enthusiasm, and creativity. As time goes on, this laughed, shared ideas, and really connected. By the time inspired program will continue to grow and bless the they left with their bread and wheat flour, I knew this lives of even more Relief Society sisters of all ages around program could bring sisters together in a wonderful way.” the world. ■

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 19 BY CHERYL YOUNG I cautiously placed some recently THE purchased plants on the patio for t times Heavenly sunlight, planning to bring them Father sends into the protection of the house A sweet little bless- Parable before nightfall. ings into our lives. For me, I awoke the following morn- oddly enough, a tomato OF THE ing to find several inches of plant became my teacher snow on the ground. This was and blessed my life during incredible—it was the 13th of the course of one summer. Tomato June! My surprise quickly The unseasonably cool turned to frustration as I real- spring of 2002 in the Salt ized I had forgotten to bring the Lake Valley prompted me plants in. I rushed outside to to delay transplanting Plant find the once vibrant, green tomato plants into my As I struggled with leaves turned to a heap of garden as I normally cancer, I wanted this withered, blackened decay. would. I watched day after tiny, struggling plant “What a waste!” I thought day as the temperatures to beat the odds. as I carried my pathetic plants remained too low for me to the garbage. But on my way to safely put the plants in I noticed something—a tiny the ground. Finally, as green sprig. Closer examination summer approached, revealed a two-inch

20 sprout growing just to the side of one of the go to waste. I was tired of the work. I had pre- dead mother plants. The helpless offspring had served more tomatoes than I could have imag- been protected from the cold and had some- ined. But I persisted to mine into the depths how survived. of the plant for more tomatoes. In the center, Exactly one year prior to this discovery, I had as I pushed the jungle of leaves aside, I saw a started months of chemotherapy treatment for beautiful, red-ripened tomato. I tugged at it ILLUSTRATION BY BRANDON DORMAN BY ILLUSTRATION cancer. All forms of life had become especially gently and then examined it in my hand. precious to me. I couldn’t throw the little plant I felt tears in my eyes as I looked at it and away, despite the fact that it seemed pointless saw a heart-shaped tomato. The once tiny to plant it this late in the growing season. But it plant had survived and given so generously was still alive, and I wanted it to beat the odds. to me. How I had underestimated the worth A week later I set the sprout aside as I trans- of that little plant. It had hidden potential planted a second round of large tomato plants. that I might easily have thrown away, but it I applied fertilizer and stepped back to admire had been worth saving. I pondered many my work. Almost as an afterthought I found a things as I looked at it. I thought of the godly spot on the edge of the garden for the “little potential we each possess. I thought of my guy.” Having little hope for it, I placed it in an own struggle with cancer, grateful that I too area with poor soil and minimal sun exposure. was surviving and that I too was worth saving. I thought of myself as charitable for sparing it It was not until the cold November winds as I watered it periodically. began to blow that I finally took the tomato I was completely taken by surprise when I plant out of the garden. The rest of my garden saw that the plant was not only growing but had been cleared long before. The cumber- thriving. It grew exponentially in the follow- some tangle of stems and leaves had withered ing weeks and began to bear fruit. The toma- as it stood propped up alone in the garden. toes were numerous and large. My other To me it stood for a life that surmounted over- plants were puny and unproductive by com- whelming odds to come away victorious. I parison. Soon my remarkable tomato “bush” thought of it as symbolic of the transformation had captured my full attention. The plant was that can come to each of us through our more than five feet tall and almost as many Savior’s love. feet in circumference. The tomato cage that Every year as I work in my garden, had once seemed too big for this tiny plant I marvel at the lessons I learned from a was now buried deep beneath the foliage. tomato plant that had survived against A hodgepodge of stakes and poles were posi- difficult odds and had given me a heart- tioned to support it. I had difficulty keeping shaped tomato at a time when I too was up with what seemed like endless production. struggling to survive. I am grateful beyond One day late in summer, as I filled a basket measure for the tender mercies of the Lord with tomatoes, I fought the urge to let some that bless our lives. ■

21 Having Faith in God’s Timeline As a single woman, I have come to appreciate that the Lord sustains us in our unique timelines.

BY CATHERINE EDWARDS That was 20 years ago. I am still single. The hen I was 19 years old, one of my best friends majority of my friends are married; they have husbands was married. The wedding was wonderful, she and children and homes. I have a home: a rented two- W looked beautiful, the groom was handsome, bedroom apartment in New York City. I don’t have a hus- and they were happy. I, on the other hand, was a little band or children. I’ve wondered on occasion if people distraught. I was caught off guard by what she was doing. have the same late-night concerns for me as I had for She was altering my vision for her—and for me. I defi- my friend. nitely wanted to get married, just not yet. I thought we I am sure I have made some errors in my life, but I don’t were both so young, and here she was marrying not only believe I have done anything that would preclude me from before graduating from college, but before she had the the blessing of marriage. I admittedly wonder on occasion chance to travel much or engage in intellectually stimulat- if my life would be different if I had done better or worked ing career opportunities. I was up the night prior to harder or been kinder, and yet I realize I have done good her wedding, anxious about what would happen in her things and that I consistently try to move forward with an future, while she was sound asleep, rightly confident in eternal perspective. I try to do my part to fulfill my desire her decision. for a temple marriage. As I look back on my reaction, I have to smile. What I also recognize that God understands the timeline was I thinking? I look at her life now: she has two lovely for important events in my life, and it is different from children and a loving home. A few months after her wed- the timeline of many others. I am tremendously grateful ding it became clear to me that she had made the right to understand this. My appreciation has grown as I decision, and it is even clearer now. I recognize that have developed faith in a loving Heavenly Father, she was prayerful and thoughtful and trusted in God’s who understands what I need and what I can give promptings to her. to others.

22 Recognizing that my life is on a different timeline has A Goal of Discipleship been a process. My queries to God regarding His design As I reflect on what I believe is God’s timeline for for me have led to a sense that I have distinct potential important events in my life, I am keenly aware of my and goodness. I find that this sense of assurance is most choices and agency. As children of our Heavenly Father, often challenged not by my own ideas but by the fre- we are given the happy opportunity and responsibility to quently well-intentioned concerns of others. The feelings pursue the blessing of marriage. By working toward that of others regarding my single state are not dissimilar from goal, we are doing our part. the reaction I had toward my 19-year-old, soon-to-be- As a member of the Church, I have the blessings of married friend. I presumed that I understood what she prayer, the scriptures, the ward I attend, and the words should do, but I was wrong. of the prophets to give me a deeper understanding of Sometimes people suggest possible explanations as to Heavenly Father and the Savior. Each of these blessings why I don’t have a husband and children yet. I know that provides guidelines for using my agency well. I hope that most often these ideas are kindly offered, and yet under- wisdom is reflected in the decisions I make, including in lying them seems to be a sense that I have erred in my my response to unanticipated joys and challenges. eligibility for the blessings of marriage and children. I have I regularly take stock of my life and my situation. The been told that perhaps I am too picky, too aggressive, too most important aspect of that self-inquiry is the question smart, too career oriented, too independent, too liberal, of my worthiness. I have made a dedicated effort to abide and—my favorite—too happy. I must say that on occasion by the doctrines and practices of the Church: to attend I take some of these critiques as compliments, and yet at my meetings and the temple, to pay tithing, to live a the same time I recognize that there are married women virtuous life, and to serve others. I believe in the Savior’s who are smarter, more aggressive, pickier, and more Atonement and in the efficacy of lives spent living by the

ILLUSTRATIONS BY STEVE KROPP BY ILLUSTRATIONS independent than I am. commandments and the directives of the prophets.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 23 hether we are W married, divorced, widowed, or not yet married, we all have the blessing of our common divine ancestry and divine and distinct roles. I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father, who knows what we can do with our lives— disparate and exciting as they are. A Rich Life goals in life match the larger goal of disci- I am frequently asked how I can be cheer- pleship to the Savior. I work to ensure that ful as an unmarried member of a church and my pursuits and endeavors, both spiritual culture that emphasize marriage. I’ll tell you and secular, lead me to better understand what I have done. my role as a daughter of God. My sister Christine and I determined at As a single Latter-day Saint woman, a young age that we would certainly marry I have the opportunity to serve in ways one day, and in the meantime we would live that are wonderful. I have a career that is in a manner that would make us more well- service oriented, and I am able to fulfill my rounded and well-developed people. I am Church callings. I have developed my tal- so grateful we made that plan—a plan that ents and have enjoyed unique educational is tied to our desire to do what we believe pursuits. My life is rich. Throughout, I seek God hopes for us. It was, at its core, a plan to follow the Lord’s promptings in my that relied on listening to the promptings of decisions. the Spirit. Several years ago I, along with six other sin- My sister married 10 years ago and has gle women in my age range, had the unique two wonderful children. She earned a PhD and unexpected opportunity to meet with and makes significant contributions to the Relief Society general president Bonnie D. Church and to her community. I continue to Parkin. We spent a little more than an hour live by our plan, and I believe that is what together talking about our lives as single God wants me to do. I consistently check in women in the Church. on whether what I’m doing is right—if my That meeting was one of the real blessings

24 of my life that year. As we sat around the table in Sister MARRIAGE AND THE LORD’S TIMING Parkin’s office, we spoke of the challenges and the bless- “The timing of marriage is perhaps the ings in our lives. At the end she asked us if we had a final best example of an extremely important comment we wanted to make. I raised my hand and pro- event in our lives that is almost impossi- nounced, “The Church is the best place to be a single ble to plan. Like other important mortal woman.” Given the opportunity over the course of that events that depend on the agency of short hour to bear my testimony of service and loyalty to others or the will and timing of the Lord, God, I had genuinely deepened my testimony of my role marriage cannot be anticipated or planned with certainty. We in the Church. I knew what my role was before, but I can and should work for and pray for our righteous desires, needed that forum to articulate it and deepen my convic- but despite this, many will remain single well beyond their tion of its importance. desired time for marriage. “So what should be done in the meantime? Faith in the Confidence in the Individual Lord Jesus Christ prepares us for whatever life brings. This In the Church I believe there is a distinct need to kind of faith prepares us to deal with life’s opportunities— develop confidence in the individual, not as he or she to take advantage of those that are received and to persist should fit into some culturally prescribed timeline but through the disappointments of those that are lost. In the as he or she follows personal revelations from a loving exercise of that faith, we should commit ourselves to the pri- Heavenly Father. It is important to have confidence that orities and standards we will follow on matters we do not other people may be doing the right thing and to recog- control and persist faithfully in those commitments, whatever nize that even when their lives look different, they have happens to us because of the agency of others or the timing unique offerings we need. It is too easy to assume that of the Lord. When we do this, we will have a constancy in one schedule is right for everyone. our lives that will give us direction and peace. Whatever the Everyone has challenges. Whether we are married, circumstances beyond our control, our commitments and divorced, widowed, or not yet married, we all have the standards can be constant. blessing of our common divine ancestry and divine and “The commitments and service of adult singles can distinct roles. anchor them through the difficult years of waiting for the right Of course I pray that I will marry and that my husband time and the right person. Their commitments and service and I will have children. In the meantime I am working to can also inspire and strengthen others. Wise are those who extend and expand my gospel-oriented life. I have bless- make this commitment: I will put the Lord first in my life, and I ings as a single woman that I would be ungrateful and will keep His commandments. The performance of that com- negligent to squander, and I am confident that those mitment is within everyone’s control. We can fulfill that com- blessings will ultimately make me a better wife and mitment without regard to what others decide to do, and that mother. commitment will anchor us no matter what timing the Lord I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father, who knows directs for the most important events in our lives.” us and knows what we can do with our lives—disparate Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and exciting as they are. I am grateful for the life I have “Timing,” Liahona and Ensign, Oct. 2003, 15. and the opportunities ahead of me. I pray that each of us can have confidence in the Lord’s timelines for us, time- lines that are supported by our good decisions and faith in God. ■

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 25 Joshua’s Walls BY CINDY GRITTON My husband and I expected to raise a typical little boy, but the Lord sent us one who faced life in a different way.

hen my husband, Greg, gave our son, Joshua, a name and a blessing, neither of us realized the Wsignificance of a simple phrase contained in it: “We bless you with all the blessings the Lord has in store for you, blessings the Lord has reserved just for you.”

His Words Joshua arrived as a healthy and happy baby. At two months old, he amazed me, and I little imagined how his future would differ from my ideas of it. After all, one afternoon as I finished changing a diaper, he said, “Thank you.” Stunned, I stared at him while he smiled at me. “Who will ever believe me?” I thought. Then, a week later, we For months I had took Joshua to the doctor for a worsening cold. ILLUSTRATIONS BY MIKE MALM; PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE AUTHOR MIKE MALM; PHOTOGRAPHS BY ILLUSTRATIONS tried telling Joshua The nurse had just weighed him when he said some- about his soon-to- thing. She paled, looked up at the doctor, and asked, “Did arrive sister, but each you hear that?” attempt was ignored. Looking equally startled, the doctor nodded, “Yes.” Then, although “He said, ‘Thank you,’ ” the nurse said. Joshua’s silent walls I smiled. A week later Greg heard him say it too, and we remained firmly in couldn’t help but think Joshua would talk early and easily. place, we had a But the Lord knew otherwise, and I truly believe that the moment of Lord blessed Joshua to express his thanks those few unhindered times before his verbal abilities became restricted by communication. high-functioning autism.

26 Prior to his diagnosis, Joshua seemed to develop normally. “Those are signs we watch for in autism,” she said. As he approached his second birthday, his enthusiastic vocab- Her office provided me with the phone number for Early ulary remained limited. I initially calmed Greg’s concerns Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education, and I about Joshua by reminding him that boys usually talk later. called. It was only later that I learned what a blessing this But then one day I realized something. Words—his words— truly was: our regular pediatrician didn’t know about this were gone. When had I last heard him say “mmm” when he service, but the Lord knew who did. saw the moon or a cat? Where was his lilting voice calling my name or his father’s? Why, when he loved numbers so much, Becoming a Big Brother didn’t he even attempt to say them? And why had our sweet During this time, a new life was growing within me. And little boy started banging his head in in my mind, the constant question remained—would this anger or frustration?

The Lord’s Intervention new child travel the same road as Joshua? Would I hold The signs were all too real, too overwhelming this new baby in my arms and one day realize that the to avoid. But our pediatrician’s own pregnancy had devel- silent walls that had grown up around Joshua now also oped complications, and so I waited, unsure if I should surrounded her? I turned to the Lord often and trusted take Joshua to the on-call doctor, who didn’t know him. that Heavenly Father would provide us with the answers The Lord answered my prayers in His own way. On a plane needed to help this new child. The priesthood blessings I trip home from visiting friends, I noticed that Joshua had received during my pregnancy brought me the comfort of developed a high fever. I had to take him in. knowing that this new child would be healthy. I held onto The on-call doctor discovered that he had an ear infec- this promise while still feeling that “healthy” didn’t neces- tion, and her manner was so kind that I decided to ask her sarily rule out autism. advice on what I should do. Trying to prepare Joshua for big brotherhood now pre- “You mean about his lack of speech?” she interrupted. sented an interesting challenge. For months I had tried Stunned, I replied, “Yes. And he’s been banging his head.” telling Joshua that a baby was in my tummy, but each attempt

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 27 MANIFESTING THE WORKS OF GOD was ignored. Then one day, as I held “You parents and often frustrated us both when I him on my lap, I tried one more time. you families whose couldn’t interpret his pointing. “Joshua, there’s a baby in lives must be By the age of five, Joshua still Mommy’s tummy.” reordered because hadn’t regained his speech beyond His little face turned up to mine, of a handicapped a few words. His two years in Early and in one swift, intense look he one, whose Intervention blessed him with won- conveyed his comprehension and resources and time must be devoted derful teachers who helped him thoughts, “Mom, you’re crazy!” to them, are special heroes. You are begin to understand social interac- I thought I would never stop laugh- manifesting the works of God with tions and responsibilities, but words ing. Though Joshua’s silent walls every thought, with every gesture of still remained elusive. remained firmly in place, I grate- tenderness and care you extend to fully recognized this moment of the handicapped loved one. . . . You Receiving Inspiration unhindered communication. are living the principles of the gospel One November day, the pain “Where’s the baby?” became my of Jesus Christ in exceptional purity.” became so great that I turned to the new question in trying to engage President Boyd K. Packer, Acting President scriptures and searched for every of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “The Joshua. Quickly, his small fingers Moving of the Water,” Ensign, May 1991, 9. instance of the Savior healing a answered by pointing to my tummy. “dumb” person. I read each passage, “Do you love the baby?” He smiled, and then I read in Mark 9:17–29 of

kissed my tummy, and laughed. When AND ART RANE, COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM CHURCH HISTORY WALTER , BY the father who brought his son to his little sister, Annica, was born, he Jesus after the disciples failed to heal kissed her lovingly while watching me him. The father’s words echoed in out of the corner of his eyes. My tears my soul: “Have compassion on us, fell into his hair as I held him. and help us.” When Annica was a month old, “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst we received the Early Intervention believe, all things are possible to him

team’s official diagnosis for Joshua, MASTER, I THEE MY SON BROUGHT UNTO HAVE that believeth. now three, and learned that he met “And straightway the father of the

the requirements for high-functioning FROM DETAIL child cried out, and said with tears, autism. Our faint sliver of hope that he was simply delayed Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief” (vv. 22–24). faded away. Now the word autism became part of who The Savior rebuked the evil spirit and delivered the son to our son was. And yet he was still Joshua; he really hadn’t his father whole. Then verses 28 and 29 caught my attention: changed—just our understanding of who he is had “And when he was come into the house, his disciples changed. We felt blessed that Joshua, unlike many autistic asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? children, readily expressed emotion. Love seemed to flow “And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by from him, even if shared in brief acts of affection—swift, nothing, but by prayer and fasting.” open-mouthed kisses, hugs that barely touched us, smiles I had always loved this story but somehow had forgot- when he was happy. His own little world existed, but he ten to apply it. We prayed for Joshua often, but we had crossed into ours readily when he wanted to. never devoted a fast to his progress. Still, at times, the pain of Joshua’s disability became The next morning, as my mom and I talked on the almost overwhelming. Joshua found a way to express his phone about Joshua, she asked, “Cindy, have you ever enjoyment of music, bouncing up and down with the beat. fasted as a family for him?” I shared my experience of the But I cried at the thought that he might never sing or even day before, in awe of the Lord’s great love and guidance. hum. His earnest attempts to express his wants and thoughts We quickly decided to hold a family fast for Joshua the

28 next Sunday, and we began calling our relatives. on one end of the bleachers, Joshua wore his construction That Sunday after church, Greg and a man from our paper cap. He didn’t sing all the words to each song; his ward gave Joshua a priesthood blessing. He was blessed eyes often fixated on something in his own mind. But then that he would learn to talk faster and that he would con- a tune would pull him back, and he would joyfully sing at tinue to progress cognitively. My fears for his speech dis- the top of his voice. I could hardly contain my joy at seeing appeared. But I also knew that I would need to be patient. how the Lord had fulfilled His promise to our little boy. Now Joshua is a rambunctious ten-year-old. He still Progressing with Faith receives speech therapy, struggles to fully understand social Nine months later, with only two months to go before situations, finds school and church boring on occasion, and kindergarten, Joshua’s speech lan- tests our patience from time to time with incredible stamina. guage pathologist sent me a note. But he also knows that when something is lost, he can pray “Joshua picked up and his prayers will be answered. And at bedtime he another student’s usually requests that we sing “I Am a Child of God” or “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 2, 12).

Our family had prayed for Joshua often, but we had never fasted for his progress. We decided to do so, and while his progress has not come quickly, it has come.

B book today and pointed to each picture and said, ‘B’!” When Joshua entered our lives, Greg and I expected to From that moment on, Joshua eagerly pointed out raise a little boy like others, but the Lord sent us one who everything that started with B and even slowly regained needed to face life in a different way. Joshua of old found his original words. the walls of Jericho facing him, and those walls came down At the end of kindergarten, Joshua marched beside his only by the power of the Lord (see Joshua 6:1–20). I know aide to kindergarten graduation. At the start of that year, he that one day, through the power of the Lord, all of our hadn’t been able to sing, but he could spell many words by Joshua’s walls will come down, though it may not be here pointing to letters, and he could say about 25 words. Now on earth. I hope and pray that until then Greg and I will Greg and I videotaped him as he joined with about a hun- always receive the inspiration we need to help Joshua dred other kindergarten children in singing songs. Standing achieve his full potential. ■

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 29 Forgiving Oneself BY ELDER D. CHAD RICHARDSON Area Seventy North America Southwest Area

t a recent stake conference, as the devastated. With great power and inspiration, congregation sang the hymn “Praise he expressed his own feelings and those of A to the Man,” I thought about the the entire Church as he penned the hymn composer, William W. Phelps. I was grateful “Praise to the Man.” for his hymns—15 in the current hymn- As we sang that hymn in stake conference, book—and for his love of the gospel and of I was deeply moved by one line in the chorus: the Prophet Joseph Smith. “Traitors and tyrants now fight him in vain.”2 I recalled how, during the trials of How, I wondered, could Brother Phelps speak Missouri, he was reprimanded for misuse of of traitors and tyrants fighting the Prophet Church funds and selling lands contrary to when he himself had been one? Immediately The Lord makes no counsel. As a result, he became very bitter in I realized not only that Brother Phelps was no exceptions when He Far West and turned against the Prophet and longer a traitor but also that he must have declares, “I, the Lord, the Saints. Along with other apostates, W. W. come to no longer see himself as one. The will forgive whom I Phelps was involved in an affidavit against the genuine, complete love and trust he received will forgive, but of Prophet issued in Richmond, Missouri, in from Brother Joseph helped make it possible you it is required to November 1838. After Governor Lilburn W. for him not only to forgive himself but also to forgive all men.” Boggs’s extermination order, the Saints were erase his image of himself as a traitor. This includes driven from Missouri, while the Prophet and forgiving ourselves. his associates were imprisoned for months in We Must Forgive All the terrible winter dungeon of Liberty Jail. Unfortunately, many Latter-day Saints By 1840 W. W. Phelps had experienced today continue to carry the burden of past a profound change of heart and wrote to sins because they refuse to forgive them- the Prophet pleading for forgiveness. In selves. President Howard W. Hunter response, Joseph’s letter concluded with the (1907–95) observed: “It has always struck me couplet “Come on, dear brother, since the as being sad that those among us who would war is past, / For friends at first, are friends not think of reprimanding our neighbor, again at last.”1 Joseph freely forgave Brother much less a total stranger, for mistakes that Phelps and took him back into full fellowship. have been made or weaknesses that might be When Brother Phelps learned that Joseph evident, will nevertheless be cruel and unfor-

and Hyrum had been killed by a mob, he was giving to themselves. When the scriptures say HENRIE CARY BY ILLUSTRATIONS

30 eople trapped in a cycle of sin, self- Pcondemnation, and further sin, tend to become discouraged. In contrast, the Savior beckons us forward with the promise that we can become free from the chains of sin as we fully repent and forgive ourselves. to judge righteously, that means with fairness and compas- to dwell on their transgressions and mistakes, remember- sion and charity. That’s how we must judge ourselves. We ing the details and thus increasing the danger of repeating need to be patient and forgiving of ourselves, just as we them. According to President Boyd K. Packer, Acting must be patient and forgiving of others.”3 President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Apparently, many individuals do not understand the “Preoccupation with unworthy behavior can lead to importance of self-forgiveness in the process of repen- unworthy behavior.”4 tance. The Lord, however, makes no exceptions when He People trapped in this cycle of sin, self-condemnation, declares, “I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but and further sin, tend to become discouraged. Satan also of you it is required to forgive all men” (D&C 64:10; uses discouragement to create addictions. A discouraged emphasis added). This includes forgiving ourselves. individual will be tempted to stop trying or to seek solace Without doubt, Satan uses this refusal to forgive ourselves in more sin. In contrast, the Savior beckons us forward as a means of enslaving us by turning past sins into addic- with the promise that we can become free from the chains tions. He tempts some, for example, to believe that if they of sin as we fully repent and forgive ourselves. make themselves suffer enough, they will not return to the sin. This often leads, however, to self-loathing or self-abuse. Sorrow for Sin Satan tempts others to judge themselves harshly and to Sorrow always follows the recognition of sin. The believe they don’t deserve to be forgiven, even when the destructive form of this sorrow, which often manifests Lord is willing to forgive them. Such individuals continue itself as self-condemnation, is related to what the Apostle

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 31 Paul called “sorrow of the world,” which “worketh death.” Love is a necessary precursor to being able to forgive In contrast, he described a positive form of sorrow, oneself. As we develop an overpowering love of and grati- “godly sorrow,” which “worketh repentance to salvation” tude for Jesus for His willingness to forgive us, we earnestly (2 Corinthians 7:10). A main difference between these desire to come unto Him—to study His life and teachings two forms of sorrow is their source. Worldly sorrow is and act upon them so that we become more like Him. As promoted by Satan. It is the sorrow of being caught, we do that, our own capacity to love grows to the point of not being able to continue sinning, or of turning that we can indeed love and forgive ourselves and others. against oneself with self-loathing or disdain. Godly sorrow, on the other hand, is sorrow given as a Forgetting gift from God to those who are willing to receive it. Godly Forgetting is part of forgiving. But forgiving oneself sorrow leads us to a full recognition of the magnitude of involves a special kind of forgetting. We don’t forget the our sins but with the knowledge that we can become free sin and its effects; rather, the memory ceases to be part of of them. It leads us to fully recognize the wrongs we have how we see ourselves. For example, when Alma had been committed without giving in to the temptation to see our- forgiven of his sins, he said, “I was harrowed up by the selves as worthless or beyond God’s love. memory of my sins no more” (Alma 36:19). The fact that There is no room in godly sorrow for self-contempt. he could describe his repentance to his son Helaman Those who refuse to forgive themselves thus bear a double showed that a memory was still there. But through Christ’s burden of sin, for not only do they carry the sin itself, but Atonement and forgiveness, that memory lost its edge of they also add to it the sin of self-condemnation and refus- guilt and self-recrimination. ing to forgive. Indeed, refusal to forgive is cited in the We must keep sin in its proper perspective. Satan would scriptures as “the greater sin” (D&C 64:9). convince us that we are defined by our sins. He would have had the repentant W. W. Phelps see himself always as a We Are Not Alone traitor. He would convince someone who has stolen that Over the years, as I have counseled with members and he is and always will be a thief. missionaries, I have found that many wonderful, otherwise The Savior, in contrast, would have us understand that faithful Latter-day Saints find it difficult to forgive them- we have sins that need to be cleansed, but we are much selves, even after being told that they must do so. Some more than those stains. If I spill ketchup on my shirt, I have have deep-seated patterns of anger and impatience with a stain. Perhaps it is right in front where everyone can see themselves that are hard to change. it. But while I have a stain, I am not the stain. I need to rec- Fortunately, we are not alone. The Savior, through His ognize that there is a good deal of my shirt that is clean and Atonement, can help us not only to remove the sins but white. I believe that God sees the white shirt—the good- also to forgive ourselves. To receive His help, we need to ness in His children—and offers, through Christ, to remove ask for it. And we need to be willing, given all our mortal the stains. If we obsess about the stain, however, it will limitations and weaknesses, to do all that we can do (see become who we are in our minds and then in our actions. 2 Nephi 25:23). Many years ago I had an experience that helped me President Packer taught: understand the forgetting process. When I was very young, “Save for the exception of the very few who defect to a man with a large, rather startling birthmark on his face perdition, there is no habit, no addiction, no rebellion, no moved into our ward. After some time, this man was called transgression, no apostasy, no crime exempted from the as our bishop, and he served during all my Aaronic promise of complete forgiveness. That is the promise of Priesthood years. He was a wonderful bishop, and the the Atonement of Christ. . . . members of our ward learned to love him dearly. “ . . . Do not give up if at first you fail. . . . Do not give Years later, while I was attending BYU, someone vaguely up. That brilliant morning will come.”5 familiar with the town where I grew up asked me who my

32 bishop was. He didn’t recognize the name I gave and side of the road worrying about his past transgressions. He asked for a description. I described his height, his profes- didn’t have time for that. And neither do we. sion, and many other things about him. The individual asked, “Oh, is he the man with the birthmark on his face?” The Savior Is Key I had to think for a moment and then said, “Yes, I guess he When we turn to our Savior, He can heal us not only of does have a birthmark.” I was surprised at myself, for in my the sin but also of the self-recrimination and the constant mind the birthmark had disappeared. That simply was not mental replaying of our sins or obsessing over them. We an important part of who must turn the sins and he was to me, though I the guilt over to the could still remember it if I Savior in a process of tried. complete repentance. For serious sins we will Forgiveness Does Not need the help of a Mean Excusing Sin bishop or another Forgiving a sin does appropriate priesthood not mean excusing it. leader to complete our When we forgive a sin, repentance. We then we neither say it is OK must let the Savior nor that payment will not judge whether we or be required. Rather, for- He must make final giveness allows us to turn payment for the sin. both the final judgment Finally, we will need of guilt and the full pay- the Savior’s help to feel ment of the debt over to self-acceptance rather the Lord. The Lord tells than self-contempt. us in Doctrine and With the Lord’s help, Covenants 64:11, “Ye hen we turn to our Savior, He can heal us we will experience a ought to say in your not only of the sin but also of the self- change in how we see hearts—let God judge W recrimination and the constant mental ourselves. I believe between me and thee, replaying of our sins or obsessing over them. this is the wonderful and reward thee accord- change that happened ing to thy deeds.” to Brother Phelps. Further, in Doctrine and Covenants 82:23, He says, “Leave Because of his repentance and his willingness to forgive judgment alone with me, for it is mine and I will repay.” himself, he was no longer a traitor. He was able to accom- When we sin or make mistakes, our Heavenly Father plish many great spiritual and civic works following the wants us to quickly resume our journey home with a new Prophet’s death. I believe his accomplishments would and even stronger grip on the iron rod. The repentance of have been highly unlikely had he not, with the help of the Alma the Younger illustrates this principle of moving on. A Prophet and the Lord, fully forgiven himself. Let us learn “wicked and an idolatrous man” (Mosiah 27:8), he was from his example. ■ brought to a realization of his sins, repented, and experi- NOTES 1. See History of the Church, 4:163; see also 141–42. enced a mighty change of heart (see Mosiah 27:11–37). He 2. Hymns, no. 27. chose to take the strait and narrow path, filling his mind 3. The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams (1997), 34. 4. “Little Children,” Ensign, Nov. 1986, 17. and his life with good works rather than remaining at the 5. “The Brilliant Morning of Forgiveness,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 20.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 33 BY STEPHEN L. KNIGHT

With the storm only minutes away, there was nothing we could do physically to save our crop.

n 1974 my wife and I made a decision that dramatically Within an hour it would be directly over our farm. altered our lifestyle. Although neither of us had ever Because I had always lived in the city, I had never looked Ilived on a farm, circumstances offered us the opportu- at a hailstorm as anything more than a novelty of nature. As nity to move from our comfortable city life in Portland, a child I had enjoyed watching as hailstones bounced on Oregon, to a small farm 350 miles away. the ground and settled in the grass, and I remember occa- In October of the following year, I found myself stand- sionally running outside to scoop them up in my hands. ing, for the very first time, on the platform of a combine, The hailstones of my childhood seemed so harmless, but harvesting 140 acres of barley. To the occasional passerby I realized that this day I would not be enjoying them at all. on the nearby highway, there was nothing remarkable I wasn’t experienced as a farmer. As evidence of this, it about that scene. I was simply one of dozens of farmers in wasn’t until that day that I learned I could have purchased that valley who was busily engaged in the annual harvest. crop insurance for protection against such a storm. But now Unknown to those passersby was the unique and sacred it was too late, and I realized that if this fierce hailstorm significance of our harvest and the divine intervention that struck our barley, it could shatter many heads of grain and had made it so plentiful. scatter our family’s only source of income onto the ground. It happened on a day in midsummer. The barley crop was Our farm was a square of land that measured slightly thick and fully grown but still green. The heads of grain were less than one-half mile (about 800 meters) on each side. full and fat. We had recently finished the final irrigation, and There is no physical way to protect such a large expanse. now all that remained before harvest was the ripening that After discussing the situation, my wife and I concluded would turn the fields from green to gold. The skies were that we were facing a major threat to our crop and that cloudy that morning, but not unusually threatening—at least there was nothing we could physically do about it. Prayer not until early afternoon, when the local radio station issued was our only hope. Gathering our little family around a warning that a severe hailstorm was headed our way. us—two sons, ages two and four, and our five-year-old Stepping outside, I looked in the direction of the storm. daughter—we followed the counsel Amulek gave to the The extremely dark and massive nature of the clouds told Zoramites: “Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, me this storm would be a serious threat to our crop. that ye may prosper in them” (Alma 34:24).

34 I’m sure there had been times in our lives when we had Immediately after the dark clouds and noise had moved offered heartfelt prayers—asking Heavenly Father to help on, I drove to the opposite boundary of our property. The us remember what we had studied so we would do well first thing I noticed was my neighbor’s ground, thick with on exams or asking to be led by the Spirit in preparing an hailstones. Parking my truck, I walked from the neighbor’s especially challenging Sunday School lesson. However, on property into our barley, and after taking but a few steps ILLUSTRATION BY DILLEEN MARSH BY ILLUSTRATION those occasions we were asking for His aid in addition to I saw no hail at all. Further inspection confirmed that. With our own preparation. the exception of the extreme fringes of our land, it had not This situation was totally different. Here we were utterly hailed on our crop. It was as if a giant protective canopy helpless. Ours was a desperate plea for His mercy and pro- had been spread above our farm. We were witnesses to the tection. We told Him that this was our first season trying reality of the Lord’s blessings to us and of His hearing and to make a living on this farm; much effort had gone into answering our prayer. preparing the soil, planting the seed, fertilizing and irrigat- Thirty years have passed, but the memory is as vivid as if ing; and now it appeared that a significant portion of our it had happened yesterday. I can never speak of that miracu- annual income could be lost. lous event without a feeling of great reverence. On that day It was a solemn moment when we concluded our we were standing on holy ground. In moments of quiet pon- prayer and stepped out into the calm that preceded the dering, I have come to realize that not only was our grain storm, which by then was only minutes away. saved, but new, sacred seeds were planted in our hearts, The dark wall of hail in the distance was frightening especially in the hearts of our young children. These were enough, but then came the noise. We could almost feel its seeds of testimony, producing the conviction that when we violence, a frightful combination of rattling, rushing, and must face the dark storms of life, there is refuge in our God, beating. When it reached our property line, the intimidat- the Father of us all, who does hear and answer prayers. ing noise was everywhere. In the years since that marvelous day, our family has We kept waiting for the hail, but there was none. learned that our faith increases as we strive to keep the Although we could hear the sounds of violent hail all around commandments, and with that faith we can confidently pro- us, there was none to be seen—no hail, no rain, only noise. claim to God, “I will trust in thee forever” (2 Nephi 4:34). ■

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 35 Faithand

BY ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON would like you to do some personal Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles soul-searching. You are eager and young. I Most of you are students with great We have learned that unshak- ambitions for the future. I want you to think This is excerpted from a able faith in the Lord enriches about yourself, not as you are, but as you may Church Educational System become—50 years from now. Through your fireside address given Feb- married life and love. Faith ruary 6, 2005. Six days imaginary time tunnel, look at yourself as you later, Elder Nelson’s wife, in Him increases one’s very Dantzel White Nelson will be then. Your broad minds and narrow (pictured above with him capacity to love. in 1942 while they were waists have traded places. You are finished college students), died sud- denly in Salt Lake City, with with your careers. Your working days are Elder Nelson at her side. On over—no more time clocks to punch or pay- April 6, 2006, Elder Nelson married Wendy Lee Watson. checks to collect. Are you with me?

36 Now, here are my questions: What do you see in your- Now Sister Nelson’s life has matured. She has taken self 50 years from now? What do you want to be 50 years on a less rigorous role as grandmother of our grand- from now? What do you really want, most of all, 50 years children. We are blessed with 56 grandchildren and 14 from now? great-grandchildren. Those numbers are likely to increase. I think I can hear your minds working. Some of you What is most important to Sister Nelson and me now? might say, “I just want to be alive 50 years from now.” Not That we are husband and wife, wedded for time and all a bad idea. Accidents and illnesses are part of mortality, eternity. Our children are born in the covenant and are which means that some of you won’t be here 50 years sealed to us forever. What joy that knowledge brings! from now. But most of you will. So plan for the rule, not When we married in the temple, we didn’t know many the exception. Some of you see fame or fortune in your scriptures. But we did know Matthew 6:33: “Seek ye first future. And most of you want families. the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added The Lodestar of Our Marriage unto you.” That became the lodestar If Sister Nelson were here, I would for every decision we made together. invite her to stand beside me. As you Only years later did we learn that the know, man is not without the woman Joseph Smith Translation of that verse in the Lord.1 The title of my message was even more compelling and clear: tonight is “Faith and Families.” “Seek not the things of this world but Purposely, I have listed faith first. seek ye first to build up the kingdom That has always been the lodestar for our of God, and to establish his righteousness; married life: to have faith to seek first the and all these things shall be added unto kingdom of God. We have learned that you.”2 We have been guided well by that unshakable faith in the Lord enriches mar- scripture! I have been inspired well by this ried life and love. Faith in Him increases one’s hen we woman of faith who has stood beside me all very capacity to love, both quantitatively and married in these years. Blessings that mean the most to qualitatively. Wthe temple, me have come because of her. More than 50 years ago we were young we didn’t know adults, as you are now. We were both univer- many scriptures. Hold the Line sity students. I was a sophomore premedical But we did know Times have changed in half a century. The student; she was a freshman on a scholarship. Matthew 6:33: world is ailing spiritually. That sickness is rap- We were very much in love. “Seek ye first the idly becoming more rampant. Temptations to My career as a doctor of medicine has now kingdom of God, and sin go way beyond anything we knew at your been completed. All of my many surgical his righteousness; age. You are entering a consumer culture operations have been done. Sister Nelson has and all these things obsessed with materialistic goals. Multitudes had extremely demanding responsibilities as a shall be added unto worship at the shrine of selfishness. Loud mother of 10 children. Our first 9 children you.” That became voices defend the fallacious doctrine that all were all little girls. Our home was like a girls’ the lodestar for lifestyles are of equal value. People want dormitory until our one and only son came every decision we more rights than responsibilities. They seem along. Poor boy! He didn’t know who his real made together. more concerned with entitlement than mother was for his first couple of years. enlightenment. Responsible fatherhood is

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 37 the Lord! If we had placed our education ahead of our family, we would not be so blessed now. Education was a lengthy process for us. Earning two doctor’s degrees took me a long time. Then we struggled through many more years of surgical specialization. I did not send a bill for surgical services until I had been out of medical school for more than 12 years! By then we had five children. But somehow we managed. I pay tribute to Sister Nelson, who never murmured entral to being defined as a weekly visit and financial because she had to make do with very little. I the plan of support. In short, we face a mind-boggling recall an experience one night in downtown Csalvation is the moral inversion. Boston. We were walking along Boylston Atonement of Jesus Against this backdrop of spiritual decay, Street. There we passed a furniture store. Christ. In premortal you young adults of the Church enter the Sister Nelson pressed her nose against the councils He was stage. You have a firm foundation of faith. windowpane and asked, “Do you think we foreordained by His You are role models, both in courtship and will ever be able to afford a lamp?” Father to atone for in marriage. You know what’s right and Brethren, I suggest that you look for a our sins and break what’s wrong! You hold the line! You know companion with long-range vision, like Sister the bands of physical the Lord’s teachings. And you will teach them Nelson. To each sister I suggest that you and spiritual death. to your own children and grandchildren. You motivate your husband to become all he can have far more spiritual power than we did at become, even if it takes a long time. your age. As you go forward on life’s battle- We have tasted of life’s successes and sor- field, you are numbered with “the covenant rows. We have dealt with disappointment, people of the Lord, . . . scattered upon all . . . disease, and death among our children. But the earth; . . . armed with righteousness and death cannot divide families sealed in the with the power of God in great glory.”3 We are temple. That period of separation is only tem- very, very proud of you! porary. Thanks to the Lord’s great plan of As Sister Nelson and I look back, we can happiness, we can all face the future with honestly say that our family and membership great faith and optimism. in the Church are most important to us. How thankful we are that we heeded the counsel Life Is Not a One-Act Play of Church leaders to marry in the temple, to Sister Nelson and I have learned that life is invite children into our family, and to serve not a one-act play. There really is a premortal

38 period. And there really is life after death. Premortal and The Lord teaches that “in order to obtain the highest mortal portions are but preludes to our postmortal [degree of celestial glory], a man must enter into this life. Knowledge of the three degrees of glory, as order of the priesthood [meaning the new and revealed to prophets, gives us a glimpse of our everlasting covenant of marriage]; And if he postmortal potential.4 Eternal life is glorious does not, he cannot obtain it.”14 and well worth the quest. The premortal period has important Satan Wages War against the Family doctrinal underpinnings that fortify Before the world was formed, our faith. Then the everlasting gospel opposition was allowed to come was set in place. Before the founda- from Satan.15 He has always fought tion of the earth, the plan of salvation was prepared.5 against the Savior’s sacred work and will continue It included the glorious possibility of a divine inher- to do so. He has opposed the prophets and the itance for us in the kingdom of God.6 scriptures of the Restoration. And in our day Central to that plan of salvation is the Satan has chosen to wage war directly at the Atonement of Jesus Christ. In premortal heart of God’s plan, which is the family. councils He was foreordained by His Father Signs of his attacks are all about us. The to atone for our sins and break the bands of proportion of mature adults who are mar- physical and spiritual death.7 Jesus declared: ried is declining,16 as are birth rates.17 The “I . . . was prepared from the foundation age at which couples get married is increas- of the world to redeem my people. . . . In pay tribute to GETTY IMAGES BY PHOTOGRAPH ing,18 as are the numbers of unmarried me shall all mankind have life, and that Sister Nelson, who couples.19 Immorality and pornography are eternally, even they who shall believe on I never murmured pervasive and pernicious.20 my name.”8 because she had to With such spiritual sickness all about us, it Also pivotal to God’s plan is the family. In make do with very takes real faith in the Lord and in His gospel fact, a purpose of the plan is to exalt the family. little. I recall an to withstand attacks from the adversary. I The earth was created so that we as premortal experience one night urge you to deny yourselves of all ungodli- spirit children of our Father in Heaven could in downtown Boston. ness, both physical and spiritual.21 Keep a come to the earth and obtain physical bodies. We were walking firm grasp on the iron rod of the gospel! We are here to be tried and tested.9 We are along Boylston Street. Brothers and sisters, before the world was, here to “choose liberty and eternal life . . . or There we passed a the gospel was central to God’s eternal plan. to choose captivity and death.”10 And best of furniture store. Sister It is an everlasting gospel—now restored in all, we are allowed to fall in love, to be mar- Nelson pressed her its fulness.22 With such a foundation, this ried, and to invite children into our families. nose against the Church will not be moved from its place,23 Certain blessings were to be reserved for windowpane and even through the Millennium.24 The gospel of the latter days. The Lord had planned to asked, “Do you think Jesus Christ is a sure foundation upon which reveal “things which have been kept secret we will ever be able we can build our individual faith. from the foundation of the world.”11 Those to afford a lamp?” Such faith will not prevent life’s problems things included revelations as recorded in the but will help when things go wrong. Bad Book of Mormon.12 They also included ordi- things happen to good people. Accidents nances and covenants of the holy temple.13 occur. Some married couples may not be

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 39 the eternal destiny of His children. “All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heav- enly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential character- istic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose. . . . “The first commandment

PHOTOGRAPH BY ELDON K. LINSCHOTEN BY PHOTOGRAPH that God gave to Adam and purpose blessed with children. Some individuals may Eve pertained to their potential for parent- of the plan of not marry in this life, or they may find them- hood as husband and wife. We declare that A salvation is to selves married to one who fails to keep the God’s commandment for His children to exalt the family. The commandments of God. The Lord is aware of multiply and replenish the earth remains in earth was created so these circumstances. He will bestow all the force. We further declare that God has com- that we as premortal blessings that He has in store for His faithful manded that the sacred powers of procre- spirit children of our children—in His own way and in His own ation are to be employed only between man Father in Heaven time.25 Be righteous, be patient, keep an eter- and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and could come to earth nal perspective, and you will be protected.26 wife. and obtain physical Through the years you will note that “We declare the means by which mortal bodies. (Above: Elder apostles and prophets teach the rule. life is created to be divinely appointed. We Nelson and Sister We don’t teach exceptions to the rule. affirm the sanctity of life and of its impor- Dantzel Nelson with Exceptions are left to individual agency tance in God’s eternal plan.” three of their children and accountability. The Lord knows we live Now, dear friends, note this warning: and six of their grand- in an imperfect world. He knows it is “ripen- “Individuals who violate covenants of children in 1982.) ing in iniquity.”27 His judgments will be fair, chastity . . . or who fail to fulfill family respon- just, and merciful. sibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disin- The Proclamation tegration of the family will bring upon indi- A decade ago the First Presidency and the viduals, communities, and nations the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, foreseeing this calamities foretold by ancient and modern spiritual slide, prepared a proclamation to the prophets.”28 world on the family. It is even more relevant If you will heed that proclamation, broth- today. We proclaim “that marriage between a ers and sisters, you will be blessed. God lives man and a woman is ordained of God and that and loves us.29 With His help, we can foster the family is central to the Creator’s plan for our faith and families. We can qualify for this

40 promise from the Lord: “If a man marry a Newsweek/2003/07/02/309790). Pornography is big e proclaim business in the United States, generating a reported wife by my word . . . and by the new and “that $12 billion annually (see www.internetfilterreview. everlasting covenant, and it is sealed unto com/internet-pornography-statistics.html). marriage 21. See Moroni 10:32; Joseph Smith Translation, them by the Holy Spirit of promise, . . . W Matthew 16:26. between a man 22. See Acts 3:20–21. [they] shall inherit thrones, kingdoms, prin- and a woman is 23. See Daniel 2:28, 31–44; D&C 65:2–6; 124:45. cipalities, . . . powers, [and] dominions.”30 24. See Bruce R. McConkie, The Millennial Messiah ordained of God (1982), 672. I testify that your faith and your families 25. See D&C 130:20–21. and that the family 26. See 1 Corinthians 15:19. will bring you great joy, here and hereafter. is central to the 27. D&C 18:6. God lives. Jesus is the Christ. His Church 28. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Creator’s plan for Nov. 1995, 102. has been restored. We are led by His 29. See 1 Nephi 11:16–17. the eternal destiny 30. D&C 132:19. prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley. of His children.” Upon each of you beloved young adults of the Church, I leave my love and blessing. ■ NOTES 1. See 1 Corinthians 11:11. 2. Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 6:38. 3. 1 Nephi 14:14. 4. See 1 Corinthians 15:40–41; D&C 76:50–113; 88:17–32; Joseph Smith Translation, 1 Corinthians 15:40. 5. See 1 Nephi 10:18; Mosiah 15:19; Alma 12:25, 30; 18:39; 22:13–14; 42:26; D&C 76:12–13. 6. See Matthew 25:34; 2 Nephi 9:18; Ether 4:19. 7. See John 17:5, 24; 1 Peter 1:19–20; Mosiah 4:6–7; 18:13; 3 Nephi 26:3–5; D&C 93:7–9; Moses 5:57; Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 5:43; 14:30–31. 8. Ether 3:14. 9. See Abraham 3:24–25. 10. 2 Nephi 2:27. 11. Matthew 13:35. 12. See 2 Nephi 27:10. 13. See D&C 124:40–41. 14. D&C 131:2–3. 15. See Joseph Smith Translation, Revelation 12:6–8. 16. See David Popenoe and Barbara Dafoe Whitehead, The State of Our Unions: The Social Health of Marriage in America (2004), 16–18 (http://marriage. rutgers.edu). 17. See Popenoe and Whitehead, The State of Our Unions, 21–23. 18. See Jason Fields, “America’s Families and Living Arrangements: 2003,” U.S. Census Bureau, Nov. 2004, 12–13 (www.census.gov/prod/2004pubs/p20- 553.pdf). 19. See Popenoe and Whitehead, The State of Our Unions, 20–21. 20. See B. J. Sigesmund, “XXX-ceptable,” Newsweek Web Exclusive, July 2, 2003 (www.keepmedia.com/pubs/ PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG W. DIMOND CRAIG W. BY PHOTOGRAPH

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 41 Coming into the

Fighting to Stay Active in the very back, and I felt angry and upset with my family. My husband stopped going to church a few years after A turning point came on a morning that had been more we were married. And as our three children grew older, chaotic than usual. I was crying as we drove to church. Only they began wanting to stay home with their father on one of the children came with me, and that was because Sundays and do whatever he was doing. One Sunday when she was giving a talk. We were too late to our daughters were 12 and 10 and our son was 5, they wait for the others. As I drove toward decided a football game on television was more appealing the meetinghouse, I determined to them than going to church. I told them that was not an that I would not be going to option and they needed to get ready for church so we church anymore. The wouldn’t be late. fights were just more The children then fell into their typical pattern. They either went into slow motion or did not move at all. I encouraged them to brush their teeth, comb their hair, and get dressed. Often I ended up shouting or crying out of sheer frustration. By the time we made it to church, we were compelled to sit

lthough I was tempted to stop A attending church, I realized how disastrous the consequences of such a decision would be. What hope could there be of my husband and children returning if I stayed home on Sundays too? ILLUSTRATIONS BY GREGG THORKELSON BY ILLUSTRATIONS 42 Regardless of your circumstance, you are included in the fold of God. Following are three stories from members who have experienced both trials of faith and the renewing blessings of membership in Fold the Church.

than I could bear. There would be no more coaxing and I stayed home on Sundays too? So I let our children know begging, no more frantic pleas to hurry, no more embar- that I would be leaving for church at a set time each week rassment from walking into church consistently late. and would be happy for them to come with me. Things When our daughter and I got out of the car and walked didn’t improve immediately, but our children knew inside inside, my mind was made up that this was the last time I where they should be on Sundays, and eventually they would be at church for a long time—at least until our chil- realized they were happier being at church than staying dren were more mature or my husband came back into at home. Today our three children are active, and I am activity. grateful for the experience I had of knowing that I was in When we walked into the chapel, a sister was playing the right place at the right time. I’m grateful for what the the prelude music, a medley of hymns by Eliza R. Snow. Lord taught me to do in my family situation. I’m confident The music was so beautiful that I stopped where I was for that He will guide others in their particular situations. a few seconds to feel the joy of those Charlene Higuera, Utah hymns; they felt like a warm blanket on a chilly evening, wrapped around me My Part-Member Family in comfort and bringing me peace. As As a child, I overheard my bishop say of me, “She’s I stood there for those few seconds, growing up in a part-member family.” I wondered what I knew I was in the right place at that meant, though I had noticed that my father did not the right time. As I sat down, attend meetings with my mother and me. But as I grew the sweet, peaceful feeling of older, my father’s lack of membership in the Church the hymns continued with me. became an emotional stumbling block for me. He wouldn’t I knew Heavenly Father allow me to be baptized when I was eight. Instead he expected me to be right insisted that I wait a year and be taught by the missionar- there in that chapel with ies, even though I had attended church with my mother my ward family each since I was a toddler. This erected a wall between us that week. was cemented by my baptism. I also realized how My father’s attitude toward the Church continued to be disastrous it would be negative, and it affected our family’s daily interactions at for my husband and home. If dinner wasn’t on the table at the appropriate children if I quit hour, it was the Church’s fault. If the gas tank in the car going to church. was empty sooner than he thought it should be, it must be What hope from all our traveling to the church building. If our home could there looked unkempt, it was because my mother spent her time be of my fulfilling her callings instead of tending to the home. “That family church mess,” he named her duties. becoming The perceived lack of support from my father caused active if me to view him in an unfavorable light and to cling more

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 43 After I had offered many prayers, the Holy Ghost prompted me one day to ask Heavenly Father for some- thing specific: that He bless my mind to be able to recall positive, affectionate childhood memories with my father. From the moment I implored Heavenly Father to bless me, the memories came. My father was the person who taught me how to do a headstand on the living room carpet, working with me until I mas- tered it. On rainy, cool nights my father was the one who took my brother and me to the front porch bundled in blankets and told us stories of growing up on his father’s farm. Friday nights were reserved for trips to the farmers’ market, where my ad could no father expertly chose watermelons, peaches, and longer talk, produce that made our mouths water. My father was a but I could D lover of the English language, and he had my brother and talk to him. I said, me face off in impromptu spelling bees. “I love you,” which Recalling these memories changed my perspective. I hadn’t done in Each memory brought warmth to my heart and gave me decades. reason to repent. How wrong I had been to hold my father in such low esteem. Though growing up in my home had fervently to the gospel. Being at church was a breath of not been easy, I came to realize my father had done much fresh air in a life that was gasping for spirituality. My ward more good than I had given him credit for. family was sympathetic to the tumultuous atmosphere in Toward the end of one summer, my siblings and I real- my home and gave me great support. Priesthood leaders ized our father needed more constant care. My husband were on hand to give blessings, and they often visited with and I moved my father in with us, complete with a hospital my father when in our home. He tolerated their visits bet- bed, walker, and wheelchair. I became his practical nurse. ter than he tolerated our Church activity. Our children would fly into the house after school, straight Once I grew up, moved away, and married in the tem- to the bedside of our new resident. Dad could no longer ple, home life for me improved greatly. Life seemed to be speak, so the children just spoke to him. We savored this on course with the gospel plan—except for my relation- time with him. There was no doubt that it was my turn to ship with my father. give something back to him. I said “I love you” to him— Several years after our marriage, my husband and I moved words that I had not uttered in decades. back to my hometown. I managed to keep unpleasant mem- Dad’s days with us were not long. The night he died, ories at bay when in my father’s presence, but I suppressed several of us gathered around his bedside, including some the Holy Spirit’s invitations to show love and honor to him. of our children. The feeling in the room was peaceful, In time my father’s health began to decline. He became quiet, and profoundly spiritual. It occurred to me that not feeble and had a series of strokes that left him partially only had I witnessed the good there was in my father but incapacitated. I pondered my relationship with him. our children had witnessed it as well. Finally, I began to regret the hardness in my heart. I knew The Holy Ghost had shown me that I needed the influ- I could not “reconcile [myself] to the will of God” (2 Nephi ence of positive memories to recognize the truth in the 10:24) until my heart was softened toward my father. words of this hymn:

44 Count your blessings; to become an active Latter-day Saint. I often stopped by Name them one by one. one of their houses “on the way to church” and ended up Count your many blessings; staying through the whole meeting. 1 See what God hath done. During the passing of the sacrament one particular Sunday, I was struggling with my decision to come back to By learning to look beyond my father’s criticism of my the Church. Why was it so difficult for me to let go of my Church activity, I finally came to see the good in him and past? How could I find the strength to go to the bishop learned to love him. and complete the repentance process I had begun? Would Beth Griffin, Georgia I ever really make the changes I wanted so badly to make, or was I just wasting my time? These and many other ques- Coming Back tions raced through my mind. I was desperate to feel good It had been nearly a year from the time I decided to about my decision and yet unable to find peace. change my life and start going back to church. In high As I sat there, I picked up the hymnbook and thumbed school I had made some bad decisions that had led to through the pages. I stopped on page 124 and read the more and more bad decisions, and by the time I was in words, “Be still, my soul: The Lord is on thy side.” 2 I began college, no one would have been able to tell I had been to weep as an overwhelming spirit of peace swept over me. raised in a strong Latter-day Saint family. Finally, in January Each word of the hymn seemed to be written especially of 2001, I decided I had had enough. I wasn’t satisfied, and for me. The Spirit confirmed to me that my life was in the I knew the life I was living was not pleasing to the Lord. I hands of an all-knowing, loving God. I knew that He could broke up with my boyfriend, left all my social contacts help me change and that everything behind, and began going to church. But a year later, I worried about would be fine. I found myself sitting in sacrament meeting in a singles Because of that experience and a ward, wondering if I had made the right decision. similar experience with the scrip- At first, my decision to become active was exciting. I tures, I went to the bishop and began to read the scriptures again and felt the fire of testi- with his help let go of the sins mony rekindle in my life. I began paying my tithing again that had plagued me. My activa- and writing in a journal. My prayers were sincere and often tion in the gospel has emotional. I was glad to feel the changes take place in my truly made my soul heart. However, after a few months I felt that I had still and taught me reached a plateau. I figured it must be the ward I was that the Lord is on attending with my family—there were no people my age. my side.■ I craved the testimony and friendship of my peers, so Kelley Gee, Idaho I decided to attend my local singles NOTES 1. “Count Your ward. Although I felt the strength of Many Blessings,” Hymns, no. 241. the young people’s testimonies, I began to 2. “Be Still, My feel self-conscious about the weakness of my Soul,” Hymns, no. 124. own testimony. hroughout I began coming to church late and leaving early sacrament to avoid talking to anyone, especially the bishop. I meeting, I was was afraid that if he talked to me, he would see that T struggling with my I needed his help. This anxiety led me to come decision to return to back into contact with my former friends. Church activity. Why Although they respected the fact that I was try- was it so difficult to ing to change, being around the temptations let go of my past? I once indulged in did not help my resolve

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 45 BY NORMAN C. HILL AND RICHARD M. ROMNEY Photographs by Richard M. Romney and courtesy of members in affected areas

t was like someone took our entire town and put it in a blender,” says Alfred Trahan, remembering how IHurricane Rita ravaged Cameron, Louisiana, late in 2005. Even though it has been a year and a half since the devastation, Cameron still looks like a war zone. “This was the foundation of our house,” Brother Trahan says on a visit back to Cameron, pointing at a concrete slab. “It’s all that’s left.” It’s a similar story at his mother’s prop- erty, except the shell of her house can still be found—500 yards from its foundation, lodged against some trees. “For a while we salvaged what we could out of the mud,” Brother Trahan explains. “Sometimes what we found amazed us—things like my son’s $5 wristwatch that was still ticking, or the piggy bank that belonged to our daughter’s friend. She lived two blocks away, but the piggy bank ended up in our yard.”

Moving Ahead Like most Latter-day Saints living along the Gulf Coast after Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, the Trahans put fear behind them and moved on, relying on faith that the Lord “The Lord does temper the elements. Yes, we had a lot of people who had damage. But time after time we saw that trees had fallen paral- lel to the houses rather than on the houses. It was scary to think what could have happened if the trees had fallen the other way.” Nelwyn Marion, Texas

Left: The Trahans and their daughter stand on the foundation at his mother's property. Her house lodged against trees or it would have washed away completely. Right: Their son's watch, found in the mud still ticking. Above: Jerry and Nelwyn Marion show what's left of a flag that flew outside their home.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 47 Coast. They are not just survivors; they are people of faith. And there are thou- sands of them, Latter-day Saints storm- ing back from the storms, decidedly optimistic and eager to move forward.

Thriving and Growing Take Johnny W. Ross, for example. President of the Orange Texas Stake, he not only organized and partici- pated in relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Katrina but also guided would help them to recover. “We’ve members of his own stake through learned that even in the toughest Hurricane Rita the next month. And times, Heavenly Father is nearby,” when all of that was done, he had to Sister Trahan says. “And we’ve learned clean up his own property. to be grateful for what we have “I used to have a private place I instead of missing what is gone.” called my secret garden,” he says. Tall For a while the Trahans lived in a trees shaded a little grove where he trailer parked on relatives’ property. liked to sit and think. “Now my secret Now they live in a “fixer-upper” home garden has been revealed,” he laughs, in Lake Charles, a bigger city 35 miles and says the Lord must have decided north, where they plan to stay for a it was time to prune the trees. year or two until they can return to He says that sharing a common “If you live along the Gulf Coast, Cameron, “as soon as a grocery store experience, even a difficult one, helps you must prepare for hurricanes, opens.” build unity in wards and stakes. “In just as if you live along the fault Brother Trahan’s wife, Claire, finds one fell swoop, everybody in this stake lines in California or Utah, you a way to lighten up about all they had something in common,” he must prepare for earthquakes. have endured. Shortly after the hurri- explains. “We all lived through The prophets have warned us. cane, she joked about how easy it was the storm, and we all The question is how well will we to tidy up when the home teachers have a story we can prepare.” Joe Clarke, Louisiana came over. “All you do is wash off the relate to. We think concrete and set out some folding about the tender Opposite page, top: Cheryl and chairs.” More recently, she chuckled mercies of the Lord Bruce Jackson remember the many about a home, family, and personal because we’ve seen LDS volunteer work crews, shown enrichment lesson in Lake Charles. those mercies in our here and on following pages, that “The subject was how to reduce clut- lives.” came to provide relief. ter in your house. That’s really not a Bottom: Johnny W. Ross is rebuilding problem—our clutter is long gone.” Helping Everyone his “secret garden.” In many ways, the Trahans typify There is a similar optimism in Latter-day Saints all over the Gulf Slidell, Louisiana. Bruce Jackson,

48 who joined the Church five years ago, typifies that spirit of saying, ‘Keep your head up; things are going to work out.’ hope. He stands with his wife, Cheryl, inside their jewelry “During one of the darkest times,” he continues, “I shop on Pontchartrain Drive. Even though the store is four asked for a priesthood blessing.” miles from the lake, it was flooded five feet deep with “The next day,” Sister Jackson joins in, “we got up with a water. Brother Jackson is also a former race car driver, and whole different outlook. We went into our home and just the storm surge destroyed his automobile shop and all the started working, working, working.” A Mormon Helping vehicles in it. He also lost his home, the house he built for Hands crew of 12 men came to remove damaged carpet, his disabled mother before she died, and another home flooring, and wallboard. he built for his father. What’s more, the Jacksons lost all The Jacksons explain that it was “phenomenal” to wit- of their clothing and personal belongings, and because the ness such relief efforts. “It was like watching the Church damage was from flooding, it wasn’t covered by insurance. step up and hit a home run,” Brother Jackson says. “It would be easy to just to throw your hands up, walk away, and have a sour attitude,” says Brother Jackson, “But the way I’m looking at it is that I’m blessed to have made it through the storm. My wife and children are safe, and we have each other. And the support from people in the Church has been overwhelming. Ward members kept coming by and community leaders, other churches, and offi- cials from Church headquarters to organize distribution of relief supplies and coordinate assignments for volunteer work crews. He notes that every faith-based group in the city was involved in recovery operations, but the LDS Church effort was especially well organ- ized, arrived quickly, and provided consistent help for months. Thousands of LDS volun- “It isn’t the material “People know we’re LDS,” Sister Jackson teers came from all over the region, some things you lose that you adds. “And even though it’s been quite a while driving hundreds of miles, working all week- miss; it’s the things that since the storm, they still tell us how Helping end, then returning to their homes. bring back pleasant Hands cut up a tree, moved debris, tore out At a city meeting Slidell’s mayor said that memories, like family damaged wallboard, or provided food.” One assistance from Mormon Helping Hands was photos. But with the of their business associates was so impressed like having 5,000 additional city workers, with- comfort of the gospel, she decided to investigate the Church. out the need of additional payroll. The 200 you know that in eter- Mike Dohm is another Latter-day Saint community leaders in attendance “exploded in nity the good things who saw firsthand how Church efforts were applause,” Brother Dohm remembers. “That’s will be restored to you.” appreciated in Slidell. As coordinator of com- how the community feels about us now.” Barbara Baesle, mand center field operations, he and others Bishop Steven Baxter of the Lake Charles Louisiana from the bishops’ storehouse worked with Ward also notes that many churches and

50 volunteer groups helped during the times of crisis. “Latter-day Saints don’t have a corner on charity,” he says. “It’s just that on a Churchwide basis we are so well prepared that we can follow up quickly on our good intentions. People in the community came to us because they knew that we could get things done. The relief effort showed me and all of our neighbors as well that Latter-day Saints are not alone, prepare for 200 Mormon Helping HELP WAS ABUNDANT that during times of distress my broth- Hands coming to assist with cleanup The effort to help victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita was the largest response ers and sisters of the Church will be the week after the storm. “What we ever by the Church to a disaster in the United here for me, and for them.” did first was to find our people. They States. Although the Church is still helping, had scattered everywhere. We went to here is a summary of what has been done. Learning about Faith and Love see if their homes had been washed • Anticipating the need for relief in areas affected by the hurricanes, the Church pre- “Tree Cuttin’ and House Guttin’ ”— away, to find out what their needs positioned truckloads of supplies in staging for months, such handmade signs were.” Her husband, working with a areas nearby. were posted all over the devastated ward address list, helped prepare work • More than 200 truckloads of commodi- town of Waveland, Mississippi. Many orders for every Latter-day Saint. “It ties and relief supplies were delivered for distribution. homes were completely swept away by didn’t matter if they had been coming • Almost five million pounds of food and storm surge. Others were so flooded to church or if we hadn’t seen them in water were contributed. they had to have all the carpet and years. We just wanted to make sure • Volunteers made 40,000 linen sets, plasterboard removed. Many people they were all right.” She says there are 60,000 cleaning kits, 70,000 kitchen kits, 250,000 school kits, and nearly a million lived in government-furnished trailers several members who, because of con- hygiene kits. for months. tacts made following the hurricane, • About 4,000 refugees were temporarily Sitting in the foyer at the Waveland have started coming back to church. housed in 20 Church buildings. Ward building, Terrie Garrett remi- Melanie Cuevas remembers return- • Approximately 10,000 Church members, mostly from the southern states, worked for nisces. “The commercial building next ing to her home in Bay St. Louis, months to clear downed trees and power door had four feet of water inside,” Mississippi, after the evacuation. “We lines, remove mud, tear out damaged wall- she recalls, “but our meetinghouse had heard that our house was still board and carpet, and disinfect homes. had only a foot and a half. It was as if there, but that it was off the founda- Crews came every weekend for three months, until public services could once the Lord put a bubble over the church tion,” she recalls. “We thought maybe again handle the volume of tasks remaining. because He knew we needed it. In the we could move it back and live in it. • Church volunteers provided more than days and weeks after the storm, the We also run a millwork shop. So I was 42,000 man-days. members came here. They put their thinking, even if the house is no names on a bulletin board to say they good, if the shop is there we’ll still be were OK. It was like a refuge to say OK because we’ll have a job and we’ll ‘somebody knows.’ ” be able to get going. But when we got She remembers how ward leaders here, we saw that the house was worked with Church officials to gone, the shop was gone, and all of

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 51 Left: Many survivors painted messages on what remained of their homes. Above: The Cuevas family recalls how priesthood blessings helped.

the equipment was destroyed. We SUGGESTIONS FROM SURVIVORS were homeless, jobless, and all we “Be both spiritually and temporally prepared,” can. “If you wait until everyone else is tak- had was what we had taken with us.” says Charlotte Moore of the Waveland Ward ing money from the bank, it will be empty,” “There’s a time when reality hits,” in Mississippi. “Have food and water in your cautions Melissa Moore of the Williamson says her husband, Donald. “You home, gas up your car, and know when the Third Ward, Orange Texas Stake. understand that you’re alive, you’re storm is coming. Then you’re not struggling • Ward roster or address list. “You might to deal with basic needs, and you can take not think of it first off,” says Keith Crossley, safe, and it’s time to move on. But care of your family and serve others.” Here also of the Williamson Third Ward. “But which way do you move? When we are some other suggestions from those who when we were asked to start checking on prayed about it, we felt that the Lord survived the hurricanes. people’s homes, it came in really handy.” wants us here for a reason, but He • Prescription medication. Evacuation, travel, communication • Flashlight with extra batteries. hasn’t completely told us why. We lost • Take evacuation orders seriously. Leave • Portable, battery-powered radio. pretty much everything we had except as early as you can. • Waterproof matches. • Travel in caravans. “It may slow you our seven children. But the answer to • Fire extinguisher. down a little, but there’s security in know- our prayers has been clear— that • First aid kit and instruction book. ing you’re in a group,” says President • Blankets and sheets. we’re supposed to stay here. So we’re Johnny Ross of the Orange Texas Stake. • Duct tape. At evacuation centers, duct tape here, and we’re going to rebuild.” • Be aware of gridlock. Highways may be came in handy for making labels and signs. tied up with evacuating traffic. Leave early Sister Cuevas remembers the • Change of clothes. to avoid it. Back roads may be open when power of priesthood blessings. “I was • Adequate supply of food and water. major interstates are clogged. • Coloring books and crayons. These will so unsure about what to do,” she • Contact your home teacher or other give your children something to do during says. “But my husband gave me a priesthood leaders, and let them know your long hours of waiting. plans. When you get to an evacuation cen- blessing, and then the bishop gave • Favorite games, toys, and books. ter, check in and let them know where you him a blessing. I’ve never been more • Consecrated oil. are headed. • Scriptures. grateful for the priesthood in all my Evacuation centers For those who stay and those life. After that, my mind became clear. • Know where you can go ahead of time. DESERET MORNING NEWS who return I was calm and realized what we had If possible, have a plan to stay with family • Turn off gas and electricity. to do. I knew it was going to be a long or friends. • Don’t open doors or windows during a Emergency supplies storm. The change in pressure may cause road with lots of hard work. But I was • Gasoline. If you know a disaster is on destruction. at peace, and I knew we were going the way, keep your gas tank full and have • Beware of downed power lines. To to be OK.” extra gas containers filled well in advance. avoid electrical shock, treat every power Today, the Cuevas family, like the • Extension cords. line as if it is live. • Cash. Get it out of the bank in advance, • Take as many belongings as possible Trahan family and thousands of other

or keep a small emergency supply if you off the floor, or move them to a higher floor. Latter-day Saints across the Gulf Coast, COURTESY OF ALLRED, JEFFREY D. BY PHOTOGRAPH

52 WHAT ABOUT MY NEIGHBOR? support joint planning, joint preparation, Hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and and joint arrangements,” he says. other natural disasters are community According to Cheryl Driggs, Houston area hardships, not just individual misfortunes. LDS preparedness specialist, Church mem- Like Joseph of old, who directed food bers have taken to heart the counsel that storage plans that included enough grain sharing ideas and plans is truly following the not only for Pharaoh’s household but also Savior’s counsel to love our neighbors. “It’s for Egypt and her neighbors, members of easier to work together than to work alone,” the Houston Texas (Spanish) Stake are she says, explaining that the idea “isn’t to do involving their neighbors in emergency something for their neighbors but to do something along with their neighbors.” “By working together, we’re rebuild- planning. As they prepare their own emergency The Houston Spanish stake’s plan is ing our homes and communities. kits and food storage plans, stake members based on principles represented in the Through our combined efforts, the are asked to include friends and neighbors good Samaritan story. “It involves making Church is literally coming out of in their efforts, and as they develop emer- plans together with trusted friends who live close enough to encourage each other to obscurity. It’s like we have lifted a gency response plans, they are encouraged to develop them together with the rest of the buy something extra each visit to the gro- lantern in a darkened area, and community. The stake has prepared a cery store, perhaps share costs on expen- not only can we see farther our- Spanish-language brochure that can easily sive preparedness items, and look out for selves but others also see and are be shared with neighbors, but members are each other in the event of an emergency. It’s helping ourselves as well as sharing attracted by our elevated light.” committed to go beyond just handing out a brochure, explains Mario Salcedo, stake what we know in a way that also helps our Kim Crossley with her family, Texas preparedness specialist. “Instead, we neighbors,” Brother Salcedo concludes.

is moving forward with faith. They are Even though the rebuilding a house and rebuilding devastation was their lives. They continue to pray, to enormous, members believe, and to live the gospel of Jesus all over the Gulf Christ. They are storming back from Coast are rebounding adversity, sure in the knowledge that and rebuilding, both even when the hurricane rages, they on their own and with are in the hands of the Lord. ■ help from others.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 53 LESSONS FROM THE

NEW TESTAMENT “My Burden Is Light”

ELDER PAUL V. JOHNSON health, Aaron’s mother spent nights in the Of the Seventy hospital with the little girls. Lorraine would ne of the Savior’s most comforting make her way to the hospital whenever her promises is found in Matthew intense nausea abated. It all seemed impossi- O11:28–30: ble to handle. The little girls needed the com- “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are fort of their mother, and she was unable to be heavy laden, and I will give you rest. there at all times. The sorrow and guilt she “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; felt only added to the heavy burden of coping for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall with the new changes in her family’s lives. find rest unto your souls. Around noon one day she dragged her- Each of us has access “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is self to her car, sick, exhausted, and full of anxi- to the power of the light.” ety. As she headed toward the hospital, she Atonement to help us The Thatcher family felt the comfort of turned on some soothing music and listened through difficult that promise during a particularly difficult to the words of her favorite hymn—a hymn times and to bring time. that had comforted her in the past when her peace and joy into During October 2003, Aaron and Lorraine mother had died. As the music surrounded our lives. Thatcher’s two little daughters, 17-month-old her, it was as if the Lord were speaking the Kaitlin and 6-month-old Madelyn, were diag- penetrating words directly to her mind and nosed with cystic fibrosis. Shortly before the heart: unexpected diagnosis, Aaron had to be hospi- Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not talized with kidney stones. Lorraine, mean- dismayed, while, was expecting their third child and was For I am thy God and will still give thee battling morning sickness. It was a heavy, dark aid. time for the little family. Lorraine commented, I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause “It was as if all our hopes and dreams for our thee to stand, . . . children had been stolen away.” Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent Because of Aaron’s and Lorraine’s poor hand.

54 When through the deep waters I call thee to go, The rivers of sorrow shall not thee o’erflow, For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless, . . . And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie, My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply. The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design . . . Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine. . . .

The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose

BY JAMES TAYLOR HARWOOD, COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM HARWOOD, JAMES TAYLOR BY I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes; That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake, . . . I’ll never, no never, no never forsake! OF CHURCH HISTORY AND ART; INSET ILLUSTRATION BY JARED BARNES BY INSET ILLUSTRATION AND ART; OF CHURCH HISTORY COME FOLLOW ME, COME FOLLOW (“How Firm a Foundation,” Hymns, no. 85)

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 55 A short time later, Many people can tes- Aaron and Lorraine tify that the Lord has brought their daughters given them strength to home. Relief Society sis- “bear up their burdens ters had cleaned the with ease.” We all have house, done the wash, During the Last Supper the Savior told His disciples, “Peace met people who are and filled the kitchen with I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world happy even though they

food. Aaron and Lorraine giveth, give I unto you.” face tremendous hard- AND ART RANE, COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM CHURCH HISTORY WALTER BY felt the peacefulness of ships. By coming unto the the clean home as they Savior, they have found entered. His promised peace. A package had been HELPS FOR HOME EVENING The Apostle Paul suf- WITH YOU, PEACE I LEAVE left on their doorstep. fered with an unnamed Most Ensign articles can be used for family home evening discus- Opening it, they found a problem he described sions, personal reflection, or teaching the gospel in a variety of settings. beautifully framed picture as “a thorn in the flesh” 1. To illustrate how others can help lighten burdens, have everyone of the Savior. Typed and (2 Corinthians 12:7). help fold the clothes in a basket of clean laundry. Point out how mounted with the picture This infirmity was not quickly the task was accomplished with everyone’s help. Discuss how were the words to the taken away even after Sister Thatcher’s burdens were lightened. Challenge the family mem- hymn that had been such a he petitioned the Lord, bers to look for opportunities to help others. direct, personal message of but his faith is manifest 2. Read Matthew 11:28–30. Ask, “What is Christ’s yoke?” List some peace to Lorraine. A sister in his declaration: of the burdens we may carry. How can taking Christ’s yoke upon us make in the ward, thinking the “For this thing I these burdens lighter? Memorize the scripture as a family by writing the message was appropriate besought the Lord first letter of each word of the verses. Point to the letters as you repeat each for this little family, had thrice, that it might corresponding word until the family can recite the passage without looking. thoughtfully made the gift. depart from me. She had no idea that these “And he said unto me, words had special meaning to Lorraine. Lorraine felt the My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made per- Spirit gently confirm that the Lord loved her, was aware of fect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in her, and would help lift her burdens. my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Each of us faces challenging trials at times in our lives. “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in Each of us also has access to the power of the Atonement necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for to help us through difficult times and to bring peace and when I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians 12:8–10). joy into our lives. Sometimes the help comes by removal of During the Last Supper the Savior told His disciples, the burden. Many times the promised rest and peace come “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as into our lives even though the burden is still present. the world giveth, give I unto you” (John 14:27). The peace At one point in the Book of Mormon, the people of and joy found through the Savior and the Atonement is Alma were in bondage and afflicted with heavy burdens. individual and personal. It can be difficult to describe to Because of their faith in the Lord, “the burdens which were others, but it is powerful and life changing. The Apostle laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Paul describes it as “the peace of God, which passeth all Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their understanding” (Philippians 4:7). This peace is available to burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with each of us, whatever our burdens, if we will make the patience to all the will of the Lord” (Mosiah 24:15). choice to come unto Him. ■

56 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE

How Can the Spirit Magnify Me to Be an Instrument in the Lord’s Hands? Become an Instrument in the Hands Eliza R. Snow (1804–87), former of God by Listening to and Following Relief Society general president: “When you are filled with the Spirit the Promptings of the Spirit of God, . . . that [Spirit] satisfies and fills up every longing of the human Prayerfully select and President Boyd K. Packer, Acting heart, and fills up every vacuum. read from this mes- President of the Quorum of the When I am filled with that spirit my sage the scriptures Twelve Apostles: “Put difficult ques- soul is satisfied. . . . The Spirit of God and teachings that tions in the back of your will impart instruction to your minds, meet the needs of the sisters you minds and go about and you will impart it to each other. . . . visit. Share your experiences your lives. Ponder Remember that you are Saints of and testimony. Invite those and pray quietly God; and that you have important you teach to do the same. and persistently works to perform in Zion” (Woman’s about them. The Exponent, Sept. 15, 1873, 62). How Can I Feel the answer may not Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Promptings of the Spirit? come as a lightning Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: D&C 8:2: “I will tell you bolt. It may come as a “Women . . . who can hear the voice of in your mind and in your little inspiration here the Lord, and who respond to those heart, by the Holy Ghost, and a little there, ‘line promptings, become invaluable instru- which shall come upon you upon line, precept upon pre- ments in His hands. . . . Never doubt and which shall dwell in your cept’ (D&C 98:12). Some that your influence is absolutely vital heart.” answers will come from read- to preserving the family and to assist- Elder Robert D. ing the scriptures, some ing with the growth and spiritual Hales of the from hearing speakers. vitality of the Church” (“Women of Quorum of the And, occasionally, when Righteousness,” Liahona, Dec. 2002, Twelve Apostles: it is important, some will 42; Ensign, Apr. 2002, 72). “The Spirit of God come by very direct and power- Bonnie D. Parkin, . . . will be as soft as ful inspiration” (“Prayers and Relief Society general a whisper, coming Answers,” Ensign, Nov. 1979, 21). president: “If we as a thought to our minds or a feeling Elder Henry B. Eyring of the Quorum are in tune with in our hearts. . . . Choose to put your- of the Twelve Apostles: “Write down the Spirit, if we are self in a position to have experiences impressions or thoughts that you feel seeking the Lord and His with the Spirit of God through prayer, came from God. . . . Think carefully guidance, if our direction is to in scripture study, at Church meetings, about whether the truth you received return to our Father in Heaven, in your home, and through wholesome requires action. It is by obedience to the sweet moments will come. And interactions with others” (“To Act for commandments that we qualify for we will treasure them, for we have Ourselves: The Gift and Blessings of further revelation of truth and light” become instruments in the hands of Agency,” Liahona and Ensign, May (“A Life Founded in Light and Truth,” God” (“Sweet Moments,” Liahona 2006, 7). Ensign, July 2001, 13). and Ensign, Nov. 2005, 108). ■ PHOTOGRAPHS BY CRAIG DIMOND, EXCEPT AS NOTED; PHOTOGRAPH OF FAMILY BY MATTHEW REIER, POSED BY MODELS; BORDER © ARTBEATS REIER, POSED BY MATTHEW BY OF FAMILY PHOTOGRAPH AS NOTED; EXCEPT CRAIG DIMOND, BY PHOTOGRAPHS ENSIGN MARCH 2007 57 QUESTIONS& ANSWERS

I have difficulty distinguishing between promptings your own experience to distinguish of the Spirit and my own personal feelings. How can the impressions of the Spirit. Alma I tell the difference? taught this same principle relating to faith, inviting listeners to “experiment upon [his] words” (Alma 32:27). Here are several questions I ask to Thirty years after being instructed help make the determination: by President Lee, I went to a meeting Is the prompting an answer to for stake presidencies where we were prayer? Sometimes an impression will taught by General Authorities. The come after I have been praying and presiding authority called on mem- pondering over a particular issue for bers to share an experience in which some time. they had been led by the Spirit. Does the prompting help me Among men of much experience,

BY WILSON JAY ONG WILSON JAY BY accomplish my righteous desires and one ventured to say that many times

ELIJAH, goals? When my heart has a desire the he wasn’t completely sure whether The Lord speaks to Elijah. Lord approves of, He frequently will an impression was inspired until From an experience of the assist me in accomplishing that desire. afterward when he saw the outcome. prophet Elijah, we learn how the If I follow this prompting, what The presiding authority replied, Spirit most often speaks to us: “The will happen? I visualize myself follow- “Would you feel better if you knew Lord was not in the wind: and after ing the prompting and experiencing it’s that way much of the time?” the wind an earthquake; but the Lord the results. If this process leaves me I was immediately taken back to was not in the earthquake: And after feeling dark and cold, I choose not to that day 30 years before when we were the earthquake a fire; but the Lord follow. If the feelings are light and taught that we must act and learn from was not in the fire: and after the fire a warm, I move forward. our own experience. Following this still small voice” (1 Kings 19:11–12). Denise W. Anderson, North Dakota instruction has yielded some of the The Spirit speaks in such a still, small When I was a new missionary, choicest experiences of my life. voice that it might be unrecognized if President Harold B. Lee (1899–1973) Reese Carter, Utah one is not spiritually in tune. taught that we must have the courage The majority of my answers to Through sincere prayer, we can to act on promptings and then prayers have come as I have followed ask Heavenly Father to give us the observe the fruit of those actions. this process: studying out the issue in ability to recognize the sweet In other words, if a sudden thought my mind (see D&C 9:8–9), making promptings of the Spirit and the comes and it is a good thought, act the decision that best follows what I courage to follow that guidance. on it and then observe the outcome. know to be right, and then going for- Tinubi Oluwasegun Babatunde, Nigeria In this way you begin to learn from ward with what I have decided even if

58 I don’t seem to get an answer from comes from the Lord. If the two are feelings. This way you learn what the the Lord. Then, as I act on my deci- not in harmony and I am confused, Spirit feels like, as it can be different sion, I feel comfortable and at peace, I know I may need to step back, take for you than for someone else. and I may even feel a strong burning some time, reconsider the options, As you learn to recognize this feel- in my bosom later on. and modify the decision. ing, the second step is putting yourself Melissa Camille Clayton, Pennsylvania Crystal Ward, Utah in a place where you can receive reve- The only thing we truly have to This method works for me and is lation. This is why regular, meaningful give to Heavenly Father is our will. helping me teach my children to rec- prayer and scripture study are so He wants to bless us, but He wants us ognize promptings: vital—they keep us centered in a place to learn accountability and responsi- When you are in a situation where where we can feel the Spirit. Doing bility. As we choose to turn our mind, you are positive that the Spirit is pres- these things every day and living body, heart, and spirit to Him, we ent—such as a testimony righteously are how we tune our souls to receive better spiri- meeting, during a musical can maintain contact tual reception. number, after receiving with the Holy Ghost CRAIG DIMOND BY PHOTOGRAPH Many of the decisions we make a blessing, and so on— at all times. have minimal eternal impact and are take note of how you Lesli Dustin, California between two or more good options. feel. Write down When it’s not clear whether a prompt- your thoughts and ing is from personal feelings or the Spirit, I take comfort in the fact that Regular, meaningful Heavenly Father gave me resources to prayer and scripture make decisions: a mind, good parents study keep us and friends, and talents. As long as my centered in a place choice allows me to better serve oth- where we can feel ers, brings me closer to God, and the Spirit. allows me to be happy, I am certain He is pleased. He has said, “It is not meet that I should command in all things” (D&C 58:26). He wants us to use our agency to do good. We will not stray if we are truly seeking His righteousness. Christopher K. Cox, Utah When making important decisions I use the test given in Doctrine and Covenants 8:2 as my guide: “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost.” If a prompting makes sense in my mind and feels good in my heart, I can have

confidence that it is right and HENRIK ALS BY PHOTOGRAPH

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 59 QUESTIONS& ANSWERS

Sometimes we want so much to • The thought increases your further instruction from the Spirit be guided by the Spirit that we forget awareness of a situation so you can because I have diligently strived to the Lord will not make our decisions make a good decision. heed the promptings I have already for us. At times I have been almost • An insistent righteous thought been given. paralyzed worrying about whether seems to come back after you have Meaghan James, Washington what I feel is “the Spirit.” Regardless dismissed it. One way I have learned to recognize of where a thought comes from, it is • The thought prompts you to act promptings is by keeping a daily jour- up to me to use my agency responsi- in a more logical way, even if you nal and recording spiritual thoughts. I bly in considering my resources and don’t see anything wrong with your identify the specific feeling or thought choosing the best course. current way. and write down what I think it means Sometimes we need to use our I will probably never know whether and what I should do about it. If it is an faith to make the best decision we some of the thoughts I have acted on answer to a specific question I have can, effectively taking a step into the were promptings, but I do not mind. asked, I record that and the fact that I darkness, asking the Lord to bless Sometimes the promptings we get are feel it is the answer. Then I act upon it and protect us. Through repeated to benefit other people, and we do when the opportunity is presented. It experiences like these, we come to not see the can be moments, days, or years later better recognize the whisperings of fruits of our when I see the outcome. I record that the Holy Ghost. actions. spiritual verification also. Jonathon English, Tennessee However, I With this practice I am able to rec- I have found that if a thought has find content- ognize new inspiration more readily. one or more of the following charac- ment and Donna K. Maxwell, Utah teristics, it has a high probability of comfort in Each week while being a prompting. Then I act on it, knowing that partaking of as long as it is safe and I will the sacra- righteous. receive ment, we

Each week while partaking of the sacrament, we are taught that if we take upon us the name of Christ, always remember Him, and keep His commandments, we will have His Spirit to be with us. PHOTOGRAPH BY RUTH SCHONWAL BY PHOTOGRAPH

60 QUESTIONS& ANSWERS

are taught that if we take upon us the Heavenly Father wants us to know HUMILITY PRECEDES name of Christ, always remember Him, Him. We come to know Him by seek- INSPIRATION and keep His commandments, we will ing His voice among all the voices “Each of us is have His Spirit to be with us (see clamoring for our attention and then influenced Moroni 4–5). By entering this covenant, by choosing that voice above all others. strongly by our we can step forward in faith with the I have made many mistakes in try- own desires assurance that our righteous feelings ing to learn discernment. Mistakes and preferences. and actions become “one” with the occur in the course of practicing a We may even desires of Heavenly Father and Jesus skill; they show us our weaknesses so mistake these influences as the Christ. Instead of worrying about we can be humble and teachable. ratification or prompting of the where a prompting originates, we can This is a lifelong endeavor, but Holy Ghost. It is therefore signifi- listen and act for righteousness’ sake. that does not mean we have to wait cant when we feel prompted to Sheran K. Milius, Colorado an entire lifetime to succeed. If we do something contrary to our Here are some distinguishing char- are prepared when we knock, the personal preference. That is acteristics of spiritual promptings: door will be opened. I believe our good evidence of authenticity. Consistency. Spiritual promptings Heavenly Father is so desirous of hav- Conversely, a feeling that seems are consistent with gospel principles. ing us return to His presence that He to confirm a person in some Doctrine and Covenants 11:12 will make use of every opportunity action he or she strongly desires teaches, “Put your trust in that Spirit we give Him—“even if [we] can no should be received with caution which leadeth to do good—yea, to more than desire” to receive His and subjected to more than one do justly, to walk humbly, to judge direction (Alma 32:27). It generally test of validity. In that circum- righteously; and this is my Spirit.” begins with small and simple things. stance a person could well ask Clarity. We learn in 1 Corinthians Kiersten Olson, Utah himself, ‘Am I humbly submitting 14:33 that “God is not the author of myself to the will of my Heavenly confusion.” Instead, like the good SHARE YOUR IDEAS Father and asking for his guid- seed described by Alma, the good An upcoming Q&A feature will ance, or am I proudly submitting word of God can “enlighten [our] focus on the following question: my will to my Heavenly Father understanding” (Alma 32:28). With all the difficulty in the world, and asking for his approval?’ Remembrance. Once during a I often find myself feeling anxious and Humility is more likely to receive period of concern, I knelt in prayer. worried. How can I find peace during inspiration; pride is more likely As I prayed, a relevant passage from troubled times? to be deceived and fall.” my patriarchal blessing came immedi- If you’d like to contribute your Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum ately into my remembrance. At other of the Twelve Apostles, “I Have a ideas and experiences, please label times of need, relevant scriptures Question,” Ensign, June 1983, 27. them “finding peace” and follow the have come to mind, offering much- submission guidelines under “Do You needed guidance. than from God?” Peace is another Have a Story to Tell?” in the contents Peace. Doctrine and Covenants sign of the Holy Ghost. pages at the beginning of the maga- 6:23 teaches, “Did I not speak peace Krista Oakes, Texas zine. Please limit responses to 500 to your mind concerning the matter? There is more to this process than words, and submit them by April 13. What greater witness can you have simply figuring out the right answers.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 61 BY DONALD B. DOTY, M.D. Chairman, Missionary Department Health Services

Physical and mental preparation should begin at least two years before a full-time mission.

uring 35 years of practice as a car- diovascular and thoracic surgeon, I Dperformed thousands of operations on the heart. After cardiac surgery, patients would often ask me how they could prevent future surgery. And even if they didn’t ask, I felt obligated to advise them anyway. I would talk to them about the importance of a healthy diet, appro- priate weight, aerobic exercise, adequate rest, and stress reduction. Those who acted on my advice were generally blessed with years of comfortable living. Many of those who lacked the resolve to make the necessary lifestyle changes had to face the surgical knife again—often sooner rather than later.

MISSIONARY PHOTOGRAPHS BY GETTY IMAGES, EXCEPT AS NOTED EXCEPT GETTY IMAGES, BY PHOTOGRAPHS PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT CASEY BY PHOTOGRAPH 62 Health Starting Now following information to help young people who are pre- Preventive measures are also essential for young adults paring to become missionaries reduce the likelihood of who are preparing to serve missions. Today about 3 per- developing these health problems. cent of missionaries have their missions shortened by Fortunately, many of the health problems that mission- either physical or mental health problems. Losing three aries encounter are preventable with proper preparation. out of 100 missionaries may not seem like very many. But Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apos- to the individual and his or her family, having a mission cut tles stated, “The single most important thing you can do to short is significant. prepare for a call to serve is to become a missionary long For more than a year, I have served in a calling in which before you go on a mission.”1 I observe the health problems missionaries encounter. Based I recommend that health preparation begin at least two on my experiences in this assignment, I would offer the years in advance of the anticipated missionary service.

any of the health problems that Mmissionaries encounter are preventable with proper preparation.

PreparationENSIGN MARCH 2007 63 Prospective missionaries can prepare for the rigors of ather than living on missionary life by establishing sugar and fat, young a regular pattern of aerobic R people should learn exercise—walking, running, to enjoy meals consisting or cycling for one hour every of protein and fiber, such day. Those whose primary as lean meat, yogurt, form of exercise is playing vegetables, and fruit. electronic games or text mes- saging will take at least four months to achieve the level of conditioning that will allow Those who wait to prepare until the last minute or until them to actually enjoy a workout. after they have received the call to serve may not be ready Adequate sleep. Although sleep needs vary, young and may even have their missions delayed. adults generally need to sleep seven to eight hours per day. Physical health preparation usually includes a routine Ideally, they should be in bed by 10:30 to midnight and out office consultation with a medical doctor and a dentist. of bed by 6:30 to 8:00 a.m. Staying up until 2:00 or 3:00 a.m. In some cases, mental health preparation may require and sleeping until 10:00 a.m. leaves a person feeling tired evaluation by a mental health professional. all the time and wanting to sleep until noon. Staying up all night to cram for examinations, playing video games most Physical Health Preparation of the night, or working a graveyard shift can be detrimen- Regular (daily) exercise. A missionary must be able to tal because keeping late hours resets the body’s clock. walk an average of six miles (10 km) per day and ride a Missionaries live a scheduled life. They are in bed by 10:30 bicycle 12 miles (19 km) per day. Prospective missionaries p.m. and up by 6:30 a.m. every day. This schedule will be who aren’t walking more than from the car to a class or a difficult unless prospective missionaries get into a similar job will likely get sore feet and blisters when they reach the routine well in advance of the call to service. mission field. Those who are not used to riding a bicycle Healthy eating habits. Rather than living on sugar and regularly will also become very “saddle sore” when a bike fat, young people should learn to enjoy meals consisting becomes their primary means of transportation. A mission- of protein and fiber, such as lean meat, yogurt, vegetables, ary who is out of shape will be fatigued by missionary work, and fruit. Also, drinking more than 12 ounces of carbon- and a tired missionary is more open to discouragement and ated beverage per day is too much. health concerns than a missionary who is physically fit. The Missionary Department requires that missionaries

rospective mission- aries can prepare Pfor the rigors of missionary life by establishing a regular pattern of aerobic exercise. Missionaries live a scheduled life. They are in bed by 10:30 p.m. and up by 6:30 a.m. every day. PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT CASEY BY PHOTOGRAPH 64 have a body mass index no higher than 37. This is service and that can be difficult to evaluate and treat in actually on the border between obesity and morbid the field. Occasional stomach and bowel problems may obesity. Prospective missionaries should strive to keep also become chronic during missionary service. Heart their weight in the normal range, thereby avoiding problems and breathing problems such as asthma should obesity-related health problems. Being markedly under be thoroughly evaluated before missionaries begin service. normal weight can also have serious health consequences. With proper treatment, many health problems become Meal preparation skills. Parents can help their controllable, making missionary service possible if sons and daughters learn how to prepare sim- treatment continues throughout the mission. ple, healthy meals. I stress the word simple Bone and joint problems resulting from because missionaries often cook food injury may require surgery. Orthopedic on a hot plate or a single gas procedures, even arthroscopic burner and may not have an operations, usually entail lengthy oven. Every prospective periods of rehabilitation. missionary needs to Prospective missionaries know the basics of must obtain appropriate cooking and sanitary arents can help their orthopedic care well in food handling. Since sons and daughters advance (four to six dishwashers are rarely Plearn how to prepare months) of entering found in missionary simple, healthy meals. Every missionary service. A living quarters, it is prospective missionary needs young man or woman also important to to know the basics of cooking who arrives at the MTC know how to clean up and sanitary food handling. on crutches two weeks after meals with hot after knee surgery will not water and dish soap. be able to walk the distance Personal hygiene. required in the mission field. Personal cleanliness and good Immunizations. Those grooming habits are vital to mis- preparing to serve missions should sionary success. Favorable first impres- obtain all available routine vaccinations sions are lasting. Clean hands also help and booster injections at appropriate ages. missionaries stay healthy and prevent the Well before beginning their missionary service, spread of communicable diseases. they should also receive any special immuniza- Skin problems. Acne is a common teenage prob- tions required for the particular country where lem. Those with a severe acne problem should get help they will serve. from a medical doctor well before entering the Missionary The advantages of immunization overwhelmingly Training Center. Some acne medicines require monitoring exceed the minuscule risks of receiving vaccines. Im- over time and are not used in the mission field. munization renders an individual resistant to disease Dental health. Prevention is the key to good dental for varying time periods. Maintaining immunity may health. This means a habit of brushing teeth at least morn- require a booster injection. ing and night, daily use of dental floss, and consistent visits to your dentist. Any required dental repair should be fin- Mental Health Preparation ished before the missionary recommendation is submit- All people have moments of sadness, anxiety, and dis- ted. Orthodontic treatment—which often takes two years couragement. This is normal, especially at times of loss or more—must be completed before arrival at the MTC. and grief. However, any emotional difficulty that interferes Chronic health issues. Headaches are a common, diffi- with normal daily functioning needs to be dealt with cult health problem that may worsen during missionary before missionary service begins.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 65 Learning disorders. Because rospective the ability to learn and teach is missionaries the essence of missionary work, Pshould strive learning problems such as to keep their weight attention deficit disorder (ADD) in the normal range, can impair missionary success. thereby avoiding However, evaluation and treat- obesity-related health ment of learning disorders may problems. improve learning ability consid- erably. Some learning disorders may not be compatible with missionary life. Parents and Any unresolved sins can affect both the mental and prospective missionaries should prayerfully counsel with physical health of individuals. These should be resolved their bishop and professionals on the viability of serving a through full repentance as potential missionaries meet with full-time proselyting mission. their bishops before receiving a call. But once this is done, Eating disorders. Because people can use food to com- there still may be other conditions needing treatment. fort themselves and relieve feelings of depression or anxiety, Mood disorders. Those who suffer from chronic or eating can become an addiction leading to obesity. On the recurring feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety, or fear other hand, social pressure to be lean or even underweight should be evaluated by a doctor or mental health coun- can lead to anorexia nervosa or bulimia, both of which cre- selor. Mood swings, especially when they involve temper ate serious health risks. These disorders will not resolve and anger, should also be evaluated. Treatment, including themselves during a mission. Because they are so difficult to counseling or medication or both, often reduces or relieves treat, they may not be compatible with missionary service. mood disorders, making missionary service possible. Homesickness. While mild homesickness is a normal part Abnormal thought patterns. Excessive worry and of the mission experience, leaving parents and siblings can guilt can seriously impair a missionary’s ability to serve. cause anxiety so intense that it interferes with the ability to Perfectionism, which is a consuming need to be perfect, sleep or eat. Rapid weight loss is common among missionar- can also become a crippling mental health issue. Recurring ies with severe separation anxiety. To prevent these prob- painful thoughts and repetitive behaviors such as excessive lems, prospective missionaries should become comfortable hand washing are signs of obsessive-compulsive thought dis- being away from home. Extended camping trips or living in a order. Counseling with a doctor or mental health professional dormitory at school can reveal any tendency for severe sepa- can often effectively treat these abnormal thought patterns. ration anxiety. Those who do have problems functioning

regular job teaches such habits as A getting to work on time, not missing work unnecessarily, doing assigned tasks well, looking for more work when the assigned task is completed, and not going home early. A job also helps young people understand the value of money.

66 when they are away from home should seek treatment from individuals who desire to serve but do not qualify for the a doctor or mental health professional. physical, mental, or emotional challenges of a mission. We Social skills. Missionary work involves meeting and con- ask stake presidents and bishops to express love and appre- versing with people of all ages and speaking before groups. ciation to these individuals and to honorably excuse them Prospective missionaries should become comfortable talk- from full-time missionary labors.”2 In such cases, service mis- ing to older people. They should practice being respectful sions can be a great blessing, allowing individuals to live at and courteous, using proper table manners, and observing home and receive appropriate medical care while growing other social courtesies. Missionaries are also required to and maturing in the service of the Lord. Parents, bishops, approach strangers and strike up a conversation. Therefore, and stake presidents can help in encouraging and arranging prospective missionaries should learn to be comfortable in appropriate opportunities. initiating contact and conversing Opportunities for service with people outside their normal missions can also be found at the circle of family and friends. They Church Web site www.lds.org. Select should also be aware of cultural “Other Resources,” then “Mission differences in the world. HELPS FOR HOME EVENING and Service Opportunities.” Con- Employment. Missionary work is Most Ensign articles can be used for family tinuing higher education or techni- just that, work. There is nothing easy home evening discussions, personal reflection, cal training to allow better coping about missionary work, so young or teaching the gospel in a variety of settings. with chronic impairment is also an people should develop the ability to 1. Create an obstacle course and time family admirable alternative. work reliably. A regular job teaches members as they perform tasks from several of such habits as getting to work on the sections in the article: for example, physical Here to Help time, not missing work unnecessar- health preparation—go up and down stairs; When prospective missionaries ily, doing assigned tasks well, looking healthy eating—peel a carrot; personal hygiene— prepare themselves well in advance for more work when the assigned tie a necktie; dental health—brush their teeth; and of submitting their recommenda- task is completed, and not going so on. Using the article, discuss how to prepare tion applications, they can identify home early. A job also helps young for a future mission. Have each person make a and resolve health problems, im- people understand the value of goal of one area to work on. prove their physical strength, and money. Where possible, prospective 2. As a family, choose recipes for five sim- be better mentally and emotionally missionaries should plan to pay as ple, well-balanced meals. Learn how to prepare prepared to withstand the rigorous much of the cost of the mission as each meal, and discuss proper cleanup. Assign life required of missionaries. They possible, rather than depending on each older family member a meal to prepare will then be much more likely to parents or donations from others. during the coming week. Create a file of these complete a successful mission free Helping pay for their own missions and other simple recipes. of significant health problems. will help prospective missionaries Unfortunately, some missionar- learn to live within the stringent missionary allowance. ies unpredictably become ill or injured while serving. More than 50 health care professionals are serving as full-time Other Mission Opportunities missionaries throughout the world, with 200 additional During the course of preparing to serve, prospective mis- volunteers serving at Church headquarters—all in sup- sionaries may discover serious physical or emotional issues. port of missionary health. Speaking for this small army of Prospective missionaries and their parents should be com- health-care professionals, we will be there to help any mis- pletely candid in disclosing all health issues and medications sionary who becomes ill or injured. And we pray every day on the missionary recommendation application. that our missionaries will remain healthy and safe from Unfortunately, some health problems can present harm as they serve the Lord and His children. ■ insurmountable obstacles to serving full-time proselytizing NOTES 1. “Becoming a Missionary,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2005, 45. missions. The First Presidency has stated: “There are worthy 2. First Presidency letter, Jan. 30, 2004. FAR LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG W. DIMOND; LEFT: PHOTOGRAPH BY MATT REIER MATT BY PHOTOGRAPH DIMOND; LEFT: CRAIG W. BY PHOTOGRAPH LEFT: FAR ENSIGN MARCH 2007 67 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

to meet with us. We took the short train ride to Montauban. Pen Pals and Referrals As we stepped off the train, we By Brittany Jones Beahm were greeted warmly by Céline and y companion handed she and Céline had received each her parents. They invited us to their me an envelope and said, other’s address in their high school home and asked us to share our mes- M“Sister Jones, I think this French and English classes, respec- sage. As we taught them about the is for you.” I looked at the return tively, they had never actually written Book of Mormon and the Prophet address and was pleased to see my to each other. My cousin was there- Joseph Smith, the Spirit bore witness cousin’s name printed neatly in the fore very surprised to receive Céline’s of the truthfulness of the restored corner. I had just been transferred e-mail. She didn’t know if Céline lived gospel. The family expressed their to a new city from the other side of in southern France where I was serv- appreciation for the values taught by southern France and didn’t think ing, but she included her name and the Church, and after a lengthy discus- anyone back home in the United address, asking me to contact her if sion we left them with a copy of the States was aware of my new address. possible. Book of Mormon, a prayer, and a I opened the envelope and read a Because I was new to the area, I promise to return. short note in which my cousin said handed the note to my companion That was the first of several visits that she had recently received an and asked her if my cousin’s pen pal with Céline and her family. My mis- e-mail from her French pen pal after lived in the mission. “Not only does sion ended while they were still in the eight years of no contact. she live within mission boundaries,” process of learning about the Church, My cousin explained that although she responded; “she lives in our dis- but before I said good-bye to Céline, trict!” Excitedly, we called Céline to I asked her why she had decided to introduce ourselves, and she agreed contact my cousin after eight years.

marveled at how a loving I Father allowed a lost address to be found and an old connection to be made. ILLUSTRATIONS BY DOUG FAKKEL BY ILLUSTRATIONS

68 Her response surprised me: “When I was cleaning out a drawer, I came across her address on a small piece of paper I thought I’d lost. I felt strongly that I needed to write to her.” On the way home to our apart- ment I gazed out the train window and marveled at how a loving Father allowed a lost address to be found and an old connection to be made at the very time I was unexpectedly transferred to a new city for the last six weeks of my mission. He is mind- ful of all and will make miracles hap- pen, even with such a small and simple thing as a pen pal’s address. ■

Never Too Late excitement. I felt that she was the per- beaming with an unspeakable joy. By Sylvia de Moscui Maldonado son the Lord wanted us to teach. I We made other visits to our new took a Book of Mormon from my bag investigator, and we were delighted to hile I was serving as a full- and showed it to her. I was surprised find she read everything we assigned time missionary in my when she began to read aloud from her. After completing her daily work, W homeland of Ecuador, one the first page without needing glasses. she would read the Book of Mormon day I had a definite feeling that some- I asked her if she would like to have late into the night. She also started one special was waiting for us—some- the book, and again she answered attending church, although it took one who would accept the gospel. yes. Happiness glowed in her tired two hours for her to walk slowly to As my companion and I walked, eyes—eyes that had long been seek- the meetinghouse. Her feelings about we came to a humble house. An eld- ing a better life. the Book of Mormon and Jesus Christ erly lady, perhaps 80 years of age, We began to teach her the gospel, grew rapidly and deeply. After hearing smiled sweetly at me. I smiled at her and the Spirit bore witness to her of all of the missionary lessons, she in return. I was ready to keep walk- its truthfulness. Such tender feelings wanted to be baptized and pay tithing. ing, but the woman looked so happy filled my heart. What great blessings this dear to see us. Something told me to stop As we concluded our lesson, I woman received! Her heart was ready right there. showed her chapter 11 of 3 Nephi, to follow the Lord, and His Spirit Many people in that little town which tells about the visit of Jesus guided us to her. She taught us about were illiterate, so I asked her if she Christ to the Americas. She prom- love, courage, sacrifice, joy, and obe- could read. Her answer was an enthu- ised to read it. She marked the dience. Above all else she taught us siastic yes. I was suddenly filled with page herself and kissed the book, that it is never too late to change. ■

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 69 f you will allow the Spirit to I magnify your callings, you will be able to work miracles for the Lord.”

discussed the day before and that they were excited to learn more. Speaking the Language Over the next few weeks my testi- of the Spirit mony was strengthened as the Holy By Sergio Adrián López Ghost witnessed to the Balva family of the gospel’s truthfulness and enlight- s missionaries in the Argentina After making an appointment to ened their understanding in Spanish. Buenos Aires South Mission, return, we walked home, discussing Heavenly Father knew the desire of A my companion, Elder Allred, how difficult it had been to convey their hearts and recognized the sin- and I received a referral card to con- the meaning of our message. We cerity of their prayers to find truth. tact a family from Russia. When we wondered if the family would under- Together, the Balva family, Elder found the house, the woman recog- stand the other lessons any better or Allred, and I experienced the joy nized us as missionaries and invited if they would get frustrated and ask described in D&C 50:22: “Where- us in to meet her family. us to stop coming. fore, he that preacheth and he that We quickly realized the Balva family We returned to visit the Balva fam- receiveth, understand one another, understood very little Spanish, and it ily the following day to see how they and both are edified and rejoice was difficult for us to understand them were and if they had begun reading together”—not because we spoke as well. From their broken Spanish, the Book of Mormon and praying to the same language but because of the we gathered that they had been in know of its truthfulness. To our sur- universal language of the Spirit. Argentina only a short time but were prise and joy, they excitedly showed The Balva family introduced us eager to learn about the Church. We us a paper on which they had written to another Russian family, whom adapted the first lesson into simpli- in Spanish the principles we had we were also privileged to teach. fied Spanish, and the family flipped taught them. They also shared with Both families made covenants with through their two Russian-Spanish us what they had read in 3 Nephi 11 Heavenly Father by entering the dictionaries as we slowly taught our regarding the Savior’s visit to the waters of baptism not long after we message, but we weren’t sure how American continent, assuring us met them. much of it they really understood. that they had understood all we had I am a witness that the words of

70 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

President Ezra Taft Benson (1899– Brother Yamagata’s mother Yamagata as she listened to our mes- 1994) are true: “The influence of the answered the door and informed us sage. Tears ran down her cheeks as we Spirit is the most important element that her son was out of town. She went testified of the divinity of Jesus Christ in this work. If you will allow the on to say that she would be friendly to and the Restoration of the gospel Spirit to magnify your callings, you anyone who had ties to him, as is tradi- through Joseph Smith. She replied, will be able to work miracles for the tional for Japanese families, and she “Joseph Smith was a lucky man.” Lord” (new mission presidents’ semi- consequently invited us in. But despite When we said good-bye at last, her nar, June 25, 1986). ■ her surface hospitality, her face wore a face shined and her eyes sparkled threatening expression. with happiness. She said, “Thank you As we sat down, she warned, “I for coming today. My son must have don’t want to hear anything about reli- led you to me.” We shook hands, and The First of gion.” She then began to talk about she jokingly said, “I won’t be washing herself and expressed how strongly my hand today!” a Thousand she felt about certain values in her life. As we walked home we realized To our surprise she talked about that this woman was one of the Souls faith, love, and the Beatitudes, and people our mission president had By Norie Tsubaki Murae we took the chance to tell her that described as being ready these principles were also important to receive the gospel. y companion and I, serv- to us. We recounted the glorious Clearly, the Spirit had ing in the Japan Fukuoka vision that resulted from Joseph prepared her heart MMission, were working in Smith’s faith, and we described the for our message, an area known as Kasuga, located importance of the Book of Mormon and we knew she near the Kumamoto Station. The in the Restoration of the gospel. was the first of a people who lived in this area were It was interesting to observe the thousand souls we very skeptical about religion. But change that took place in Mrs. needed to find. ■ knowing this, our mission president told us, “There are a thousand peo- ple in Kumamoto who have been pre- pared by the Lord. Please find them.” ur mission One rainy day we decided to try president to find Noboru Yamagata, a less- Otold us, active member we had never “There are a met. Approaching his house, thousand people we noticed a sign that read, who have been “No religious solicitation”— prepared by the a common warning in Lord. Please find Japanese culture. But them.” heeding the promptings of the Spirit, we knocked on the door. RANDOM SAMPLER

income was high, we maintain an aver- Budgeting on age income, thus leaving enough to “Yes?” cover the low-income months as well. an Irregular To successfully track our spending, we hen Income have established a detailed spending your plan that includes all our fixed and Wchil- ne of the hardest things periodic expenses. We also dren call to you or seek your my husband and I have maintain a careful sav- attention, instead of responding with Oencountered while ings plan. The saying an exasperated “What?” try saying being self-employed is main- “don’t count your “Yes?” Somehow this slight change is taining a budget. With a fluctu- chickens before naturally more upbeat. And when you ating income, it can be a they’re hatched” is do have to say no, children can accept challenge to plan for expenses. especially rele- it more easily when they’ve been For us, the key vant when answered all day with yes. to successful you are self- Sue M. Carter, Ohio budgeting is employed. creating a “steady You cannot income.” We do that by spend what you Ready-Made depositing all net income make month to into one account and paying month. You have to look Music Lessons ourselves a monthly household at the overall picture and n my various roles as Sunbeam salary, a median of the highs set a budget plan within teacher, Primary music leader, and and lows. In other words, fixed parameters. Ifamily home evening mom, I have even when the previ- Katie Stone, Utah often used the music CD tucked inside ous month’s the front cover of the Primary 1 manual (I Am a Child of God). It provides a variety of music-and-motion activities for young, restless bodies. For instance, children can learn about basic music by moving to high and low notes as well as different rhythms. Recently, our junior Primary, which consists of more than 80 children, was having a hard time paying attention during singing time. As soon as I turned on the CD, they listened intently and fol- lowed my actions as suggested by the narrator. Together we enjoyed a ready-made, interactive singing activity

72 LEFT AND RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION BY JOE FLORES; UPPER RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION BY BETH WHITTAKER reproduce. recipes you with any the image including ing itand photograph- cookbook, consider have anheirloom family happensto someone inthe copying it.Ifyouor scanning orphoto- duce thehandwritingby album, youcaneasilyrepro- When includingsucharecipeinan grandmotherused. my maternal handwritten recipeforbiscuitsthat for addinginteresttoabiography. and personalities.Herearetwoideas include itemsthatshowtheirtalents song lyrics. raphy ofone my While readingabiog- I Albums Heritage GriffinSmith,Idaho Kerry centers oronlineat available separatelyatLDSdistribution (5004; $.75U.S.).Bothitemsarealso U.S.) comeswithapicturepacketandCD Note: Themanual(itemno.34969;$11.50 aboutmusic. as welearned that helpedustogetthewigglesout • Favorite • Favoriterecipes. writing theirbiographies,Ilike to about myancestors.Inadditionto enjoy creatingheritagealbums www.ldscatalog.com I cherishanold . search ofthesongtitleproduced heard ofit,butaquickInternet song.Ihad never singing aparticular ancestors, Idiscoveredthatheloved example, a contents. For to hidethe paper orative them indec- wrapped and each gift that relatedto around ourhome I founditems oftheSpirit. the gifts O Gifts oftheSpirit information fororderingthe information sheet music.Amusically lessons focusedon ily homeevening ne ofourbestfam- FAMILY HOMEEVENINGHELPS inclined friendplayedthe ancestor’s biography.ancestor’s CD toincludewithmy Simply typingthesong tation wouldalsoadd favorite poemorquo- lyrics orincludinga much depthtoa biography. Marlene Cameron Thomas, Tennessee music, and it ontoa ding scripture.Notonlydid package wasacorrespon- healing. Taped toeach of ages signifiedthegift tongues. Aboxofband- of represented thegift Spanish/English dictionary I recorded away wrath”(Proverbs15:1). answerturneth know how“asoft and nowgrandchildrenaswell— I amgratefulthatourchildren— asked. you” whentheydoasthey’re rewarding withasoft-spoken “thank whisper, “Please,cleanupyour mess,” her own,Ismilewhenhear our oldestdaughterhaschildrenof more willinglycooperate.Nowthat ing way, thus encouraging themto inamorelov- municate instructions Whispering alsohelpedmetocom- when theyhadtostrainhearme. paidbetterattention they often children wereyoung,Ifoundthat Peggy Climer, Arkansas D Answer A Soft instead ofyelling.Whenour whispering your children,try uring tensemomentswith New Mexico Jennifer Graham, about eachgift. meaningful discussions as afamilyweenjoyed year-old handsbusy, but the unwrappingkeeptwo- ENSIGN MARCH 2007 73 You should sacrifice anything change your life. It will bring Prophet, Church Leaders that is needed to be sacrificed you peace. It will give you to qualify yourselves to do direction and guidance. It will Counsel Youth at Fireside the work of the world. . . . help you feel that you are not By Stephanie Long, Church Magazines Train your mind and your alone in this big and some- hands to become an influ- times brutal world. The Lord housands of youth, walk with gratitude in your ence for good as you go for- answers our prayers. I know their parents, and their hearts. Be thankful for the ward with your life.” that.” Tleaders gathered at wonderful blessings that are Be clean. “Be clean in Encouraging the youth the Conference Center or yours. Be grateful for the every way. Someday you will to follow counsel, President watched by satellite Sunday, tremendous opportunities meet the man or woman of Hinckley assured them December 31, 2006, for a spe- that you have. Be thankful to your dreams. Be clean for the that with such obedience cial New Year’s Eve youth de- your parents who care so very sake of your future compan- would come blessings and votional that Elder Jeffrey R. much about you and who ion. Be clean for the sake of happiness. Holland of the Quorum of have worked so very hard to your posterity. Be clean for the Twelve Apostles called provide for you.” the sake of your self-respect.” Elder Holland “remarkable. . . . There is not Be smart. “You need all Be prayerful. “None of us Acknowledging that the anything like this anywhere the education you can get. can do it alone. . . . Prayer will most common illness that else in the world.” those in their teens and 20s President Gordon B. experience is feelings of low Hinckley, Elder Holland, and self-esteem, self-doubt, and Young Women general presi- the like, Elder Holland spoke dent Susan W. Tanner spoke about his personal struggles during the devotional. Ten with such problems and how musical numbers were pro- to overcome them. vided by the Orchestra at “Yes, I can remember all Temple Square and a choir the things you remember— made up of members of the not being sure about how I Mormon Tabernacle Choir looked or if I was accepted and selected seminary stu- or what the future would dents from across the Salt hold for me.” Lake Valley, along with special Elder Holland said that soloists Peter Breinholt, with the new year one could William Joseph, and Ryan gain a new confidence. Tani. “I wish to speak pointedly tonight about how to have President Hinckley a very special kind of confi- President Hinckley coun- dence in this new year, a con- seled young people not to fidence which when rightfully spoil the future before them. earned does wonders for “Don’t make the kinds of mis- every other aspect of our takes that will bring regret. lives, especially our self- You can be wise and happy esteem and how we view or stupid and miserable. the future.” The choice is yours.” Elder Holland said that President Hinckley positive feelings felt when emphasized several principles one is personally worthy as guidance to the youth for would bring such confidence. the future. Sharing a story of a young Be grateful. “My first man who had borne his testi- suggestion to you, my dear President Gordon B. Hinckley speaks to Church teens during mony about the importance young friends, is that you a special New Year’s devotional. of personal worthiness, Elder

74 pointed out: “Our thoughts are so important. Proverbs Temple Work says that as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he (see Rolls On Proverbs 23:7). The Book of Mormon says that we Papeete Tahiti Temple will be judged by our Elder L. Tom Perry of thoughts (see Alma 12:14). the Quorum of the Twelve We are admonished in Apostles rededicated the Doctrine and Covenants Papeete Tahiti Temple in two 121:45–46 to ‘let virtue gar- sessions during November nish [our] thoughts unceas- 2006. First dedicated in ingly’ so that our confidence October 1983, the temple will ‘wax strong in the pres- underwent a 15-month reno- ence of God’ and ‘the Holy vation to enlarge the bap- Ghost shall be [our] tismal font and sealing rooms constant companion.’ ” and provide a youth center Sister Tanner said that vir- for children being sealed to tuous thought would invite their parents. the companionship of the An estimated 10,000 Holy Ghost, and one could Tahitians participated in the find confidence and comfort rededication, which was in such a companionship. broadcast to local stake cen- Sharing a personal story, ters as well as to meeting she spoke of a time when she places in Salt Lake City and was struggling with despair, New Caledonia and on the yet found comfort in thinking BYU–Hawaii campus. positive thoughts. “I concentrated on three Oquirrh Mountain Utah things: Finals will be over in Temple three weeks. I know my fam- President Gordon B. Salt Lake Valley seminary students perform with members ily loves me. And I know Hinckley presided at a of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Heavenly Father loves me. . . . groundbreaking ceremony These thoughts elevated me for the Oquirrh Mountain Holland illustrated that in Youth should not be so enough to feel the comfort Utah Temple on December 16, order to be personally worthy preoccupied with the trou- and guidance of the Holy 2006. In attendance were of the Holy Ghost we must bles of the world that they Ghost through a difficult President Thomas S. Monson garnish our thoughts unceas- become discouraged. If they time.” and President James E. Faust, ingly, as it states in Doctrine think and act virtuously, then Everyone struggles with counselors in the First and Covenants 121:45–46: they will have confidence, hard times, everyone needs to Presidency; President Boyd K. “Let virtue garnish thy Elder Holland said. be rescued from time to time, Packer, Acting President of thoughts unceasingly; then “Have a wonderful life. but everyone has a loving the Quorum of the Twelve shall thy confidence wax Think the best and hope the Heavenly Father who is always Apostles; and other General strong in the presence of best and have faith in the there, Sister Tanner said. Authorities. Elder Russell M. God; and the doctrine of the future. You have a great life Personally living by the Nelson of the Quorum of the priesthood shall distil upon ahead of you. Your Heavenly motto “I can do hard things,” Twelve Apostles conducted thy soul as the dews from Father loves you.” Sister Tanner encouraged all the service. heaven. The Holy Ghost the youth to resolve to let Plans for the Oquirrh shall be thy constant com- Sister Tanner virtue garnish their thoughts Mountain Utah Temple panion, and thy scepter an Also speaking on the unceasingly, that their confi- include a 9-foot-tall statue of unchanging scepter of scripture in Doctrine and dence may wax strong in the the angel Moroni that will sit righteousness and truth.” Covenants 121, Sister Tanner presence of God. ■ atop a 193-foot, copper-clad

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 75 introduced by President Twin Falls Idaho Temple. Hinckley during the October Currently the Church 1997 general conference. has 135 temples announced, under construction, or Other Temples operational. Work continues on the For more information Curitiba Brazil Temple, about temples across the Draper Utah Temple, globe, visit the Church’s Panamá City Panamá Temple, temples Web site (www.lds Rexburg Idaho Temple, and .org/temples). ■ Church Marks Anniversary of Wilford Woodruff’s Birth By Kate McNeil, Church Magazines Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple arch 1, 2007, marks the 200th anniversary spire. The temple will be Quetzaltenango, Guatemala Mof the birth of Wilford located on an 11-acre site at During the ground- Woodruff, the fourth President the base of the Oquirrh breaking ceremony for of The Church of Jesus Christ Mountains on the west side the Oquirrh Mountain of Latter-day Saints. of the Salt Lake Valley and will Utah Temple, President Born on March 1, 1807, face the Wasatch Mountains Gordon B. Hinckley and raised in Farmington, to the east. announced plans to build a Connecticut, Wilford South Jordan, Utah, where temple in Quetzaltenango, Woodruff was a flour mill the Jordan River and the Guatemala. operator. He joined the Oquirrh Mountain temples That temple, the second Church in 1833 and served are located, will be the first temple in Guatemala, will two missions before being city in the world to have two most likely serve stakes ordained an Apostle in 1839. temples. The new temple will only in Guatemala. It will be As a member of the President Wilford Woodruff be the 13th in Utah. one of the smaller temples Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he completed four Valley on July 24, 1847, and additional missions; presided was present when Brigham over the temple in St. George, Young proclaimed, “This is Utah; and served six years as the right place.” Church historian. “God Moves in a He was sustained as Mysterious Way” (Hymns, no. President of the Church on 285) was President Woodruff’s April 7, 1889. He dedicated favorite hymn. “ ‘He loved the Manti Utah Temple and [that hymn],’ remarked the long-awaited Salt Lake President Heber J. Grant Temple, oversaw the organi- [1856–1945], who served as zation of the Genealogical an Apostle when Wilford Society of Utah, and reem- Woodruff was President of the phasized the value of histori- Church. ‘We sang it, I am sure, cal record keeping. sometimes twice a month in President Woodruff was a our weekly meetings in the President Gordon B. Hinckley, right, the counselors in the faithful pioneer, participating Temple, and very seldom did a First Presidency, members of the Quorum of the Twelve in Zion’s Camp with the month pass by when that song Apostles, and other Church leaders break ground for the Prophet Joseph Smith. At age was not called for by Brother Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple. 40 he entered the Salt Lake Woodruff. He believed in this

76 thousand miles to have seen upon man” (Teachings of a prophet, or a man that Presidents of the Church, 49). could teach me the things President Woodruff fre- that I read of in the Bible. I quently exhorted his fellow could not join any church, Saints to partake of the bless- because I could not find ings available in the temple. any church at that time that He said, “I consider that the advocated these principles” building of temples is one of (Teachings of Presidents of the important things required the Church, xix–xx). by the Lord of the Latter-day President Woodruff taught Saints in the dispensation of the importance of modern the fulness of times, that we revelation: “The Church of may go into those temples God could not live twenty- and not only redeem the liv- four hours without revela- ing but redeem our dead” tion” (Teachings of Presidents (Teachings of Presidents of the of the Church, 47). Church, xxix). With character- He also emphasized per- istic diligence, he set an exam- sonal revelation through the ple of temple work, ensuring President Woodruff dedicated the Salt Lake Temple in 1893 Spirit: “You may have the that temple work be done for following its 40 years of construction. administration of angels; you thousands of his ancestors. may see many miracles; . . . President Woodruff died work with all his heart and of our work, teachings, and but I claim that the gift of the in San Francisco, California, soul, and labored with all the counsel which we give in Holy Ghost is the greatest on September 2, 1898, at power that God gave him for this meeting? We should” gift that can be bestowed age 91. ■ its advancement’ ” (Teachings (Teachings of Presidents of Presidents of the Church: of the Church, 127). Wilford Woodruff [2004], xv). He encouraged children President Woodruff is to start keeping journals early remembered for being an in their lives: “If my young avid journal keeper. He kept friends will begin to do this a journal for most of his and continue it, it will be of adult life, “making his final far more worth than gold to entry on August 31, 1898, them in a future day,” he said two days before he died” (Teachings of Presidents of (Teachings of Presidents the Church, 132). of the Church, 125). In 2006 members across In one meeting, he the world learned of this taught a principle that can prophet’s testimony from be applied to journals as the manual Teachings of well as to official Church Presidents of the Church: records: “While walking in Wilford Woodruff. In the a rapid stream we cannot manual are many stories tread twice in the same from President Woodruff’s water. Neither can we spend life and ministry. twice the same time. When While searching for we pass out of that door, the truth as a young man, the work of this meeting will President Woodruff felt a be closed to us forever. We need to see a modern-day shall never spend the time prophet: “ I prayed day and President Wilford Woodruff with his counselors in the 1893 of this evening again. Then night that I might live to see a First Presidency: George Q. Cannon, First Counselor, left, and should we not keep a record prophet. I would have gone a Joseph F. Smith, Second Counselor.

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 77 Education Aids Gospel Understanding By Kate McNeil, Church Magazines PHOTOGRAPH BY ADAM OLSON ADAM BY PHOTOGRAPH hen Stephen Abu Jr. gospel in the Atiwa district went to high school of Ghana. Win Abomosu, Ghana, “Our white shirts and ties he carried his books in a plas- made us unique in the village, tic shopping bag. As a college and many mothers encour- student in Utah, he enjoyed aged their children to join the the benefits of a backpack. Church,” Stephen said. “The Whether he carried books in mothers liked our outward plastic or canvas, Stephen’s cleanliness and the standards goal remained the same—to that the members of the get an education. Church lived by.” Stephen was the first of Neighbors would gather his 70 classmates at Abomosu at the Abu home for family Presbyterian Middle School home evening. Brother Abu Stephen Abu Jr., who overcame great odds to receive an to attend high school and the Sr. said many children did education, is now helping others do the same. first to attend college. In 2004 not fully understand what he finished his business mar- was being taught but loved Kennedy International Jesus, Others, You keting degree at Utah State to sing. Airport] on my way to Utah, Stephen now works as University in Logan, Utah. “Family home evening was the person I sat by tried the director of humanitarian After overcoming great new to us as a family and to to show me the Statue of affairs for World Joy, Inc., a odds to become a college our culture,” Stephen said. Liberty,” he said. “Try as I did, nonprofit organization in graduate, Stephen is now giv- “Rarely do you find an African I could not see it because Utah dedicated to helping ing back to his home country family sitting and eating the plane tilted whenever I developing countries, specifi- by rebuilding schoolhouses together, let alone counsel- stretched to peep through cally Ghana. Stephen believes and improving education in ing together as a family. For the window. improving literacy in villages Ghana. my dad to organize a forum “When I arrived in Salt will help his people accept “Education is key to where each could share his Lake City, my cousin drove the gospel, the greatest gift understanding and accepting or her feelings on the direc- me past the Salt Lake Temple, in his life. the gospel,” Stephen says. tion of the family was a sign which I had seen only in “Many of our brothers and of his humility.” Church magazines and sisters who are illiterate find A Father’s Example By the time the full-time videos. I felt so calm seeing it difficult to fully grasp the Influenced by his father, missionaries arrived from the temple, and I thought, mission of the Church,” he Stephen Abu Sr., Stephen was Accra in 1984, Brother Abu Sr. ‘This is the true statue of lib- said. “Those who cannot read able to gain an education and had prepared 84 people for erty,’ for if we enter the tem- and write usually stay away accept the gospel. A principal baptism. The Abu family has ple and keep the covenants from worship service when of the Abomosu Presbyterian built a legacy of faith in we make with the Lord, we they are given a speaking or Middle School, Stephen’s Abomosu, Ghana. will have true liberty.” prayer assignment because father always encouraged While studying at Utah they feel inadequate. This him to gain a full education. True Liberty Found State University, Stephen sometimes leads to their Stephen was the first of his in the Temple attended the Logan LDS inactivity. Being educated five siblings to attend high After serving a mission Institute. There he met his will allow them to read and school. in Nigeria, Stephen began wife, Sonya. The two were understand the scriptures Stephen’s father joined attending school at Utah State sealed in the Logan Utah and Church manuals. The the Church after his brother University in 2001. Temple on April 23, 2003, gospel is the reason I have introduced him to the gospel. “While I was flying into following Stephen’s sealing decided to go back and help He soon began spreading the JFK [New York City’s John F. to his parents. my people.” ■

78 many as possible this year,” selections from the Joseph Scriptures in French, he said. Smith Translation of the Just as with the Spanish Bible, a chronology of Church German, and Italian Internet scriptures, the history, and photographs French, German, and Italian and maps related to biblical Now Available Online online scriptures include the events and Church history. By Stephanie Long, Church Magazines triple combination (the Book To access the scriptures of Mormon, Doctrine and in English, French, German, n estimated 125,000 the Church Curriculum Covenants, and Pearl of Great Italian, or Spanish, go to native French-, German-, Department. It depends Price), the Guide to the http://scriptures.lds.org, and A and Italian-speaking upon the checks, reviews, Scriptures (a listing of gospel click on “English” in the top members will now be able to and revisions that must be topics with definitions and right corner. Then select the study the scriptures in their made to eliminate errors that cross-references), and links appropriate language from native tongue by accessing may have occurred during to other study aids, such as the menu. ■ the LDS scriptures online. the conversion process. On January 8, 2007, the offi- Several languages are New Era cial French, German, and in line to begin the process Publishes New Italian versions of the LDS to be put in Internet form. scriptures were made avail- “Portuguese will be coming Issue on Missionaries able at http://scriptures soon, and others will follow,” n the October 2005 priest- .lds.org. Previously, the LDS said Kai Anderson, director hood session of general scriptures have been available of scriptures coordination. Iconference, Elder David A. online only in English and Brother Schwendiman Bednar of the Quorum of the Spanish. is hoping that in the near Twelve Apostles said, “The The process to convert the future more members will single most important thing traditional print edition of the be able to access the LDS you can do to prepare for a scriptures into the Internet scriptures online in their call to serve is to become a version takes about six native tongue. “Right now missionary long before you months to complete, accord- we are reviewing with the go on a mission.” ing to Ron Schwendiman, scriptures committee the March’s 2007 issue of manager of the Internet order of the next languages the New Era is focused on Coordination Group for and are hoping to release as just that—helping youth prepare for missionary service. Inside the magazine, read- ers will find features that focus specifically on mission- the MTC and in the field. ary preparation, life, and Members may find many work. different uses for the maga- Featured articles include zine. It might be used in con- a message from President junction with Preach My Gordon B. Hinckley that Gospel to aid in the teaching focuses on the blessings of a missionary preparation serving a mission can bring, class. A quiz game could be a message from President made using information Thomas S. Monson that found in the magazine to examines “The Five Ms of help youth learn more about Missionary Work,” advice from missionary preparation. Or a Elder M. Russell Ballard on role-playing game could be how youth can prepare now designed around the topic The LDS edition of the scriptures is now online in French, to serve a mission, and a view “A Day in the Life of a German, Italian, and Spanish, as well as English. into the life of missionaries at Missionary.” ■

ENSIGN MARCH 2007 79 was of great interest to me. gathered for the Relief Society Young Women in Africa Wayne Sidwell, whose family general meeting and had such returned to the Church a feeling of worldwide sister- Serve Prisoners because of loving Primary hood. Thank you for the work By Stephanie Long, Church Magazines teachers, was my parents’ you do in making us feel home teacher. My parents united wherever we live. athered together in a the opportunity to take the had also been “derailed from Carol Dunkley, Australia bush camp in Africa kits to the women, an experi- the gospel by a series of Gwithout modern con- ence she is grateful for. choices,” but because of Answers and Peace veniences such as running “I felt the Spirit of the Brother Sidwell’s efforts in The past few days I have water, 160 young women Lord, and I was humbled to visiting them monthly over been touched by the Spirit worked together to give see the women who were in the course of many years, as I have read and pondered more than 200 people they prison singing and praising they too were eventually from the Church magazines. had never met something the Lord,” Sister Ignatius said. set “back on the strait and The words of “The Temple Is those people didn’t have. “They had gratitude even in about Families” (Nov. 2006), Inspired by their camp the difficult situation they given at the last general con- theme, “Let us all arise and were in, which made me ference, and “What I Have shine forth that our light reflect and be thankful for Learned about Mighty may be a standard to the the blessings I have.” Prayer” (Dec. 2006) spoke nation” (see D&C 115:5), the In addition to the service to my heart and gave me young women of the Harare performed at the prison, answers and peace I have Zimbabwe Stake decided the young women and their been seeking. More impor- to share their light with the leaders hope to continue tant, they taught me once women of the Chikurubi serving the community, as again that Heavenly Father Women’s Prison by putting they often do in homes and and the Savior are aware of together hygiene kits for hospitals. me, understand my struggles, them. “It was a very good and and are prepared to help me “The theme for the uplifting experience; we wish if I will ask. camp . . . made the young for more opportunities to do narrow track.” Since then, Sue Hirase, Utah women decide that they it,” Sister Ignatius said. ■ my parents have served as would like the light to be felt temple workers and have The Name Is Caspar in the prison,” said Margaret served a mission. Brother On page 44 of the Ignatius, Harare Zimbabwe Comment Sidwell magnified his calling December Ensign you show Stake Young Women presi- and became an instrument in a map tracing the route of An Inspiring Rescue dent. “When people are the Lord’s hands. My brothers the handcart pioneers. (This locked up, they are isolated Thank you for the article and I will be eternally grateful same map is also found in the from the world. So the young in the December Ensign to him. July 2006 issue on pages 42 women wanted them to about the 1856 rescue of the Debby Croshaw, Idaho and 44.) Each map spells Fort know and feel their love.” handcart companies. The arti- Caspar as “Fort Casper.” This Just as the young women cle was well researched, finely Feeling United is incorrect, as the fort was had hoped, the residents of written, and highly inspiring. When I received the named for Caspar Collins. His the prison were very happy The authors clearly put a sig- November Ensign with the name was misspelled when and grateful. “They have nificant amount of time and general conference talks, I the city in Wyoming was never received such gifts,” effort into writing this capti- read it right through and am named for him. Additional Sister Ignatius said, “and they vating story. I am grateful now rereading one talk each information about how wanted to know more about to them for this wonderful morning. I would like to say the spelling of the city and the Church and the Book of article. how much I enjoy the pictures fort came to be different Mormon.” Jeff Ehlers, Utah in this issue—the families, the can be found on the official Although the young children, the priesthood ses- Fort Caspar Web site: women could not go to the Getting Back on Track sion attendees. I was just look- www.fortcasparwyoming.com/ facility to personally deliver Your article “Getting Back ing at the picture on page 118 Fortbuil.asp. the kits, Sister Ignatius had on Track” in the January issue of the sisters in St. Petersburg Beth Anderson, Wyoming

80 MAY NOT BE COPIED NOT MAY The Lord’s Harvest, by Marilee Campbell This painting is based on a favorite missionary scripture found four times in the Doctrine and Covenants: “Behold, the field is white already to harvest; therefore, whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God” (D&C 6:3; see also D&C 11:3; 12:3; 14:3). Around the world, Relief Society sisters—like these Society sisters—like Around the world, Relief strengthen their talents and testimonies through home, family, and personal enrichment meetings and activities. family, in the San Miguel de Allende Ward, Celaya Mexico Stake— in the San Miguel de Allende Ward,

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